Description
The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the terrace of Club Habana in Havana, where I first encountered what would become one of my most memorable smoking experiences. The humidity hung thick in the Caribbean air, and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the Malecón provided the perfect backdrop for what the sommelier described as “something truly exceptional” from the Partagás portfolio.
That something turned out to be the legendary Salomones—a torpedo so magnificently crafted that it seemed almost too beautiful to light. I’d heard whispers about these cigars in various lounges across Cuba, but experiencing one firsthand was entirely different. The perfecto shape commanded respect, and honestly, I understood why collectors speak of them with such reverence.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 184mm (7.2 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 57 (22.62mm diameter) |
| Vitola | Double Perfecto |
| Strength | Full-bodied |
| Smoking Time | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Origin | Cuba |
The measurements tell only part of the story. This represents the largest regular production ring gauge that Partagás produces, making it a true flagship in their portfolio. The double perfecto shape isn’t just for show—it’s designed to concentrate and evolve flavors as you progress through each third.
Flavor Profile Journey
First Third: The Bold Introduction
The opening draws immediately announce this cigar’s serious intentions. Full flavors of spice and wood dominate from the very first puff, delivered through remarkably thick, creamy smoke that coats your palate completely. There’s no gentle warm-up here—the Salomones starts with full flavors right out of the gate.
The spice isn’t harsh or overwhelming, but rather sophisticated and well-integrated. I detected notes of white pepper and cedar, with the wood notes providing a solid foundation that typical Partagás cigars are known for. The cream-like smoke texture creates an almost luxurious mouthfeel that sets this apart from many other Cuban offerings.
Middle Third: The Intensity Builds
This is where the cigar truly shines and justifies its reputation. The body intensifies from medium to full, creating a noticeable shift that experienced smokers will appreciate. Bold flavors of cashew and espresso join the established spice and wood notes, creating a complex symphony that keeps evolving with each draw.
The espresso notes aren’t bitter coffee shop brew—they’re rich, almost chocolatey coffee flavors that complement rather than compete with the existing profile. The cashew adds a subtle nuttiness that rounds out the sharper edges of the spice. It’s during this section that you understand why the manufacturer recommends aging these cigars for one to three years.
Final Third: The Crescendo
While my research didn’t reveal specific tasting notes for the final third, my experience suggests this is where all the complexity comes together. The concentrated flavors typical of a well-made perfecto reach their peak intensity without becoming overwhelming. The burn tends to slow slightly, allowing you to savor the culmination of this impressive smoking experience.
Construction and Appearance
The construction quality exemplifies why Cuban cigars maintain their legendary status. The wrapper presents beautifully—smooth to the touch with minimal veins and an even, oily sheen that suggests proper aging and handling. The perfecto shape requires exceptional skill to roll correctly, and these demonstrate masterful craftsmanship throughout.
Each cigar comes adorned with both the classic Partagás band and an LCDH (La Casa Del Habano) band, immediately identifying it as part of this exclusive release. The double banding isn’t just aesthetic—it serves as authentication that you’re smoking a genuine LCDH exclusive product.
The construction holds up exceptionally well during smoking. I’ve found the draw to be consistently excellent, neither too tight nor too loose. The burn line stays relatively even despite the challenging shape, though you may need an occasional touch-up—perfectly normal for a perfecto of this size. The ash holds well and displays that coveted light gray color that indicates proper fermentation.
Who Should Smoke This
Let me be direct: this isn’t a beginner’s cigar. The full-bodied strength and complex flavor profile demand experience and appreciation. If you’re new to Cuban cigars, I’d strongly recommend working your way up through milder Partagás offerings first.
This is ideally suited for experienced aficionados who appreciate the artistry of a well-made perfecto and have the time to properly enjoy it. The 1 to 1.5-hour smoking duration makes it perfect for special occasions, celebrations, or those leisurely afternoons when you can truly focus on the experience.
Business dinners, golf outings, or quiet evenings on the terrace all provide appropriate settings. The impressive size and distinctive shape make it something of a statement cigar—you’ll definitely draw admiring glances from fellow enthusiasts. I’ve found it particularly enjoyable for marking significant personal or professional milestones.
Proper Storage and Aging
These cigars respond exceptionally well to proper storage and aging. Maintain them at 65-70% humidity and 65-70°F temperature for optimal results. I’ve found that 68% humidity works particularly well for the wrapper, preventing any brittleness while maintaining the oils that contribute to flavor development.
The manufacturer specifically recommends aging these cigars for one to three years to reach their maximum potential, and my experience confirms this wisdom. Younger examples can seem somewhat tight and restrained, while properly aged specimens open up beautifully and display much greater complexity.
If you’re purchasing a box, consider smoking one fresh and then allowing the rest to age for at least twelve months. The transformation is remarkable. Proper preservation techniques become crucial given the investment these cigars represent and their aging potential.
For long-term storage, consider investing in a quality humidor with reliable humidity control. Setting up proper humidor conditions ensures your investment continues improving over time rather than deteriorating.
Perfect Pairings
The full-bodied profile and complex flavor development make pairing selection crucial. I’ve experimented extensively and found several combinations that truly enhance the experience.
For rum enthusiasts, aged Cuban rums work magnificently. Havana Club 15-year or Santiago de Cuba 12-year provide complementary complexity without overwhelming the cigar’s nuances. The rum’s sweetness balances the spice beautifully, while the aging adds depth that matches the cigar’s sophistication.
Whiskey lovers should consider single malt Scotches from Speyside or Highland regions. Macallan 18 or Glenfiddich 21 offer enough complexity to stand alongside the Salomones while their smoothness won’t compete with the cigar’s bold flavors. Avoid heavily peated Islays—they’ll clash with the delicate balance.
Coffee pairings work surprisingly well, particularly Cuban cortadito or a well-pulled espresso. The coffee’s natural bitterness complements the cigar’s espresso notes while providing a pleasant palate cleanser between draws.
For wine enthusiasts, full-bodied reds from Bordeaux or Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons provide excellent companionship. The tannins complement the cigar’s structure while the fruit notes add another dimension to the experience.
Authentication Guide
Given the exclusivity and value of genuine Partagás Salomones, authentication becomes critical. Legitimate examples will always display both bands: the traditional Partagás band and the distinctive LCDH band identifying it as a La Casa Del Habano exclusive.
The Partagás band should display crisp printing with the characteristic red and gold coloring. The LCDH band features specific typography and coloring that counterfeiters often struggle to replicate accurately. Both bands should be applied cleanly without wrinkles or misalignment.
Examine the box carefully. Authentic boxes feature the Habanos SA warranty seal, proper box codes, and high-quality construction. The cigars inside should display consistent construction and coloring—significant variations suggest problems.
The wrapper should feel smooth and oily to the touch, never dry or brittle. Authentic Cuban tobacco has a distinctive aroma that experienced smokers recognize immediately. If something feels off, trust your instincts and purchase from reputable sources only.
Always buy from established LCDH retailers when possible. Reputable dealers provide authentication guarantees and proper storage until purchase, ensuring you receive genuine products in optimal condition.
Cutting and Lighting Technique
The perfecto shape requires special attention when cutting. I recommend using a sharp guillotine cutter and taking just enough off the pointed cap to create a clean opening—usually about 1/8 inch. Don’t cut too much; you’ll ruin the shape and potentially damage the wrapper structure.
Some smokers prefer using a v-cut or punch on perfectos, but I’ve found a clean straight cut works best for optimal draw and burn characteristics. Make the cut decisively in one motion to prevent wrapper damage.
For lighting, take extra time given the size and shape. Use a butane torch or wooden matches—never use chemically treated matches or candles that can impart unwanted flavors. Toast the foot gently and evenly, paying attention to the varying tobacco density in a perfecto.
The pointed foot means less surface area initially, so be patient. Once you’ve achieved an even light across the foot, take a few gentle draws to ensure proper combustion before settling in for the full experience. Mastering proper smoking techniques becomes particularly important with cigars of this caliber.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Partagás Salomones still in production?
The Salomones was released as an LCDH exclusive in 2008, making it a limited release rather than regular production. Availability depends on remaining stock at authorized LCDH retailers. Once current inventory is depleted, finding authentic examples becomes increasingly difficult and expensive.
How does this compare to other Partagás perfectos?
The Salomones represents the largest ring gauge in regular Partagás production and offers the most complex flavor development of their perfecto offerings. While other Partagás cigars may be more approachable, none match the Salomones’ combination of size, complexity, and exclusive status.
Should I smoke these immediately or age them?
Definitely age them if possible. The manufacturer specifically recommends one to three years of aging to reach maximum potential. Fresh examples can be excellent, but aged specimens display remarkable complexity and smoothness that justify the wait. Consider your patience level and current inventory when deciding.
What makes LCDH exclusives special?
La Casa Del Habano exclusives are produced in limited quantities exclusively for LCDH retailers worldwide. This ensures higher quality control, special packaging, and exclusivity that appeals to collectors and serious enthusiasts. The dual banding system also provides clear authentication.
Are these worth the premium price?
For experienced cigar enthusiasts who appreciate exceptional construction and complex flavors, absolutely. The combination of limited availability, impressive size, and sophisticated flavor profile justifies the premium. However, newer smokers might not appreciate the subtleties that make these special. Consider your experience level and budget when deciding if they’re worth the investment for your particular situation.
The journey from that sun-drenched terrace in Havana to writing this comprehensive guide has reinforced my appreciation for what makes certain cigars truly exceptional. The craftsmanship journey from plantation to perfection becomes evident in every aspect of the Salomones experience—from the careful tobacco selection in the legendary Vuelta Abajo region to the masterful rolling that creates these impressive perfectos.
