CAO Flathead

A hot-rod-themed, box-pressed line by Rick Rodriguez under a dark Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper; medium-to-full with sweet, leathery, rich flavor. The V660 Carb was Cigar Aficionado's #3 Cigar of 2015.

OriginNicaragua
WrapperConnecticut Broadleaf
BinderConnecticut Habano
FillerDominican Piloto Cubano Ligero, Nicaraguan Ligero
Strengthfull
Price range$7.00 – $12.00
Sizes3 vitolas

About the Flathead line

Flathead is CAO's hot-rod-inspired line, created under General Cigar by blender Rick Rodriguez. Its box-pressed cigars have a distinctive flat head meant to evoke the engine blocks of American muscle cars, and the packaging leans fully into the theme. Beneath the novelty is a serious blend: a dark Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper over a Connecticut Habano binder and Dominican Piloto Cubano and Nicaraguan ligero, giving a medium-to-full profile of ripe fruit, leather, molasses and rich sweetness. The V660 Carb size was named Cigar Aficionado's #3 Cigar of the Year in 2015.

Awards & recognition

  • Cigar Aficionado #3 Cigar of the Year 2015 (Flathead V660 Carb)

Sizes

VitolaLengthRingStrengthWrapper
V554 Camshaft 5.5 inches 54 full Connecticut Broadleaf
V660 Carb 6 inches 60 full Connecticut Broadleaf
V770 Big Block 7 inches 70 full Connecticut Broadleaf

Frequently asked questions

Did Flathead win an award?

Yes — the V660 Carb was Cigar Aficionado's #3 Cigar of the Year in 2015.

Why is it called Flathead?

Its box-pressed cigars have a flat head evoking American muscle-car engine blocks; sizes are named after engine parts.

Where is it made?

By General Cigar in Nicaragua, blended by Rick Rodriguez.