The La Aurora 107 Nicaragua Toro demands attention with its box-pressed 54 ring gauge frame measuring 5.5 inches - a chunky parejo shape that fills the hand nicely. Released for the brand's 107th anniversary, this Dominican-made cigar packs Nicaraguan-grown Habano Maduro wrapper over a spicy core of Esteli and Condega tobaccos. The initial earthiness develops surprising floral hints mid-way, making it an intriguing option for medium-full smokers who enjoy flavor evolution.
The cold draw delivers black pepper and mineral notes. Upon lighting, charred oak dominates with espresso bitterness. Smoke production stays moderate - neither overwhelming nor underwhelming. The box-pressed shape creates a slower initial burn, allowing time to appreciate the oily wrapper's sheen.
At the 1-inch mark, leather and roasted nut flavors emerge. The Dominican filler brings unexpected floral notes (think violet petals) that soften the Nicaraguan core. Draw tightness varies slightly - some boxes need more humidor time than others based on multiple samples tested.
Past the band point, the cigar transitions to baked earth and cinnamon stick. Tar buildup becomes noticeable in the last inch for most smokers. Pair with aged rum to cut through the intensity. Average smoke time: 85 minutes.
The Jalapa Valley wrapper contributes caramelized sweetness, while Esteli binder adds spicy backbone. Dominican Piloto leaf in the filler provides the signature "La Aurora smoothness". Minimum 6-month aging in Santiago barracks tempers the Nicaraguan intensity. Construction consistency improved significantly since 2018 production batches.
