Let's talk about the Don Julio Sang Bleu Salomon - a figurado-shaped stogie measuring 7" long with a beefy 58 ring gauge. At $604.80 for a box of 24, this Dominican puro comes dressed in slick blue-and-gold bands, containing rare tobaccos grown exclusively in the Reyes family's Cibao Valley fields. The limited-edition collaboration with Sang Bleu tattoo artists gives it serious street cred among cigar enthusiasts looking for something Instagram-worthy.
The initial light reveals cedar shavings and roasted almonds, with a honey-like sweetness coating the palate. Smoke production stays moderate - don't expect cloud-chasing here. Draw feels slightly tight initially but opens up after the first inch.
Midway through, black pepper spice kicks in alongside baking cinnamon. Earthy undertones of damp soil emerge, balanced by milk chocolate notes. Burn line stays razor-sharp without touch-ups, a testament to the Honduran rolling expertise.
The last segment amps up intensity with dark espresso and charred oak flavors. Some smokers report slight bitterness if pushed too hard - better to retire it when the caramelized sugar notes fade. Nicotine strength creeps up to medium-full by the nub.
Hand-rolled at Honduras' Raíces Cubanas factory using 2-3 year aged tobaccos. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper contributes reddish hues and oily sheen, while Dominican fillers deliver that signature Cibao Valley spice. Proper humidification (65% RH recommended) prevents canoeing in the tapered foot.
