Let's cut straight to the chase with this 6x38 parejo - the PDR Small Batch Reserve Habano Fundadores packs Dominican craftsmanship in a slim Brazilian Habano wrapper. Priced at $118.80 for 24 sticks, it's that "Goldilocks zone" smoke between casual puffing and serious sessions. The Cuban entubado rolling method gives it that signature tight draw cigar nerds geek over. I'd call this the thinking man's smoke for when you want complexity without overwhelming strength.
The initial light hits with white pepper spray to the palate - in a good way. Roasted cashew aromas cut through the spice, accompanied by that mineral tang Abe Flores fans recognize. Smoke output stays moderate, perfect for nose exhales without choking your patio buddy.
Here's where the magic happens. The Criollo binder kicks in with caramelized sugar notes that morph into burnt crème brûlée crust. Midway through, I'm getting cedar planks and bitter cocoa nibs - like chewing on a lumberjack's dessert. Retrohales leave wheat toast crumbs on the tongue.
Leather gloves dipped in espresso arrive right when nicotine starts creeping up. Cinnamon stick sweetness plays tag with the coffee bitterness. Smart move keeping this at 38 ring gauge - any thicker and the tar buildup would ruin the crisp finish. Tap out at 45 minutes unless you're chasing the nicotine dragon.
PDR uses volcanic soil Habano2000 wrapper from Ecuador's Andes foothills, paired with mineral-rich Dominican fillers aged 3+ years. The "Small Batch" label isn't just marketing fluff - these get extra fermentation time to mellow the ligero leaves. Pro tip: Use a V-cut to preserve the triple cap's flavor regulation. Pair with peaty Scotch or black coffee to amplify the smoke's earthy depth.
