Let's talk about La Aroma de Cuba Corona - the 5.5" x44 parejo that's been turning heads with its golden band and Nicaraguan heart. Priced at $183.38 for 25 sticks, this medium-strength smoke wears an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper like a tailored suit. While technically a non-Cuban, it's got enough Havana swagger to make you check your humidor twice.
The cold draw serves earth and cedar with a sweet tea undertone. Initial puffs explode with roasted cashews and cinnamon bark. Smoke output feels like a compact cloud - not theatrical but satisfying. Ash holds firm for 1.5 inches before dropping clean.
At the halfway mark, espresso crema notes emerge through the cinnamon haze. There's detectable nicotine kick here - not overwhelming but present like a firm handshake. Burn line stays razor-sharp with no touch-ups needed. Watch for condensed caramel sweetness on retrohale.
The last third gets serious with damp earth and black pepper. Cocoa powder dustiness balances the growing intensity. Strength ramps to medium-full territory. Most smokers tap out with 1.5" remaining as tar buildup begins. Pair with espresso or aged rum to counterbalance.
The triple-cap finish shows Pepin Garcia's factory precision. Wrapper oils glisten without being messy. Draw resistance hits the sweet spot - enough feedback to control smoke temperature without laboring. Box code tracking shows 6-8 months aging sweetens the earthy notes considerably.
