Let's talk about this chunky 6 1/4" x 47 ring gauge figurado that'll cost you about $17.5 per stick in 25-count boxes. La Aurora's centennial baby rolled out in 2003 packs Dominican-grown punch from binder to wrapper - a proper puro celebrating their 100th anniversary. The tapered head isn't just for show, giving that perfect draw control even with its hefty ring size. Expect serious nicotine here, not your grandpa's mild morning smoke.
First Third: Immediate black pepper kick mellows into earthy loam with cedar undertones. Ash holds tight for about 1.5" before dropping. Watch that burn line - needs occasional touch-ups on humid days.
Middle Third: Flavor bombs start exploding - espresso bitterness balanced by sudden caramel sweetness. Retrohale brings out cinnamon spice. Smoke output doubles here, perfect time to pair with dark rum.
Final Third: Leather and cocoa powder dominate as nicotine builds. Last inch gets tarry if pushed too hard. Most users stop at 75-minute mark when flavors plateau.
The Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper shows minimal veins with slight toothiness. Triple cap holds well through multiple cuts. Draw starts tight but opens up after first inch - don't overpunch. Box code hunters note 2020+ batches burn better than earlier releases.
3-year minimum cellaring recommended. Recent tastings show 2018 boxes developing dried fruit characteristics. Avoid over-humidifying - keeps best at 65% RH. Not a candidate for long-term (10+ year) aging due to binder fragility.
