Let's cut to the chase about this 5x52 stick celebrating four decades of Quesada craftsmanship. Priced at $192.78 for 20 cigars, this box-pressed robusto combines San Andrés EMS wrapper with Dominican-Nicaraguan guts. First puffs hit like a spice rack explosion before settling into chocolate territory. Not your average Dominican smoke - this one's got attitude.
The cold draw whispers black pepper and raisin. Initial smoke brings herbal zing - think crushed coriander seeds with background molasses sweetness. Ash holds firm for 1.5" before dropping. Watch that box-press shape - gives extra lip comfort during extended sessions.
Dominican tobacco takes center stage: wet cedar and cashew butter. Retrohale stings slightly with white pepper, but in a good "wake up" way. Burn line stays razor-sharp if you don't rush it. Pair with black coffee here - cuts through the creaminess.
Nicaraguan leaf comes roaring in - dark chocolate nibs and fireplace embers. Some tasters report mineral notes (blame the volcanic soil). Cap stays cool, but nicotine builds - not for empty stomachs. Perfect nub potential if you've got the tolerance.
Rolled in MATASA's Santiago factory using their signature triple-cap method. Wrapper shows minimal veins - San Andrés done right. These age well - stash some for 12-18 months. The pressed shape helps prevent canoeing in humid climates.
Quesada's anniversary stick bridges Dominican refinement with Nicaraguan punch. Day smokers might prefer the lighter first half, while night owls will chase that chocolatey finish. At ~$9.60/stick, it's priced between daily drivers and special occasions. Worth trying if you dig complex blends that don't bite back.
