The VegaFina Nicaragua Salomones demands attention with its eye-catching double-tapered torpedo shape - a 184mm x 57 ring gauge showstopper that translates to about 2 hours of smoking time. This Nicaraguan puro comes in boxes of 12 at $133.20, packing medium-full strength into its oily Habano Oscuro wrapper. While not exactly entry-level, it's surprisingly approachable for a cigar this size.
The cold draw reveals dark cherries with faint barnyard. Initial puffs deliver mild pepper spice on the retrohale, quickly mellowing into leather and cedar notes. Thick smoke production surprises given the dense roll, with minimal resistance on the draw. The burn line stays razor-sharp despite the complex shape.
At the 45-minute mark, espresso and cocoa flavors emerge alongside persistent leather. Smoke turns creamier as the thicker middle section heats up. Occasional mineral notes balance the sweetness, while the pepper returns as a faint tingling sensation on the tongue. Ash holds strong for 2-3 inches.
Last third brings bolder earthiness and charred oak. While nicotine strength remains manageable, some bitterness develops if smoked too quickly. Cutting 1cm off the tapered head refreshes the draw as the cigar narrows. Final notes of roasted almonds linger on the palate for 20+ minutes post-smoke.
This 100% Nicaraguan blend combines leaves from four regions: Estelí's spicy filler, Condega's sweet balance, Jalapa's aromatic binder, and Pueblo Nuevo's mild base. Rolled in Estelí's Tabacalera factory, the Salomones vitola showcases skilled torcedores - fewer than 10 rollers at the factory can consistently produce this complex shape properly.
