This Connecticut Broadleaf-wrapped petit robusto from Pete Johnson packs Nicaraguan firepower in a compact 4½"×50 frame. Sold in 25-count boxes around $4 per cigar, it's become a go-to choice for fans of earthy maduros wanting full flavor without the time commitment.
Immediate dark chocolate notes dominate with black pepper sparkles on the retrohale. The thick smoke carries a roasted coffee bean aroma. Draw feels slightly tight initially but opens up after ½ inch.
Burnt caramel emerges alongside walnut husk bitterness. There's detectable mineral tang on the tongue - characteristic of Estelí-grown tobacco. Smoke output increases dramatically, requiring slower pacing.
Sweetness peaks with molasses notes before transitioning to cedar plank smokiness. The last inch brings faint cinnamon spice but develops slight harshness. Most smokers report discarding with ¾" remaining.
The bumpy Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper shows visible tooth but holds firm. Triple cap unravels cleanly with a straight cutter. Burn line stays even after initial touch-ups. Ash flakes moderately - typical for Broadleaf wrappers.
At under $5/stick in bulk, it undercuts similar maduros by 15-20%. The short format works for quick smoke sessions though some find the flavor progression truncated compared to longer vitolas.
