This box-pressed torpedo from My Father's Nicaraguan factory kicks off with oily maduro wrapper shades and perfect construction. The 54-ring press feels substantial without being clumsy, releasing initial whiffs of cedar and fresh-roasted coffee beans. At $12 per stick, it's positioned as an affordable luxury in non-Cuban markets.
The punch-cut torpedo tip delivers tight draw resistance revealing black pepper and charred oak. Earthiness builds gradually with dark cocoa powder undertones. Moderate smoke output coats the palate without overwhelming nostrils.
Flavors transition smoothly to roasted almonds and molasses sweetness. The Nicaraguan Jalapa tobacco core emerges with baking spices - cinnamon stick and nutmeg dominate. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite box-press shape.
Leather and espresso notes take over with increasing strength. Retrohale exposes white pepper tingle, though never becomes harsh. The last inch shows typical Nicaraguan tar buildup, recommending a 70-minute smoke time.
Rolled at the Garcia family's Estelí factory using triple-ligero filler from Namanji's shaded fields. The unique box-press technique compresses traditional Cuban torpedo molds, creating sharp shoulder angles that influence burn patterns. San Andrés binder leaf adds combustion stability crucial for 54-ring gauges.
