Let's talk about the Don Lucas Classic Robusto Gordo - that chunky 5 1/4" x 60 ring gauge beast wrapped in Connecticut Shade. This Dominican puffer comes in wooden boxes of 10, costing about $12.6 per stick. The mild-bodied smoke shows off Don Lucas' original 1992 blend that's been keeping both newbies and regulars happy. Family-owned and resisting mass production hype, it's got that artisanal cred golf mags can't ignore.
The initial puffs deliver sweet hay and cashew butter notes through that oily wrapper. Surprisingly smooth draw for a 60 RG, though the smoke output feels modest - more whisper than shout. Burn line stays razor-sharp if you nurse it slowly.
Dominican tobaccos start flexing with baking spices and damp earth. Noticeable creaminess emerges - think latte foam rather than heavy custard. Ash holds tight for 1.5" despite the fat gauge. Retrohale brings out white pepper without the nasal sting.
Last third introduces toasted cedar and a faint mineral tang. No harshness sneaks in, though nicotine buildup stays mercifully low. The nub stays cool but loses complexity - better to lay it down at the 1-hour mark than push through.
The box-pressed roll feels substantial without being dense. Watch the foot lighting - that wide surface area demands proper torch work. Paired best with light rum or sparkling water, as stronger drinks overpower its subtlety. Two weeks in 65% humidity smooths out occasional draw inconsistencies.
