Meet the Oliva Serie V Maduro Double Robusto - nicknamed "Ligero King" among regular smokers. This Nicaraguan puro comes in a box of 10 sticks priced around $92.61, sporting a chunky 54 ring gauge within its compact 5-inch frame. Wrapped in a dark Mexican San Andrés leaf, it's like holding a chocolate bar that's been aged in oak barrels. The pre-light aroma alone makes humidor moths flap their wings faster.
The cold draw tastes like unsweetened cocoa powder. Upon lighting, it punches through with black espresso notes and Cuban cigar-style pepper spice. The smoke feels thick enough to chew, coating the palate with semi-sweet chocolate undertones. Retrohale reveals a distinct leather quality - think breaking in new work boots.
At the halfway point, the Jalapa Valley filler shows its teeth. Baking spices (cinnamon/nutmeg) emerge, blending with molasses sweetness. The nicotine buzz starts creeping in - visible through shaky ash formation around the 1.5" mark. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite uneven wrapper coloration.
The last third introduces mineral-rich soil flavors with charred cedar accents. Some testers report slight bitterness resembling dark roast coffee grounds. Smoke becomes denser, requiring slower draws. Finish leaves black pepper tingle on lips that lingers 15+ minutes post-smoke.