Let's talk about this barber pole-styled oddball - the H. Upmann 1844 Special Edition Barbier Robusto. Priced at $231.78 for 25 sticks, this 5"x50 Dominican-made robusto sports a quirky dual-wrapper blend that nods to the brand's German roots. Medium strength (★★★☆☆) makes it approachable for newer smokers, though that spice kick at the end might surprise you.
The barber pole wrapper delivers immediate roasted nuttiness - think cashews toasted in brown butter. Smoke production stays moderate, requiring deliberate draws. Burn line holds surprisingly straight considering the dual-wrapper construction.
Dominican filler comes forward with damp earth notes, layered over bitter cocoa powder. Retrohale shows flashes of cinnamon spice, though the smoke feels slightly thin compared to fuller-bodied Honduran counterparts.
Here's where the "Special Edition" earns its keep - mineral-driven granite notes emerge alongside white pepper. Physical feedback includes slight tongue tingle and a warming chest sensation. Cut it before the 1" mark to avoid tar buildup.
Rolled at the massive Tabacalera de García facility, these show characteristic Dominican precision - tight seams and uniform sponginess. The barber pole wrap proves more than gimmickry, with Sumatra leaf contributing baking spice nuances to the Connecticut's cream base.
