Since reviewing the Camacho Connecticut Toro, I had not only warmed up to Camacho cigars, but I had also given them a great set of expectations to live up to after my successful run with the Connecticut. Can the Ecuador Toro live up to, and possibly one-up, the Connecticut? Let’s see.
Blend Specifics
- Vitola: Toro
- Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
- Binder: Brazil; Mata Fina
- Honduras & Dominican Republic; Corojo, Criollo Ligero, Pelo de Oro
- Dimensions: 6’ X 50”
Aesthetics, Construction and Feel
The simplicity of the label is an essential part of this stogie’s allure: its overt simplicity distinguishes it from 99% of the premium cigars on the market, whose labels are deliberately more ornate to reflect the brands’ heritage and traditions. Thus the Ecuador jumps out at you and exerts a stranglehold on your attention and curiosity, making it hard to resist giving it a try.
The wrapper makes for an excellent second impression; the veins are noticeable, but it’s well-constructed. There are no soft spots, no cracks, no loose ends. Finally, the wrapper has a rugged, leathery texture and a wonderful odor that is curiously similar to the full-bodied smell of many Cuban cigars. This all sounds promising, but will the smoke experience fulfill the first impressions’ promises?
Smoke and Flavor
The Ecuador definitely starts off on the right foot. The first few puffs are are solid without being harsh. The flavor is rich and smoky, lightly resembling southern barbecue. The smoke clouds are rich and thick as well, bearing a lovely essence of coffee. After the first fifth is done, the smoky flavor seamlessly transitions into a nice, black wood-like flavor. The black wood remains at the forefront right up to the end.
The draw is a bit too constricted, which makes puffing seem like a chore at times. The draw remains tight until the nub of the cigar, where the draw can always be trusted to breathe more freely. In spite of the tightness of the draw, however, the burn is conveniently slow and remains almost perfectly even throughout the smoking experience. As I step out to get some fresh air, I am astonished to find that not even the stiff breeze outside can hinder the burn in any significant way. Finally, and perhaps most remarkably of all, the finish is excellent; it’s a solid finish that is fully enjoyable due to the unusual absence of the harsh spice that the average cigar nub has. This is a completely new experience that I could easily get used to.
The Final Verdict
All in all, I was genuinely impressed with this cigar from start to finish. The flavor was deliciously dark and consistent; the burn was stubbornly even throughout, requiring no maintenance on my part; the smoke clouds were thick and aromatic; and last, but certainly not least, the impeccable ease of the finish made for a spectacular end to a wonderful smoke. What’s more is that I felt little to no tobacco buzz, despite having only eaten a slice of pizza before lighting up. This cigar may not look like a premium right off that bat, but rest assured, the Camacho Ecuador can run with the best of ‘em.
Final Grade: A
Tips for a Perfect Smoke Experience
- While this dark habano might not give you a dry mouth, it’s still a darker cigar. As such, a nice cup of coffee or a cocktail is always recommended to balance the Ecuador’s smoky essence.