This Nicaraguan beast with its 6"×58 Gran Toro frame packs dense smoke and leathery punch. Wrapped in oily Jalapa-grown leaf, it's like smoking a campfire made of cocoa beans and espresso shots - not for the faint-hearted. The 2008 Cigar of the Year still holds up as a budget-friendly heavy hitter.
Cold Draw: Earthy sweetness with black pepper tingle on lips
Thick espresso cream with charred cedar notes. Smoke output feels like a freight train - dense but surprisingly smooth. Watch that nicotine kick if you're fasting.
Leather and black cherry emerge through the cocoa powder cloud. Burns slower than DMV lines, ash holds firm for 2+ inches. Retrohale brings out baking spices that'll clear your sinuses.
Mineral tang mixes with bitter dark chocolate. Smoke turns peppery - not harsh, but demands your attention. Stop before the nub unless you want nicotine spins.
The Jalapa wrapper hides Estelí's fire - volcanic soil minerals give that signature Nicaraguan bite. They don't baby these leaves; sun-grown stress creates thick veins perfect for slow burns. Aging 18+ months tames the roughness into something special.
Construction workers who want sophistication with their calloused hands. Seriously though, it's for experienced smokers craving intense flavors without boutique prices. Pair with black coffee or anejo tequila - no fancy cocktails needed.
