Let's cut to the chase - the VegaFina Sumum 2014 Gran Toro screams "special occasion" with its 54-ring gauge and 5-inch parejo shape. Priced at $99 for 10 sticks, this Dominican-made torpedo packs Nicaraguan and Peruvian fillers under an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper. I found the draw slightly tight at first light, but don't let that fool you - this limited release lives up to its "summit" namesake with construction that earns its 91-point Cigar Coop rating.
The initial puffs hit with cedar sharpness and black coffee bitterness - classic Dominican twang. Smoke production stayed modest, requiring deliberate draws. Watch the burn line though; mine canoeed slightly in 65% humidity. Retrohale reveals white pepper that tingles without burning.
At the 20-minute mark, the Sumum 2014 shifts gears. Dark chocolate notes emerge, sweetened by fleeting caramel hints. The Peruvian filler shines here, adding a cinnamon-dust quality to the smoke. Ash held firm past 1.5 inches - impressive for a 54-ring gauge.
Approaching the band point, earthiness takes over with roasted walnut and leather tones. Nicotine strength creeps up - this ain't your morning coffee cigar. I clocked 85 minutes total smoke time, though the last inch turned harsh with tar buildup common in thicker ring gauges.
VegaFina's 2014 release brings heavy-hitter complexity without Cuban-level maintenance. Perfect for seasoned smokers craving Dominican puro vibes with modern blending techniques. Pair with aged rum to counterbalance the final third's intensity. Pro tip: Dry-box for 12 hours pre-light to optimize draw.
