Dunbarton's Sin Compromiso No.5 delivers a box-pressed Nicaraguan punch in robusto format (6"x54), retailing at $219.38 for 13 sticks. This Steve Saka creation flaunts a slick San Andrés Maduro wrapper housing complex Nica fillers. The medium-strength smoke takes about 75 minutes to burn, offering evolving notes from initial sweetness to earthy depth. Compared to typical Maduros, it's slightly less sweet but more balanced - think of it as Padrón 1964's moodier cousin with better construction than Liga Privadas.
The cold draw releases maple syrup sweetness. Upon lighting, roasted almond and baker's chocolate dominate with cinnamon undertones. Smoke output stays moderate - about 30% thicker than average parejos. Ash holds firmly for 1.5 inches before first tap.
Earthiness emerges at the 25-minute mark - damp forest soil blended with espresso grounds. Leather notes become pronounced without harshness. Retrohale reveals unexpected floral hints (violets?) uncommon in Maduro wraps. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite 60% humidity testing.
Last third brings mineral complexity - crushed slate mingling with cedar. Strength ramps up to 4/5 with noticeable nicotine buzz. Creamy vanilla surfaces in final inch, though tar accumulation requires clipping 10 minutes earlier than expected. Total smoke time: 68 minutes.
The triple cap unravels cleanly with straight cutter. Box-press maintains sharp edges without biting. Draw resistance scores 8/10 (1=plugged, 10=wind tunnel). Ash reveals layered tobacco colors - dark outer ring contrasting with grey core. Wrapper oiliness causes slight finger sheen, but no residue transfer.
At $16.87/stick, it outperforms similarly priced Maduros in complexity but lacks the novelty of limited editions. Best enjoyed with black coffee to enhance its earthy characteristics. Not recommended for beginners due to nicotine strength in final third.
