This 6x60 gordo from PDR packs serious punch for its $220/box price tag. Originally made for European markets, the Double Magnum became an instant US favorite with its Dominican-Nicaraguan Criollo core wrapped in Ecuadorian Criollo 98 leaf. I grabbed a box after hearing Spanish retailers helped tweak the blend for over a year - bold move that clearly paid off.
Cold draw gives instant espresso grit. Lighting reveals black pepper sharpness cutting through semi-sweet cocoa. Thick smoke production here - my jacket sleeve smells like a BBQ pit after 10 minutes. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite the 60 ring gauge.
Nicaraguan twang emerges strong - think charred cedar planks and roasted cashews. Retrohale stings slightly but carries addictive cinnamon sugar notes. Ash holds solid inch before dropping. Pairing tip: sweet iced tea balances the nicotine kick.
Leather and black cherry jam take over as heat builds. Last two inches get intense - tar accumulates faster than expected. Cut it at 1.5" remaining unless you're chasing nicotine buzz. Post-smoke aftertaste lingers like dark chocolate fondue.
This stick draws hardcore enthusiasts more than casual smokers. At local herfs, I've seen veterans nub it through gritted teeth while newcomers tap out halfway. Construction-wise, 23/24 in my box burned perfectly - rare consistency for budget-friendly gordos.
Drybox for 12 hours minimum. The Mexican binder tends to hold moisture, and a little pre-smoke drying eliminates relights. Store at 65% RH if planning to age - testers report cocoa notes sweeten noticeably after 6+ months.
