Let's cut through the hype: The H. Upmann 1844 Reserve Corona delivers a 5.5"x44 smoking experience that fits neatly between your morning coffee and afternoon meetings. This Dominican-made corona with Connecticut Shade wrapper has been polarizing smokers since its release - some praise its consistency, others yawn at its predictability.
The pale Colorado wrapper feels like pressed paper between fingers - not oily, but tight. First light throws decent smoke volume (3/5 density) with razor burn line. Ash holds for 1.5" before dropping - typical Dominican construction.
Cold draw: hay and pencil shavings. Initial puffs deliver cashew butter richness with white pepper tingle on lips. Retrohale stings slightly - novice be warned. Midway through first inch develops wet cedar notes reminiscent of humidor shelves.
Core profile shifts to roasted cashews and wheat toast. Sweetness amps up near band point - think pancake syrup left on diner tables. Smoke texture thickens noticeably; starts coating palate like skim milk.
Last inch brings bitter cacao nibs and mineral water aftertaste. Tar builds up at nub despite smooth draw. Stopped at 58-minute mark with quarter-inch left - smart move for nicotine-sensitive smokers.
General Cigar's blending team mixes Dominican Piloto Cubano filler with Nicaraguan Estelí leaf - explains the earthy undertow. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper smells better than it tastes. Rolled at massive Tabacalera de Garcia facility (produces 30M cigars annually), this stick shows factory efficiency over artistry.
The 1844 Reserve plays it safe - perfect for golf course smokers who want flavor consistency over surprises. Its $7/stick price tag feels fair, not steal-worthy. Would I box it? Maybe. Would I recommend to newbies? Absolutely.
