United Gold Star Toro (6×54)

United Cigars dates back to 1901, and the Gold Star is one of their most personal releases — first introduced in 1995, then dormant for decades before being revived as a limited edition honoring Gold Star families and the Navy SEALs who serve alongside them. Now a regular production cigar, the Gold Star Toro is United’s love letter to the Dominican Republic’s rich tobacco heritage, crafted by the Ventura family at Tabacalera William Ventura in Tamboril and aged for a full year post-roll before shipping.

The blend is a showcase of complexity built around a gorgeous Ecuadorian Habano 2000 Intermedio wrapper from the Quevedo region — a leaf known for its warmth, balance, and character. Underneath, an Indonesian Sumatra binder holds together a four-component Dominican and USA filler of Ligero, Criollo ’98, Corojo ’98, and Connecticut Broadleaf. The result is a medium-bodied 6×54 Toro that opens with cedar, honey, baking spice, and dark cocoa, with the Dominican and Broadleaf filler adding richness and a long, satisfying finish. More than a cigar — it’s a tribute.