The box-pressed torpedo with a maduro twist keeps surprising me. At 7x54, this Nicaraguan puro feels substantial in hand - dark chocolate-colored wrapper glistens under light with visible toothiness. Let's see how this 6-year-aged blend performs.
The cold draw delivers raisin sweetness. Initial puff releases creamy smoke with dominant cocoa powder and roasted cashews. Medium-bodied despite the dark wrapper, with cedar undertones emerging at the 1-inch mark.
Black coffee bitterness balances the sweetness. Pepper spice creeps in through nasal retrohale. Noticeable nicotine kick - not for empty stomachs. Burn line stays razor-sharp with salt-and-pepper ash holding 2"+.
Leather and earth notes dominate as tar accumulates. Sweetness transitions to molasses-like character. Stopped at 1.5" nub due to intensified peppercorn zing. Total smoke time: 85 mins.
The box-pressed torpedo requires precise punch cut. My sample had slight wrapper peeling near the foot but self-corrected after lighting. Draw resistance leaned towards tight (7/10) - recommend dry boxing 24hrs pre-light.
