The Onyx Bold Nicaragua Toro hits like a freight train of flavor, packing 6"×54 of pure Nicaraguan fire in every box-pressed stick. Priced at $194.49 for 20 cigars, this collaboration between Altadis and Abdel Fernández redefines what "bold" means, ditching the milder Original Onyx Reserve profile for sun-grown San Andres Maduro wrapper married to all-Nicaraguan guts. Rolled at the massive Tabacalera de García factory that produces Montecristos, these torpedo-shaped beasts come Boveda-humidified and ready to scorch your palate.
The cold draw punches with black pepper and wet earth. Upon lighting, espresso grounds and charred oak dominate, leaving a tingly Sichuan pepper sensation on the lips. Smoke production stays moderate - no cloudy room-fillers here. Burn line stays razor-straight thanks to the triple-seam cap.
At the 1" burn mark, dark chocolate emerges beneath the pepper storm. Retrohales carry distinct mineral notes - think struck flint stones. The dense ash holds past 1.5" before dropping. Watch the nicotine hit here; newbies might feel lightheaded despite the sweetened coffee undertones.
Past the band point, leathery tones take over with increased tar buildup. The last inch brings bitter baker's chocolate and burning cedar, demanding frequent purges. Most smokers tap out around 75-minute mark as the body intensifies. Post-smoke aftertaste lingers like strong Cuban coffee - intense but oddly comforting.
The box-pressed Toro format minimizes canoeing issues common in thicker Nicaraguan blends. Triple caps withstand multiple relights without unraveling. Maduro wrapper exhibits slight toothiness - no oily sheen but decent humidity retention. Stock up Boveda 69% packs; these dry out faster than typical maduros.
Pair with black cold brew coffee or añejo tequila to cut through the intensity. Avoid sugary drinks that clash with the natural bitterness. Best enjoyed after heavy meals - attempting this stick on empty stomach equals guaranteed nicotine nausea. Not a morning smoke unless you're running on 4 hours sleep.
