Let's talk about the La Aurora Preferidos Platinum Doble Figurado No.2 Tubos - a 5"x54 perfecto-shaped stogie that'll set you back about $24.5 per stick in boxes of 8. This Dominican puro rocks an oily Ecuadorian Habano wrapper that catches light like polished mahogany. The double-tapered figurado shape makes it look like a weaponized cigar.
First Third: The cold draw serves up cedar shavings and white pepper. Post-light, it's all baking spices - think cinnamon toast with a nutmeg kick. Smoke production's decent but not cloud-chasing thick.
Middle Third: Earthiness creeps in as the burn hits the widest ring gauge. Coffee grounds and dark chocolate dominate, with occasional floral wisps that disappear faster than cigar money at a LCDH store. Watch for uneven burns here - the figurado shape demands rotation.
Final Third: The Cameroon wrapper shows its teeth with leather and black pepper spikes. Nicotine strength ramps up noticeably. I tapped out at 1.5" nub - retrohale gets peppery enough to clear sinuses.
Store these at 65% RH max - the glass tube helps but can trap moisture. Pair with aged rum to amplify the spice notes, or espresso to balance the sweetness. Novice smokers: approach the final third cautiously unless you enjoy nicotine buzzes.
