The Davidoff Grand Cru No 5 stands out as a classic Petit Corona measuring 4 inches in length with a 41 ring gauge. Priced at $390 for a box of 25, this mild-medium Dominican blend features a light Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper that belies its complex flavor development. I find it's perfect for those 45-minute smoke breaks when you want something sophisticated but not overwhelming.
First Third: Immediate nutty profile with roasted almonds and cedar wood notes. The draw feels slightly tight initially but opens up nicely within minutes. Smoke production remains moderate - enough to satisfy but won't fog up your patio.
Middle Third: Develops creamy texture with distinct vanilla bean and toasted hazelnut flavors. Some users report faint floral undertakes though I personally caught more brioche crust character. Burn line stays razor-sharp without touch-ups.
Final Third: White pepper spice emerges gently without overwhelming the palate. The mineral aftertaste pairs beautifully with sparkling water or dry champagne. Stopped at nub with minimal tar buildup - a civilized finish.
The seamless Connecticut wrapper glistens with tiny oil droplets - a sign of proper humidor storage. My sample maintained perfect combustion throughout despite coastal humidity. The white "Grand Cru" band peels off cleanly without damaging the delicate wrapper.
At $15.60/stick, this sits in premium territory. While not the most complex Davidoff offering, it delivers consistent quality that outperforms many Cuban alternatives in its price range. First-time buyers should consider the 5-pack option before committing to full boxes.
