Let's cut straight to this Nicaraguan puro torpedo measuring 6 7/8"×52/42 ring gauge. The box-pressed pyramide shape offers concentrated smoke flow, housed in wooden boxes of 25 sticks priced around $452.50. First lit in 1994 to celebrate Padron's 30th anniversary (despite the '64 naming), this blend redefined Nicaraguan tobacco's potential through obsessive 4-year+ aging of every leaf.
Cold draw reveals cedar shavings and Brazil nuts. Initial combustion brings salted peanut brittle and baking spices - think cinnamon toast crunch without the sweetness. The box-press channels dense smoke despite medium airflow.
Dark chocolate bitterness takes charge around the 2" mark. Coffee grounds and burnt caramel emerge alongside that signature Padron earthiness. Retrohale introduces white pepper tingle without harshness.
Last third amps up cocoa powder intensity. Savory elements shift toward roasted cashews and leather-bound book musk. Strength builds noticeably post-band removal - not for nicotine-lightweight smokers.
Born in Estelí factory using Criollo '98 and Corojo '99 varietals from Nicaragua's volcanic soils. What truly separates this blend: 4+ year bale-aged filler tobacco followed by 1+ year post-roll maturation. The box-pressing technique compresses flavors rather than just altering the shape.
