For the first time since 2019, Black Works Studio Boondock is shipping to stores. The highly requested limited release from Black Label Trading Co. returns under its Black Works Studio sub-brand, bringing back the same beloved blend with the addition of a new vitola for 2026.
- Wrapper: Pennsylvania Broadleaf
- Binder: Nicaraguan Habano
- Filler: Connecticut, Nicaragua, Pennsylvania
The 2026 lineup includes three vitolas.
- Robusto (5 1/4 x 50) – MSRP $12.50
- Corona Larga (6 1/4 x 46) – MSRP $12.50
- Brand-new Lancero (7 x 42) – MSRP $13.50
Both return from prior releases and are each limited to 750 boxes of 20 cigars. Joining them is a brand-new Lancero (7 x 42), limited to just 450 boxes of 20. The addition of the Lancero offers a more focused and refined expression of the blend, delivering a fresh experience for longtime Boondock fans.
The cigars are handcrafted at Fábrica Oveja Negra in Estelí, Nicaragua
For this review, I sampled 3 of the 2026 Boondock Robustos that I received from the company for the purpose of reviewing on Stogie Press.
Pre-Light Examination
The Black Works Studio Boondock 2026 is a dark rugged looking cigar that exhibits a number of veins along the barrel. The wrapper does not have much tooth to it, it more smooth to the touch. The packing is from from head to foot. The cigar is finished with a well applied triple cap and a closed foot.
A single band adorns the cigar using a distressed white font on a black background defining the cigar as the Boondock. The company name “Black Works Studio” is printed in gold on the bottom of the band.
Running the Boondock along the nose, I detected tangy sweet barnyard notes along the barrel. With the closed foot I did not get any additional aromas.
Once I opened the cap with a straight cut across the shoulder of the cigar, I gave the Boondock some cold draw puffs that I found to be nicely restricted and offering peppery spice notes with a touch of some tanginess.
Using my dual flame torch, I warmed the foot to an even orange glow and drew in the introductory puffs of black pepper and cracker notes to start the journey. Follow along as I burn this one to ash.
Cigar Review Notes
First Third
The cigar opens with peppery spice and cracker notes, delivering a balanced and engaging start. A white ash forms atop a thin, slightly wavy char line, hinting at minor burn inconsistencies early on. Caramel notes soon join the profile, adding a layer of sweetness that rounds out the opening flavors. The ash drops in a solid chunk, revealing a flat but centered burn cone.
Second Third
As the cigar transitions into the second third, natural sweetness continues to grow, enhancing the overall balance. The strength begins to ratchet up, adding more presence to the profile. A slight off-burn develops, though it remains manageable. Raisin notes emerge, bringing a subtle fruitiness, but deeper into this portion, a touch of bitterness begins to surface, adding a sharper edge to the experience.
Final Third
Moving into the final third, espresso notes enter the mix, providing a richer and more robust character. The cigar closes with a combination of lingering spice and darker, more intense flavors that carry through to the finish of this medium to full strength cigar.
Construction
- Draw: Smooth and consistent
- Burn: Wavy with a minor off-burn
- Ash: White, drops in solid chunks
Final Analysis
The Black Works Studio Boondock Robusto 2026 offers a progression from peppery and sweet beginnings into a more robust and complex profile featuring raisin, bitterness, and espresso notes. While minor burn issues arise, the evolving flavor profile keeps the experience engaging through to the finish.
Point Deductions: (-1) Wavy Burn; (-1) Flat but centered burn cone; (-1) Bitter Notes; (-1) Off Burn
