Let's talk about this box-pressed beast from Vega Magna - a 5.5" x 54 robusto that'll cost you about $18 per stick. Wrapped in that dark Ecuadorian sun-grown leaf, these Dominicans hide something special: tobacco aged in royal palm leaf bundles since 2001. What really grabs me? Each cigar gets the full VIP treatment - same roller and buncher duo from start to finish, like a custom-tailored suit in cigar form.
Cold draw hits with black pepper and earth. Initial puffs bring espresso bitterness balanced by unexpected raisin sweetness. Smoke output starts modest - don't worry, it builds. Watch that sharp burn line cutting through the box press.
Here's where the palm leaf aging shows up. Cedar wood notes emerge, wrapped in cinnamon spice. The retrohale gets interesting - hazelnut cream with a touch of black cherry. Ash holds strong inch after inch.
Strength kicks up a notch. Dark chocolate dominates now, with occasional floral hints (violet?) in the aroma. Some tightness develops near the band - gentle purge brings back the sweetness. Stop before finger-burning territory unless you want nicotine shakes.
Handmade at Quesada's Dominican factory, these follow strict protocols: triple-selected tobaccos, dedicated roller pairs per cigar, daily production capped for quality control. The collector's edition boxes feature original artwork - practical humidor upgrade and conversation starter.
