Let's talk about the Davidoff Year of the Rabbit 2023 - a figurado-shaped stunner dressed in red and gold that's been sitting in my humidor since its winter release. Measuring just under 6 inches with a beefy 54 ring gauge, this Lunar New Year special offers more than just a pretty face. At $50 per stick (sold in 10-count boxes), it's positioned as Davidoff's festive smoke for collectors who appreciate symbolic blends.
Cold Draw: Cold draw reveals floral notes with faint raisin sweetness. The closed foot requires careful toasting before proper ignition.
The initial puffs burst with Mexican coffee bean bitterness tempered by Dominican piloto's white pepper zing. Smoke production leans moderate - not a cloud chaser's dream but enough for retrohaling. Ash holds firm in ¾" segments.
At the 30-minute mark, Yamasa Visus filler takes center stage with roasted almond flavors. Draw tightens slightly near the bulge but recovers after the burn passes the widest point. Watch for inconsistent burn lines requiring minor touch-ups.
The last third introduces unexpected dark chocolate notes through the San Andrés binder. Nicotine strength creeps up to medium-plus despite the "medium" rating. Terminate at the 1-hour mark when tar buildup mutes complexity.
Beyond the blend, the rabbit motif carries weight. The closed foot mimics a rabbit's burrow entrance, while gradual flavor development reflects the animal's cautious nature. Red packaging nods to traditional Lunar New Year colors, though the gold foil band feels slightly ostentatious for the humble zodiac subject.
