Let's dive straight into the Rocky Patel Catch22 Connecticut Sixty - a 6x60 gordo wrapped in Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade leaf. Priced under $150 for 22 sticks, this box-pressed parejo offers surprising finesse despite its hefty ring gauge. The creamy smoke and clean ash line make it perfect for pairing with your morning cold brew.
The cold draw delivers sweet hay and pencil shavings. Initial puffs explode with cashew butter and rice pudding creaminess, though the massive ring gauge requires slower pacing. Watch for uneven burn issues - rotate every 3-4 puffs to maintain consistency.
At the 45-minute mark, the profile shifts to roasted sunflower seeds and white pepper crescendo. Smoke output doubles here - perfect for cloud chasers. Some panelists report slight bitterness when pushing past 1-minute intervals between draws.
Down to the last two inches, the Nicaraguan filler reveals its teeth with damp earth and dark roast coffee notes. Retrohale cautiously - the ammonia bite sneaks up quicker than expected in this Connecticut blend.
This stick straddles multiple worlds - mild enough for golf course rookies yet complex enough to keep seasoned smokers engaged during 90+ minute sessions. Pair with oat milk lattes to amplify its creamy core, or contrast with ginger beer for palate cleansing.
