CAO MX2 Toro

Featuring a maduro wrapper and binder, the medium-bodied CAO MX2 is widely regarded as one of the standout maduro cigars on the market. Available on a limited basis throughout the year, the MX2 can be difficult to find without advance planning—but we’re happy to help make that easier. As the name suggests, MX2 highlights the use of double maduro leaves: a well-fermented Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper and a spicy Brazilian Maduro binder. The filler blend draws from six countries, including Nicaragua, Honduras, the Dominican Republic, and Peru.

Construction is consistently excellent, producing thick smoke, a firm light-gray ash, and an easy draw. Aromas are rich and earthy with hints of black pepper. The first third delivers dense maduro flavors of coffee and earth, transitioning in the middle to bitter chocolate and deeper roast. In the final third, coffee and dark chocolate intensify, leading to a slow burn and smooth, creamy finish. Pair with a chocolate stout or Sazerac rye whiskey.

The Nicaraguan cigar industry originated when Cuban cigar makers escaped the revolution and re-established their livelihood in Nicaragua with Cuban-seed tobacco. Blessed with dark, rich soil, their new home was ideal for tobacco cultivation and Nicaragua quickly became known for cigars that rivaled Cuban quality. Unfortunately, revolution and war came to Nicaragua in the 1980s and devastated the industry, but it’s rebounded dramatically and is once again producing tobacco considered by many to be the finest in the world.

The Esteli Valley is in many ways the heart of Nicaraguan production and is known for its very powerful and spicy tobacco. The Jalapa Valley produces arguably the finest tobacco in the country: somewhat sweeter and less intense than Esteli, but extremely complex. The tobacco of the Condega Valley is often described as a blend of the other two regions.