The Factory Smokes Maduro Churchill hits that sweet spot between budget-friendly and full-flavored. This 7-inch cigar with a 50 ring gauge comes in boxes of 25, offering Nicaraguan puro goodness at under $3 per stick. The dark Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper shines with oily patches that hint at its 2-year fermentation process.
Initial draws serve up black coffee bitterness with undertones of burnt caramel. The thick smoke carries a distinct earthy base note - imagine damp forest soil after rainfall. Retrohale brings subtle black pepper spice that lingers in the nostrils.
Flavors mellow into sweetened dark chocolate territory. There's a noticeable cedar wood character emerging, complemented by occasional nutmeg flashes. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite the 50-ring gauge.
Leather and roasted almond notes dominate as the cigar heats up. Some testers report slight bitterness in the last inch - classic maduro trait. Smoke output remains generous till the nub.
The triple-seam cap holds up beautifully during cutting. Pack density varies slightly between samples - some feel spongier than others. Average smoke time clocks in at 85 minutes, perfect for extended sessions.
Let these rest in your humidor for 4-6 weeks. The maduro wrapper develops sweeter characteristics over time, taming the initial bitter edges. Pair with cold brew coffee to amplify the chocolate notes.
