The La Aurora Fernando León Family Reserve Legacy Lancero stands out with its slender 6 7/8" x 40 frame - that classic lancero shape that demands patience but rewards with concentrated flavors. At $125 for a box of 10, this Dominican puro combines heritage with modern blending craftsmanship.
Cold draw brings sweet cedar. Initial light reveals roasted cashews and baker's cocoa powder. Smoke output feels restrained - typical of lanceros. Ash holds solid for 1.5" before first drop.
Transition happens at 40-minute mark. Dominican Pilato Cubano tobacco pushes through with black pepper that's more tingle than bite. Coffee grounds and worn leather emerge. Burn stays razor-straight.
Nicotine kick becomes noticeable around nub. Mineral notes from Santiago volcanic soil surface - that signature Dominican flintiness. Last inch develops charred meat savoriness. Stub at 90-minute mark unless you're nicotine-hardened.
Dominican Piloto Cubano filler tobaccos undergo 18-month aging in cedar-lined rooms. The maduro wrapper gets 120-day fermentation - enough to develop sugars without losing tooth. Rollers at La Aurora's Santiago factory average 23 years experience.
