Let's dive straight into the Oliva Serie O Torpedo - a 6.5" x 52 Nicaraguan puro that's been turning heads since its CA 90-rating in 2016. This box-pressed torpedo comes in bundles of 20 sticks for $174.60, packing medium-bodied flavors wrapped in that signature Ecuadorian Habano leaf. Perfect for your late afternoon smoke sessions when you want something more substantial than a morning cigar but not a nicotine knockout.
The torpedo tip delivers immediate black pepper spice that settles into roasted almonds and saddle leather. Watch for that burnt sugar sweetness peeking through the earthy base - it's like a Cuban coffee with two sugars.
Nicaraguan terroir shines here - espresso grounds mixed with Brazilian cedar. The smoke texture thickens, coating your palate with baking cocoa powder. That persistent sweetness now reads more like caramelized plantains.
Volcanic soil minerals emerge alongside bittersweet dark chocolate. The cinnamon tingle on retrohale helps counterbalance growing strength. Smart move to purge around the 1-hour mark to avoid harshness.
The Jalapa Valley filler tobaccos show their pedigree - tight ash stacking with alternating light/dark layers. Draw resistance sits at that sweet spot between airflow and density. Had one stick with minor canoeing, but 90% burn straight as a ruler.
Dry-box for 12 hours if stored at 70% RH. The Habano wrapper tends to hold moisture, and a slight humidity drop really opens up those cocoa notes. Pair with Mexican hot chocolate or a rye old fashioned.
