Rocky Patel Conviction Toro

Some cigars are seductive at first sight. The Rocky Patel Conviction Toro is clearly one of them. Its dark wrapper, with its fine veins, heralds a rich experience, while its impressive gold ring adds an almost “royal” touch to the whole. Once removed, the San Andrés Mexican cape is superb, taut and clean, a true example of craftsmanship.

In the hand, the cigar feels rather tightly rolled, but not excessively so. The draw remains supple, with a slight restraint that is perfectly controlled: there's no need to force it, everything is calibrated.

When cold, the profile is immediately greedy. The chocolate dominates, deep and appetising, like a promise of intensity... which will soon be confirmed.

First third: power and greed

From the moment it is lit, Conviction displays a powerful temperament, but one that is well in place. It has a generous hot chocolate flavour, enhanced by a hint of cardamom and spices that add depth and elegance. The length on the palate is quite simply exceptional: it settles in and lingers for a long time, never fading.

Technically, it's a model of its kind: combustion is excellent, and the ash is dense and compact, easily holding more than 4 cm. The smoke, grey and very present, develops a very woody character, which structures the whole from the very first puffs.

Second third: sandalwood, toast and leather

The second third evolves towards a more complex and deeper register, with very fine sandalwood, toasty notes and a touch of leather that adds texture. The whole gradually becomes rounder and greedier, and the power begins to diminish slightly, while retaining its body.

At the end of the second third, a drier note appears: dry earth, almost mineral, which perfectly prepares the transition to the finish.

Third: warm black pepper and musky finish

At the start of the final third, the black pepper comes back more strongly, but in a warm, enveloping, never aggressive version. There is a moment, however, when a little degassing is in order, to calm the spiciness of the nicotine and get back on track with a more harmonious rhythm.

The finish becomes denser: earth, wood, black pepper, with a richer, more musky finish, enhanced by hints of walnut husk (the very typical skin/shell aspect of nuts). An expressive, structured conclusion that confirms the character of Conviction.

Pair with: Cognac XO 20 ans (Domaine des Claires)

The pairing with a Cognac XO 20 ans - Domaine des Claires works perfectly. The roundness of the cognac blends perfectly with the strength of the cigar, and its fruity, sweet side envelops the pepper and spices, while prolonging the deliciousness of the chocolate and toast. The cognac's long-lasting finish lingers on the palate and is the ideal accompaniment to the last puffs.

Verdict

The Rocky Patel Conviction Toro is a very good cigar, with true mastery and impeccable technique. The box-press is a success, the burning behaviour is exemplary, and the aromatic development is marked from start to finish: you never get bored, as the profile changes and renews itself constantly.