Brand Heritage
Roma Craft Tobac is a boutique cigar manufacturer founded by Mike Spatafora and Skip Martin, two names well respected in the premium cigar community for their commitment to small-batch, high-quality production. The brand has earned a loyal following among serious enthusiasts by keeping distribution intentionally limited, ensuring that every cigar that leaves their operation meets an exceptionally high standard of craftsmanship. The Neanderthal line, in particular, stands as one of Roma Craft's most celebrated and sought-after blends, frequently appearing on industry top-rated lists since its introduction.
Blend & Construction
The Neanderthal HN Figurado is a Nicaraguan puro at its core, dressed in a dark, oily Mexican San Andres wrapper known for contributing rich, earthy sweetness to any blend. The binder and filler draw from an impressive array of tobacco-growing regions, including Condega, Estelí, Jalapa, and Pueblo Nuevo in Nicaragua, alongside Dominican Olor and Pennsylvania Double Ligero — a truly complex multi-regional construction. The HN vitola presents as a 5 x 52/56 figurado with a flat cap, a shape that concentrates smoke and intensifies flavor through the tapered body. Construction throughout the line is consistently praised for its firm, even pack and excellent burn characteristics.
Flavor Profile
The Neanderthal HN is a full-bodied, full-strength experience designed for seasoned palates. In keeping with the line's established profile, expect a rich and layered smoke defined by dark earth, roasted espresso, and notes of dark chocolate, with a natural sweetness lent by the San Andres wrapper. The Pennsylvania Double Ligero adds considerable depth and a pronounced, lingering strength that builds gradually as the cigar progresses. Transition points throughout the smoke reveal evolving nuances — pepper and spice at the light, mellowing into leather and cocoa through the mid-section, finishing with a bold, satisfying complexity. Draw and smoke production are typically generous, hallmarks of the figurado shape done right.
Recommended Pairings
Alcoholic Pairing: A high-rye bourbon such as Bulleit or Four Roses Single Barrel — the sweet vanilla and spice notes of the whiskey beautifully complement the San Andres wrapper's natural sweetness while holding their own against the cigar's full strength.
Non-Alcoholic Pairing: A double espresso or dark roast cold brew coffee — the bitter, roasted depth of quality coffee mirrors and enhances the chocolate and earthy notes found throughout the Neanderthal HN without overpowering the smoke's complexity.
Best Enjoyed
The Neanderthal HN Figurado is best reserved for experienced cigar smokers who appreciate a bold, complex, full-strength smoke. It is ideally suited for an evening session when there is ample time to appreciate its evolving character — expect a smoke time of approximately 60 to 75 minutes. This is a reflective, sit-down cigar suited to quiet evenings, celebratory occasions, or as a weekend indulgence rather than a quick weekday smoke. Novice smokers should approach with caution given its considerable strength, while seasoned enthusiasts will find it a deeply rewarding and memorable experience.
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