Let's talk about the Padron Damaso No 17 - a 7x54 Churchill that defies expectations from this Nicaraguan powerhouse. Unlike their usual full-bodied offerings, this Connecticut-wrapped stick sits comfortably in mild-medium territory (⭐️⭐️☆☆☆). At $18.90 per cigar in 20-count boxes, it's priced as an accessible daily smoke with pedigree.
First third: Opens with cream-dipped almonds and barely-there honey sweetness. Cold draw hints at cedar, though the initial smoke stays politely mild.
Middle third: White pepper wakes up your palate around the inch mark. Not spicy - more like cinnamon-dusted walnuts. Draw tightens slightly but smoke stays cool.
Final stretch: Minerals replace sugar in the last third. Think damp limestone instead of the usual bitter tar. Ash holds firm with zero relights needed.
Padron's signature craftsmanship shines through the cellophane. Veins lie flat under oily wrapper. The open foot ensures instant flavor delivery - no need to "warm up" this stick. Burns razor-straight for 85+ minutes with salt-and-pepper ash.
Perfect morning companion with your pour-over coffee. Also works as a palate cleanser between stronger smokes. Not your post-steak heavyweight, but that's exactly the point.
