Let's talk about the 2012 by Oscar Valladares Corojo Toro - this Nicaraguan puro hits you with that classic corojo spice wrapped around 6 inches of pure Honduran craftsmanship. The box-pressed parejo shape feels substantial in hand, its 52 ring gauge balanced by excellent combustion. I clocked this smoke at 85 minutes through three stages of flavor evolution.
The pre-light draw delivers sweet tobacco and cedar notes, the corojo wrapper leaving peppery residue on lips. No visible veins in the dark coffee-colored leaf, though some minor tooth becomes apparent after lighting.
Initial pepper blast settles into roasted nuts and charred oak. White pepper lingers in nasal passages while the retrohale introduces baking spices - cinnamon dominates. Burn line stays razor-sharp, ash holding firm for first 1.5 inches.
Transition happens at 30-minute mark: espresso grounds and dark chocolate emerge. The Honduran fillers reveal their sweetness through caramel undertones. Smoke output increases - need frequent purges to maintain flavor clarity.
Last third brings leather and mineral notes, the corojo's spice now muted. Nicotine strength builds noticeably - rookies might want to stop here. Tunneling occurred in my sample during this phase, requiring touch-ups.
Rolled at Oscar's Honduran factory in Danlí, this blend uses Corojo 99 wrapper from Jalapa valley. The binder/filler combination of Estelí and Condega tobaccos explains its gradual intensity build-up. Double fermentation process tames the wrapper's natural bite while preserving oil content.
Let these rest at 65% RH for at least 60 days - fresh boxes show combustion issues. Pair with aged rum to complement the spice, or espresso to highlight the coffee notes.
