Let's cut straight to the chase - the Four Kicks Capa Especial Corona Gorda from Crowned Heads packs serious flavor in its 5⅝"×46 frame. This box-pressed corona gorda comes 24 sticks to a bundle at $193.32, carrying an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper that's darker than your average morning brew. It's the fourth iteration in the series, and boy does that Habano-seed leaf make its presence known.
The pre-light sniff reveals damp earth and black tea leaves. Initial puffs deliver roasted almonds and cedar with a black pepper kick that lingers on the tongue. Smoke production's decent but not overwhelming - about two solid clouds per draw.
At the halfway mark, baking spices take center stage. Cinnamon and nutmeg swirl with dark chocolate notes. The Nicaraguan binder starts flexing its muscles here - there's a distinct mineral quality that regular Four Kicks smokers will recognize, now tempered by that Sumatra sweetness.
The last act brings leather and charred oak with surprising honey undertones. Watch out for nicotine buildup around the nub - this isn't your casual yard-gar. Pairing tip: have a sugar cube handy if you're nicotine-sensitive.
The magic happens through multi-origin tobacco fusion: - Ecuadorian wrapper: High-altitude volcanic soil amps up sugar content - Nicaraguan core: Estelí (60% pepper), Jalapa (30% fruit), Condega (10% mineral) - Rolled at Tabacalera Pichardo using traditional entubado method
This corona gorda's for smokers who want Nicaraguan punch without sacrificing complexity. Best enjoyed slowly - rush it and you'll miss the honey-kissed finish. Keep matches handy; that dense pack needs proper toasting. At $8/stick, it's a solid choice for transitioning from medium to full-bodied profiles.
