The EP Carrillo INCH Natural No 62 makes a bold statement with its 62 ring gauge - a chunky torpedo-shaped smoke that's all about modern cigar craftsmanship. Priced at $216 for a box of 24, this 5" stogie combines Nicaraguan binder with Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers under an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, delivering what Carrillo fans call "powerhouse complexity in a short format". Perfect for those who want big ring gauge satisfaction without marathon smoking sessions.
First Third: Immediate earthy core with toasted sesame seeds and black pepper sparkles. Cool draw despite massive ring gauge, revealing baking spices and cedar undertones. Smoke production surprises - thick plumes from minimal effort.
Middle Third: Transition to cocoa powder and leather territory. Dominican filler's sweetness emerges (think palm sugar), balancing Nicaraguan Viso's white pepper zing. Ash holds strong in 1" segments.
Final Third: Coffee bean bitterness creeps in, accompanied by savory soy sauce umami. Strength builds to medium-plus - not for nicotine lightweights. Burn stays even but requires one touch-up near band removal.
The 62 RG feels substantial without being cartoonish - perfect for hand-rolling fans. Pairing test: Bourbon amplifies sweetness (Woodford Reserve worked best), rum accentuates spice. Best enjoyed late afternoon with 90-minute smoking window. Box split recommended - 24 of these mammoths requires serious commitment.
Construction consistently impressed - no plugs in sampled cigars. Aging potential evident but shines young. Humidity tip: Keep at 65% RH - higher causes wrapper cracking in thick vitola.
