Fratello Oro

Fratello Oro is the first cigar in the Fratello portfolio to be produced outside the Joya De Nicaragua factory. This time, Fratello founder Omar de Frias went across the map to the Dominican Republic, assigning the task to La Aurora, the country's oldest cigar factory. Not only is Oro the first Dominican-made Fratello, but it is also the first to use a Connecticut shade wrapper, in this case a golden Ecuadorian variety. This, combined with a Cameroon binder and a filler blend from Nicaragua, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic, makes for an amazing mild-medium-bodied smoking experience that even seasoned connoisseurs can appreciate. For a premium Connecticut-wrapped stick, Fratello Oro is rather rustic in appearance. Despite the glistening gold bands, the classic Cuban style roll and textured wrapper leaf add a unique amount of old school character. Speaking of that roll, it is just right, lending to a great draw and a solid ash to boot. As for flavor characteristics, Oro is all that one would expect from a designer Connecticut cigar: creamy, earthy, and nutty. A bit of cedar adds something extra to the blend, as well as hints of spicy white pepper and a tangy citrus note in the background. A bread note is noticeable on the retrohale, as well as just a bit of sweetness on the tip of the tongue. Beginning as a very mild cigar, this stick in particular builds just enough intensity throughout the smoke to bring it into medium-bodied territory by the closing puffs. Like most mild-medium-bodied cigars, Fratello Oro is most definitely suitable for beginners, though its subtle complexities, velvety smoothness, and all the other bells and whistles included in this price point will likely go to waste on an inexperienced palate. Of course, the usual white wine, light beer, and even Champagne all go well with Oro, but oddly enough the notes in the flavor profile actually pair beautifully with orange juice, making it a great breakfast cigar. If you have come to enjoy such Ecuadorian Connecticut beauties as Montecristo Classic or Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real, perhaps it would be worth your while to check out Fratello Oro and compare it. "Oro" is Spanish for "gold," and this golden beauty is most definitely a fantastic choice for any lover of fine mild-medium cigars.