Let's talk about these slender beauties from the Dominican Republic's oldest cigar factory. The Leon Jimenes Connecticut No.5 comes in boxes of 10 panatelas measuring 5"x38 - think pencil-thin elegance that'll cost you about $6 per stick. Wrapped in Ecuadorian-grown Connecticut shade leaf, these mild-medium smokes pair Dominican filler with Nicaraguan tobacco for that creamy-smooth profile newbies love.
First Third: Immediate cashew nut creaminess with faint vanilla undertones. The draw feels slightly tight but produces wispy smoke that won't overwhelm. Watch out for canoeing - these thin vitolas need careful rotation.
Middle Third: Develops oak notes with white pepper tingle on retrohale. Ash holds decently for 1.5" before dropping. Pair with black coffee to amplify the emerging cocoa hints.
Final Third: Sweetness intensifies into honeyed tobacco core. Some complain about muted transitions, but that's the trade-off for consistent mildness. Stop before last inch to avoid tar buildup.
Handmade in Santiago using Piloto Cubano wrapper from 10-month aged bales. The 38-ring gauge limits blending options but allows quicker aging - most boxes smoke well after just 60 days humidor rest compared to thicker cigars needing 6+ months.
