Let's cut straight to the chase - the H. Upmann Connecticut Belicoso brings something special to the Connecticut game. This 6 1/8" x52 figurado comes in boxes of 20 sticks that'll set you back around $187 a pop. The Grupo de Maestros crew blended Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers under an Ecuadorian Connecticut shade wrapper, adding a maduro cap that's like lipstick on a perfectly rolled cigar. Smoke time? About 65 minutes if you're savoring it proper.
Cold draw gives that signature Connecticut sweetness with a faint cedar undertone. First puffs - creamy cashew blast with just enough white pepper to make your tongue tingle. Smoke production's decent, not a chimney but satisfying. Watch that burn line though, needs occasional touch-ups on humid days.
Here's where the Dominican filler flexes - toasted tobacco core with baking spices (think nutmeg, not cinnamon). Retrohale reveals a honeyed vanilla that's smoother than most Connecticuts. Body creeps up to medium, pairing perfectly with that iced coffee you should be drinking with it.
The maduro cap comes alive in last third - dark chocolate notes emerge without bitterness. Nicaraguan filler peeks through with faint earthiness, but keeps it classy. Strength stays put at medium, no nicotine rush even for lightweights. Perfect nub potential if you've got the patience.
Midday smokers craving something richer than typical Connecticuts but not ready for full-bodied stuff. Construction's reliable enough for golf course duty. At about $9/stick, sits in that sweet spot between daily driver and special occasion smoke.
