The Rocky Patel Tabaquero by Hamlet Paredes Salomon comes in a box of 10 cigars priced at $99. This figurado-shaped stogie measures 7 5/8" with a 58 ring gauge - that bold salomon vitola requiring masterful rolling. Curated by Cuban tobacco guru Hamlet Paredes, it features a San Andres wrapper hugging Brazilian/Mexican binders and Nicaraguan fillers, rolled at RP's TaviCusa factory in Estelí.
Pre-light notes offer barnyard earthiness with raisin sweetness. Initial puffs release black pepper spice that quickly settles into cedar tones. The San Andres wrapper contributes dark chocolate depth while maintaining medium body.
Brazilian binder emerges with cashew nuttiness balancing Mexican tobacco's spice. Nicaraguan fillers throw espresso beans and leather into the mix. Smoke production remains moderate but creamy.
Strength climbs as burnt caramel sweetness develops. Watch for occasional tar buildup in last inch. Retrohale reveals chili powder kick through evolving pepper-cocoa interplay.
Consistent burn line requires minimal touch-ups. Dense ash holds for 1.5-2". Draw tightness varies slightly between samples - suggest 48hrs dry-boxing.
