The Ashton VSG Tres Mystique packs full-bodied power into its compact 4⅝" x 44 figurado frame, retailing at $302.40 per box of 24. This Dominican puro with Ecuadorian sun-grown wrapper delivers what seasoned smokers call "controlled intensity" - bold flavors without throat-scraping roughness, earning its 94-point rating since 1999.
The initial puffs deliver black pepper sting through the nose with earthy espresso notes. Cedar undertones emerge as the burn line stabilizes, accompanied by faint molasses sweetness from the oily wrapper.
Pepper transitions to baking spices as roasted almond flavors dominate. Smoke output increases noticeably, carrying leather aromas. Ash holds firm for 1.5" despite the petite format.
Cocoa powder and charred oak take over with nicotine strength peaking at 45-minute mark. Savvy smokers stop before the nub to avoid tar buildup, though construction maintains even burn throughout.
The triple-cap figurado head shows precise craftsmanship, requiring minimal touch-ups. Box-pressed shape prevents canoeing despite short format. Wrapper oils glisten under light, indicating proper 65% RH storage.
