Let's cut to the chase - the Media Noche Edmundo hits different. This 5x55 robusto from Montecristo's darker line packs Nicaraguan, Peruvian and Dominican filler tobacco under a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper that's almost black. At $176/box of 20, these Dominican-made sticks come in night-sky blue boxes with gold-accented bands that'll make your humidor look expensive.
Cold draw gives espresso grinds and leather. Initial puffs deliver heavy black coffee notes with a charred wood undertone. Smoke output's decent - not a cloud chaser but visible plumes. Watch the burn line; tends to canoe if rushed.
Where the magic happens. Dark chocolate emerges beneath the coffee, plus this weirdly pleasant tar-like sweetness. Retrohale brings out black pepper that actually complements the bitterness. Ash holds solid inch-plus.
Nicotine kicks in around the band point. Flavors shift to roasted nuts with mineral notes. Last inch gets harsh - typical for maduros. Ditch it when the heat reaches fingers unless you're chasing that nic buzz.
These need 65-68% humidity minimum. The broadleaf wrapper cracks easily when dry. Let them rest 6+ months - that ammonia bite in fresh boxes mellows into proper maduro sweetness. Pair with espresso or bourbon to balance the bitterness.
