Meet the Montecristo 1935 Anniversary Nicaragua Espeso - a box-pressed Nicaraguan puro that'll make your taste buds sit up straight. Clocking in at 5" x 60 ring gauge, this chunky stick packs AJ Fernandez-grown tobacco from tip to tail, then gets two extra years of beauty sleep before hitting your humidor. At $16.20 per cigar (box of 10 for $162), it's like getting a Nicaraguan flavor bomb delivered in designer packaging.
The initial puff delivers a black pepper uppercut followed by dark chocolate undertones. Smoke production's decent but not fog-machine level - you'll get steady wisps rather than billowing clouds. Watch for that signature Montecristo creaminess trying to peek through the Nicaraguan intensity.
By the halfway mark, the Espeso shows its complexity. Earthy notes of roasted coffee beans blend with sweet molasses, while the retrohale adds a cedar kick. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite the 60 ring gauge, though you might need a touch-up if smoking too fast.
Last third brings the heat - literally. Leather and charred oak dominate as nicotine strength creeps up. Not for the faint-hearted, but seasoned smokers will appreciate the bold finish. Pro tip: pair with an espresso or dark rum to match its intensity.
That box-pressed shape isn't just for looks - it actually helps with heat management in wider ring gauges. The dark, oily wrapper feels like a well-worn baseball glove, and the triple cap holds up beautifully. About that 60 ring gauge: perfect for slow puffing, but maybe skip the cigar scissors - a regular guillotine might struggle.
While it carries the Montecristo name, this is AJ Fernandez's Nicaraguan playground. Fans of the classic Cuban Monte profile might raise an eyebrow, but those who dig full-bodied Nica sticks will find a worthy box purchase. Just don't expect subtlety - this anniversary celebrator crashes the party like a drum solo.
