The Trinidad Topes is a special edition that redefines the brand’s elegance with unexpected power. Released as part of the “Trinidad 50th Anniversary” lineup, this sublime double robusto (160mm x 56 / 6.3″ x 22.22mm) delivers a 90-120 minute journey of evolving flavors, showcasing Trinidad’s signature refinement with bolder, deeper notes rarely seen in the marca.
Construction & Presentation
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Wrapper: Glossy Colorado capa extra (darker than standard Trinidads)
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Box: Lacquered box of 12 with gold embossing
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Construction Notes (2020-2023):
✓ Draw: Perfect airflow (modern open draw)
✓ Burn: Slow, even (self-correcting)
✓ Ash: Volcanic gray, holds 2+ inches
Humidity Tip: 62-65% RH – the thick ring gauge needs slight acclimation
Flavor Odyssey
A full-bodied Trinidad (yes, you read that right) with three acts:
First Third (0-40 min):
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Black cherry compote
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Cocoa-dusted espresso beans
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Cedar humidor essence
Middle Third (40-80 min):
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Stewed plum reduction
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Cinnamon stick spice
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Hazelnut praline
Final Third (80+ min):
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Leather armchair depth
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85% dark chocolate bitterness
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Umami finish (like aged soy sauce)
Strength: Full (Trinidad’s boldest regular production cigar)
Rarity & Investment Potential
Year | Release Price | Current Market Value |
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2020 | ~$450/box | $800-$1,200/box |
2023 | ~$500/box | $900-$1,400/box |
Future (5+ yrs) | – | Projected $2,000+ |
Why It’s Legendary:
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First full-bodied Trinidad (changed the marca’s identity)
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Uses “medio tiempo” leaves (rare, potent tobacco)
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Only 5,000 boxes are produced annually
Ultimate Pairings
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Spirit: Zacapa XO rum or Lagavulin 16
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Wine: Shiraz (Penfolds Grange) or Barolo
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Coffee: Cuban espresso with brown sugar
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Food: Dry-aged ribeye, blue cheese, dark chocolate torte
Collector’s Notes
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2020 boxes (#001-#1000), most prized (first release)
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Unopened boxes appreciate ~15% annually
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2024 auction peak: $1,450 (box #2020, Bond Roberts)
Final Verdict
★★★★★★★★★☆ (9.5/10) – The Trinidad that shocked purists (in the best way).
For Whom?
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Trinidad fans are craving more intensity
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Full-bodied lovers exploring Cuban nuance
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Collectors of anniversary editions
Availability:
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LCDH exclusives (rare but findable)
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If spotted, buy immediately – disappears fast
Last Word: This isn’t your grandfather’s Trinidad. The Topes proves the brand can do power without sacrificing elegance—a modern masterpiece.
Key Details
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Vitola: Dobles (exclusive to this release)
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Box Code: TUA/UBL (2023 batches exceptional)
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Smoking Time: 2 hours (savor slowly)
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Strength Profile: Full (but never harsh)
Pro Tip: Age 2+ years to soften the spice and unlock caramel notes.
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ (9.5/10) – The most revolutionary Trinidad ever.
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