Let's talk about the AVO Syncro Nicaragua Fogata Special Toro - this hefty 6x60 parejo immediately grabs attention with its Mexican San Andres-wrapped bulk. Priced at $12.80/stick in 20-count boxes, it's positioned as a special occasion smoke rather than daily driver material. The "Fogata" (Spanish for bonfire) naming becomes prophetic once you light this Nicaraguan-forward blend.
The foot releases earthy pre-light aromas with faint cinnamon dusting. Cold draw shows tight construction requiring a proper punch cut. Initial puffs deliver immediate pepper spray to the nostrils - Esteli ligero making its presence known. Settles into cedar plank smokiness by the 1/2" mark, with oily residue coating the lips.
At the 2" mark, the Nicaraguan core explodes into action: charred espresso beans meets hickory-cured bacon fat. Retrohale brings unpleasant ammonia spikes - this cigar clearly benefits from additional humidor time despite factory aging. Watch for canoeing issues requiring touch-ups around the mid-point.
Nearing the band position, the Fogata redeems itself with creamy Dominican fillers emerging through the Nicaraguan assault. Baking spices and cashew butter balance the power surge, though tar buildup requires purging every three draws. Nub burns hot but manageable - expect 100min smoke time with proper pacing.
