Let's talk about the Oliva Serie O Toro Tubo - a Nicaraguan puro dressed in Ecuadorian Habano wrapper that comes in fancy aluminum tubes. At 6"x50 ring gauge, this box-pressed toro sells for $90 per box of 10. The silky sun-grown wrapper hides a triple-region Nicaraguan blend from Esteli, Condega and Jalapa valleys. Perfect for medium-strength lovers who want complexity without nicotine overload.
The initial light-up bursts with cedar shavings and black pepper spice. Earthy undertones emerge through velvety smoke that's thicker than expected from medium-bodied cigars. Watch the burn line - needs occasional touch-ups if you smoke too fast.
At the halfway point, transitions into sweet leather and cashew flavors. The retrohale develops cinnamon notes that pair beautifully with coffee. Ash holds solidly for 1.5" segments. Some smokers report tight draw issues here - keep your cutter sharp.
Last third brings cocoa powder and espresso bitterness balanced by residual sweetness. White pepper resurfaces in the nostrils. Nicaraguan strength builds gradually but never becomes harsh. Stop before the nub unless you enjoy tar buildup.
The triple-cap head unrolls cleanly with sharp cutters. Sun-grown wrapper shows minimal veins and slight tooth. Box-pressed shape rests comfortably between fingers. Tubo packaging keeps cigars fresh for months without humidor access - perfect for travel.
At $9/stick, outperforms most Nicaraguan blends in this price bracket. Not as complex as Oliva's Serie V line but more approachable for newer smokers. Stock these for BBQ parties or golf course sessions when you want reliable flavor without babysitting the burn.
