Meet the Rocky Patel Edge Maduro Torpedo - a box-pressed figurado with serious attitude. Packing a 6"x52 frame beneath its Costa Rican Maduro wrapper, this Honduran roller delivers five-year-aged Nicaraguan tobacco at about $7.38/stick in 100-count boxes. The dark San Andrés leaf glistens like motor oil, promising the heavy flavors Maduro lovers crave without overwhelming nicotine punch.
The initial punches land fast - espresso grounds and bitter chocolate dominate, with black pepper sparking on the retrohale. Expect dense smoke output that coats the palate, though the draw stays surprisingly open for such a tightly packed torpedo.
Sweetness emerges through the haze like caramelized walnuts, balancing the still-present charred oak notes. Watch for occasional leather flashes and that signature San Andrés earthiness creeping in around the halfway point.
This is where the "Edge" gets its name. Minerals and baking spices amplify while maintaining core cocoa tones. The last inch turns aggressively spicy - not harsh, but demanding respect. Most smokers tap out with 1.5" remaining as tar builds.
Rolled at RP's El Paraiso factory in Danli, these torpedoes showcase modern Honduran craftsmanship. The triple cap stays intact despite the pointed head, and burn lines stay sharp even in 60% humidity. Let them rest 6 months post-shipment - fresh boxes can show erratic combustion.
Pair with cold brew coffee to highlight the coffee bean nuances or a peaty Scotch to amplify smoke density. Novices should try the robusto vitola first before tackling this torpedo's focused intensity.
