Let's talk about the Perdomo Habano BBA Maduro Churchill - a Nicaraguan powerhouse wrapped in bourbon-kissed Maduro leaf. This 7x54 Churchill comes in boxes of 24, carrying a $221.40 price tag that positions it as a premium daily smoker rather than special occasion fare. The oily Ecuadorian wrapper spent 14 months soaking up bourbon barrel magic before rolling, while the Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos boast 6+ years of aging. Expect medium-full strength that creeps up on you like bourbon heat.
The cold draw hits with sweet oak and raisin notes - that bourbon influence already flexing. Initial smoke brings charred cedar and black coffee, surprisingly smooth for a Maduro. Ash holds tight in 1-inch chunks, burning straighter than most barreled cigars. Retrohale shows why they aged this - pepper stays backseat to caramelized sugars.
Strength creeps up around the band point. Earthiness dominates now - damp soil and baker's chocolate. There's a licorice sweetness threading through that keeps it from going bitter, even as smoke density thickens. Watch the burn line here; that oily wrapper likes to canoe if rushed.
Last third brings the nicotine punch. Leather and roasted almonds take over, with occasional bourbon vanilla flashes. Smoke gets creamy but expect throat tingle - this isn't your morning coffee cigar. Most will nub it around the 90-minute mark before tar buildup gets feisty.
Typical Perdomo quality - triple cap holds firm, minimal wrapper flaws. The Churchill format shows their rolling skill; no soft spots despite 54 ring gauge. Box code hunters note better performance from 2023 batches. Pair with aged rum to amplify the barrel notes, but skip sugary drinks unless you want amplified sweetness.
