This Nicaraguan puro from Padron Cigars comes box-pressed with a dark maduro wrapper aged 1.5+ years. At 5½" x52 ring gauge, the Series 3000 Maduro packs medium-full strength flavors into its compact robusto frame. A box of 26 sticks runs $208, putting it in the "premium daily smoke" category for many enthusiasts.
First Third: Immediate dark chocolate and espresso notes dominate, backed by black pepper spice that tingles the nostrils. The draw opens with perfect resistance, producing medium smoke output.
Middle Third: Earthy leather emerges while maintaining coffee backbone. Watch for subtle raisin sweetness appearing at the 1" burn mark. Ash holds firm past 2" despite the toothy wrapper.
Final Third: Spice intensifies to cayenne levels by last inch. Dark cocoa returns with almond nuttiness, though some report increased bitterness if smoked too fast. Average 45-55 minute smoke time.
What sets this apart? Consistent construction across boxes - no "dud sticks". The triple-fermented Nicaraguan tobaccos deliver intensity without harshness. Perfect burn line requires zero touch-ups. Try pairing with espresso martinis to amplify the cocoa notes.
