Let's talk about the Villiger 1888 Torpedo - a 6"x52 figurado that'll set you back about $7.50 per stick in boxes of 20. This Dominican-made torpedo with an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper has been turning heads since its 2012 release, offering what I'd call a "reliable Tuesday night smoke" for those who dig medium-strength cigars without surprises.
Pre-light nose gives sweet hay and pencil shavings. Initial puffs deliver cream soda fizz on the tongue with that signature Connecticut Shade butteriness. Smoke output's modest - don't expect cloud chaser satisfaction here. Burn line stays razor-sharp if you pace at 60-70 seconds between draws.
Body amps up to medium territory around the 1" mark. Cashew butter replaces the initial cream, with dry cedar emerging on retrohale. Watch for a sneaky nicotine kick here - it's milder than most Nic-packed blends but can surprise newbies.
Last inch brings toasted marshmallow sweetness battling with pencil graphite. The much-hyped "white pepper" shows up fashionably late, more like cracked black pepper residue than actual heat. Cut it loose before the nub unless you dig ashy bitterness.
Office warriors needing a lunchbreak smoke that won't nuke their afternoon productivity. Newbies cutting teeth on "real cigars" after graduating from flavored junk. Veterans looking for a no-brainer stick when the Cubans are sleeping.
The Ecuadorian wrapper feels like worn-in leather jackets - zero tooth but decent oils. Triple cap holds better than most non-Cuban torpedos. Draw's consistent if you punch instead of V-cut. 68-70% RH seems ideal - too dry and the nutty notes vanish.
It won't blow your mind but gets points for consistency. Think Honda Accord in a world full of temperamental Italian sports cars. Stock up during Villiger's frequent 15% off sales and you've got a decent daily driver.
