The Henry Clay Rothchilde steps up with its box-pressed 5x50 Robusto format - factory code RC-5. Priced under $120 for a box of 25, this Dominican workhorse from Tabacalera de García comes wrapped in gnarly Connecticut Broadleaf that looks like it's been dragged through a tobacco barn (in the best possible way). Not your Instagram-perfect smoke, but the kind of stick that makes seasoned smokers nod approvingly.
Pre-light aroma serves wet earth and molasses. Initial puffs bring a nutty core (think raw almonds) wrapped in bitter cocoa. Smoke output stays moderate - no cloud chasing here. Burn line holds steady despite the rustic wrapper, though canoeing might occur if rushed.
Dominican filler shows its teeth with espresso grit and dried cherry sweetness. Retrohale kicks up white pepper that fades into leather tannins. Body weight increases to medium-plus, nicotine creep becoming noticeable around the 30-minute mark.
Baking spices emerge (clove, nutmeg) alongside charred oak. Last inch turns meaty - think smoked brisket bark minus the grease. Tar buildup requires purging past 45 minutes, though flavor stays surprisingly clean down to the nub.
The bumpy Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper feels thicker than your average Maduro. Triple cap holds firm, though draw resistance varies slightly between samples. Box press becomes more pronounced after 60% RH humidor rest - let these sit 6-8 weeks for optimal performance.
