CAO Criollo cigars are handmade in Nicaragua. In the cigar lingo, these cigars are Nicaraguan Puro (meaning all of the tobacco used for this cigar comes from Nicaragua : wrapper, binder and the filler leaves). Historically, the Criollo wrappers are the least favorite of tobacco grown by the farmers, as they tend to bring low yields. It took everyone for a surprise when in late 2002, CAO announced their new blend to be a Criollo wrapper. Overcoming all the odds, CAO Criollo was declared Best Nicaraguan Cigar of 2005, coupled with a whopping rating of 90 points by Cigar Aficionado.The CAO Criollo cigars have a pleasant cedar aroma, which is unnoticeable as you pop open the box. The flavor profile of these cigars is outstanding. The first puff would deliver a bust of pepper with hints of licorice followed by creamy toffee flavors. All CAO cigars are packaged in 20 count boxes.