Partagas Serie P No.2

Description

Is there a Torpedo out there that can actually stand toe-to-toe with the legendary Montecristo No. 2? For years, that spot seemed untouchable, but the Partagas Serie P No. 2 makes a serious case for the crown. It takes the classic Partagas grit and refines it into a pointed format that concentrates the smoke right where you want it.

The Smoking Experience

First Third: Lighting this up brings an immediate rush of the brand’s signature spice. You get a distinct blast of black pepper and raw earthiness right out of the gate, which wakes up the palate instantly. The draw on these tapered heads is usually spot-on, delivering a cool, thick smoke that carries a heavy leather note underneath the initial zing.

Mid-Section: As the burn line moves past the tapered neck and into the wider body, the aggression settles down. The pepper takes a back seat to reveal a surprising layer of salted caramel and cedar wood. It feels creamier here, balancing that initial strength with a savory quality that keeps you interested without overwhelming your senses.

Final Third: Approaching the nub, the strength ramps up significantly to remind you this is a true Habano. The cedar turns into a darker, charred wood flavor, and you get a hit of unsweetened cocoa powder mixed with renewed spice. It stays robust until the very end, leaving a tingle on the tongue that lingers long after you put it down.

Flavor Profile

The Story Behind Partagas

Don Jaime Partagas opened his factory back in 1845, creating a legacy built on strong, earthy tobaccos that define the classic Havana flavor profile. This specific stick is actually a modern addition, joining the famous “Alphabet Series” in 2005. It was designed to offer that signature power in the popular torpedo shape, filling a gap in their lineup that fans had wanted to see for decades.

Perfect Pairings

• Rum: Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva – The heavy sweetness and vanilla in this Venezuelan rum smooth out the leather notes and calm the peppery start of the cigar.
• Whiskey: Balvenie DoubleWood – The honeyed oak character of this scotch links up perfectly with the cedar and caramel found in the cigar’s second third.
• Coffee: Cuban espresso – A short, sweet shot of strong coffee stands up to the medium-full body without getting lost in the earthiness.

Ideal For

This isn’t the best choice for your first Cuban cigar given its strength and size. It suits the seasoned enthusiast who enjoys a hearty meal and wants a smoke that can cut through rich food and drink. Save this for a Friday night when you have ninety minutes to really pay attention to how the flavors shift and develop.