RoMa Craft Neanderthal HN

Skip Martin designed the Neanderthal line with a specific, unapologetic goal: create the strongest, most complex cigar RoMa Craft Tobac had ever made. The HN — named for Homo neanderthalensis, the scientific classification for Neanderthal man — is a striking figurado that flares from 52 at the head to 58 ring gauge about an inch from the foot before tapering back. The flat cap is a distinctive construction detail you won't find on many other cigars. The secret weapon in the blend is Pennsylvania Double Ligero (Green River Valley Sucker One, or GR-S1), a regrowth leaf that carries 9–13% nicotine — two to three times the level of typical ligero.

What it tastes like

Despite its fearsome reputation, the Neanderthal HN is actually a flavor-forward cigar, not just a nicotine delivery system. The San Andrés Maduro wrapper is dark and oily, opening the smoke with espresso and red pepper. The Connecticut Broadleaf binder anchors the draw while the complex filler — five tobacco types including Dominican Olor and the high-nicotine Pennsylvania leaf — produces a layered profile of dark chocolate, baker's spice, and leather. The "Mexican Hot Chocolate" note that reviewers frequently describe comes from the interplay of the dark chocolate and red pepper. Strength builds steadily; this is a genuine full-strength cigar.

Who it's for

The Neanderthal HN is strictly for experienced aficionados who are comfortable with full-strength cigars. Smoke it after a meal, never on an empty stomach. If you're curious about how the Neanderthal compares to other powerful Nicaraguan blends, our Cuban vs Nicaraguan cigars comparison gives useful context on Nicaraguan tobacco's strength potential. Our cigar strength guide also explains the full end of the spectrum. Log your Neanderthal sessions in the Casa DNC app.