Description
The Partagas Serie P No. 2 is not merely a cigar; it is a masterclass in the art of the Piramide vitola, representing the pinnacle of full-bodied Cuban craftsmanship. Often whispered in the same breath as the legendary Montecristo No. 2, the “P2” distinguishes itself with the raw, earthy power and sophisticated spice that has defined the Partagas factory since the mid-19th century. This torpedo-shaped masterpiece is designed for the seasoned connoisseur who demands a smoking experience that evolves with every puff. From its oily, deep chocolaty brown wrapper to its complex core of cedar, leather, and roasted coffee, the Serie P No. 2 offers a profound sensory journey. Whether you are navigating its intense opening or the syrupy, concentrated crescendo of its final inches, this cigar remains a benchmark for richness and structural integrity. It is a bold statement of Cuban heritage, delivering a 60-to-90-minute immersion into the finest tobacco the Vuelta Abajo region has to offer.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Cigars | 10 Cigars |
| Packaging Type | Classic Semi Boîte Nature (SBN) Wood Box | Elegant SBN Wood Box or Cardboard Packs |
| Ideal For | Long-term aging and serious collectors | Sampling or gifting to fellow aficionados |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar lining for optimal moisture retention | Compact design for stable micro-climates |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Piramide (Torpedo) |
| Length | 156 mm (6.125 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 52 (20.64 mm) |
| Wrapper | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Binder | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuba (Tripa Larga – Long Filler) |
| Strength | Full-bodied |
| Body | Robust and Intense |
| Smoking Time | 60 – 90 Minutes |
| Factory | Partagas Factory, Havana |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
The story of Partagas is the story of Havana itself. Founded in 1845 by Jaime Partagas, the brand is one of the oldest and most storied names in the cigar world. The original factory, located just behind the Capitolio building in the heart of Havana, remains an iconic pilgrimage site for cigar lovers globally. Jaime Partagas was a pioneer, not just in the cultivation of tobacco but in the culture of the factory; he is credited with being the first to introduce “Lectores” (readers) to the rolling floor to entertain and educate the torcedores as they worked. This tradition of intellectual and artisanal excellence is baked into every cigar that bears the Partagas name.
The “Alphabet Series” (Serie D, Serie P, Serie E) represents the brand’s modern evolution while staying true to its 19th-century roots. While the Serie D No. 4 achieved legendary status in the 1930s, the Serie P No. 2 was introduced in 2000 as part of a limited release before joining the permanent portfolio in 2005. It was created to satisfy the modern demand for a larger, more complex vitola that could compete with the world’s finest torpedoes. Since its inception, the P2 has garnered critical acclaim, including a staggering 94-point rating and a top-five ranking in global cigar publications, cementing its place as a contemporary classic of the Habanos portfolio.
Today, Partagas is synonymous with full-bodied intensity. Using only the finest leaves from the Vuelta Abajo—the premier tobacco-growing region in the Pinar del Río province—the brand maintains a flavor profile that is distinctively “salty-sweet” and deeply earthy. The Serie P No. 2 is the standard-bearer for this profile, offering a more refined and aromatic experience than its shorter counterparts, making it the preferred choice for those who appreciate the gradual development of flavor that only a tapered Piramide head can provide.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The experience begins with a pre-light aroma that hints at the complexity to come: notes of damp earth, sweet spice, and aged cedar waft from the foot. Upon lighting, the Serie P No. 2 greets the palate with a balanced, medium-bodied introduction. The initial draws are characterized by a sophisticated burst of white pepper and a creamy, bready texture. As the burn line evens out, notes of roasted nuts and mild cedar spice begin to emerge. Unlike the immediate aggression of some full-bodied cigars, the P2 starts with an elegant restraint, allowing the smoker to appreciate the quality of the construction and the smoothness of the smoke.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar transitions into the middle third, the body intensifies significantly. This is where the true Partagas character reveals itself. The flavor profile broadens to include dark chocolate, black coffee, and chewy leather. A subtle sweetness, reminiscent of honey and citrus peel, dances in the background, providing a perfect counterpoint to the more savory notes of moss and earth. The smoke becomes denser and more velvety, with a nutty finish of cashews and hazelnuts. The construction of the Piramide shape allows for a concentrated stream of flavor, ensuring that the complexity is felt on every part of the palate.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final stages, the Serie P No. 2 reaches its full-bodied zenith. The strength ramps up, delivering a satisfying nicotine kick that remains smooth rather than harsh. The citrus notes transition into a more syrupy, concentrated orange zest, while the bold pepper returns to the forefront. Deep notes of oak, cumin, and espresso dominate the closing minutes. The heat remains manageable thanks to the generous 52-ring gauge, allowing you to smoke this vitola down to the very nub. It is a powerful, dramatic conclusion that leaves a lasting impression of luxury and strength.
Finish
The finish is exceptionally long and resonant. It leaves a lingering aftertaste of toasted cedar, leather, and a hint of salty zest. It is a “big” finish that demands a moment of reflection, perfectly capturing the essence of the Vuelta Abajo terroir. Even minutes after the cigar has been extinguished, the palate continues to detect the sophisticated interplay of spice and earth.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Cedar, Earth, Black Pepper, Leather |
| Secondary Notes | Roasted Coffee, Dark Chocolate, Cashew, Honey |
| Tertiary Notes | Cumin, Moss, Wheatgrass, Citrus Zest |
| Finish | Long, Bold, Salty-Sweet, Toasted Oak |
| Aroma | Rich Cedar, Sweet Spice, Nougat, Oak |
Aging and Collector Value
The Partagas Serie P No. 2 is widely regarded as one of the best aging candidates in the Habanos portfolio. While it is certainly enjoyable “young” (within 6-12 months of the box date), it possesses the underlying strength and oil content required for long-term cellaring. With 2 to 5 years of aging, the initial pepper notes begin to mellow, integrating into the wood and leather profiles to create a more harmonious and “creamy” experience. Historical data shows that vintages from the late 2000s have evolved from excellent to legendary, with their ratings often climbing as the flavors deepen and the complexity becomes more refined.
For collectors, the P2 is a staple. Its consistent performance and high demand make it a liquid asset in the world of cigar trading. To preserve the integrity of the oily Vuelta Abajo wrapper, we recommend storing these cigars at a consistent 65-70% relative humidity (RH) and a temperature of 18-21°C (65-70°F). Fluctuations in humidity can be particularly detrimental to the tapered head of a Piramide, so a high-quality humidor is essential for those looking to enjoy the P2 at its absolute peak years down the line.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Peated Islay Whisky | The smoky, medicinal notes of the whisky provide a brilliant contrast to the cigar’s earthy sweetness. |
| Aged Cuban Rum | The molasses and vanilla notes in a 12-year-old rum amplify the cocoa and leather in the P2. |
| Double Espresso | The intensity of the coffee matches the cigar’s body, highlighting the shared notes of roasted beans. |
| Cognac (XO) | The dried fruit and floral complexity of a fine Cognac soften the cigar’s bold pepper finish. |
| Vintage Port | The dark fruit sweetness of Port acts as a perfect foil to the salty-earthy Partagas profile. |
| Stout or Porter | The malty, chocolate-heavy profile of a dark beer complements the middle-third chocolate notes. |
Authenticity Verification
In the world of luxury Cuban cigars, authenticity is paramount. Every box of Partagas Serie P No. 2 we provide undergoes a rigorous inspection process to ensure it meets the exacting standards of Habanos S.A. and our own quality controls.
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Every box features the official Habanos warranty seal with a unique barcode and a holographic image that is virtually impossible to replicate.
- Box Code Verification – We encourage clients to verify the factory code and packaging date stamped on the bottom of each box via the official Habanos website.
- Factory Stamp – Look for the “Totalmente a Mano” (Totally by Hand) and “Tripa Larga” (Long Filler) heat-stamped markings, signifying authentic Cuban construction.
- Triple Cap – Each Serie P No. 2 is finished with a traditional Cuban triple cap, showcasing the skill of the Master Torcedor.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification or does not meet your expectations for quality, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors and aficionados since 2015, we are committed to delivering only the genuine Cuban experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the “P” in Partagas Serie P No. 2 stand for?
The “P” stands for Piramide, which is the vitola name for this specific shape. In the Partagas “Alphabet Series,” each letter corresponds to a different shape or style: “D” for Robusto (Serie D No. 4), “E” for Duke (Serie E No. 2), and “P” for the tapered Torpedo/Piramide format. It is designed to concentrate the smoke at the head, providing a more intense flavor profile.
How does the Serie P No. 2 compare to the Montecristo No. 2?
While both share the same dimensions (156mm x 52), they offer very different flavor profiles. The Montecristo No. 2 is known for its “tangy” sweetness, cream, and medium-bodied spice. In contrast, the Partagas Serie P No. 2 is more robust, earthy, and peppery. If you prefer a stronger, more “masculine” smoke with heavy notes of leather and soil, the P2 is generally considered the superior choice.
Is this cigar suitable for a beginner?
Due to its full-bodied strength and complex evolution, the Serie P No. 2 is typically recommended for intermediate to experienced smokers. Beginners may find the nicotine strength and the intensity of the final third a bit overwhelming. However, if a novice wishes to try one, we recommend doing so after a hearty meal and pairing it with a sweet beverage to balance the intensity.
How long should I expect to spend smoking a Partagas P2?
A cigar of this size and complexity should never be rushed. Depending on your personal smoking pace, you should set aside 60 to 90 minutes. Rushing the smoke can cause the tapered head to overheat, which may turn the flavor bitter. For the best experience, draw slowly and allow the smoke to cool between puffs to fully appreciate the nuanced transitions from the first to the final third.
