Let's talk about the beast that is Padron 1926 Serie No.90 Maduro - a Nicaraguan powerbomb housed in sleek aluminum tubes. This box-pressed gran toro comes in at 5.5"x52, packing 10 sticks per box at $235. Originally created for Jose Padron's 75th birthday, these dark knights show why Nicaraguan tobacco dominates the full-bodied game.
Cold draw punches with black pepper and cocoa powder. Initial lighting brings espresso bitterness balanced by dark chocolate sweetness. The retrohale stings with baking spices - think cinnamon mixed with charcoal. Smoke output feels dense but not overwhelming.
Leather and roasted nuts emerge as the burn line passes halfway. Noticeable mineral tang develops under the tongue, like licking a stone soaked in coffee liqueur. Smoke gets creamier but maintains that signature Padron earthiness. Ash holds strong past 2 inches.
Nicotine kick becomes pronounced entering the last third. Dark fruit nuances (raisins/figs) briefly flash before transitioning to charred oak. Tar builds up in the last inch - smart to put it down before nubbing. Leaves leathery aftertaste that lingers 20+ minutes.
This isn't your casual morning smoke - the No.90 demands respect. Pair with strong black coffee or aged bourbon to counterbalance intensity. Let it rest 6+ months in your humidor if you want smoother transitions between flavors. First-timers be warned: the nicotine content hits like Mike Tyson in his prime.
