This Nicaraguan puro surprises with its compact 4.25"x40 format - think pocket-sized sophistication at $6.75 per stick. The shade-grown Corojo '99 wrapper gives it that classic Cuban-style sheen without the Havana price tag. I grabbed a box after noticing how the mottled Colorado-claro leaf glistened under lounge lighting.
First Third: Cedar shavings and cashew butter dominate, with a white pepper zing that tingles the nostrils. Smoke production stays modest - don't expect massive cloud chasing here.
Middle Third: The transition brings roasted coffee beans and burnt caramel sweetness. Noticeable saltiness emerges near the band, like pretzel crust mingling with dark chocolate.
Final Third: Earthiness ramps up with damp loam notes. Some grittiness appears past the nub, though nicotine stays manageable. Cut it before the last inch to avoid bitterness.
The triple-cap construction held firm during my 58-minute smoke. Burn needed one correction despite stable 68% RH storage. Ash formed tight gray layers, flaking slightly after 1-inch drops.
Works beautifully with espresso martinis or aged rums. Avoid bold red wines - they overpower the delicate mineral undertones. For non-alcoholic pairings, try cold-brew coffee with oat milk.
