Let's talk about the Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Robusto - a 5x52 parejo that's become many smokers' go-to afternoon pick. Priced around $228 for a box of 25, this Dominican-made stick packs Nicaraguan binder and aged filler tobaccos under that silky Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper. Unlike its Cuban cousins, this Reserva Real version dials up the creaminess while keeping the nicotine kick manageable at medium strength.
The cold draw gives off faint cedar shavings. After toastin', the opening act serves up warm cashew butter with a drizzle of honey - that Connecticut sweetness keeps things polite. Smoke output's decent though not voluminous, perfect for casual puffs between coffee sips.
Around the band point, earthy notes start muscling in. Think damp oak barrels mixed with roasted corn. The retrohale brings a white pepper tingle that makes your nose twitch but never burns. Ash holds firm in 1-inch chunks - decent construction from Tabacalera de García.
Last third gets more interesting with baking spices - nutmeg mainly - but watch that burn line. Some boxes tend to canoe here if rushed. The nicotine wallop stays mild-medium, making this safe for post-lunch smoke sessions.
These smoke best at 65% RH - any higher and the draw tightens up. Pair with oaked chardonnay to boost the nutty notes. Boxes come with Boveda packs, but let 'em rest 2 weeks post-shipping. Not the most complex smoke, but reliable as your morning alarm clock.
