Joya de Nicaragua Black Toro

December 1st, 2021: The Toro is the second vitola in the Black series that I have tried. The first was the Double Robusto which suffered from burn and draw issues, despite its promising flavour profile. The first Toro that I tried was much improved. There were minor burn issues but they were manageable.  

Appearance and Construction: 6x52, Mexican San Andres Wrapper, Nicaraguan binder and wrapper. An elegant cigar. The wrapper is by no means black; rather, it is a deep brown with a little mottling, suggesting a bit of age. The cigar was firm and well packed, perhaps too well packed as draw was difficult at times. But the dense construction produced a rich flavour. 

First Puff: Smooth

Draw and Burn: Draw and burn were much improved over the Red and Black Double Robusto, but there were still issues. Draw was quite resistant. The cigar went out once after a modest interval and a minor touch up was required. But overall, these were minor detractions.

Flavour and Complexity: Flavour was a dark roast with a little sweetness of dried apricot, as found in the Antano, and a little dirt (otherwise known as 'earthiness'). Complexity was good: flavours melded well.

Body: Medium throughout

Strength: Medium. No zing.

Finish and Aftertaste: Excellent long finish. This was one of the most outstanding qualities. The aftertaste lingered pleasantly, allowing for generous pauses.

Aroma: Deep and rich

Ash: A pleasant pepper and salt ash which held on well for twenty minutes per ashing.

At the 25 minute mark.

Balance and Consistency: Well balanced complex flavours, medium strength and body. No transitions, but consistently smooth and delicious.

Time smoke: 90 minutes

Overall: A substantial cigar with nice balance, complexity. Quite satisfying.

March 11th 2022: This cigar began as a pleasant puffer. It was mild to medium bodied with a smooth, fruity, dark roast flavour, much as described above. Finish was fairly durable. However, flavour in the final third almost vanished. At best it was mild and vegetal. Draw was good. Burn was fair: there was a long, unburnt, wave which left a spot of unburnt wrapper. But there was no plugging. Overall, quite pleasant. Around 80 minutes. 

A pleasant puff

March 23, 2024: This one was delicious to the nub: medium body, good draw, complex and balanced. Maybe it only needed a couple of years aging. I bought these at around $110 per box. now they're around $160. However good they might be after aging, they're not that good and not sufficiently consistent to buy another box. Nonetheless, I have a few more and I'm keen to see whether the others live up to the quality of the present cigar. 90 minutes and very satisfying.