Let's talk about this $185.24 box of 25 sticks first - the H. Upmann 1844 Reserve Robusto comes dressed in a smooth Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, measuring 5"x50 like your classic robusto should. I found the box-pressed version holds ash better than regular parejos, though they both share that medium-full kick Tabacalera de Garcia is known for.
First Third: Immediate cedar spice punches through with black pepper tingle on the lips. The Nicaraguan binder shows its teeth here - not harsh, but demands attention. Retrohale reveals walnut shells and that distinct Dominican earthiness.
Middle Third: Smoke texture turns velvety as the blend finds balance. Cocoa powder emerges alongside burning hickory notes. Watch the burn line - needs one minor correction here in my humid Florida weather.
Final Stretch: Leather and espresso beans dominate as nicotine strength builds. Last inch gets mildly ashy if pushed too hard. Cut it at 45-minute mark for peak experience.
The box-pressed samples held 1.5" ash consistently vs regular parejos' flaky performance. Both versions showed minimal veins in the wrapper. Draw resistance sat in that Goldilocks zone - not too open, not plugging. Two cigars from my box needed relights, possibly due to June's humidity swings.
Morning pairings work if you take it slow - I found black coffee enhances the earthy notes. Skip this after heavy meals though; the medium-full body gets lost. Best enjoyed when you've got 50 minutes to savor the evolution.
