A box of 20 Leon Jimenes Prestige Robustos delivers 5"x50 Dominican treats at $153. This Ecuadorian Sumatra-wrapped stick shows why mild cigars can still be interesting - think of it as a "training wheels" smoke that doesn't insult your intelligence. Rolled at La Aurora since 2011, the Robusto format maintains focus through its 45-minute burn without demanding constant attention.
First Third: Opens with cashew butter smoothness - almost bland if not for the white pepper tingle under the nose. Ash holds firm through 1.5" despite Ecuadorian wrapper's reputation for flakiness. Retrohale reveals what old-timers call "Dominican sunshine" - that peculiar hay/vanilla combo from Piloto Cubano tobacco.
Mid-Section: Peruvian leaf kicks in at band point with damp cedar notes. Smoke texture thickens to whole milk consistency without becoming heavy. Watch for uneven burn if rushed - needs gentle purges to maintain cocoa powder subtleties between draws.
Final Stretch: Last inch brings surprise coffee bean bitterness that actually works. Strength never exceeds medium, but nicotine-sensitive smokers might feel slight headrush. Cap holds firm - no unraveling even with Xikar's deepest cutter setting.
