Reviewed 12/8/2007
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Padron 80th
I’ve wanted to try this cigar since I heard they were being created close to a year ago. Last week I got a call from an old friend Chris who works at De La Concha (my favorite NYC B&M) telling me they were in and he has a box set aside for me.
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It comes as no surprise that the appearance of this cigar is typical Padron perfection. Padron is top of the line when it comes to quality IMHO.
The un-lit cigar smells like gourmet coffee. I clipped of ¼” of the head with my Palio and the pre-light draw was smooth with a woodsy taste.
Normally I enjoy my cigars with Bourbon, Scotch, or Beer, but I decided to pair it up with good ‘ole H2O to concentrate on the flavors this cigar has to offer.
Once lit, the initial flavor was pure peppery spice. Not strong and harsh like a young Opus, but a taste that definitely lingers after each puff. After an inch into it, the spiciness decreased and an earthier flavor presented itself.
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The ash is light gray with the toothiness still visible on the ash as tiny white dots. The initial ash hung on for close to 2 inches before it dropped off in the ashtray. The smoke was thick and almost purely white. The burn was even and flawless the whole way through and never needed a re-light.
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The strength of this cigar is definitely on the full side. About half way through I felt a strong nicotine buzz. The strength came on slowly behind the initial spicy flavor, but then never let up. This is a powerful cigar.
I was surprised that the typical Padron coffee, chocolaty, creaminess never presented itself but also kind of glad it didn’t. This cigar has a new flavor profile for Padron…. Very strong!!
I had to put this one down with this much left…(I usually nub Padrons, but this one was kicking my ass!)
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I thoroughly enjoyed this cigar until I was overcome by its power. The next one I try will definitely have to be after a large meal and paired with some alcohol.
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Very nice review - I have not had this version and look forward to it.
The B&M you mentioned, I have never been but have ordered many sticks from there, has a great selection!
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