Partagas Presidente OSU VC-1 (Oct '98)

[MontrealRon]

Halfway through the second of three boxes, same codes,

bought in Cuba around eight years ago.

At first, I really enjoyed these cigars, but for the last few years I found them rather mild,

both in strength and in taste.

It's been at least 8-9 months since I last sampled one.

I really like the perfecto shape; the control over the width in the mouth,

and the slow but steady crescendo as the lit area widens.

I even enjoy the Cuabas, especially the mid-sized Generosos and Exclusivos,

as long as they are well aged.

This Presidente, though, was a total surprise.

I took this for an afternoon smoke, expecting that these cigars were in decline,

and that it would be rather simple and non-descript.

From the beginning, this cigar was rich and full of flavor,

typical old-time Partagas flavor at that.

The draw was perfect, and the burn was even to the end.

I tried to read a newspaper, but my attention was continually drawn back to the cigar.

As the cigar progressed, the power kept increasing,

to the point that it became almost overwhelming.

The taste was a very harmonious mix of exotic spices, fine hardwoods,

and that mushroom/forest floor/damp earth scent that just cries "Partagas".

This flavour mix went from beginning to end; the only real change was in its intensity.

I actually let the cigar go out twice, simply needing a break.

With each re-light, I was right back where I left off.

I finally put it to rest with about an inch and a half left,

and just sat back, half dazed.

Was this cigar an anomaly, or have these smokes just started to hit their stride?

Believe me, I will be back in that box real soon,

and will post a follow-up to this review.

[ChanceSchmerr]

I really like the perfecto shape; the control over the width in the mouth,

and the slow but steady crescendo as the lit area widens.

I loved the one Partagas Presidentes that I've tried so far, I look forward to having many more! I agree completely with the statement above. The perfecto shape really appeals to me, kind of makes me feel like an old-time cigar smoker.

Also, so far the Presidents is the strongest cigar I've ever had (narrowly beats out an Opus X Double Corona), but oh-so-good at the same time - much the same experience as you had!

Great Review! Wonderful to know these can be aged for 10+ years and still be a winner!

[thechenman]

Wow. Interesting. Never had a Presidente, but I am looking forward to trying one now.

[bassman]

Sounds like you got a good one! I had a box of 99s. The ones that would draw were strong & tasty. Got a box of 04s that all had great draws, but seriously lacked flavor. Probably should try some new ones. Wish this cigar came in a box of 10.

[celsis]

I found them just a little too strong for me, although I've only had one. I found the tobacco taste overpowering, but the amount of smoke was startling. At times I felt the cigar was smoking ME, rather than the opposite!

[Leopolis Semper Fidelis]

I bought my first Partagás Presidentes about twenty years ago, and fell in love with them: the old-fashioned perfecto shape, the dark wrappers with oily sheen and the great spicy, earthy flavour. The second lot was obtained in 2008, but what a disappointment: pale wrappers and a mediocre taste. The only thing in common between the two versions was the shape. I hope the PPs have improved since then!

[rfenst]

Well, now I think I need to give my Presidentes a try!