Let's talk about the Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro Robusto - a 5"x56 Nicaraguan powerhouse packed in boxes of 24. This bourbon barrel-aged beauty sells for $216 a box, featuring an oily maduro wrapper that's been fermenting for 14 months. The blend uses high-priming Nicaraguan tobaccos that'll punch your taste buds with medium-full strength, perfect for smokers who want complexity without throat-scorching intensity.
The initial puff delivers bourbon-soaked oak notes with black coffee bitterness. Expect thick smoke production - this cigar doesn't hold back. The dark chocolate undertones emerge around the 1/2" burn point, accompanied by a subtle raisin sweetness that keeps the profile from being too harsh.
At the band removal point, the earthiness ramps up with damp soil and leather flavors. Nicaraguan pepper spice appears but stays restrained, more tingle than burn. Retrohales reveal an interesting baking spice mix - think cinnamon stick dipped in espresso.
The last act brings burnt caramel and charred meat smokiness. Strength creeps up to full-bodied territory here. Watch for nicotine kick - this isn't your beginner's after-dinner smoke. The nub gets slightly tar-y, suggesting a 60-minute smoking window is ideal.
Grown in Estelí's volcanic soil and rolled at Perdomo's Esteli factory, this cigar represents Nicaraguan tobacco at its finest. The maduro wrapper undergoes 12+ months fermentation in bourbon barrels - a process that creates its signature molasses-like sweetness. Binder/filler leaves from Jalapa valley add the signature Nicaraguan pepper zing without overwhelming newbies.
