Binder: Dominican

Wrapper: Ecuador

Tobacco: Dominican and Nicaragua

Length: 6 1/4

Ring Gauge: 52

One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a cigar smoker to me is trying out different cigars and finding a gem. Last week I had the pleasure of being introduced to the La Aurora 107. The La Aurora Cigar company has had a great run producing cigars in the Dominican Republic.

Their 100 Anos Limited Edition is a favorite of many long time smokers and the Aurora Preferidos Robusto scored an impressive 93 in Cigar Aficionado. The La Aurora 107 commemorates Aurora’s 107th year in business. While I do think it is an odd year to honor, this cigar is one of my new favorites.

First of all this is a great looking cigar. It features a beautiful sun grown brown wrapper. It has a couple of veins but they are very thin and contained. The 107 is tightly packed from head to toe as well. I got a nice scent of cream and spice when I smelled it.

The band on the 107 is a winner. It features a lion surrounded by gold coins all anchored by some fine embossing. A very interesting change of pace in my opinion.

After toasting the foot of this cigar, my first couple of puffs were really pleasant. First off the draw is great. I am getting plenty of smoke with each toke. There is a bit of resistance but it’s not so tight where I am fighting with it. Some smokers prefer the draw to be totally open which I understand, but I prefer a little fight. I am not picking up on any distinct flavor profile; all I know it’s pretty tasty to me. The body is in a light medium zone so far.

Ten minutes into this cigar it is really burning well. The dark grey ash is holding firm an inch into things. The Aurora 107 is really a nice smoke. While I’m smoking I usually need to keep a beverage handy, but this cigar doesn’t leave your palette dry at all. This stick is not complex or deep with different flavors but is very balanced. The tobacco flavor is rich and I have encountered no bitterness which is great.

Things are still going well with the 107. I have to commend the rollers who put together this cigar as the construction is top-notch. I put this cigar down for about 10 minutes to run to the liquor store for champagne and when I came back the cigar was still lit and the ash wasn’t spilled all over the ashtray. The burn line is thick and has had its moments of inconsistency, but at this point I am not going to cry over spilled milk.

The 107 is very smooth throughout. The final third is a relaxing medium for me. It has a controlled strength and the smoke isn’t too dense either. I still can’t pinpoint a distinctive flavor but I can say the tobacco is very savory. As I am nearing the end I can only think I have to get some more of these! I very rarely smoke cigars down to the nub, but this cigar called for such an occasion.

Hands down La Aurora 107 is one of my new favorite cigars. It is very rich but smooth and well-balanced; I didn’t hit a rough spot through the entire smoke. The construction was tops too. The catch is that the 107 is only available at a hundred and seven brick and mortar smoke shops throughout the country. This Belicoso size will run you anywhere from eight to ten dollars at most traditional, meaning non-Manhattan, smoke shops. I will definitely be picking some of these during my next cigar run. Long ashes.

 4 out of 5 crowns