At first glance, the El Diario KB is a beautiful cigar. This is usually the case with cigars from La Palina, so there are no surprises here. The dark brown wrapper has some minor veins and an attractive marbled appearance that is amplified by plenty of oil. Feeling the cigar reveals no soft spots. An attractive large band near the head displays the La Palina name and logo in a classy white and gold color scheme. Before lighting, I sense a spicy scent and cold taste of earth.

The La Palina El Diario lights with ease and has a good draw. There’s a nice volume of aromatic smoke that fills the room. The gray ash is solid. The burn is even and requires zero touch-ups or re-lights, so we are good to go in that respect.

In terms of flavor, La Palina packed plenty of fun into a small package with the El Diario KB. It also packs quite the punch, so beginners beware. The first third is a mix of strong spice, earth, and cocoa. We are definitely full-bodied from the get-go. The second third offers up more spice that eventually gives way to more tasty cocoa, wood, and leather. The final third completes the experience with leather, earth, and sweetness.

I must say that La Palina really impressed me with the El Diario KB. Do not let its small stature fool you, as this is one cigar that you will need to enjoy on a full stomach. It’s not pure power, though, as it does offer various flavors to keep things interesting. Priced at $8.75, the El Diario KB is probably too expensive to truly be a daily choice. Still, if you want a cigar that exudes quality, go out and pick up a four-pack to keep handy when you feel like spoiling yourself.