Balmoral’s Anejo XO Oscuro line was introduced in 2018, together with the Connecticut line, as extensions of the original Anejo XO line. The Oscuro uses a Mexican wrapper and a Brazilian Arapiraca leaf in the filler. The line comes in five different vitolas, all sold in 20-ct boxes. The Gran Toro, despite its name, adheres to the standard measurements of standard Toro size (52 x 152mm).
The Gran Toro comes dressed in a slightly opaque Colorado Maduro wrapper. To the touch, it is slightly rough. Construction and filling are great.
- Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
- Size: 52 x 152 mm (6″)
- Wrapper: MexicanSan Andres
- Binder: Dominican Olor
- Filler: Brazil, Dominican Rep., Nicaragua
- Price: $ 10.50 – € 9
Balmoral Anejo XO Oscuro Gran Toro: unlit, aromas are of coffee beans and cocoa are brought to the palate. Once lit, the opening is distinctly earthy.
The first third is characterized by toasted notes of coffee beans, enriched by earth and a light spiciness. Strength is medium (3/5).
On the palate, the smoke is particularly dry. The notes of earth and coffee beans are confirmed. Halfway through the cigar, the profile turns to cocoa and black pepper. Strength remains unchanged (3/5).
The last third suddenly turns to herbs. Strength grows, becoming medium-full (4/5).
Overall, the Balmoral Anejo XO Oscuro Gran Toro releases a fairly broad flavor profile with good intensity. The evolution, although not particularly pronounced, is, however, appreciable. The negative note is constituted by a particularly dry smoke, at times astringent, which makes for a slightly unbalanced smoke, especially in the second half.