Let's talk about the Davidoff Grand Cru Robusto - a 5.25"x52 parejo that'll set you back $662.50 for a box of 25. This white-band beauty from Davidoff's core Dominican lineup gives you that signature "morning coffee cigar" vibe with its Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper hugging Dominican guts. It's like the classier cousin of their original Cuban Chateau blend, repackaged for modern aficionados who dig consistency.
The cold draw whispers "freshly opened tea bag" - that distinct dry herbal note Davidoff nails. Initial puffs deliver cashew butter spread on wheat toast, with just enough white pepper tickle in the nose. Ash holds tight like Davidoff's QC reputation, burning laser-straight.
Around the inch mark, the Dominican filler starts flexing. Toasted cedar emerges, not the sharp kind but like aged furniture wax. Retrohale brings unexpected apricot jam sweetness - weird but works. Smoke output stays modest, perfect for indoor smoking without setting off fire alarms.
Last third introduces roasted coffee beans minus bitterness. The body creeps towards medium territory but never gets pushy. Some report slight salinity near the nub, though proper humidor time (aim for 65% RH) usually tames this.
The Ecuadorian wrapper feels like broken-in leather gloves - smooth with micro-tooth. Triple cap holds firm even with punch cuts. Only complaint? Some 2023 boxes showed slightly spongy foot density, though never enough to impact burn. Let these rest 6+ months if you snag newer stock.
Not the attention-grabbing showoff. More like your reliable brunch companion. Daytime smokers dig its clarity while experienced palates use it as a "palate cleanser" between stronger sticks. At $26/stick, it's an "occasion cigar" for most, though trust fund babies might make it their gym smoke.
