This box-pressed Nicaraguan puro comes in 6"x54 imperial size, packing 25 premium sticks per box at $461.25. Crafted to celebrate Padron's 50th anniversary, the maduro wrapper glistens with oil under proper humidification. I've noticed the consistent box-press shape holds firm even after months in my humidor.
The initial draws deliver intense dark chocolate notes with espresso undertones. Medium smoke output carries roasted almond aromas that linger longer than typical maduros. Draw resistance feels perfectly balanced - not too loose like some box-pressed cigars.
Caramelized sweetness emerges as the core shifts to charred oak. I detect subtle black cherry nuances beneath the earthy foundation. Burn line stays razor-sharp without needing corrections, a testament to Padron's legendary construction.
White pepper sparks on the retrohale while the main profile deepens into mineral-rich soil tones. Despite the 54 ring gauge, nicotine strength remains manageable compared to Padron's 1926 line. Ash holds firm past 2 inches when properly tended.
Using exclusively aged Nicaraguan leaves from Estelí (volcanic soil) and Jalapa (sweeter valley growth), Padron achieves remarkable balance. The maduro wrapper undergoes extended fermentation - I've seen batches with near-black oily surfaces after 5+ years aging. Traditional Cuban-style entubado rolling creates that perfect draw I mentioned earlier.
