The Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Superior Maduro stands as a box-pressed lonsdale measuring 6.5" x 42 ring gauge, commemorating five decades of family craftsmanship. Priced at $342.50 for boxes of 25, this Nicaraguan puro delivers medium-full intensity with maduro wrapper sheen that glows like dark mahogany under light. Its construction feels dense yet yields perfect draw resistance - that satisfying "give" seasoned smokers appreciate.
First Third: Immediate dark chocolate notes with espresso bitterness, transitioning to roasted almond sweetness. Smoke output stays moderate with cool draw temperature.
Middle Third: Develops black cherry preserves and cedar wood complexity. The Nicaraguan volcanic soil minerality surfaces, balancing the sweetness without harshness.
Final Third: Leather and white pepper emerge but remain restrained. Focus shifts to texture - creamy smoke density increases while maintaining burn consistency.
The box-pressed shape maintains structural integrity through entire smoking session (90+ minutes). Triple caps withstand multiple relights when needed. Ash holds firm in 1.5" segments with minimal flaking - characteristic of Padron's quality control standards.
This Anniversary Series serves as benchmark for Nicaraguan maduros. While newer boutique brands push intensity extremes, the Padron 1964 demonstrates masterful balance. Ideal for evening sessions when you want complexity without palate fatigue. The $13-$15 per stick range positions it as special occasion smoke rather than daily driver.
