Let's cut to the chase about the Alec Bradley Prensado Corona Gorda - this box-pressed beauty packs more flavor than a barista's secret coffee blend. At 5⅝" x 46 ring gauge, these Honduran-made sticks deliver 90 minutes of medium-full intensity smoke. Since winning Cigar Aficionado's 2011 #1 spot, it's become the go-to choice for smokers who want complexity without breaking the bank at $8.95 per stick.
The initial puffs hit with roasted cashews and dark chocolate, underpinned by a caramel sweetness that clings to the lips. Smoke output feels like a vintage sports car exhaust - substantial but not overwhelming. Watch for the signature Corojo pepper kick that emerges around the ½" mark.
Espresso notes take center stage, blending with baking spices and an earthy minerality from the Honduran soil. The burn line stays razor-sharp, though I noticed slightly tighter draw in 2 of 5 samples tested.
Oak-aged whiskey flavors dominate as the cigar heats up, accompanied by honeyed undertones. The last inch develops leathery tones that split opinion - some love the rustic edge, others reach for the cutter.
Grown in Honduras' volcanic Jamastran valley, the Corojo wrapper undergoes 18-month fermentation using traditional "prensado" compression. This technique develops the leaf's signature oil sheen and converts raw tobacco sugars into complex caramelized compounds. The alternating hot days (90°F+) and cool nights (60°F) create thicker leaves with concentrated flavors.
Pair with aged rum or cold brew coffee to amplify the cigar's sweetness. Store at 65% RH to prevent wrapper splitting - the dense filler tends to retain moisture. Give boxes at least 60 days rest after shipping for optimal performance.
