Let's talk about the H. Upmann Vintage Cameroon Corona - a 5.5" x 44 parejo that's been catching attention with its African wrapper. This Dominican-made stick packs Nicaraguan and Peruvian fillers in that prized Cameroon leaf, retailing around $130 for 25 cigars. I found it burns about 60 minutes with that classic corona feel.
Immediate cedar and almond notes jump out, backed by white pepper spice. The Cameroon wrapper gives that signature tingle on the lips. Smoke production stays moderate - not too dense, but visible.
Cinnamon joins the party with cocoa powder undertones. I caught distinct brioche sweetness around the midpoint. Burn stays razor-sharp without touch-ups.
Earthiness emerges through the chocolate base. Vanilla cream smooths out the finish, though some testers report slight tar buildup near the nub. Ash holds impressively - dropped mine at 1.5".
That Cameroon leaf comes from Sanaga-Maritime Valley's Ebidrap tobacco. Sun-grown for 18 months using traditional pilones fermentation, it develops the signature spicy-oily character. Volcanic soil + heavy rains create lower nicotine leaves that let filler blends shine.
This Upmann hits that sweet spot between complexity and approachability. While not as bold as some Nicaraguan puros, the spice-wood-cream progression makes it versatile for both newer smokers and veterans wanting reliable construction. Pair with espresso or aged rum.
