This box-pressed Corona Extra (5⅝" x 46) from Perdomo's decade celebration series hits the sweet spot between medium and full strength. Priced at $185.63 for 25 sticks, the Nicaraguan puro features a bourbon barrel-aged sun grown wrapper that's been through their proprietary "Champagne" aging process. The triple cap construction and oily golden-brown leaf give it that special occasion look without the fussiness.
First Third: Opens with creamy cashew butter and vanilla wafer notes. The draw feels like sucking thick milkshake through a wide straw - not loose, but requiring deliberate pulls. White pepper starts dusting the tongue around the ½" mark.
Middle Third: Cedar planks emerge through the haze, accompanied by baking spices. The retrohale carries faint bourbon caramelization from the barrel-aged wrapper. Smoke output remains moderate, never billowing but consistently aromatic.
Final Third: Develops toasted almond skin bitterness that needs occasional purges. Honey-glazed ham sweetness lingers between puffs. Combustion stays razor-straight despite the box press, though nicotine strength creeps up to 4/5 by the nub.
The triple-seam cap holds firm through multiple clippings. Box pressing creates clean burn lines despite the rounded foot. Wrapper oils leave glossy residue on fingertips after handling. Best smoked slow - rushing causes heat spikes that amplify nicotine punch.
