Brand Heritage
Roma Craft Tobac is one of the most respected boutique cigar manufacturers in the premium handmade cigar industry, founded by Skip Martin and Michael Posted with a commitment to small-batch production and meticulous quality control. The Neanderthal line stands as one of Roma Craft's most adventurous and celebrated blends, earning a devoted following among serious cigar enthusiasts for its raw power and complexity. Roma Craft has built a reputation for pushing blending boundaries while maintaining the consistency and craftsmanship that defines a world-class cigar maker.
Blend & Construction
The Neanderthal LH Box Press originates from Nicaragua and is constructed around a dark, oily Mexican San Andres wrapper — a leaf prized for its earthy richness and natural sweetness. The filler draws from an impressive array of tobaccos spanning Condega, Estelí, Jalapa, and Pueblo Nuevo from Nicaragua, along with Dominican Olor and a notable inclusion of Pennsylvania Double Ligero, which contributes significant strength and combustion. The box-pressed figurado format measures 5 inches with a 52/56 tapered gauge, offering a comfortable grip while the taper concentrates smoke for added intensity. This vitola is a nuanced showcase of Roma Craft's layered approach to construction.
Flavor Profile
The Neanderthal LH Box Press is a full-bodied smoke designed for experienced palates. In keeping with the line's established profile, expect deep, complex notes of dark earth, leather, and roasted espresso from the first third, with the San Andres wrapper lending a subtle natural sweetness that balances the blend's considerable strength. The Pennsylvania Double Ligero adds a distinctive spice and intensity that builds through the mid-section, while the multi-region Nicaraguan fillers contribute layers of cedar, dark cocoa, and black pepper. The final third rewards patient smokers with a long, satisfying finish that is both bold and nuanced. Smoke production is generous, and the draw — aided by the box-press format — is consistently smooth and even.
Recommended Pairings
Alcoholic Pairing: A high-rye bourbon such as Bulleit Bourbon complements the Neanderthal's peppery spice and earthy depth without overwhelming the cigar's more refined undertones.
Non-Alcoholic Pairing: A double shot of dark roast espresso echoes the cigar's roasted coffee notes and provides a bitter counterpoint that keeps the palate sharp through each third.
Best Enjoyed
The Neanderthal LH Box Press is best reserved for experienced cigar smokers who appreciate a full-strength, complex smoke. It is ideally suited for an unhurried evening session — perhaps after a substantial meal or during a quiet night outdoors — where approximately 60 to 75 minutes can be devoted to the experience. Given its considerable body and nicotine presence, this is not recommended for novice or casual smokers. It makes an excellent choice for a celebratory occasion or as a deliberate, contemplative end to the day.
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