Let's talk about this torpedo-shaped marvel sporting a Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper that gleams like dark chocolate. At 6.5"x52, it rolls Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers into a medium-bodied smoke that's surprisingly approachable for Maduro lovers. The gold-embossed band gives it that "special occasion" look, though at $10.50/stick (24-count box), it's more of a Tuesday night treat.
First Third: Cold draw serves roasted nuts and molasses. Initial puffs bring cedar planks and baking spices - think nutmeg-dusted espresso beans. Smoke output stays moderate, perfect for indoor smoking.
Middle Third: The Nicaraguan Habano flexes with black coffee bitterness balanced by Dominican sweetness. Watch for transitions between dark chocolate and caramelized sugar notes. Ash holds tight past 1.5" despite torpedo taper.
Final Third: Mineral tang emerges alongside dried figs. The San Andrés wrapper finally shows its ferrous soil character - not quite Cuban twang but hints of that metallic sweetness. Cut it before the nub unless you want pepper spice overload.
The torpedo cap requires precise cutting - go shallow with a v-cutter. Average burn time clocks 85 minutes. Wrapper oil prevents canoeing despite the figurado shape. Box code hunters: look for 18+ month aged stock to mellow the Nicaraguan bite.
PDR's Dominican Olor binder brings aromatic lift to the San Andrés's bass notes. Nicaraguan Jalapa Valley fillers add body without overwhelming the blend. Pro tip: Try with dark rum to amplify the molasses undertones.
