Let's kick off with the VegaFina Year of the Rabbit 2023 - a Figurado-shaped smoke packing 50 ring gauge in a 6-inch frame. This 16-stick box will set you back $96, making it a mid-range option for collectors and casual smokers alike. The Chinese zodiac-inspired design features gold rabbit motifs that pop against vibrant red bands, though honestly, you're mainly paying for that limited edition status here.
The Connecticut wrapper delivers immediate baking spices and cedar notes. Expect a surprisingly creamy texture given the "full" rating, with faint nutmeg appearing around the 1-inch burn mark. Smoke production stays moderate - no thick plumes here.
Earthiness ramps up with roasted coffee beans and black pepper undertones. The draw tightens slightly around the figurado's bulge, requiring minor touch-ups. Retrohale brings out a distinct leather quality that Cuban cigar veterans might find familiar.
Nicotine strength becomes noticeable - not quite a nicotine bomb but demands respect. Charred oak and mineral notes dominate, though some testers report unwanted bitterness if smoked too fast. Burn time averages 85 minutes.
Rolled at Tabacalera's La Vega facility using Dominican filler tobaccos. The triple-cap finish holds firm, though we noticed slight wrapper veining in 30% of samples. Storage recommendation: Keep at 65% RH to prevent burn issues.
