This box-pressed Nicaraguan puro comes tight and oily in Robusto format. At 5.5" x 46 ring gauge, the Demi size delivers concentrated flavors in under 75 minutes. The $12.58/stick price positions it as mid-tier for AJ Fernandez-made blends.
Initial draws burst with roasted cashews and baker's cocoa. The retrohale carries distinct cinnamon zing - not full pepper spice but more like ginger snaps. Smoke production stays medium despite tight draw.
Earth tones emerge as oak-smoked coffee beans dominate. I get subtle black pepper tingle on the tongue with occasional sweet flashes resembling molasses. Burn line stays razor-sharp without correction.
Leather and cedar take over with salty mineral undertones. Strength builds noticeably but avoids harshness. Stopped at nub despite lingering dark cherry sweetness due to nicotine accumulation.
The Jalapa wrapper shines with oily sweetness from red clay soil. Estelí filler contributes pepper through volcanic minerals while Condega's valley-grown leaves add cedar nuances. Two-year aging mellows Nicaragua's signature boldness into Montecristo's refined profile.
