For those craving a glass-tubed Churchill with an elegant sweet-spice balance, the RP Vintage 1992 Sumatra delivers. This 7x48 parejo packs 10-year-aged Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and a Dominican/Nicaraguan filler core. Priced at $135.99 per box of 20, it strikes that sweet spot between daily driver and special occasion smoke. The Honduran-made cigar arrives in a protective glass coffin that doubles as a humidity buffer - perfect for golf bag storage or impromptu herf sessions.
The initial puffs push caramelized nuts and raisin sweetness through earthy Sumatra wrapper. Combustion starts clean with a straight burn line, though the 48-ring gauge needs occasional touch-ups. Retrohale stings slightly with white pepper, but settles into cinnamon-dusted espresso by the inch mark.
Smoke output doubles as the Nicaraguan core awakens - think charred oak and black tea bitterness cutting through the sweetness. Ash holds firm in 1.5" segments. Watch for heat buildup if puffing faster than 30-second intervals. Pairing tip: Skip the sugary drinks and try mineral water to balance the emerging tannins.
Past the band point, the Dominican filler shines with cedar dryness and baking spices. Tar accumulates faster than most Churchills - I nub mine at the 60-minute mark before bitterness creeps in. Post-smoke, expect lingering leather aroma rather than harsh nicotine buzz.
Unlike standard tubos that use cheap cedar, RP's thick glass maintains 65-68% RH without added humidification. The seal isn't completely airtight - I still keep them in my main humidor, but they travel exceptionally well. Glass shows off the Sumatra wrapper's oily sheen, though fingerprints smudge easily. Pro tip: Label the tube's base with purchase date using painter's tape.
