CAO Zócalo Robusto

The Zócalo is CAO's tribute to Mexico — named after the famous central plaza in Mexico City — and it's built around a dark, oily Mexican San Andrés Morrón wrapper. That leaf sits over an unusual Cameroon binder and an all-Nicaraguan filler core. The Robusto, at 5 x 52, anchors the line, which started as a single limited size in 2018 before returning as regular production.

What it tastes like

San Andrés is famous for its dark, sweet-and-savory character, and it comes through here: cocoa and earth up front, with black pepper, coffee and a sweet-spiced edge that the Cameroon binder helps along. It's a medium to full-bodied smoke with real richness and a smooth, even burn — flavorful and a little exotic.

The strength and depth make this one better suited to experienced smokers than first-timers. If you're weighing it up, the cigar strength guide helps, and the maduro vs Connecticut comparison explains why that dark Mexican wrapper smokes the way it does.

The Zócalo is a great showcase for San Andrés tobacco and one of CAO's more characterful blends. Save the Robusto to your humidor and rate it in the Casa DNC app, then try the dark-on-dark CAO MX2 Robusto if you're chasing more cocoa and espresso.