The Ashton VSG Eclipse Tube arrives in metal tubes like a heavyweight boxer entering the ring - its 6"x52 frame wrapped in dark Ecuadorian Sumatra leaf demands attention. This full-bodied stick carries a $17.5 per cigar price tag that makes it special occasion material rather than daily smoke. While not technically a Cuban, its Dominican filler packed with vintage leaves brings serious heat to the non-Cuban premium market.
The initial puffs hit with black pepper sparkles dancing on espresso grounds. Thick smoke carries mineral notes reminiscent of licking a wet river stone. Retrohale reveals dark chocolate bitterness that clings to the roof of the mouth.
Flames reach the binder layer - sweetness emerges like burnt caramel drizzled over roasted almonds. Occasional cinnamon spikes appear between leathery undertones. Ash holds firm in 1-inch segments despite the 52-ring girth.
Nicotine strength crescendos at the band point. Charred oak flavors dominate while maintaining draw resistance under 2.5 on the fingertip suction scale. Smart smokers stop before the last inch to avoid bitterness.
The Ecuadorian wrapper undergoes 18-month fermentation in cedar piles - you can literally taste the wood imprint. Fuente's proprietary ligero leaves from Cibao Valley account for the nicotine kick that creeps up on novice smokers. Perfect combustion comes from the 4-stage bunching technique, though I'd prefer tighter packing near the head.
Dry-box these sticks for 8 hours before smoking. The tube's 72% RH makes initial draws too moist - you'll miss the subtle mineral tones until the wrapper crisps up. Pair with cold brew coffee to amplify the dark roast characteristics.
