This box-pressed parejo from EP Carrillo's Pledge series brings serious heft in a slim 6.5" x 43 frame. The 2022 limited edition Lonsdale sports an oily Ecuadorian Habano wrapper that looks like melted dark chocolate. At about $10 per stick in 20-count boxes, it's positioned as a premium daily smoke for full-bodied enthusiasts.
First Third: Immediate espresso shot with black pepper tickle in the nose. The box-press shape delivers concentrated smoke despite the slender ring gauge. Ash holds tight for nearly two inches.
Middle Third: Transition to burnt caramel and cedar notes. Noticeable nicotine kick starts creeping in around the halfway point - rookie smokers might want to pair with sweetened coffee.
Final Third: Leather and mineral earthiness take over. The last inch gets predictably bitter like most Nicaraguan-heavy blends. Perfect combustion throughout with no touch-ups needed.
Rolled at Tabacalera La Alianza in DR using Mexican San Andrés binder and Nicaraguan Jalapa filler. The Habano wrapper from Ecuador's highland valleys gives that signature oily sheen. Aging potential: 3-5 years for smoother edges.
