Smack in the middle of Dominican cigar excellence sits the La Aurora Original Blend Maduro 1985 Churchill - a box-pressed 7-incher with 47 ring gauge that'll set you back $144 for 20 sticks. This Nicaraguan puro wrapped in Brazilian Maduro leaf starts with an espresso kick before cruising into creamy territory. Let's dissect why this stick's become a go-to for medium-strength smokers craving complexity without throat punch.
First Third: Black pepper spiciness dominates the initial puffs, transitioning into earthy walnut notes. The dark Brazilian wrapper delivers palpable coffee bean bitterness, moderated by intermittent almond sweetness.
Middle Section: Smoke texture thickens noticeably. Coffee cream emerges alongside faint maple syrup undertones. Draw remains effortless despite tight pack, producing steady white ash that holds past 1.5 inches.
Final Stretch: Dark chocolate bitterness ramps up at the 60-minute mark. Tar accumulation becomes noticeable near the nub - a common Maduro trait. Retrohale reveals unexpected floral hints before nicotine strength peaks (mild head buzz).
