Let's talk about this box-pressed beauty from Dominican Republic's oldest factory. The Leon Jimenes Connecticut No 2 comes in robusto format (7"x47) with that signature Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper - think golden-brown perfection that glows like antique parchment. At $7.65/stick, it's that sweet spot between daily driver and special occasion smoke.
The cold draw serves hay and pencil shavings - classic Connecticut vibes. Initial puffs bring roasted cashews with honey-drizzled oatmeal. Retrohale reveals white pepper that's more tickle than punch. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite 65% humidity in my lounge.
Here's where the Dominican fillers flex. Baking spices emerge - cinnamon toast crunch meets almond biscotti. Noticeable creaminess coats the palate, though smoke output stays modest. Ash holds firm for two inches before the first tap.
Leather notes creep in at the band point, balanced by persistent sweetness. No harshness even when nubbing, but nicotine buildup warrants caution for lighter smokers. Pair with cappuccino to amplify the milk chocolate undertones.
My box from 2022 had impeccable roll quality - no soft spots or unraveling wrappers. The triple-cap punches cleanly. Though not overly oily, the Ecuadorian leaf maintains resilience in tropical climates. Aging potential? 2-3 years max before losing topnotes.
La Aurora's tribute to their founder shines as a crowd-pleaser. Newbies appreciate its approachability while veterans respect the blending precision. Not the most complex smoke, but sometimes reliability trumps fireworks. Keep these on hand for golf course sessions or when introducing friends to premium cigars.
