Let's talk about PDR's El Trovador Maduro Corona Gorda - a 6x46 box-pressed beast sporting Mexican San Andres maduro wrapper. This $189/box stogie (24 sticks) pulls off that magic trick of feeling medium-bodied up front before punching you with full-strength Nicaraguan ligero in the second act. The box press isn't just for show - it creates sharper draw channels that really amp up the smoke output. I clocked mine at 80 minutes, but your mileage may vary depending on how hard you nurse that perfect ash.
First Third: Immediate dark chocolate notes with a burnt caramel sweetness that clings to your palate. The box press makes the draw slightly resistant - not tight, but makes you work for each puff. Smoke production's decent but not Oliva V-level. Watch for uneven burns if you're smoking in humidity over 65%.
Mid Section: Transition hits like a bass drop. Nicaraguan ligero kicks in with black pepper and charred oak. The sweetness dials back to a hickory syrup glaze character. This is where the "Dominican Republic" in PDR shows through - that smooth transition without harshness. Ash holds strong for 2+ inches if you're patient.
Final Stretch: Maduro wrapper takes center stage - think Cuban coffee grounds and dark cocoa nibs. The nicotine buzz creeps up around the last third. Retrohale brings out anise and cured leather. Tip: Clip another 1/8" off the cap here to prevent tar buildup in the nub.
The triple cap holds up beautifully - no unravelling even when punched. Box-pressing creates clean burn lines but demands slower pacing (about 1 puff/90 seconds). I found minimal wrapper veins in this box, though your humidity levels will affect how the San Andres leaf behaves. Pro tip: Dry box for 12 hours before lighting to maximize combustion.
Sits between AJ Fernandez's New World Cameroon (sweeter) and Foundation's Charter Oak Maduro (earthier). Works as a post-dinner smoke paired with espresso martinis or bourbon-forward cocktails. Not your first-date cigar - the flavor development requires attention. Best enjoyed by smokers who appreciate construction nuances in box-pressed formats.
