Let's talk about the PDR 1878 Medium Roast Cafe Robusto - a Dominican coffee-infused cigar that's like your morning espresso in stick form. Measuring 5" x 52 in classic parejo shape, this 20-count box ($161.62) blends Ecuadorian Sun Grown Claro wrapper with Dominican/Nicaraguan fillers. The construction feels tight yet springy, ready to deliver those java notes Abe Flores is famous for.
The cold draw smells like fresh coffee grounds. Initial puffs deliver bold roasted coffee bean flavors with a touch of cinnamon sugar. Smoke output's moderate - not fog machine levels but enough to fill your patio. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite me rushing the light.
Around the 1.5" mark, walnut and dark chocolate notes emerge. The coffee shifts from Starbucks-level roast to something more artisanal - think single-origin pour-over. Retrohale gets spicy (black pepper, not jalapeño) but never harsh. Ash holds strong for 1.5 inches before dropping cleanly.
Last third brings bitter-sweet balance - imagine espresso shot chased with caramel square. Earthy undertones develop, but never swamp the core coffee profile. Stopped at nub not because of heat, but nicotine creep (solid medium-plus strength). Pair with cold brew unless you want jitters.
