The Padron Black Label No.89 Natural demands attention with its intimidating 6x46 parejo shape and jet-black band. Dubbed "Black Line" by regulars, this Nicaraguan puro commemorates patriarch Jose Padron's 89th birthday using aged reserve tobaccos that'll set you back $148.50 for a box of 10. Its natural wrapper glistens with visible oils, prepping smokers for the intensity ahead.
Cold Draw: Earth and barnyard with subtle cinnamon spice. The foot smells like damp coffee grounds.
Initial puffs deliver espresso bitterness and dark chocolate grit. Thick smoke coats the palate with black pepper that clings to the throat. Retrohale sparks sneeze-inducing white pepper through nasal passages.
Maduro-style coffee notes emerge under charred oak flavors. Molasses sweetness surfaces at 15-minute mark, battling nicotine bitterness. Ash holds firm for 1.5" before flaking.
Tarry finish develops past band point. Leather and soil tones dominate as oils seep through wrapper. Requires cigar nail for last inch due to intense heat buildup.
Rolled in Esteli using 4-5 year aged tobaccos from Padron's Jalapa valley farms. Connecticut-seed wrapper grown under Nicaraguan sun accounts for darker complexion despite "Natural" designation. Limited annual release through PCA/TAA retailers.
