Let's cut to the chase with La Habanera's Aluminum Tube Diplomaticos - a 6x44 parejo-shaped cigar that's been aging in aluminum tubes since 1902. This Dominican pioneer uses Connecticut wrappers with Cuban-seed fillers from El Cibao valley, delivering mild-medium smoke perfect for rum pairings. At $5.35 per stick in 20-count boxes, it's your gateway cigar to Dominican heritage.
The cold draw gives straight hay notes. Initial puffs reveal damp cedar and white pepper - typical DR earthiness. Smoke output feels thin but consistent. Watch that burn line though; needs occasional touch-ups.
Creaminess kicks in with cashew butter and baking spices. Retrohale brings out cinnamon sugar coating. Draw loosens up nicely after the first inch. Ash holds decently in ¾" chunks.
Bitter dark chocolate emerges at the nub. Some reviewers report coffee grounds aroma, but I mainly get toasted tobacco. Nicotine hit stays manageable - no head spins even on empty stomach.
Rolled at La Tabacalera factory using mixed priming leaves: volado for combustion, seco for aroma, limited ligero. Sun-grown vs shade-grown tobacco blending creates its signature "smooth but bland" controversy among enthusiasts. Tube packaging maintains 68-70% RH without humidor - practical for travelers.
