StillWell Star Aromatic No. 22 Cigar - Box

Brand Heritage

Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust is the passion project of industry veteran Steve Saka, a highly respected figure in the premium cigar world known for his meticulous approach to blending and his refusal to compromise on quality. Founded after Saka's tenure leading Drew Estate, Dunbarton has carved out a distinct niche by producing small-batch, thoughtfully crafted cigars that push creative boundaries while honoring traditional craftsmanship. The StillWell Star line stands as one of the brand's most adventurous expressions, blending the worlds of premium hand-rolled cigars and artisan pipe tobacco in a way few manufacturers have dared to attempt.

Blend & Construction

The StillWell Star Aromatic No. 22 is a Nicaraguan-made Toro measuring 6 inches with a 52 ring gauge — a comfortable, full-sized vitola that delivers ample smoke time and balanced combustion. The cigar is dressed in an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, known for lending earthy richness and a touch of natural sweetness, laid over a Mexican San Andrés binder prized for its deep, slightly spicy character. What truly sets this blend apart is its filler composition: a deliberate marriage of Burley, Virginia, and Black Cavendish pipe tobaccos blended alongside traditional long-leaf cigar tobacco. This unconventional approach is the hallmark of the StillWell Star line, bridging the gap between pipe tobacco enthusiasts and premium cigar aficionados.

Flavor Profile

In keeping with the StillWell Star line's distinctive character, the Aromatic No. 22 delivers a smoking experience unlike most traditional cigars. The Black Cavendish and Virginia pipe tobacco components introduce a subtle, natural sweetness — think gentle dried fruit, light caramel, and a soft floral aromatic quality — while the Burley adds a nutty, earthy backbone that grounds the blend. The San Andrés binder contributes a mild peppery underpinning that keeps the profile from becoming one-dimensional. Strength lands in the mild-to-medium range, making this an approachable yet intriguing smoke. The aromatic sweetness tends to be most prominent early on, with earthy, woodsy notes developing through the middle and final thirds as complexity deepens.

Recommended Pairings

Alcoholic: A lightly peated Speyside Scotch whisky — its honeyed malt and subtle smoke complement the cigar's natural sweetness and aromatic pipe tobacco character without overwhelming the delicate flavor nuances.
Non-Alcoholic: A well-brewed medium-roast pour-over coffee — its clean, bright acidity and gentle sweetness mirror the Virginia and Cavendish notes while enhancing the cigar's softer aromatic qualities.

Best Enjoyed

The StillWell Star Aromatic No. 22 is ideally suited for relaxed, unhurried occasions — an evening on the porch, a quiet weekend afternoon, or a contemplative after-dinner smoke. Its mild-to-medium strength and uniquely aromatic profile make it an excellent choice for intermediate smokers curious to explore the crossover between pipe tobacco and premium cigars, as well as seasoned aficionados seeking something genuinely different from their usual rotation. Expect a smoke time of approximately 60 to 75 minutes. Those new to the hobby may also find this an accessible and pleasant introduction to the craft, particularly if they have a background in or appreciation for aromatic pipe tobacco.