Rocky Patel Double Maduro Lancero

In late 2006, when Rocky Patel's Fusion was rapidly climbing the charts, nipping at the ankles of his own Vintage series, he was on to the next challenge: creating yet another unique handmade, the Double Maduro Lancero. As the name implies, the cigar utilizes two wrapper-quality Broadleaf Maduro leaves for extra richness. One is used as the wrapper, the other as the binder, which is typically a coarse, purely functional leaf. With its dark, oily, toothy appearance and its slight box press, this stick is a beauty. Handmade in Nicaragua, the blend is comprised of well-aged Dominican and Nicaraguan long-leaf ligeros. The result is a complex medium- to full-bodied smoke with heavy notes of chocolate toast and espresso. Look for a long-lasting, spicy sweetness on the finish. The draw is excellent, the burn even. This is one you can enjoy down to the nub. Pair it with a VSOP Cognac or Armagnac.