The Espinosa Murcielago Churchill hits hard with its box-pressed 7x50 frame wrapped in oily Mexican San Andrés Maduro leaf. This Nicaraguan puro packs serious muscle behind its $9.63 per stick price tag, delivering a 2-hour journey through pepper storms and chocolate valleys.
The jet-black wrapper feels slightly tacky with visible oil streaks. Cold draw serves espresso grounds and burnt sugar. Initial lighting brings instant black pepper spray across the tongue - not for the timid.
Peppercorn blast dominates while dark chocolate emerges beneath. Retrohale reveals flint-like mineral notes. Tight ash holds firm despite aggressive smoke output.
Spice transforms into cinnamon-dusted pecans. Caramel sweetness balances charred oak bitterness. Watch for nicotine creep - pairing with sweet tea recommended.
Leather and damp earth take over as sweetness fades. Occasional salty pops interrupt the earthy base. Tar accumulates quickly past band point - stop before the nub.
The box-press feels slightly rounded rather than sharp-edged. Burn needed one correction mid-way. Draw opens up beautifully after initial tightness. Smoke output ranks 8/10 - visible even in breezy conditions.
This Maduro beast rewards patient smokers who enjoy linear flavor progression. While not the most complex Espinosa offering, it delivers textbook San Andrés earthiness with enough sweet balance to prevent palate fatigue. Best enjoyed after heavy meals by experienced smokers. #ChurchillChallenge #MaduroMadness
