Meet the Montecristo Artisan Series Batch 1/I Toro - a 6x54 parejo celebrating the brand's 50th anniversary. Priced at $242.50 for 15 sticks, this dominican puro features an oily Ecuadorian Habano wrapper over complex binder/filler combinations. Think of it as Montecristo's love letter to skilled torcedores, balancing medium strength with layered flavors.
The initial draws reward patience - roasted almonds and cedar emerge through peppery smoke. Airflow feels slightly tight but improves as the burn line crosses the first inch. Retrohale brings cinnamon sugar sweetness.
Dominican fillers take center stage with baking spices and mocha notes. Watch for occasional bitter spikes - purging helps maintain coffee bean flavors. Ash holds strong at 1.5" intervals.
Nicotine kick becomes noticeable in last third. Leather and black tea tannins balance the residual sweetness. Smoke time averages 75 minutes. Cutting 0.5" earlier prevents tar buildup.
Intermediate smokers seeking transitionary sticks between mild/medium bodies. Fans of Dominican-forward blends will appreciate the balanced transitions, though hardcore Maduro lovers might want deeper flavors.
