Rolling into the humidor with its box-pressed silhouette, the EP Carrillo La Historia Doña Elena delivers a 6⅛" x 50 robusto experience at $11.83 per stick. This Nicaraguan puro wears an oily Ecuadorian Sumatra cloak over its Nicaraguan binder and filler leaves. Medium-full strength enthusiasts will appreciate its even burn and dense smoke output - characteristics that earned it Cigar Aficionado's #2 spot in 2014.
First Third: Initial draws reveal black pepper spice riding atop dark chocolate notes. The box press allows effortless smoke flow despite the packed filler. Retrohales showcase cinnamon undertones battling earthy undertows.
Middle Third: Nicaraguan volcanic soil characteristics emerge - charred oak meets molasses sweetness. Smoke density thickens, requiring slower pacing. Watch for slight canoeing in humid conditions.
Final Third: Strength climbs with leathery tones and toasted nuts. The Sumatra wrapper's sweetness struggles against espresso bitterness. Cut the nub before tar buildup overpowers - average smoking time clocks 65 minutes.
The Mexican San Andrés wrapper contributes maduro sweetness without the typical ferment bite. Estelí and Jalapa fillers deliver classic Nicaraguan pepper through Dominicana Cigars' blending expertise. Box-pressing technique compresses the bunch without restricting airflow - a hallmark of Ernesto's Miami-era training.
