Originally an event-only cigar for The Cigar Authority’s MeatBall Competition in 2019, the Dunbarton Polpetta quickly gained a reputation for being far too good to remain a limited release. After taking the time to produce it on a larger scale, Steve Saka and the Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust team finally made this little “meatball” available nationwide. The Polpetta is a mixed-fill cigar measuring 4×48, using Broadleaf trimmings from some of DTT’s most popular blends, including Mi Querida. To enhance the filler, it also incorporates full leaves of Broadleaf and Mexican San Andrés, which is also used as the binder. The cigar is then finished with a dark Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, creating a bold, rustic appearance.
Appearance-wise, the Polpetta resembles a Tootsie Roll, with a dark, toothy wrapper and prominent veins running the length of the cigar. The wrapper feels thick and durable, exuding quality craftsmanship despite its mixed-fill core. The overall look is rugged yet refined, signaling a hearty smoke ahead.
The first third opens with an assertive combination of oak, cedar, and black pepper. Earthy tones, leather, must, and a touch of salt quickly follow, accented by spice and a subtle cherry sweetness. There are fleeting notes of graham cracker, molasses, and even a hint of lemon peel on the finish, making for a complex and lively start.
In the second third, leather and cream take center stage, smoothing out the sharper edges of the first act. The pepper remains in the background, while musty earth and a touch of oceanic brine come through. Espresso notes join in, accompanied by a gentle raisin-like sweetness and a finish reminiscent of baking spices, with fruit jam lingering subtly.
By the final third, the Polpetta mellows out considerably. Leather once again dominates, supported by cedar and a unique citrus note that recalls the finish of an orange Tootsie Pop with its center revealed. Sourdough bread and pepper round out the experience, giving the cigar a savory, tangy closing.
Overall, the Dunbarton Polpetta is a hearty, flavor-packed cigar that delivers intensity from start to finish. The draw leans on the tighter side, but the chewy smoke and savory mouthfeel more than make up for it. Construction is excellent, especially considering its mixed-fill nature. All told, this is a great “dog walker” cigar—compact, flavorful, and satisfying every step of the way.
Overall Score: 89.63 out of 100
Overall Strength Score: 6.75 out of 100
This blind cigar review (Cigar #26-C) was scored by a panel of cigar enthusiasts, including: LKOUTS, Mike Cokeley, Jim DeLuca, AustinDan,Nick B, Hawkeye, Raymond Forslund, Byron Robinson, Vito T, Dwight Jones, PoDunkMofo, and Bradly Payne
Price: $8.49 per single, $175.99 per box of 25
