Brace yourself for the EP Carrillo INCH Nicaragua No 64 - a 6 1/8"x64 Nicaraguan puro that redefines boldness. This box-pressed beast comes packed with tobaccos from Estelí, Condega and Jalapa, delivering more punch than a volcanic eruption. At $284.04 for 24 sticks, you're paying about $12 per hour-long smoke session that'll test your nicotine tolerance.
First Third: Black pepper cracks the whip immediately, followed by roasted hazelnuts and bitter cocoa powder. The draw feels like sucking a thick milkshake through a wide straw - almost too easy.
Middle Third: Dark espresso beans dominate, softened by caramel swirls. Cedar notes emerge like a surprise guest, cutting through the intensity. Smoke output doubles, demanding proper ventilation.
Final Third: Leather and flintstone minerality take over. The nicotine buzz hits harder than a boxing champ - not for rookies. I had to put it down at the 1-inch mark when tar buildup started whispering sweet threats to my throat.
The Estelí-grown ligero leaves explain the pepper blast - their volcanic soil pumps minerals into the leaves. Jalapa's reddish clay soil contributes the subtle sweetness, while Ometepe Island's lake-side climate cures the oily maduro wrapper. Triple fermentation smooths out the rough edges without neutering that Nicaraguan punch.
Burn time stretched to 90 minutes despite constant relighting. The box-press shape felt awkward at first but became comfortable as the cigar warmed up. Pair with espresso or peated whisky to match its intensity - sweet cocktails get bulldozed. Best enjoyed after dinner when your palate can handle the flavor assault.
