Let's cut to the chase - the Don Lucas 20th Belicoso brings Dominican heat in a 6"x54 figurado format. This full-bodied anniversary release packs aged tobacco from the Gillet family's Punta Cana operation into sleek black boxes of 10, priced at $153. The tapered head promises flavor concentration while the hefty ring gauge keeps the smoke session around 75 minutes. You'll notice minimal veins on the Colorado-maduro wrapper - a good sign for steady burning.
Initial draws deliver black pepper kick with undertones of toasted cashew. The earthy core reminds me of damp forest soil after rain, though some might call it barnyard. Smoke output feels moderate - not a chimney, but thick enough to satisfy. Watch for the tapered head to amplify flavors around the 15-minute mark.
At the halfway point, burnt caramel sweetness emerges to balance the pepper. There's faint molasses undertone that never quite tips into cloying territory. Ash holds firm in 1" segments when properly humidified. I'd pair this with black coffee to cut through the intensity.
Last third introduces leather notes with increased tar buildup. Retrohale reveals baking spices (clove/nutmeg) but demands careful pacing. Most smokers will want to put it down with about 2" remaining as nicotine strength peaks. Not the cleanest finish, but appropriately bold for a celebratory smoke.
