CAO Zocalo

  • Origin Nicaragua
  • Wrapper Mexican San Andres
  • Binder Nicaragua
  • Filler Nicaragua
  • Strength Medium-Full

CAO is the little, boutique, premium cigar brand that has defied all odds in the premium cigar industry. It started as a dream by the late Cano A. Ozgener, who incorporated his passion for fine cigars along with his passion for family to create the CAO brand. Together they grew CAO from a local favorite to one of the most widely recognized names in the cigar industry. When the family sold the brand to General Cigar in 2007, many had doubts that the brand could thrive under the corporate yoke. The brand was put in the capable hands of Rick Rodriguez, who had been the heir apparent to Partagas Master Blender Benji Menendez. Those first few years were rocky for CAO and Rodriguez, but he’s hit his stride and continues to churn out spectacular new blends for the brand.

CAO Zocalo is named after the main square in Mexico City. It’s a great choice as this cigar features Mexican tobacco in it’s blend and the label features colors and images from the Mexican flag. The brand is no stranger to using tobacco from all over the world for their blends, and this limited production annual release is no exception. The blend features Nicaraguan filler tobaccos, a Cameroon binder, and a deep, dark Mexican San Andres wrapper to top it all off. Tasting notes include flavors of natural tobacco, earth, milk chocolate, and pepper along with hints of espresso, cinnamon, and dried stone fruits. Hands down one of the better medium-full strength cigars in their portfolio.