This 6.5" x 44 parejo from Ashton's flagship line packs serious muscle behind its oily Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. The VSG Illusion's dark brown cloak hides a Dominican core that delivers intense coffee and spice notes, though it demands patience - light it after dinner when you've got 90 minutes to savor the slow burn. At about $14 per stick in 24-count boxes, it's positioned as an affordable luxury for seasoned smokers.
The initial puffs hit with black pepper and cedar, leaving a cayenne-like tingle on the lips. Burn line stays razor-straight as toasted nutmeg emerges through medium-bodied smoke. Retrohale reveals hidden cinnamon sweetness.
Espresso beans dominate now, complemented by roasted almond undertones. Draw tightens slightly - a quick purge releases bitter chocolate nuances. Ash holds firm for 1.5" segments with zero canoeing.
Leather and burnt caramel emerge as the smoke turns creamier. Last inch brings mineral notes reminiscent of struck flint, though nicotine buildup suggests stopping at the 70-minute mark.
Fuente family's 18-month fermentation process creates the wrapper's signature oil sheen. Requires 65% RH humidity to prevent wrapper cracking. Best paired with aged rum or cold brew coffee. Box date codes show consistent aging since 2015 batches.
