Let's talk about the Rocky Patel Nording Robusto - this 5½"x52 parejo comes in boxes of 20 at $146.70, packing Nicaraguan tobaccos under a Colorado Shade wrapper. Born from Rocky Patel's collab with legendary pipe maker Erik Nording, it's that rare cigar that actually justifies the "artisan" label without feeling pretentious. The Honduran-made stick shows decent oil sheen straight from the tube, though some might find the band design busier than a Copenhagen pipe shop.
The cold draw tastes like chewing on a cedar pencil mixed with almond skins. Lighting brings instant pepper spray to the nostrils - way more kick than the "medium" strength suggests. By the ½-inch mark, it settles into baking spices and burnt caramel, with smoke output that's surprisingly modest for a 52-ring gauge.
Around the band point, the Nording shows its pipe-maker heritage. There's a distinct Cavendish tobacco sweetness emerging, though it's rougher than typical Honduran blends. The retrohale pops with cinnamon heat while the main draw serves espresso roast bitterness. Burn needs two touch-ups here - not terrible, but you'll want your lighter handy.
Last third goes full Nicaraguan rebel with leather and mineral notes dominating. The sweetness disappears faster than pipe smoke in wind, leaving an ashy aftertaste. Nicotine buildup hits harder than expected - this isn't your father's patio cigar. Stop at 1.5" unless you enjoy tongue numbness.
Rolled at Rocky's El Paraiso factory in Honduras, these show typical Honduran construction - tight roll in the head, slightly loose foot. The triple cap holds better than most in this price range. Let these rest at 65% RH for at least 60 days - fresh boxes smoke hot and bitter.
