CAO Flathead — Heritage & History

CAO Flathead was born from a collaboration between CAO's Rick Rodriguez and the custom motorcycle culture, first released in 2013. The line's name and design pay homage to flathead V-twin engines, with each vitola named after engine parts—like the V554 Camshaft and V660 Big Block. Produced at General Cigar's HATSA factory in Danlí, Honduras, and the NACSA factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, the brand was a departure from CAO's earlier, more conventional blends. Its aggressive, industrial aesthetic—complete with a metal plate bearing the CAO logo—was unprecedented in the premium cigar market. The blend itself was developed to pair with bold flavors, using a variety of wrappers including Nicaraguan Broadleaf and Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro. Flathead quickly became a cult favorite among smokers seeking a full-throttle experience, and it has since expanded into multiple sizes and strengths, solidifying its place as a modern classic in CAO's portfolio.

Blending Philosophy

CAO Flathead's blending approach is built around intensity and balance, using high-priming tobaccos that deliver raw power without harshness. The brand employs a mix of Nicaraguan and Honduran fillers, often layered with Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro or Nicaraguan Sun Grown wrappers to create a dark, oily profile. The V660 Big Block, for instance, is a full-strength smoke that showcases the depth of these leaves, while the V554 Camshaft offers a medium-full experience that still carries the line's signature weight. Construction is geared toward a firm draw and even burn, essential for the larger ring gauges like the V770 Piston. The blending philosophy is less about subtlety and more about delivering a consistent, punchy flavor that mirrors the mechanical, no-nonsense branding.

Flavor Profile

Across the CAO Flathead range, smokers consistently encounter a core of dark cocoa, leather, and earth, often accented by white pepper on the retrohale. The Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro-wrapped vitolas, like the V554 Camshaft, bring a sweet, molasses-like note with hints of dried fruit and cedar. The V660 Big Block, being full strength, amplifies these flavors into a bolder, more peppery profile with a lingering espresso bitterness. Medium-full offerings like the V624 Carb tend to show more balance, with creamy smoke that carries notes of toasted nuts and a subtle spice. The range's strength varies from medium-full to full, but the flavor DNA remains consistent: robust, earthy, and unapologetically dark, with a finish that often leaves a tingle of black pepper on the tongue.

Best for Beginners

For a newcomer to CAO Flathead, the V554 Camshaft Robusto is the ideal entry point. At medium-full strength and a price point around $12–$16, it offers a manageable intensity without overwhelming. Expect flavors of dark cocoa, leather, and a touch of white pepper, with a smooth, creamy finish. The Robusto size smokes in about 45–60 minutes, making it a perfect introduction to the brand's bold character.

CAO Flathead Cigar Lineup

Explore 12 CAO Flathead cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are CAO Flathead cigars made?

CAO Flathead cigars are produced at the HATSA factory in Danlí, Honduras, and at General Cigar's NACSA factory in Estelí, Nicaragua. The blend may vary slightly depending on the factory, but both are known for high-quality construction.

What is CAO Flathead known for?

CAO Flathead is known for its bold, engine-inspired branding and its full-flavored blends that often feature Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrappers. The V660 Big Block and V554 Camshaft are standout vitolas that have gained a dedicated following for their intense, earthy profiles.

Are CAO Flathead cigars strong?

Yes, most CAO Flathead cigars are medium-full to full strength. The V660 Big Block and V680 Churchill are full strength, while the V554 Camshaft and V624 Carb are medium-full. They are not for the faint of heart, but they offer a balanced strength that doesn't rely solely on nicotine punch.

What is the best CAO Flathead cigar for beginners?

The V554 Camshaft Robusto is the best choice for beginners. It's medium-full, so it's not overwhelming, and its flavors of cocoa, leather, and pepper are approachable. Plus, the Robusto size is a standard format that's easy to smoke and enjoy.

How much do CAO Flathead cigars cost?

CAO Flathead cigars range from $10 to $24 per cigar, depending on the vitola. The V554 Corona is at the lower end at $10–$14, while the V680 Churchill is the most expensive at $18–$24. Most sizes fall in the $12–$16 range.

What wrapper does CAO Flathead use?

CAO Flathead uses a variety of wrappers, including Nicaraguan Broadleaf, Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro, Nicaraguan Sun Grown, Honduran Habano, American Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro, Honduran Sun Grown, and Honduran Corojo. The specific wrapper varies by vitola, but the Broadleaf Maduro is a common choice for many sizes.

Are CAO Flathead cigars Cuban?

No, CAO Flathead cigars are not Cuban. They are made in Honduras and Nicaragua, with production at the HATSA factory in Danlí, Honduras, and the NACSA factory in Estelí, Nicaragua. They are entirely non-Cuban in origin.

Where can I buy CAO Flathead cigars?

CAO Flathead cigars are widely available at brick-and-mortar tobacconists, as well as online retailers like Cigars International, Famous Smoke Shop, and JR Cigars. They are also often found in cigar lounges and specialty shops. Always ensure you're buying from a reputable source to guarantee authenticity.