The Tatuaje Series P Short Robusto hits the sweet spot between price and performance in Nicaraguan cigars. This 4½" x 52 stick from Pete Johnson's workshop comes boxed in 20-count bundles at $72 - that's just $3.60 per cigar. The Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper conceals a Nicaraguan core that punches above its weight class, perfect for mid-day smoke breaks when you want full flavor without marathon burn times.
The cold draw releases damp earth notes with a paprika kick. Initial puffs bring instant coffee bitterness that mellows into roasted nuts after half-inch burn. White pepper lingers on lips like chili powder residue.
At the halfway mark, bitter cacao emerges through cedar plank smoke. Retrohale reveals unexpected brown sugar sweetness - think charred marshmallow crust. Burn line stays razor-sharp even with quick puffing.
Last inch turns bold with saddle leather tannins and mineral tang. Nicotine strength ramps up noticeably - new smokers should stop here. Ash holds firm through finger-tap tests despite rapid consumption.
Mexican San Andrés wrapper feels slightly toothy under fingertips. Triple-cap shows precision rolling - no unraveling during punch cut. Draw resistance sits in the Goldilocks zone, neither airy nor plugged. Smoke output stays moderate but consistent through all thirds.
For under $4/stick, this delivers textbook Nicaraguan spice with construction quality rivaling $10 cigars. Better aged 3-6 months to tame initial ammonia bite. Pair with cold brew coffee or añejo tequila to complement its earthy-sweet spectrum.
