Let's talk about the La Flor Dominicana Factory Press - that chunky box-pressed stick arriving in 120-count bundles. At 6.5" x 50 ring gauge, this Dominican powerhouse comes dressed in Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with enough oil to make your fingers glisten. The $1,717.20 box price breaks down to about $14 per smoke, positioning it as a mid-range boutique option rather than daily driver material.
First Third: The cold draw hits with barnyard earthiness. Upon lighting, dark roast coffee dominates with black pepper tingle on the retrohale. Ash holds firm for the first inch despite the box press shape.
Middle Third: Creamy cedar emerges, cutting through the initial intensity. Watch for subtle baking spices - cinnamon specifically - as the burn line crosses the band. Smoke production stays moderate, not cloud-chasing levels.
Final Third: Earth tones return with espresso bitterness. Some pick up leather notes past the halfway mark. The nicotine kick creeps up around the 45-minute mark - not overwhelming but noticeable.
That signature LFD box press creates four distinct flat sides without compromising draw. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper shows minimal veining - a good sign they sorted leaves carefully. Samples burned straight despite the unconventional shape, needing only one touch-up in final third.
This isn't your 10AM coffee cigar. Save it for after dinner when you want something substantial without venturing into full-bodied territory. Pair with aged rum or espresso martini to match its earthy-sweet profile.
