Hitting the scene in 2020, the Espinosa Knuckle Sandwich Maduro Gordo C delivers a full-bodied punch with its imposing 6x60 frame. This Nicaraguan puro comes dressed in an oily Ecuadorian Sumatra Maduro wrapper that feels like well-oiled leather. The 20-count boxes at $279 make it a serious contender for those seeking big-ring flavor bombs. I smoked mine after 45 days in the humidor - wrapper showed minimal tooth but glistened under the light.
Initial draws punch with black pepper and dark roast coffee. The dense smoke coats the tongue - not harsh but insistent. Burn stays razor-sharp despite the 60 ring gauge. Retrohale brings burnt caramel sweetness that cuts through the nicotine kick.
Leather and hickory notes emerge as the core develops. Smoke texture thickens, leaving a prickle on the throat. Occasional flashes of raisin sweetness appear between pepper waves. Ash holds firm in 1.5" segments.
Tar accumulation becomes noticeable past the band point. Charred oak dominates as the sweetness fades, with an earthy finish recalling damp forest soil. Clocked 2h10m smoke time - ambitious for a single session.
Double-seam cap held firm during V-cut. Draw required minimal effort despite massive ring gauge - no tunneling observed. This box from 2022 production shows Espinosa's San Lotano factory mastery in handling large vitolas. Wrapper oil transferred slightly to fingers during handling.
The Gordo C works best as a weekend warrior smoke - its intensity demands attention. While not matching the balance of smaller RG Maduros like Ashton Aged Maduro, it delivers unabashed power. Veteran smokers chasing bold Nicaraguans will appreciate its stamina, though I'd pair it with sweetened espresso to counter the nicotine wallop.
