Corona Chair-Holder's Review: Espinosa y Ortega Cubao

Size:          6 1/8 x 52 Torpedo No. 2
Wrapper:   Equadorian grown Sumatra Oscuro
Binder:      Nicaraguan
Filler:        Nicaraguan
Notes:       A rich, full-bodied smoke that weaves earthy and dark coffee notes with consistent traces of pepper.  Complexity of wood, earth and pepper dominates the breadth of the smoke.

Produced and aged, at Pepin Garcia's Tabacalera Cubana S.A in Esteli, Nicaragua, the Cubao, the Taino word meaning "Fertile Soil" which is similarly grown from the famous Pinar Del Rio region, has a rich oily wrapper with solid construction on the cap with small veins dispersed throughout the stick. 

The price (about $9.25 at The Corona Smoke Shop in Okemos) seems comparable to the premium lines like Padron or La Aurora for a smooth full-body, considering this line has been discontinued.  However, according to a company source, this cigar will be re-released hopefully the fall after the IPCR show this summer.  

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this cigar from first light to the nub.  The draw is a little tight but burn and ash holds well. I did get a slight buzz going into the third leg of the smoke.  I look forward to seeing more new releases from Espinosa y Ortega.