The Rocky Patel Fifty Five Toro immediately stands out with its chunky 55-ring gauge format, packing a box-pressed Nicaraguan blend into a 6½" frame. Originally meant as a birthday limited edition, this permanent lineup member now offers coffee-forward flavors in a perfectly balanced medium-full package. The dark Maduro wrapper glistens with oil - testament to the Estelí factory's fermentation skills.
The cold draw releases damp earth aromas. Initial puffs deliver espresso bitterness with cedar undertones. Smoke output surprises at medium volume despite the ring gauge. Pepper spice lingers on lips rather than throat.
Cocoa powder emerges as the burn line passes the band. Construction shines - ash holds firm for 2" despite the box-press. The Costa Rican binder introduces cashew sweetness that tempers the Nicaraguan filler's intensity.
Dark cherry notes surface in last third, though nicotine strength remains manageable. Requires fewer relights than typical Maduro cigars. Savory leather replaces earlier sweetness, with no harshness through nubbing.
Rolled at Rocky's TaviCusa factory in Estelí, the box-press shows meticulous attention. Triple cap survives straight-cut guillotine perfectly. Burn line wavers slightly post-band but self-corrects. Smoke time averages 90 minutes with moderate pacing.
