The Oliva Connecticut Reserve Toro rolls into view with its golden Ecuadorian wrapper glowing like fresh honey under cigar lounge lighting. This 6x50 parejo sits comfortably between daily driver and special occasion smoke, packing Nicaraguan filler into a Connecticut-shade package that's earned its 91-point ratings. I found construction consistently tight across multiple samples, with an oily sheen that promises good aging potential.
The cold draw serves up sweet hay and pencil shavings. Initial puffs deliver creamy cashew butter with white pepper tingle on the retrohale. Smoke output stays moderate - enough for rings but not cloud-chasing. Burn line stays razor-sharp through the first inch, ash holding firm in two-inch segments.
At the halfway mark, flavors shift toward roasted almonds and wheat toast. Noticeable increase in nicotine presence - about what you'd expect from Nicaraguan filler. The Connecticut wrapper keeps sweetness balanced against developing leather notes. Occasional tight draw in samples from boxes stored under 65% RH.
Last third brings surprising complexity: baking spices (think cardamom, not cinnamon) mingling with faint coffee grounds. Smoke turns slightly warm near the nub but avoids harshness. Total smoke time clocks in around 85 minutes with slow, deliberate puffing.
Oliva's signature triple cap proves functional rather than decorative - no unwinding issues during cutting. Wrapper veins minimal but present, more visible in foot inspection than surface appearance. Eight-week humidor rest recommended for optimal performance based on multiple box purchases.
