This Ecuadorian Connecticut-wrapped robusto from H. Upmann's 1844 series keeps things mellow with its 5x52 frame. Priced around $7 per stick in boxes of 25, it's become my go-between cigar - not too heavy for midday, not too wimpy for evening. Let me show you why this smoke works better than coffee for zoning out during conference calls.
The cold draw gives sweet hay - not mind-blowing but comforting. Initial puffs deliver roasted almonds and that characteristic Connecticut creaminess. Smoke output's modest here (no cloud-chasing), burns straight with salt-and-pepper ash holding strong.
Around the 15-minute mark, the Honduran core flexes. Cedar planks and baking spices emerge without overpowering. Retrohale shows white pepper but stays cool - zero harshness even when powering through draws. The ash finally drops here revealing perfect combustion.
Last third gets cocoa nibs and cashew butter. No tar buildup until the nub if you take it slow. I clock 55 minutes total with zero relights. Pair with light rum or skip drinks - she's sweet enough solo.
The Dominican filler tobaccos from Cibao Valley give that rounded nuttiness, while the Ecuadorian wrapper adds just enough vanilla glaze. Unlike the sharper Honduran puros I've tried, this blend avoids mineral bite - perfect for those upgrading from Macanudos but not ready for full-bodied stuff.
Newbies craving sophistication beyond drugstore cigars, and veterans needing a "reset stick" between heavy hitters. Pro tip: Buy 2 boxes - one for now, one to age. These develop interesting graham cracker notes after 6+ months in the humidor.
