Stogie Reviews: Casa Magna Colorado Torito

A few weeks ago, I was pleasantly surprised to find a healthy supply of Casa Magnas for sale at my local tobacconist. It goes without saying that this relatively new brand has been rather elusive since it was launched at the IPCPR Trade Show in the summer of 2008 by Manuel Quesada and Nestor Plascencia.

Casa Magna seemingly went from obscurity to overnight sensation after Cigar Aficionado gave the Colorado Robusto a rating of 93 and named it best of the year. That underscores, for better or worse, the tremendous influence the magazine wields in the world of stogies.

While I’ve learned to take CA’s reviews with a grain of salt, I had every reason to believe this Nicaraguan puro would live up to its reputation. Nearly everything I’d heard or read—including a March Quick Smoke by one of my colleagues—was overwhelmingly positive.

My expectations only increased after I examined my two Toritos (4.75 x 60), each of which cost me $6.50 apiece. The red Colorado wrappers almost seem to glisten with dotted specks of oil and tooth, and the whole stubby frame is astonishingly firm.

That density gives way to an easy draw with spice on the lips. Then, even though the pre-light aromas of honey and earth suggest a medium-bodied profile, the first inch has a bold and hearty taste of fresh mulch and black cherry. Notes of apricot and nut add complexity.

Not much changes into the second or final thirds but, as you can see, there’s plenty going on here to hold the attention of discriminating cigar enthusiasts. The interplay between sweet and salty flavors is especially satisfying, as are the fragrances of the resting smoke.

Rolled in Nestor Plascencia’s Segovia factory in Estelí, the combustion qualities are characteristic of a much pricier cigar. The slow burn requires few touch-ups, the draw remains clear throughout, and the gray ash holds strong for two inches or more. As with any stick above a 54 ring gauge, though, the Torito’s girth is awkward and slightly uncomfortable.

But it’s clear to me that the Casa Magna Colorado is worthy of its lofty repute. Even if you don’t consider the blend to be the best creation of 2008, it deserves a spot somewhere at the top of the class. I look forward to trying the other vitolas and I give the Torito four and a half stogies out of five.

[To read more StogieGuys.com cigar reviews, please click here.]

–Patrick A

photo credit: Stogie Guys