Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
Be the first
Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
very good
Draw
easy
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
At first glance, the Padron Family Reserve No. 46 NATURAL showcases a smooth and silky wrapper, highlighting a perfectly proportioned two dimensions of 139.7 mm (5½") in length and 22.2 mm (⅞") in diameter. Its light color and impeccable texture illustrate Nicaraguan craftsmanship, with fine, well-defined veins that accentuate its refined appearance. Every element, including the cigar's millimeters, makes it a product of luxury.
The first olfactory contact proves promising, with a complex blend of sweet and woody pre-light aromas after a slight pre-light inspection. Upon lighting, an olfactory intensity unfolds, dominated by notes of pepper and a hint of cocoa. Quickly, the aromas evolve into nuances of earth and cream, accompanied by delicate touches of nuts, creating a rich and engaging aromatic palette.
On the palate, this cigar is expressive, revealing a dynamic development throughout the three thirds. The beginning, marked by a peppery attack, gradually gives way to a creamier texture and a comforting sweetness of dark chocolate. The aromas of hazelnuts and earth create a pleasant balance while offering an increasing complexity that delights the senses. The draw, for its part, is easy, allowing for a smooth and effortless smoking experience.
The finish concludes with a buttery sensation and a slight residual sweetness that lingers in the mouth, leaving a memorable imprint without excessive bitterness. Balanced and flavorful, the cigar offers a subtle contrast between strength and sweetness, thus ranking among the most refined choices from Nicaragua. What makes this cigar distinctive is its ability to deliver a transporting tasting experience without ever sacrificing olfactory comfort.
Ideal for an afternoon tasting, this cigar pairs perfectly with a glass of peated whisky or an espresso, creating a moment of intense pleasure, conducive to relaxation and contemplation.
Community impressions
Cigar enthusiasts highlight its welcoming character and beautiful aromatic complexity. The buttery texture and the gentle intimacy of the pre-light aromas, combined with an easy draw, make it an ideal companion for those seeking a rich and nuanced experience. Although it has minor flaws in the draw, it remains a favored choice for its overall quality.
How to taste: Padron Family Reserve No. 46 NATURAL
▼
1.Visual Examination
The Padron Family Reserve No. 46 NATURAL features a deep brown wrapper, slightly textured, that catches the eye. Its construction is very beautiful, with a straight format and dimensions of 139.7 mm (5½") with a ring gauge of 56, promising a comfortable smoking experience.
This initial visual impression provides clues about the craftsmanship and the promise of a pleasant consumption, heightening expectations for the tasting.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, aromas of pepper, chocolate, and hazelnut emanate from the cigar. This stage allows for a glimpse into the aromatic characteristics that will be revealed during the burn.
The aromas perceived before lighting are indicative of the tobacco's nature, allowing one to anticipate the aromatic complexity that will develop subsequently.
3.The Cut
Opt for a standard straight cut to prepare the draw. A clean cut is essential to ensure that the airflow is optimal throughout the tasting.
A well-executed cut ensures an even draw and avoids the inconveniences of an uneven burn, which could alter the overall experience.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw of the Padron Family Reserve No. 46 NATURAL is easy, indicating good humidity and proper construction. This test is crucial to check the quality of the cigar before lighting.
A smooth draw reveals flawless craftsmanship, while a draw that is too difficult may require adjustments before beginning the tasting.
5.Lighting
When lighting, be sure to evenly toast the foot of the cigar to avoid canoeing. A good technique ensures a harmonious burn from the start.
Taking the time to light correctly optimizes the burn and prevents imbalances that would require corrections later on.
6.First Third
The first third of the Padron Family Reserve No. 46 NATURAL reveals a medium strength with dominant aromas of pepper and chocolate, accompanied by a medium volume of smoke.
This initial phase is crucial for experiencing the strength and richness of the flavors, signaling the direction the tasting will take.
7.Second Third
As you reach the second third, secondary aromas such as damp earth, sweetness, and cream begin to manifest. The balance remains very good, enriching the experience.
This aromatic evolution is essential for appreciating the complexity and depth of the blend, revealing the multiple dimensions of the cigar.
8.The Finish
At the end of the cigar, the gray ash indicates a good burn, and the finish offers a buttery sensation with a slight residual sweetness, of medium length.
Analyzing the ash and the finish allows for an evaluation of the tobacco quality and the craftsmanship of the cigar, while leaving a final memorable impression.