Let's dive into the Foundation Tabernacle CT Broadleaf Torpedo - a box-pressed 4.5" x 52 figurado that packs Nicaraguan firepower under its Connecticut Broadleaf armor. Priced around $10-$12 per stick in boxes of 24, this AJ Fernandez-rolled blend uses Mexican San Andrés binder and tri-national filler for a medium-full journey that oscillates between dark chocolate sweetness and espresso bitterness.
The cold draw delivers earth-laden chocolate notes. Initial puffs erupt with black pepper (3/10 strength) transitioning to baking spices. The tight draw produces thick smoke - cedar and nutmeg dominant, slight cinnamon sweetness. Burn stays razor-sharp despite the 52 ring gauge.
At the halfway point, the San Andrés binder asserts itself. Coffee bean bitterness balances the initial sweetness. Retrohale reveals roasted almond and occasional flashes of dried cherry. Smoke output decreases slightly - needs moderate purging to maintain flavor clarity.
Nicaraguan ligero kicks in with leather and charred meat intensity. The last inch develops pronounced nicotine tingle (7/10 strength). Cocoa powder aftertaste lingers 15+ minutes post-smoke. Expect moderate tar buildup requiring a guillotine cut refresh.
The triple cap holds firm through multiple cuts. Box-pressed shape maintains integrity despite oily wrapper. Tested humidity: 65% RH with 6 months aging. First samples showed 1/5 cigars with minor tunneling - recommends dry-boxing 24 hours pre-smoke.
