Let's cut straight to this Mexican-Nicaraguan fusion - the Olmec Claro Corona Gorda packs a 5.5"x48 parejo shape into its $135/box pricing. That Claro San Andrés wrapper looks like sun-bleached leather with an oily sheen, contrasting sharply with typical Maduro expressions from this region. My box arrived with perfect springiness, suggesting decent factory humidification.
The cold draw hits with raisin sweetness. Initial puffs deliver roasted cashews and baking cocoa, though the San Andrés earthiness stays surprisingly restrained. Smoke output feels medium-heavy, requiring slower pacing to prevent overheating.
Espresso notes emerge at the halfway point, accompanied by a distinct mineral tang I associate with Estelí-grown tobacco. The retrohale brings cinnamon stick spice without throat irritation. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite San Andrés' reputation for inconsistency.
Around the nub, burnt caramel and black pepper take over. Some nicotine kick appears - lighter than expected for a "full strength" rating. The wrapper develops mild bitterness when pushed hard, suggesting a 75-minute optimal smoke time.
The triple cap unraveled cleanly with my Xikar cutter. Draw resistance sits in the Goldilocks zone - not airy like some Nicaraguan rolls, nor tight as Cubans occasionally run. Ash holds solid for 1.5-2" segments if you're patient.
Pair with cold brew coffee to amplify the cocoa notes. Avoid sugary drinks - the Olmec's natural sweetness becomes cloying with sodas or dessert wines. Maduro lovers craving something different will appreciate the Claro twist, while Nicaraguan fans get familiar base notes in refined packaging.
