Let's talk about the Gurkha Cellar Reserve 12 Year Platinum Edition Solara - or "Platinum Double Robusto" as regulars call it. This 5x58 parejo comes in boxes of 20 for $168.30, sporting an oily Ecuadorian Oscuro wrapper that's been hugging Nicaraguan binder/filler tobacco aged since the Obama administration. First Nicaraguan play in Gurkha's Cellar Reserve lineup, it's that rare bird: complex enough for veterans yet approachable for rookies.
The cold draw serves sweet raisin notes. Upon lighting, expect immediate cedar sharpness cutting through heavy cream - like sniffing a freshly opened cigar humidor. Smoke production stays modest, requiring deliberate puffs. Watch for uneven burn lines during the first inch; keep your lighter handy.
At the 20-minute mark, the Nicaraguan terroir emerges: black coffee grounds mixed with baking spices. Retrohale reveals why this uses Oscuro wrapper - dark chocolate bitterness balances the sweetness. Ash holds strong in 1-inch chunks. Some report tight draws here; if yours tunnels, try deeper V-cuts next time.
The last third brings surprise umami - think soy sauce reduction on charred oak. Strength creeps up to medium-full. Watch for tar buildup past the band; most users ditch it at 45-minute mark despite the sizable ring gauge. Aftertaste lingers with cocoa powder dryness.
Best suited as a weekend morning smoke with dark roast coffee. Newcomers appreciate its controlled strength while veterans hunt for flavor transitions. Not the most consistent burner in Gurkha's lineup, but the 12-year aged tobacco makes it a curiosity worth trying - especially if you're exploring Nicaraguan-forward blends.
