Today’s post continues my journey through the Buenaventura sampler. This time, I’m sharing my thoughts on the Curivari Buenaventura Pralines P554. Another cigar from Curivari’s portfolio that caught my attention – let’s take a closer look.
Until recently, the weather had been kind enough to make outdoor smoking a real pleasure – and this was one of those days. As usual, I headed out with one of my trusted cigar companions to one of Rzeszów’s well-known open-air spot.
This was my fourth cigar from the Buenaventura sampler, and I have to say – I’m quickly becoming a fan of the brand. The cigars I’ve smoked so far have offered bold, complex flavor, solid construction, and that unmistakable Nicaraguan character I really enjoy. My favorites up to this point? The recently reviewed Picadores and the D7 that kicked things off.
Connecticut wrappers – while pleasant on occasion – aren’t my go-to. Today, however, I’m lighting up what might just be the darkest cigar in the sampler.
Let’s get into it.
Curivari Buenaventura Pralines P554
The Pralines line debuted in 2016, featuring a dark San Andrés wrapper from Mexico over a Nicaraguan binder and filler – all grown from Cuban seed. The blend is clearly aimed at offering a rich, bold profile, and it comes in three formats:
- Pralines P460 – 4 x 60 (Gordito),
- Pralines P554 – 5 1/2 x 54 (Robusto),
- Pralines P652 – 6 1/2 x 52 (Toro).
In today’s review, I’ll be focusing on the P554 – the robusto-sized cigar in the lineup.
A few technical specs
The Pralines P554 is a thick, slightly box-pressed Robusto that feels more substantial than the typical format. Measuring 5 1/2 inches in length with a 54 ring gauge, it leans toward toro territory in hand. The dark Mexican San Andrés wrapper has a rich, oily sheen and a texture that calls to mind dark chocolate – both in look and appeal. The band is consistent with the rest of the Buenaventura lineup, with the exception of the lighter Cremas C300, which features a different color scheme. Though simple, the design carries a quiet elegance. Sometimes, less truly is more. The details—printing, embossing, and paper quality – reflect solid craftsmanship.
The Cut
The dark, oily wrapper practically begs to be nosed before cutting. It gives off a sweet aroma layered with floral notes, earth, and a hint of chocolate – rich and inviting. The foot brings more intensity, with earthy tones and a sharp black pepper that tingles in the nose. I used a straight cutter for the cut – click. The draw is spot on – smooth and open, with just the right amount of resistance. On the cold draw, I pick up notes of wood and coffee, with a subtle earthy undertone. A very promising start.
The Light
I toasted the foot thoroughly with a jet flame lighter, then lit the cigar with a series of short, gentle puffs. After letting it rest briefly, I dove into the experience – and was immediately hit with a bold wave of black pepper. Once that initial spice settled, notes of earth and wood came forward. The flavor profile evolved quickly. Soon, I was tasting a striking mix of coffee and pepper – a surprisingly enjoyable combination. That, in turn, gave way to rich dark chocolate with high cocoa content. Everything felt intense and full-bodied from the start. As the cigar burned down, the flavors continued to shift. I picked up some subtle mineral notes – a recurring theme I’m starting to associate with the Buenaventura brand. At one point, the profile softened, and the flavors melded into a cohesive mass that was harder to pick apart – though a background of warm spice lingered without becoming overpowering. In the final third, coffee returned to the forefront, and the cigar finished with a deep, resonant bitterness reminiscent of high-quality dark chocolate. A bold, evolving profile from start to finish.
Strength & Body
I’d rate the strength of this cigar as medium to full. It’s important not to confuse its bold flavor intensity with sheer nicotine power – though it’s certainly no lightweight. This is a cigar best enjoyed after a hearty meal, when you’re ready to fully engage with a rich, layered experience.
Aroma & Smoke
This cigar produces thick, voluminous clouds of aromatic smoke – something I absolutely love. The scent is rich and layered, with sweet notes balanced by sharp pepper, accompanied by hints of coffee and dark chocolate. It’s bold, satisfying, and unmistakably indulgent.
Construction & Burn
The construction of this cigar allowed me to fully enjoy the moment without needing to reach for my lighter. The burn was mostly even throughout, and the draw remained consistently perfect from start to finish – effortless and reliable.
Final Thoughts on the Curivari Buenaventura Pralines P554
Absolutely delicious! I was already struggling to pick a favorite from this sampler – and this cigar only made that decision harder. The Pralines P554 delivers a truly unique experience. Its flavors are bold, rich, and complex, offering a constantly evolving profile that keeps the palate engaged from start to finish. The excellent construction allows for a relaxed smoking session without interruption, and the thick, aromatic smoke adds to the enjoyment of every moment.
Curivari’s Buenaventura line continues to impress. First, it made me look forward to each new cigar. Then, it surprised me with something even better than expected. I’m genuinely impressed, and I already look forward to lighting up the final cigar from the sampler – though with a touch of sadness, knowing it’s the last one I have on hand.
This cigar was purchased with my own funds.
If you enjoyed reading this, let me know! Drop a comment or share the post – every bit of support helps others discover my cigar reviews and smoking tips. If you prefer to listen, I co-host a podcast with Piotr Siwiński called „Spotkanie z Dymem” („A Meeting with Smoke”) – currently in Polish, though who knows what the future holds? You can also find me on Instagram, where I share a slice of my cigar life – and a bit more. I always welcome a good conversation. That’s how great connections start – and they often go far beyond just cigars.
Stay smoky!
Mateusz Krzywiecki, @mateusz.krzywiecki, Polski Aficionado, @polskiaficionado
