Meet the Tatuaje Miami RC233 Diademas - Pete Johnson's 2003 creation packs a Nicaraguan punch in a lavish 9.5-inch figurado format. This Miami-rolled stogie comes 10 to a box at $243, showing off a tapered 50/55 ring gauge that demands attention. While not the most explosive blend from Don Pepin's playbook, its earthy swagger explains why these disappeared from humidors faster than Habanos at a LCDH sale.
The initial puffs hit with black pepper and wet cedar, leaving a tingling sensation on the tongue. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper shows its teeth with mineral-heavy smoke that clings to the palate. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite the irregular shape - no touch-ups needed.
Nicaraguan fillers shift gears at the 3-inch mark. Dark chocolate emerges through the leathery base, accompanied by pistachio cream nuances. Smoke output increases noticeably, requiring slower draws to prevent heat buildup. Ash holds firm in one-inch segments.
The tapered head concentrates flavors into an espresso-soaked raisin profile. Strength accumulators should brace for nicotine kick - this isn't a beginner's morning smoke. Savvy smokers nub it down to the band, though tar buildup warrants clipping the last half-inch.
Rolled at Miami's El Rey de los Habanos factory using aged Nicaraguan filler from Estelí's volcanic soils. The Ecuadorian wrapper undergoes extended fermentation to handle Florida's humidity without splitting. Unlike typical "Cuban-esque" attempts, this blend embraces Nicaraguan intensity through Miami's Cuban-exile rolling techniques.
