This box-pressed corona gorda from La Galera's 1936 series delivers a surprisingly bold Dominican punch. Measuring 5.5" x 46 ring gauge, the rectangular pressed stick feels substantial between fingers, with its Ecuadorian Habano wrapper shining like well-oiled baseball glove leather. At about $7.70 per cigar in 21-count boxes, it's positioned as a mid-tier daily smoker with boutique aspirations.
The cold draw serves black pepper and cinnamon. Initial puffs carry distinct barnyard funk - damp hay with underlying sweetness. Burn line stays razor-straight despite moderate wrapper oil. Smoke output feels lighter than expected for Dominican puro.
At the 20-minute mark, roasted coffee beans emerge through earthy undertones. Retrohale stings with white pepper but quickly soothes into creamy cashew butter texture. Ash holds firm in 1.5" segments. Box press allows effortless holding during yardwork.
Last third introduces bitter chocolate without harshness. Nicotine buzz creeps up gently, noticeable but not overwhelming. Occasional tar buildup near nub requires purging. Total smoke time clocks 85 minutes with deliberate pacing.
The triple cap peels cleanly with straight cutter. Firm pack density requires no draw adjustments. Minimal wrapper splitting observed even in 65% humidity. Box press maintains structural integrity through entire session.
