CAO Thunder Smoke marks the third entry in the brand’s Arcana Series — a line dedicated to unique tobacco stories. Unlike previous Arcana cigars (Mortal Coil and Firewalker), which highlighted rare production methods, Thunder Smoke is defined by its remarkable, All-African filler tobaccos. Join us as we explore this limited-edition Toro from CAO. 

CAO Thunder Smoke Fast Facts

Brand: CAO

Blend Breakdown

Wrapper:

Honduran Olancho San Agustin

Binder:

Mexican San Andrean

Filler:

South African, Zimbabwean, Cameroon

Sizes: Toro (6.5 X 52)

SRP: $12.99

Factory: General Cigar Dominicana (Dominican Republic)

CAO Thunder Smoke First Impressions

CAO Thunder Smoke is a rich, chocolate-brown colored cigar, covered almost entirely by a massive “Arcana” band that extends nearly to the stick's foot. Like CAO Arcana Firewalker, Thunder Smoke’s packaging nods to its origins. Both the band and the box feature subtle animal-striping patterns — an homage to the wildlife found in the Zambezi River Valley region. 

The box also includes descriptions of the Arcana Series and the tobaccos within Thunder Smoke itself. For those curious, the name “Thunder Smoke” comes from the local Sotho term for Victoria Falls (“The Smoke that Thunders”). CAO Thunder Smoke is also the first premium CAO to feature South African tobacco. 

“With CAO Thunder Smoke, we are pushing the boundaries of cigar making, venturing into uncharted territories to craft an unparalleled smoking experience,” said Ed Lahmann, senior brand manager for CAO, in a press release. “Our mantra, ‘We Go Where The Tobacco Takes Us,’ has guided us to innovate and redefine the industry standard. This release is not just a milestone for CAO, but a bold leap forward for the entire cigar world.”

As for the actual smoke part of Thunder Smoke, initial impressions are good. The burn is even and sharp, and some of the first tasting notes include a pleasant hint of chocolate and dried fruit. The Honduran wrapper is smooth, oily, and in excellent condition. 

CAO Thunder Smoke Smoking Experience

It can be tempting with a cigar like this to try and determine what each individual tobacco contributes to the overall blend. Admittedly, it would be interesting to try a deconstructed version of this cigar to truly pinpoint what the exotic South African and Zimbabwean tobacco (for example) offers in terms of taste and construction. However, as a whole, the performance of Thunder Smoke is exemplary, and the flavors are robust and varied. 

As the smoke develops, tasting notes like cocoa, hazelnut, and raisins emerge. In addition, the entire smoke has an enjoyable herbal aroma and mouthfeel to it — perhaps a result of the exotic filler tobacco. 

A Toro is an archetypal cigar size for a reason, and it showcases the unusual Thunder Smoke blend in a way that allows the smoker to appreciate the nuanced flavors present here. In terms of strength, the blend sits at a comfortable medium. Expect smoke times for this cigar to run from just over an hour to 90 minutes (plus). 

Suggested drink pairings for Thunder Smoke include aged rum, espresso, and stout. 

CAO Thunder Smoke Final Thoughts

CAO is no stranger to innovation. In 2001, the brand unveiled CAO Brazilia, one of the first premium cigars to feature a Brazilian wrapper. Brazilia has since gone on to become one of the most popular and acclaimed cigars in the CAO lineup, and over the past two decades, CAO has released dozens of unique cigars containing exotic tobacco. As the latest unconventional CAO release, Thunder Smoke succeeds on its own merit and as a continuation of this theme. 

Thunder Smoke produces a reliably excellent smoking experience punctuated by exotic herbal and cocoa notes that few (if any) other cigars can boast. Indeed, the combination of rare African tobacco with a classic wrapper like the Honduran Olancho San Augustin feels like an inspired choice. Fans of the brand will immediately recognize the CAO quality and branding, while newcomers (and longtime fans alike) will surely appreciate the unique flavor profile Thunder Smoke offers. 

We recommend picking one up to try for yourself from your local cigar shop. CAO Thunder Smoke also makes a tremendous gift for the seasoned yet adventurous cigar smoker in your life. 

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