Tatuaje's Surrogates Animal Cracker hits hard with its box-pressed 6"x60 figurado format, packing Nicaraguan guts under a dark Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro wrapper. This $198/box smoke shows Pete Johnson's boutique philosophy - big ring gauges for maximum flavor delivery without the marathon burn time. The animal cracker-themed band hints at its deceptive playfulness, but that 60-ring gordo means business with full-bodied intensity.
The initial punches land fast - black coffee grounds and unsweetened baking chocolate dominate. Retrohale brings white pepper sting through the nose while the dense smoke coats the tongue. Construction holds firm with tight ash formation, burning slower than expected for a 60-ring gauge.
Leather and charred steak crust notes emerge as the core dark flavors persist. Molasses sweetness creeps in to balance the bitterness, though never crosses into dessert territory. Visible oil rings form on the wrapper as combustion reaches optimal temperature.
Mineral bitterness amps up alongside nicotine strength. Savory umami hints of soy sauce and pencil lead appear before the cigar turns ashy. Recommended to purge frequently here - about 75-minute total burn time before the last inch turns aggressive.
