Let's unpack what makes this box-pressed parejo from L'Atelier's Surrogates line a conversation starter. At 6"x54, the Satin Glove 654 delivers a full-bodied Nicaraguan punch wrapped in San Andreas Mexican leaf. The $171/box price point positions it as an approachable daily driver for enthusiasts craving complexity without breaking the bank. Unlike traditional parejos, the box-press format gives better heat control during those marathon smoke sessions.
The cold draw serves earthy barnyard notes - think fresh compost after rain. Initial puffs unleash black pepper spice that tingles the tongue, mellowing into roasted coffee beans at the 1" mark. Smoke production stays moderate, with visible oil rings forming on the charcoal-gray ash.
Pepper shifts to background noise as dark chocolate and hickory emerge. The San Andreas wrapper shows its sweet side with molasses undertones. Burn line stays razor-sharp, though the box-press shape requires occasional touch-ups in windy conditions.
Nicaraguan filler takes center stage - leathery depth with mineral undertones reminiscent of Estelí volcanic soil. Retrohale reveals a faint citrus zest that cuts through the accumulating nicotine strength. Smart to nub it before the last inch unless you're chasing that dizzying buzz.
The triple-seam cap survives guillotine cuts without unraveling. Box-pressing compresses the bunch just enough to create ideal air resistance - no need for draw tools. Wrapper oils transfer to fingers during handling, a telltale sign of well-humidified stock. Store at 65% RH to maintain the delicate sweet-spicy equilibrium.
