Let's talk about this 5.5-inch figurado with its African Cameroon wrapper shining like polished mahogany. At around $7 per stick in 25-count boxes, this Nicaraguan puro packs more flavor than its mid-range price suggests. The belicoso taper feels substantial in hand - not too beefy at 52 ring gauge - making it a solid 70-minute smoke for after-dinner relaxation.
The initial puffs deliver Cameroon's signature sweet twang - think honey-glazed cashews with white pepper sprinkles. Smoke production stays moderate, requiring slower draws to prevent overheating. Ash holds firm in textbook concentric circles.
Nicaraguan fillers flex their muscles here. Cedar planks and roasted coffee emerge through the sweetness, accompanied by faint baking spices. Draw remains perfect without corrections needed. Watch the burn line though - the tapered head tends to canoe if rushed.
Leather and dark chocolate dominate the last two inches. Strength creeps up to medium-full territory, making this the prime time to pair with espresso. Tar buildup becomes noticeable past the band - better to quit before the nub.
Handmade in Esteli's Tabacalera Oliva factory, these use 18-month aged Cameroon wrappers over Nicaraguan Habano binders. The core blend combines viso and ligero leaves from Jalapa and Condega regions. Box date tracking shows 2-3 years aging potential, though they're approachable fresh.
