Let's kick things off with this box-pressed beast from VegaFina. The Fortaleza 2 Toro measures 6"x54, packing Dominican filler leaves under an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper. At $150.35 for 20 sticks, it's positioning itself as affordable luxury in the medium-bodied category. I'm particularly intrigued by Tabacalera de García's construction here - their massive factory usually churns out consistent performers.
The cold draw gives baking spices and cedar shavings. Initial puffs deliver roasted almonds with white pepper tingle on retrohale. Ash holds strong in compact layers, though needing minor touch-ups. Smoke output's moderate - don't expect cloud-chaser volumes.
Caramelized sweetness emerges at inch mark, blending with espresso grounds. There's noticeable cinnamon kick transitioning into dark chocolate. Draw tightens slightly here - perfect excuse to use your punch cutter.
Oak-aged character takes over with toasted bread crust. Mineral saltiness appears unexpectedly, balancing the sweetness. Stopped at nub with minimal tar buildup. Nik hit remains manageable for 90-minute smoke.
Grown in Dominican's Cibao Valley volcanic soil, these leaves undergo 120-day pilon fermentation. The Indonesian binder explains that earthy undertone, while Brazilian Mata Fina adds molasses depth. Pair it with oaky chardonnay or cold brew coffee to amplify the baking spice notes.
Intermediate smokers craving complexity without overwhelming strength. Works great as morning smoke with coffee, though lacks intensity for post-dinner sessions. The 91-rating from Cigar Aficionado seems justified when you consider price-to-quality ratio.
