Blazing onto the scene with its Year of the Dragon Toro (6"x52), Don Julio crafts a collector's dream - only 800 boxes exist of this Ecuadorian Habano-wrapped treasure. This Dominican puro flexes medium-full strength through Reyes family-grown tobacco, packing cultural significance in every draw. Perfect for seasoned smokers chasing rare experiences, it's a lunar new year celebration rolled into 54 minutes of smoking time.
The cold draw whispers aged cedar. Upon ignition, black pepper sparks mingle with molasses sweetness. Thick smoke carries baking spices - think nutmeg-dusted espresso beans - while the burn line stays laser-sharp. Retrohale reveals a subtle mineral tang reminiscent of damp river stones.
Strength builds as cured leather takes center stage. Marbled fat textures emerge through creamy cashew butter notes. Watch for transitions at the 30-minute mark - sun-dried tomato umami briefly surfaces before caramelized walnut takes over. Ash holds strong past two inches.
Dark chocolate bitterness balances stewed fruit sweetness in the home stretch. Charred hickory notes amplify while maintaining smooth draw resistance. Stop at 45 minutes unless you fancy a nicotine kick - final puffs deliver black cherry cola nuances beneath earthy undertones.
The triple-cap head unravels cleanly with a straight cut. Barrel rolls reveal dense packing without soft spots. Oily wrapper glistens under light, showing minimal veins. Combustion stays even despite complex blend - only minor touch-ups needed during final third.
