The Barreda Don Chico Robusto is a Nicaraguan cigar, which is made in Estelì. The history of this brand might not be that old, but the roots are deep. It all began in the 70s when Don Francisco Barreda decided to start growing tobacco, for pure passion, and to create cigars that he could appreciate with a good coffee. It was his nephew Oscar Barreda who decided to take up the cigar as a business and who, just over five years ago, turned a passion into a job. The Don Chico line is a tribute to Don Francisco and is offered in two versions: Natural and Maduro. There are three sizes currently produced, a Robusto, a Toro, and a Gordo, the latter dubbed as “The Chairman”.
Aesthetically, the cigars are rolled in a Maduro shaded wrapper leaf. The construction is excellent, and the filling is uniform.
- Country of Origin: Nicaragua
- Size: 50 x 127 mm (5″)
- Wrapper: Habano
- Binder: Indonesia
- Filler: Nicaragua
- Price: $8 – € 7
Barreda Don Chico Habano Robusto: the cold draw reveals earthy hints. The opening confirms the earth, now joined by black pepper.
The first third continues on with notes of wood and earth, which alternate well with each other, and which are enriched by a roasted aroma of coffee beans. Strength is medium (3/5).
In the central section, the earth remains the protagonist. Hot spices come through in some puffs, especially in the finish. Mineral nuances are also perceptible, which gives a greater depth to the flavor profile, and notes of seasoned wood. The strength grows slightly (3.5/5).
The final third is much of the same, with the spices now being a mix of black pepper and chili spice. The earth remains the main flavor, while the wood is gradually less pronounced as the cigar approaches the end. Strength grows further, becoming medium-full (4/5).
Overall, the Barreda Don Chico Habano Robusto releases a smoke of good flavor intensity, and with a discreet evolution, perceptible mainly in the first two thirds. A satisfying cigar with a good quality/price ratio.