Let's talk about the box-pressed beast that's been turning heads - La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor Reserva Romantico. This 6 7/8"×50 Toro comes packed with Nicaraguan fire under that dark Mexican San Andrés Oscuro wrapper. At $286.20 for 24 sticks, it's punching above its weight class in the full-bodied category. The My Father factory touch shows in that flawless box-press - no soft spots, just firm resistance when you pinch it.
The cold draw serves black cocoa nibs and cedar. Lighting reveals charred cinnamon bark with roasted almond undertones. Smoke output stays medium - not overwhelming but consistent. Watch that burn line though, needs occasional touch-ups.
Espresso beans take center stage around the inch mark. There's a salty mineral note that cuts through the sweetness, like dark chocolate-dipped pretzels. Retrohale brings out white pepper without the nose burn. Ash holds strong in 1.5" segments.
Leather and burnt toast emerge at the band point. The nicotine hits hard here - not for new smokers. Savory elements dominate, though a vanilla pod sweetness lingers between puffs. Stop before the nub unless you want bitter tar notes.
The triple-cap Cuban-style head unravels cleanly with a v-cut. Wrapper oil glistens under light - typical of well-aged San Andrés leaf. Box-press shape maintains structural integrity even when smoked fast. Uses traditional "Volado-Seco-Ligero" filler blend for balanced combustion.
Pair with espresso or peated Scotch to amplify the cocoa notes. Needs 6+ months humidor rest to mellow the initial pepper spike. Rotate boxes monthly if buying multiples - these develop interesting tertiary notes with age.
