Let's talk about the La Aroma de Cuba Pasion Encanto - a box-pressed robusto that punches above its price point. At 6"x60, this Nicaraguan puro comes dressed in oily Ecuadorian Habano wrapper that glistens under sunlight. The $313.88/box price puts it squarely in daily smoker territory for medium-full fans. I've burned through half a box over three weeks - here's what actually happens when you light one.
First Third: Immediate black pepper zing tempers the 60-ring girth. The cold draw hints espresso beans, but first puffs deliver charred oak and dark chocolate. Combustion needs attention - this thick vitola demands slow draws to prevent canoeing.
Middle Third: Pepper subsides around the 20-minute mark. Core flavors stabilize into nutmeg-spiced coffee with creamy undertones. Smoke output doubles here - expect billowing gray plumes. Watch for nicotine hit if smoking fast.
Final Third: Sweetness emerges through the strength. Burnt caramel and baking spice dominate, though tar accumulates quicker than smaller RG sticks. Cut smoking at 50-55mm nub to avoid bitterness.
The box-pressed shape helps mitigate the 60-ring gauge's smoking challenges. Our samples showed slight wrapper veining but impeccable bunching. Let these rest 6-8 weeks post-shipment - fresh boxes burn hot. Pair with espresso or Mexican coke to cut through the intensity.
