La Galera introduced the Imperial Jade line late last year. This line features a Cameroon wrapper, and it is the first time José “Jochy” Blanco has used this tobacco in the La Galera brand. The remainder of the blend is Dominican.
Production takes place at Blanco’s own Tabacalera Palma in the Dominican Republic. The line comprises five sizes, including the Corona, and is sold in twenty-count boxes.
The cigar is dressed in a Colorado-colored wrapper that is slightly rough to the touch. There are a few visible veins present. Construction is flawless with a generous filling.
- Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
- Size: 44 x 140 mm (5 1/2″)
- Wrapper: Cameroon
- Binder: Dominican Republic
- Filler: Dominican Republic
- Price: $7 – €7
La Galera Imperial Jade Corona: the cold draw is somewhat muted, and only light hay aromas reach the palate. Once lit, the cigar opens with citrus, wood, and leather.
Further into the first third, the citrus, wood, and leather combo are joined by herbal aromas. There is an evident chili spice perceptible in the retrohale. Strength is medium (3/5).
In the middle section, the flavor profile is enriched by nutty notes, where the walnut stands out. Strength picks up a little bit, but it is enough to reach a medium to full level (4/5).
In the last third, the cinnamon spice has moved to the front while the herbal note has turned balsamic. The rest of the profile stays unchanged, as does the strength, and the finale is spicy.
Overall, La Galera Imperial Jade Corona is a flavorful and full-bodied smoke. While the evolution is linear, the flavors are well-defined and pronounced, making up for the lack of change.