Let's talk about this Dominican beast - the PDR 1878 Capa Oscura Double Magnum. This 6x60 gordo comes in boxes of 20 for around $196, packing Ecuadorian-grown oscuro wrapper around Dominican binder and fillers. Medium-bodied with construction that's tighter than a drumhead, it's the kind of stick that makes you cancel plans just to smoke it properly.
The cold draw punches you with black pepper and cured leather. After lighting, charred oak and espresso dominate with enough nicotine kick to make your eyes water. Smoke production? Let's just say you'll need good ventilation.
Around the inch mark, burnt caramel sweetness battles with cedar notes. Retrohale brings cayenne pepper heat - not for the faint-hearted. Ash holds solid despite the massive ring gauge.
Last third gets dirty in the best way possible: damp earth, dark chocolate bitterness, and lingering black coffee aftertaste. Need to relight twice in the final inch - typical for thick vitolas.
Dry-box this fatty for 48 hours before smoking. The thick wrapper needs extra prep time. Pair with Mexican coke - the sugar helps balance the tannic finish.
