Logan37 dropped this one on me... Many thanks. Ashauler had done a review some time back on a Sol Cubano maduro and gave it some high marks. This was the first for me and I liked it.

Made by Oliva in Esteli, Nicaragua, this is a really sumptious and authentically "Cuban" looking cigar. The long-filler is a masterfull blend of "Cuban Seed" Honduran and Nicaraguan tobacco wrapped in a thick, smooth, leathery Ecuadorian wrapper with a notable oily sheen. Perfect for those Habano lovers like me. Construction is near perfect with a generous tight roll and very uniform fill.

Toasting was a little different as it was slow to show an ember but as soon as I blew on the foot it lit up like a coal furnace. The first draw was easy and satisfying as it produced an ample amount of creamy white smoke. Some spiciness at the onset that almost immediately evolved into nuances of wood and leather. The medium body also gained some strength around half way and became what I would consider to be near perfect. Not too strong but intensely flavorful and robust. Delicious.

An awesome value at around $4 (box price) it would be great to always have a few on hand.

Thanks again Rich for your generousity.

On a scale of 1-10 I rate this cigar 9.