Meet the PDR 1878 Capa Oscura Robusto - a box-pressed 5x52 stogie wrapped in oily Ecuadorian Sun Grown Oscuro leaf. Priced at $161.62 for 20 cigars, this Dominican puro delivers espresso intensity without overwhelming newbies. The rustic-looking wrapper hides surprising refinement beneath its rugged appearance.
Initial draws punch with black pepper and charred oak. The dense smoke carries baking spices - think nutmeg and allspice - evolving into dark chocolate notes by the 1" mark. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite the oily wrapper.
Cocoa powder sweetness takes over, tempered by espresso bitterness. I detected faint raisin undertones beneath the dominant coffee profile. Smoke output increases noticeably - have your ashtray ready.
Leather and earth emerge at the band point. The last inch brings unexpected creaminess, though nicotine strength ramps up to medium-full. Stopped at nub with minimal tar buildup on lips.
The Oscuro wrapper undergoes 18-month fermentation in Dominican pilones. Blender Abe Flores combines Corojo seco (for aroma) and ligero (for punch) from Cibao Valley farms. What surprised me: despite the dark wrapper, this stays medium-bodied - perfect for afternoon smoke sessions.
