Let's talk about the La Galera Imperial Jade Churchill - a 7x47 parejo that comes in boxes of 20 for $199.39. This Nicaraguan puro wears a rare African Cameroon wrapper over Criollo binder and Piloto Cubano/Criollo 98 fillers. While labeled medium-bodied, don't let that fool you - there's some real muscle underneath that velvety exterior. The oily brown wrapper feels like money in your hand, and that triple cap isn't just for show.
Pre-light gives that classic Cameroon tang - think raisin sweetness with a side of cedar shavings. The foot smells like a fresh-opened coffee bag with pepper granules stuck to the sides.
The initial smoke serves up creamy cashew butter spread on wheat toast. Retrohale brings white pepper that's more tingle than burn. Smoke output stays modest - this isn't a chimney stick. Watch that burn line though - African wrappers can be divas.
Mid-section shifts to earthier territory - damp loam and saddle leather emerge. The Nicaraguan filler starts flexing with occasional espresso bean bitterness. Ash holds firm in .75" segments. Draw remains open despite the 47 ring gauge.
Last act brings honey-glazed pecans and mineral notes. Some report slight tar buildup by the nub, but most enjoy the gradual nicotine climb. Pair with aged rum to amplify the sweetness.
Grown in Nicaragua's volcanic soils but wrapped in that hard-to-cultivate Cameroon leaf. Jochy Blanco's recipe combines Jalapa valley sweetness with Esteli's punch. The wrapper alone took 3 years to cure properly - patience you can taste.
