The Rocky Patel Catch 22 Sixty rolls into the scene as a 6x60 gordo that's been catching attention for its wallet-friendly price tag. This Honduran-made smoke comes in boxes of 22 sticks - a nod to its numeric namesake - wrapped in oily Corojo leaf that glistens like melted dark chocolate. Medium-bodied but full on character, it's that rare factory floor veteran that actually keeps its promises.
The cold draw punches you with black pepper before mellowing into damp earth. Initial puffs carry bitter espresso grounds and charred oak bark. Smoke production stays modest - about 70% compared to your typical Nicaraguan powerhouse.
At the halfway mark, almond skins emerge through the haze. The retrohale develops baking spice sharpness without burning nostrils. Burn line holds steady if you nurse it slowly - let it rush and you'll get tunneling. Ash clings for 1.5" before dropping.
The last act brings sweetened dark chocolate nibs dancing on top of mineral-rich soil. Watch for tar buildup past the 50-minute mark - nip the end when the draw tightens. Lingering aftertaste sticks around like an overstaying guest.
Rolled at Rocky's El Paraiso factory in Danlí since 2017, this stick shows Honduras' signature earth-forward profile. The Corojo wrapper's oiliness comes from six-month fermentation in pilones. Mexican San Andrés leaf in the filler adds depth without overwhelming - a calculated risk that pays off.
