This box-pressed Nicaraguan puro celebrates Jose Padron's 75th birthday with serious heft in a compact 4"×48 robusto format. Priced at $350 for 24 sticks, the five-year-aged tobacco reveals why this 2002-release remains a benchmark for full-bodied cigars. Double bands and individual serial numbers scream premium - but does this short smoke deliver big flavors?
First Third: Immediate black pepper kick transitions to roasted cashews within 5 puffs. Dry earthiness balances the initial spice. Moderate smoke output with perfect draw resistance. Ash holds firm in neat layers.
Middle Third: Espresso bitterness takes center stage, backed by caramelized sugar sweetness. Retrohale brings cedar wood aromas. Watch for occasional tar buildup - purge every 15 minutes for cleaner flavor.
Final Third: Baking spices emerge alongside creamier texture. Almond skin dryness appears at 30-minute mark. Stop before nubbing - nicotine strength peaks dramatically in last inch.
The Jalapa Valley wrapper contributes almond sweetness from red volcanic soil, while Esteli filler brings mineral intensity. Unlike typical Nicaraguan puros, Padron uses Cuban-seed hybrids fermented in Spanish cedar boxes for 36+ months. Each cigar combines ligero leaves (for strength) and viso leaves (burn consistency) in precise ratios.
