UK Exclusive | Umbagog Bronzeback Robusto | Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust

Umbagog Bronzeback Robusto

Blended by Steve Saka • Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust • Released 2025

Following the acclaimed Rothschild release, Steve Saka expanded the Bronzeback line in 2025 with this fuller-sized 5 × 52 Robusto. The same bold, pepper-forward DNA of the Bronzeback — built on the distinctive Connecticut Broadleaf "2LS" priming — now benefits from a wider ring gauge that opens up the draw and adds complexity and body to the smoke.

Named after the smallmouth bass (the "bronzeback"), and rooted in the same story as the original Umbagog — Steve Saka’s love of fishing at Umbagog Lake State Park in New Hampshire — this is a cigar that wears its character on its sleeve. Rustic, honest, and unapologetically bold.

Rolled at Nicaragua American Cigars S.A. (NACSA) in Estelí, Nicaragua, and presented in simple 10-count paper-wrapped bundles. No frills. Just exceptional tobacco.

Blend & Specs

• Vitola: Robusto (Parejo) — 5 × 52
• Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf "2LS" (USA)
• Binder: Nicaraguan
• Filler: Nicaraguan
• Strength: Medium to Full
• Production: NACSA, Estelí, Nicaragua
• Release: 2025 (regular production)
• Presentation: 10-count paper-wrapped bundles

Tasting Notes

Bold, earthy, and pepper-driven — the wider ring gauge delivers a cooler, more complex smoke than the Rothschild, with the same signature dry Broadleaf character and less sweetness than typical Connecticut Broadleaf cigars.

• Earth, wood, cedar, coffee, espresso
• Dark chocolate and bitter cocoa nibs
• Black pepper and mixed spice — prominent on the retrohale
• Dry nuttiness, leather, and a starchy "Cracker Jack" character with limited caramel sweetness
• Touches of fruit, baking spice, or herbal notes in some smokes

Progression

• First Third: Earthy and woody with burnt black pepper and that signature dry character. Coffee and dark chocolate emerge early.
• Second Third: Coffee and pepper build alongside cedar and wood. Chocolate and fruit linger in the background.
• Final Third: Earth and spice dominate — black and red pepper, toasty notes, with coffee and cocoa through to the finish.

Construction

Excellent draw and generous smoke output. The 52 ring gauge provides a cooler, more leisurely smoke. Smoking time: approximately 60–75 minutes.

Pairing Suggestions

Best enjoyed with a peated Scotch, aged rum, cold brew coffee, or a robust espresso. A hearty daily smoker equally at home outdoors or in the humidor room.