This golden-wrapped parejo has been turning heads since its limited release, packing a box of 8 sticks at $70.49. The 5½"x50 format feels substantial without being overwhelming - just right for a 45-minute smoke. What really catches attention is that special Connecticut Shade wrapper from first/second primings, so delicate you'd think it might tear if you stare too hard. Paired with San Andrés binder and Piloto Cubano/Mexican fillers, it's like smoking liquid sunshine.
The first inch serves up straight Connecticut creaminess - think melted butter on warm toast. By the second third, that signature Macanudo smoothness gets interrupted by honey-dipped walnuts. Final act brings damp earth notes that somehow don't turn bitter, though you'll want to put it down before the last inch unless you're into pencil shavings territory. Burns straighter than a ruler, ash holding firm in snow-white layers.
That famous "Capa Especial" wrapper lives up to the hype - no visible veins but thin enough to see light through. Pre-light aroma screams hayloft in July. Cold draw has faint maple syrup vibes. Perfect burn line compensates for smoke output that's lighter than expected. Pair with iced coffee to amplify the natural sweetness without overpowering.
Newbies craving a no-surprises smoke and veterans needing a palate cleanser. Not for nic-chasers or complexity addicts. Makes perfect sense as a morning cigar or post-dinner wind-down. Pro tip: Age these 6+ months and watch the honey notes intensify while keeping that signature smoothness.
