The Criollo seed is rich in the history of cigar making. Originating in Cuba, 'Criollo' simply means native seed. Variations of the seed were continually developed in order to combat diseases such as blue mold. Often, flavor was sacrificed as a result. Finally, a winning combination has been found that is immune to disease and is true to the flavor of the original Cuban seed. The C.A.O. Criollo is a marriage of Cuba and Nicaragua, with a flavor reminiscent of a bygone era and representing the beginning of a new one.