This Nicaraguan puro sports a Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper hugging Nicaraguan filler tobaccos. Measuring 7"x50 in classic Churchill format, each box of 24 carries a wallet-friendly $181.80 price tag. The dark chocolate-hued stick feels substantial with its triple cap and oily sheen - typical Oliva craftsmanship that earned this blend a spot in Cigar Aficionado's 2006 Top 25 list. While marketed as medium-full, it leans closer to medium strength, making a decent starter stick for Maduro curious smokers.
The cold draw whispers sweet raisins. Initial puffs deliver damp earth and bitter cocoa powder - classic Maduro opening. Burn starts uneven but self-corrects. Retrohale shows sharp white pepper that doesn't translate to the palate.
At the 2" mark, flavors coalesce into coffee grounds and charred meat. Smoke output remains modest. The ash holds firm in 1.5" segments. Noticeable nicotine tingle surfaces despite the medium rating.
Past the band point, woody bitterness creeps in. Last inch ramps up to burnt toast and molasses, though tar buildup suggests stopping at 6.5". Total smoke time clocks 85 minutes with frequent purges needed.
The wrapper shows minimal veins but feels slightly brittle. Cut reveals tight bunching - a common Oliva trait requiring careful draw management. First-light charring smells of burning barn hay, settling into predictable combustion patterns. Box date codes suggest optimal rest period is 6-9 months.
