This box-pressed beast from My Father Cigars comes swinging with a 56 ring gauge and 6.5" length - proper gordo proportions that'll keep your hands busy for a good 90 minutes. Priced at $208.80 for 20 sticks, it's the dark horse of Nicaraguan maduros, wrapped in Ecuadorian Habano leaf that's seen more fermentation time than a craft brewery.
First third: Cold draw serves espresso grounds and molasses. Initial puffs deliver cedar planks dipped in dark chocolate - the My Father signature spice comes through as white pepper at the back palate. Burn line holds razor-straight despite the box press.
Middle stretch: Nicaragua's volcanic soil starts talking - charred oak mixes with cinnamon raisin swirl. Retrohale brings out the maduro magic: burnt caramel sweetness balanced by leathery undertones. Smoke output doubles, requiring slower pacing.
Final third: Earthiness deepens to composted soil territory. Chocolate morphs into cocoa nib bitterness - time to purge if you're nicotine-sensitive. The last inch gets tarry, but that's where the macadamia nut note shines through for masochistic enthusiasts.
Rolled in Estelí using aged Nicaraguan ligero leaves from Jalapa. The maduro wrapper undergoes 18-month fermentation in cedar pilones - you can taste the wood infusion. Triple cap construction prevents unraveling, though I'd still recommend a punch cut for this ring gauge.
Pairing tip: Skip the sugary drinks. This smoke plays better with black coffee or smoky mezcal. Try freezing your glassware - the temperature contrast makes the spice pop. How do you usually pair your maduros?
