Let's cut straight to this Nicaraguan beast - the Surrogates Satin Glove Churchill stands 7" tall with a 47 ring gauge, packing full-bodied intensity in its box-pressed parejo shape. At $171 per box of 20 sticks, Pete Johnson's creation wraps San Andreas Mexican leaf around Nicaraguan binder/filler tobaccos. The dark wrapper glistens with oil like its namesake satin glove, hinting at the power beneath.
The initial puffs deliver espresso bitterness and black pepper spice through the nose. Smoke production feels thick - almost chewy texture with dense white plumes. Earthy undertones emerge as the burn reaches 1/2", accompanied by leathery dryness that makes me reach for water.
At the 3" mark, dark chocolate sweetness balances the initial assault. Cocoa powder notes mix with charred oak while the pepper shifts from upfront bite to lingering tongue tingle. Burn stays razor-sharp despite the oily wrapper.
Past the band point, nicotine strength becomes palpable. Molasses-like sweetness fights through increasing tar buildup. Last inch introduces mineral notes I'd describe as graphite meets licorice root. Most smokers tap out here - the Satin Glove demands respect for its nicotine punch.
