Let's kick things off with the Plasencia Alma Fuerte Colorado Claro Robusto II - a 5¼" x55 parejo that'll set you back about $193.50 for a box of 10. This Nicaraguan puro rocks a medium-bodied Colorado Claro wrapper from Jalapa, paired with binder and filler leaves from the Plasencia family's prime tobacco fields in Estelí and Condega. The Mayan-inspired green band looks slick against that oily wrapper leaf, though honestly, the real magic happens once you clip the cap. Perfect for when you want something fancier than your daily smoker but not quite a special occasion stick.
First Third: Toasted almonds and cedar hit first, with a cinnamon sugar sweetness that clings to your palate. The draw feels like sucking a thick milkshake through a wide straw - just enough resistance to satisfy. Watch that burn line though, tends to canoe if you rush it.
Middle Third: Coffee grounds and dark chocolate emerge as the smoke gets creamier. Retrohale brings white pepper that's more tingle than burn. Starts building nicotine heft here - not overwhelming, but you'll feel it behind the eyes.
Final Third: Earthiness ramps up with leather and molasses notes. The last inch gets intense with concentrated espresso flavors. Pro tip: purge when you hit the band or risk bitter tar buildup.
The triple-seam cap holds up beautifully to punch cuts. Wrapper sheen suggests decent age - minimal tooth but plenty of oil. Had one plug in my box that needed massaging, but generally burns even when kept at 65% humidity. Smoke production surprised me - thick plumes even with gentle draws.
Weekend warriors craving complexity without commitment. Not quite a "beginner's full-body" stick, but seasoned smokers might want more oomph. Pairs stupidly well with black coffee or aged rum. Skip the whisky pairings - alcohol overpowers the delicate spice.
