The Perdomo Lot 23 Maduro Robusto hits hard with its 5"x50 frame packed with Nicaraguan fire. Priced at $162 for 24 sticks, this box-pressed beauty shows off an oily bourbon barrel-aged maduro wrapper that'll stain your fingers just looking at it. First lit in 2020 from tobacco aged 5 years, it's become a go-to for smokers craving that Esteli earthiness without breaking the bank.
The first inch hits like a coffee-chocolate bomb with black pepper sneaking in through the nostrils. Smoke feels thick enough to chew - classic Perdomo oiliness. Around the middle third, the sweet spot kicks in: roasted almonds and charred oak with a molasses undertone that clings to your lips. Last third brings the Nicaraguan heat - damp earth and leather notes that'll have you reaching for water, but in that good "let's finish this" way.
Triple cap holds firm through multiple cuts. Burn line stays razor-sharp for first two-thirds unless you're smoking in humidity. Ash stacks dense gray chunks - tap off before the halfway mark unless you want a lap full of souvenirs. Draw starts tight but opens up after the first inch. Pair with bourbon or espresso to cut through the richness.
