Let's cut straight to the chase with the Rocky Patel Disciple Toro - this Nicaraguan puro comes in a classic 6x52 Toro format packing medium-full strength. Part of Rocky's 2021 birthday trilogy, it uses a moody Mexican San Andrés wrapper hugging Nicaraguan binder and filler leaves. Boxes of 20 run about $217.80, landing in that "special occasion but not wallet-crushing" tier.
The initial puffs blast through with black pepper and espresso bean intensity. Smoke production stays moderate but consistent - none of that wispy nonsense. There's an unexpected vanilla undertone that keeps things from getting too aggressive.
Around the halfway mark, the flavor wheel spins toward charred oak and dark chocolate. Some reviewers complain about bitter transitions here, but proper lighting technique keeps the sweetness intact. Pair with a bold red wine to match its growing intensity.
Last third brings the nicotine heat. Leather and earth tones dominate while the earlier sweetness fades. Purge halfway if you're sensitive to tar buildup. Plan a solid 90 minutes - this isn't a quick smoke by any means.
