Description
Partagas Serie D No 2: The Legendary Robusto That Defines Cuban Excellence
Among the pantheon of Cuban cigars, few have achieved the iconic status of the Partagas Serie D No 2. This robusto has become the benchmark against which all other Cuban robustos are measured—a bold statement earned through decades of consistent excellence. Whether you’re drawn to its reputation, its robust blend from the legendary Vuelta Abajo region, or simply the promise of a perfect smoke that fits comfortably into your schedule, the Serie D No 2 delivers an experience that’s both unmistakably Partagas and utterly unforgettable. Here’s everything you need to know about this Cuban masterpiece, from its rich flavors to why it belongs in every serious aficionado’s humidor.
The Partagas Legacy in a Perfect Format
Since 1845, the Partagas name has been synonymous with full-bodied Cuban cigars crafted for those who appreciate strength balanced with sophistication. The Serie D No 2, introduced as part of the brand’s numbered series, represents Partagas at its most accessible yet uncompromising. This isn’t a cigar that holds back—it’s built for experienced smokers who crave the earthy, spicy character that has defined Partagas for nearly two centuries.
What sets the Serie D No 2 apart is its format. The robusto vitola has become the gold standard for modern cigar enthusiasts, offering the perfect balance between smoking time and flavor concentration. In this size, the Partagas blend truly shines, delivering the brand’s signature intensity without overwhelming the palate. The wrapper leaves from Vuelta Abajo—Cuba’s most prestigious tobacco-growing region—bring a depth and complexity that lesser cigars can only dream of achieving.
This cigar speaks directly to the smoker who values tradition but doesn’t have endless hours to dedicate to a Churchill or Double Corona. It’s for the aficionado who wants Partagas’ full strength and character in a format that respects their time while refusing to compromise on quality.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Vitola | Robusto (Serie D No 2) |
| Length | 4.9 inches / 124 mm |
| Ring Gauge | 50 |
| Wrapper | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Binder | Cuban |
| Filler | Cuban Blend (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Strength | Medium to Full |
| Smoking Time | 50-70 minutes |
A Journey Through Flavor: The Complete Tasting Experience
The cold draw of a properly conditioned Serie D No 2 immediately announces its pedigree. There’s resistance—not too tight, never loose—and flavors of cedar, leather, and a subtle sweetness that hints at the complexity to come. The aroma off the foot carries notes of barnyard and spice that signal this won’t be a gentle experience.
Light it properly, and the first third explodes with classic Partagas character. Earth dominates initially, accompanied by a pepper kick that tingles on the palate and through the nose on the retrohale. There’s a creamy undercurrent that prevents the strength from becoming harsh, while notes of coffee and dark cocoa begin emerging around the half-inch mark. The construction typically proves flawless—Partagas doesn’t compromise on this vitola. The burn line stays remarkably even, and the ash builds firm and light grey, holding for an inch or more before dropping cleanly.
As you enter the second third, the Serie D No 2 reveals its true depth. The pepper mellows slightly, allowing leather and cedar to step forward. This is where the cigar’s complexity really shines—you’ll catch hints of nuts, perhaps toasted almonds, beneath the dominant earth and wood flavors. The smoke becomes creamier, almost buttery in texture, while maintaining that full-bodied punch that Partagas enthusiasts crave. The strength builds steadily but never aggressively. Some vintage boxes show additional layers of dried fruit or honey, though this varies with age and storage conditions.
The final third is where the Serie D No 2 separates itself from lesser cigars. Instead of turning harsh or bitter, it intensifies while maintaining balance. The earth and leather deepen, coffee notes become more pronounced—think espresso rather than brewed—and there’s often a pleasant mineral quality that adds sophistication. The pepper returns for the finish, but it’s integrated beautifully with the other flavors rather than dominating them. The retrohale in this section delivers waves of spice and aroma that linger long after you’ve set the cigar down. With proper smoking pace, you can take this down to the nub without any heat or acrid notes creeping in.
Draw and smoke production remain excellent throughout. Thick, creamy clouds of smoke carry all those complex flavors, and the cigar never requires excessive attention—an occasional gentle tap to drop the ash is all it needs. This reliability is part of why the Serie D No 2 has achieved legendary status.
How It Compares to Other Icons
| Cigar | Strength | Smoking Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partagas Serie D No 2 | Medium-Full | 50-70 minutes | Aficionados wanting classic Cuban strength with complexity |
| Bolivar Royal Corona | Full | 45-60 minutes | Those seeking even more intensity and power |
| Ramon Allones Specially Selected | Medium-Full | 50-65 minutes | Smokers preferring sweeter, more aromatic profiles |
| Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No 2 | Medium | 50-65 minutes | Those wanting robusto format with gentler strength |
Perfect Pairings for the Serie D No 2
A cigar this robust demands beverages that can stand up to its intensity without clashing. Espresso is a natural companion—the coffee notes in the cigar mirror beautifully with a well-pulled shot or a strong Cuban coffee. For spirits, consider a single malt Scotch from Islay, where the peaty, smoky character complements the earthy tobacco. Laphroaig 10 or Ardbeg 10 work exceptionally well.
Rum lovers should reach for aged expressions—a 15 or 20-year-old Cuban rum brings out the sweeter undertones while matching the cigar’s complexity. Cognac also pairs brilliantly, particularly VSOP or XO expressions that offer depth without overwhelming sweetness. For non-alcoholic options, consider a strong black tea or even a quality root beer, whose vanilla and spice notes create surprising harmony.
As for occasions, the Serie D No 2’s hour-long smoke time makes it ideal for extended lunch breaks, evening relaxation after dinner, or any moment when you want a serious cigar without committing to a two-hour smoke. It’s substantial enough for celebration yet accessible enough for regular enjoyment. Morning smokers might find it too intense, but from noon onward, it’s ready to deliver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What strength is the Partagas Serie D No 2?
The Serie D No 2 is classified as medium to full strength. It starts at solid medium in the first third and builds to full-bodied by the final third. This makes it best suited for experienced smokers who appreciate robust Cuban character. Beginners might find it overwhelming, though those ready to graduate from milder cigars often use it as their introduction to full-bodied Habanos.
How long does a Partagas Serie D No 2 take to smoke?
Expect 50 to 70 minutes of smoking time, depending on your pace. The 50 ring gauge and nearly five-inch length provide substantial smoking without extending into the 90-minute-plus territory of larger vitolas. This makes it perfect for situations where you want a complete cigar experience but have limited time.
Should I age Partagas Serie D No 2 cigars before smoking?
While the Serie D No 2 smokes beautifully fresh, aging for 2-5 years allows the flavors to marry and smooth out. Fresh cigars show more pepper and earth, while aged examples develop creamier textures, integrated spice, and sometimes hints of honey or dried fruit. Many aficionados keep both fresh and aged boxes to enjoy the different expressions. At minimum, allow them a few weeks of rest after purchase to recover from shipping and storage transitions.
What makes the Serie D No 2 different from other Partagas cigars?
The robusto format concentrates Partagas’ full-bodied blend into a shorter, thicker vitola that delivers intense flavor in a manageable time frame. Compared to the Serie P No 2 (a petit corona) or the Serie D No 4 (a different robusto blend), the Serie D No 2 offers the sweet spot of strength, complexity, and smoking time. It’s become the flagship of the entire Partagas portfolio and many smokers’ favorite expression of the brand’s character.
What flavors should I expect from a Partagas Serie D No 2?
The dominant flavor profile features earth, leather, cedar, and coffee, with significant pepper on the retrohale. You’ll also encounter creamy undertones, hints of cocoa, and sometimes nuts or subtle sweetness. The intensity builds throughout the smoke, with mineral and espresso notes becoming more prominent in the final third. Vintage cigars may show additional complexity with honey, dried fruit, or enhanced cedar characteristics.
Is the Partagas Serie D No 2 good for beginners?
This isn’t typically recommended as a first Cuban cigar due to its medium-full strength. However, for beginners who have already enjoyed medium-bodied cigars and are ready to explore fuller flavors, it can be an excellent step up. The key is smoking it slowly, on a full stomach, with a suitable beverage. Starting with this cigar in the morning or without experience handling stronger tobacco might lead to nicotine overload. Build up to it through milder Habanos first.
What’s the ideal humidity for storing Partagas Serie D No 2 cigars?
Store these cigars at 65-70% relative humidity and 65-70°F temperature. Many experienced collectors prefer the lower end (65-67% RH) for Cuban cigars, as it promotes better burn characteristics and flavor concentration. Avoid humidity above 72%, which can lead to draw issues and muted flavors. The robust construction of the Serie D No 2 handles slight humidity variations well, but consistent conditions always produce the best results.
The Verdict: A Must-Have Cuban Classic
The Partagas Serie D No 2 has earned its reputation as one of Cuba’s finest cigars through decades of consistent excellence. It delivers everything serious smokers want: full-bodied flavor, exceptional construction, perfect smoking time, and the unmistakable character of genuine Vuelta Abajo tobacco. The progression from earth and pepper through creamy complexity to a powerful, satisfying finish makes every session memorable.
This isn’t a cigar for every moment or every smoker, and that’s precisely what makes it special. It demands your attention and rewards experienced palates with layers of flavor that lesser cigars can’t match. Whether you’re building your collection or simply want to understand what makes Cuban cigars legendary, the Serie D No 2 deserves its place in your humidor. Add a box to your collection and discover why this robusto has become the standard by which all others are judged.
