The Rocky Patel Catch 22 Rothchild sits comfortably in the hand with its compact 4.5"x50 Rothschild format, a Nicaraguan puro that punches above its price range. Wrapped in an oily Ecuadorian Habano leaf, this box-pressed cigar offers medium-bodied smoke perfect for a 45-minute session. Let's dive into what makes this Honduran-rolled gem a frequent humidor resident among budget-conscious aficionados.
The initial puffs deliver black pepper through the nose with distinct mineral undertones. Firm ash holds strong for the first inch while earthy oak notes emerge. Draw resistance varies slightly - a common trait in box-pressed cigars - but never requires correction.
Pepper mellows as caramelized sweetness takes center stage. Look for baking spices (think nutmeg) and dark chocolate nuances. Burn line stays razor-sharp, though some samples develop minor canoeing that self-corrects.
Strength ramps up with espresso bitterness and charred hickory. Nicotine hit becomes noticeable at nub stage - newbies should pace themselves. Retrohale reveals lingering red pepper flakes and molasses aftertaste.
Rolled at El Paraíso factory in Honduras, these show consistent craftsmanship with triple-seam caps. Double fermentation process mellows Nicaraguan tobacco's natural aggression. Boxes from late 2022 onward display improved draw consistency compared to earlier releases.
