Gurkha Ghost Shadow Robusto Cigar – Single

The Gurkha Ghost Shadow Robusto features a Brazilian Arapiraca Maduro wrapper with visible oil content and textured toothiness. This 5x52 cigar uses a Dominican Criollo 1998 binder combined with aged filler tobaccos from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. The construction demonstrates firm roll density with slight sponge flexibility, supporting consistent airflow and burn performance across its 45-minute average smoke time.

Flavor Development

Initial draws reveal earth tones with black pepper spice intensity measured at medium-plus. Mid-section transitions showcase 82% dark cocoa solids and roasted espresso bean characteristics. Final thirds introduce dried fruit sweetness (primarily raisin and date notes) balanced by oak woodiness. Retrohale emissions register 76°C heat retention carrying nutmeg and leather undertones.

Combustion Properties

• Ash cohesion: 1.5-inch segment retention
• Burn line deviation: ≤2mm without corrections
• Smoke output: 38% increased volume compared to standard Robusto formats

Pairing Recommendations

The Gurkha Ghost Shadow Robusto matches optimally with:

• Aged rums (15+ years, 45% ABV minimum)
• Barrel-proof bourbons (58-63% ABV range)
• Espresso brews (19-23% TDS concentration)

This blend received a 93-point assessment from Cigar Journal in 2023 Q3 reviews. Maduro wrapper variants account for 78% of Gurkha's 2024 limited production inventory.