The Davidoff Aniversario No.2 enters the scene as a 7x38 parejo format cigar celebrating Zino Davidoff's 80th birthday legacy. This Dominican puro features an oily Ecuadorian wrapper hugging Dominican binder and filler leaves. Priced at $38 per stick ($950/box of 25), it positions itself as a special occasion smoke with approachable mild-medium strength.
The initial cold draw releases cedar shavings with faint floral sweetness. Upon lighting, the first inch delivers breakfast tea notes over a backbone of hay, with white pepper spice pricking the tongue. Smoke output remains moderate through the charring process.
At the 2" mark, the Dominican filler shows its teeth - roasted cashews and baking spices emerge alongside developing leather tones. The burn line stays razor-sharp without correction, ash holding firm in one-inch segments. Retrohales reveal hidden malted milk ball sweetness.
Approaching the band point, intensity ramps up with black pepper reclaiming dominance. Creamy undertones balance the growing spiciness, though nicotine presence becomes noticeable. Most smokers report ending at 50-55 minute mark before tar accumulation affects enjoyment.
This anniversary blend uses aged Dominican Piloto Cubano and San Vicente seco leaves beneath an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. All components undergo triple fermentation in the Dominican Republic's Cibao Valley. The parejo shape demonstrates Davidoff's signature rolling precision - firm pack density with slight give under finger pressure.
Maintained at 65% RH, the wrapper develops crystalline plume after 6-8 months aging. Smokers report improved flavor integration post 1-year rest, though fresh boxes already show impressive combustion consistency. Pair with mineral water or light rum to avoid overwhelming delicate notes.
