Let's talk about this box-pressed beast with Brazilian Cobra skin - the Saga No.7 Robusto. At 5½" x 50 ring gauge, this Dominican puro packs Cuban-seed tobacco and Brazilian wrapper into a $6.83/stick package. The triple cap holds dense ash through first third, though I noticed slight canoeing after 15 minutes. Compared to your average Dominican blend, this kicks like a mule with nicotine intensity.
Cold Draw: Earthy pre-light taste with raisin sweetness. The foot smells like damp forest floor - that signature Dominican earthiness.
First Third: Straight black pepper blast that settles into cashew nuttiness. Smoke output's medium-heavy, coating the palate with baking spices. Ash held solid for 1.5" before flaking.
Middle Third: Transition to bitter cocoa and charred oak. Retrohale brings white pepper sting. Noticed tar buildup near band point - typical with Brazilian wrappers. Keep your cutter handy for a purge.
Final Third: Leather and molasses take over as nicotine kicks in. Burn went uneven here, requiring two corrections. Stopped at 55-minute mark when sweetness turned ashy.
Pro tip: Dry-box this stick for 48 hours before smoking. The Brazilian wrapper tends to hold moisture, and I found burn consistency improved significantly after some airing out. Pairs brutally well with an espresso martini to cut through the strength.
