This figurado-shaped stogie packs a 52 ring gauge into its 5-inch frame, featuring a Mexican Maduro wrapper that's been turning heads since landing on Cigar Aficionado's 2006 Top 25 list. Priced at $178.20 for 24 cigars, it delivers Oliva's signature construction quality with Nicaraguan Habano filler tobacco that's all about that earthy sweetness.
The initial third hits with dark cocoa powder and espresso bean notes, that Maduro wrapper delivering caramelized sugar undertones. Midway through, expect transitions to roasted nuts and a subtle white pepper tingle on the retrohale. Final third brings earthier tones with leather hints - typical of Esteli-grown tobacco - though the nicotine kick remains manageable.
The Brazilian Maduro wrapper shows deep oil sheen after proper humidification. Triple cap holds firm during punch cut, with perfect draw resistance right out the box. Burn line stays razor-sharp for first two-thirds, needing one touch-up in final stretch. Ash holds solid inch-plus before dropping.
Grown in Nicaragua's volcanic Jalapa soils, the Cuban-seed filler tobaccos get 120+ days fermentation in Esteli's tropical climate. What really sets this blend apart? That Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper - fire-cured to amplify natural sugars without overpowering the core flavors.
Skip the cocktails. This cigar works best with black coffee or aged rum - we're talking Zacapa 23 or El Dorado 12 year. The spirit's caramel notes bridge the gap between the wrapper's sweetness and filler's earthy depth.
