Let's talk about the compact powerhouse - AVO Syncro Nicaragua Fogata Short Torpedo. Measuring 4½" with a 52 ring gauge, this figurado packs Nicaraguan fire and Dominican sophistication in a $178 box of 20. The Mexican San Andres binder holds together Nicaraguan Esteli/Condega and Dominican Yamasa/Piloto fillers, all wrapped in an Ecuadorian Habano 2000 Clara leaf that glistens like campfire embers.
First third hits with black pepper spray across the tongue. The draw opens up perfect after torpedo tip cut - not too loose, not tight. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite the figurado shape. Ash holds firm for first inch with salt-and-pepper coloration.
Earthy espresso grounds mixed with cayenne pepper heat. Dark cocoa emerges through nasal retrohale. The San Andres binder adds baking spice undertones - think cinnamon stick dragged through molasses.
Nicaraguan ligero takes center stage with charred oak intensity. Black coffee bitterness balances Dominican Piloto's creamy texture. Occasional honeyed raisin notes surface when smoke lingers.
Smoke turns meatier with barbecue char notes. Strength crescendos to full-bodied without harshness. The "fogata" (campfire) concept shines through - imagine toasting marshmallows over smoldering hardwoods.
Handmade in Dominican Republic's OK Cigars factory. Triple cap holds firm throughout smoking. Wrapper shows minimal veins with oily sheen that transfers to fingers. Box-pressed cigars arrive at 65% RH - needs 2-4 weeks dry boxing for ideal combustion.
