The Rocky Patel Dark Star blend was introduced at PCA in 2023 and includes some tobacco grown from seeds from Paraguay at Plasencia’s Honduran farm in the filler.

• Wrapper: Honduran Corojo
• Binder: Honduran
• Filler: Honduran, Nicaraguan
• Size: Robusto 5 1/2 x 50

The Rocky Patel Dark Star Robusto presents a smooth, medium-brown wrapper. Upon lighting, the draw is excellent, and I immediately notice notes of nuts, mineral, and leather.

Upon lighting, a light caramel sweetness emerges, adding a pleasant contrast to the initial flavors of nuts, mineral, and leather I picked up in the cold draw all of which are present now. The retrohale brings a touch of white pepper, which enhances the overall experience without being overpowering. The ash is white-gray and holds well, naturally falling off at around an inch.

The burn is straight and even and was throughout the cigar. I never had to retouch it or make corrections. The cigar is light-medium in body and mild in strength. The finish is creamy and smooth, leaving a lasting impression of roasted nuts and espresso.

Overall, the Rocky Patel Dark Star Robusto is a straightforward cigar that delivers a consistent and enjoyable smoking experience. Though it is not a complex cigar, its well-balanced flavors and excellent construction make it not just blowing smoke and is recommended.