Meet the Joya de Nicaragua Antaño 1970 Robusto Grande - a Nicaraguan powerhouse wrapped in a slick San Andrés Maduro leaf. This 5.5"x52 robusto delivers its full-bodied punch through dense smoke layers. At $6.45 per stick (box of 20 for $129), it's positioned as an affordable heavy-hitter. The oil-rich wrapper smells of damp earth and molasses, needing 68% humidity for optimal combustion. Seasoned smokers appreciate its slow burn time (75-90 mins), though newbies might find its nicotine kick overwhelming.
Black pepper slaps the palate immediately, accompanied by bitter espresso grounds. The dense smoke carries a burnt oak aroma. Draw resistance requires two careful V-cuts - too deep and the earthy minerality overpowers. Ash holds solid for 1.5" despite its flaky appearance.
Caramel sweetness emerges through charred cedar notes. Retrohale reveals baking spices (nutmeg dominant) with a cayenne pepper tingle. Smoke output doubles, leaving visible haze in still air. Heat management becomes crucial - 45-second intervals prevent harshness.
Leather and mineral tones dominate as the tar buildup accelerates. Savory elements recall beef jerky marinade - soy sauce meets smoked paprika. Personally experienced slight tongue numbness at 70% mark. Purge at 60% progression for optimal flavor retention.
The triple-seam cap withstands multiple relights. Observed minor wrapper peeling near band after 45 minutes. Estelí rollers packed this tight - expect 10+ minutes of rest post-shipping. Performed best at 65% RH after 30-day acclimation.
