Let's cut straight to this 5x52 Robusto with its hybrid Connecticut wrapper. At $116.55 per box of 10, it's positioned as an approachable premium stick. The white-and-gold band screams minimalist luxury, though some argue it's overpriced for a mild-medium smoke. I found the Mexican Sumatra binder helps balance the Habano/Broadleaf filler blend. Rolled in Honduras, these need at least 3 months humidor time to mellow the peppery kick.
The cold draw gives wet cedar notes. Initial puffs deliver sharp white pepper that settles into baking spices within 5 minutes. Smoke output feels thinner than expected - not quite "creamy" as advertised. Retrohale stings with ammonia despite 68% RH storage.
Caramelized nuts emerge at the 25-minute mark, though the sweetness gets interrupted by sporadic earthy bursts. Burn line stays razor-sharp if you rotate every 3 puffs. Pair with black coffee to amplify the hidden cocoa powder notes.
Last inch turns aggressive - mineral bitterness creeps in alongside leather tones. The nicotine hit feels disproportionate to its mild rating. I tapped out with 1.5" remaining as tar buildup overwhelmed the nuanced Dominican filler flavors.
The Dominican Maduro wrapper feels oilier than typical Connecticut Shade. Cameroon binder contributes that signature spice through-line, while the Nicaraguan/Dominican filler combo explains the late-strength surge. Honduras rolling shows in the flawless cap but inconsistent bunch density.
