When a cigar carries decades of heritage and still commands attention among modern smokers, you know it has earned its place in the pantheon of Cuban classics. The Partagás 8‑9‑8 (2) exemplifies that legacy, delivering a smoking experience that blends time‑honored craftsmanship with a nuanced flavor profile that keeps aficionados returning to the humidor year after year.
Heritage and Signature Packaging
Introduced in the mid‑to‑late 1970s, the Partagás 8‑9‑8 (2) quickly became a staple of the brand’s regular lineup. Its name is derived from the classic cabinet format that houses the cigars, a lacquered wooden box finished with a glossy sheen that distinguishes it from other releases. The original cabinet contains 25 sticks, while a more compact 10‑cigar lacquered box entered the market in 2003 to cater to those seeking a smaller presentation. By 2013, the smaller format was discontinued, leaving the 25‑cigar cabinet as the sole official packaging for this vitola.
Construction and Technical Details
Inside the factory, the 8‑9‑8 (2) is known by the vitola “Dalias,” a designation that reflects its traditional Cuban shape. The following specifications capture the essential dimensions and production qualities:
- Factory Name: Dalias
- Ring Gauge: 43
- Length: 170 mm (approximately 6¾ inches)
- Weight: 11.86 g
- Construction: Handmade
- Band: Standard Partagás band
The cigar’s moderate thickness and extended length provide a lengthy, leisurely smoke, allowing the complex flavors to develop gradually over time.
Tasting Notes and Consumer Impressions
Drawing on a dataset of 59 user reviews, the Partagás 8‑9‑8 (2) earns an overall rating of 4.15 out of 5, a testament to its consistent appeal. Reviewers highlight the cigar’s balance and aftertaste, both scoring a solid 4 points. Meanwhile, elegance, strength, and complexity each receive a respectable 3 points, indicating a well‑rounded profile rather than an overly aggressive or delicate smoke.
Primary and Secondary Flavors
Leather emerges as the most frequently cited note, appearing in 11 mentions across reviews. This is followed closely by sourdough (9 mentions), coffee (8 mentions), and a peppery kick (7 mentions). These dominant tastes give the cigar a hearty, slightly spicy backbone that many smokers appreciate.
Secondary characteristics add depth to the experience:
- Cedar (5 mentions)
- Earth (4 mentions)
- Tobacco (4 mentions)
- Forest floor (3 mentions)
Beyond the core elements, a tapestry of subtle undertones rounds out the smoking journey. Reviewers have noted hints of nut, spice, bell pepper, cream, dried berry, dried fruit, hay, incense, molasses, mushroom, sweet spice, and even a faint twang. This layered complexity invites repeated exploration, as each draw can reveal a new facet of the blend.
Collectible Variant and Final Thoughts
For collectors seeking a more commemorative presentation, Partagás released the Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor edition, a limited version that showcases the 8‑9‑8 format within a luxurious, celebratory setting. This special release offers enthusiasts an opportunity to own a piece of history while enjoying the same core characteristics that define the standard production stick.
In summary, the Partagás 8‑9‑8 (2) remains a cornerstone of Cuban cigar culture. Its time‑tested construction, rich flavor trajectory, and strong consumer ratings ensure it continues to satisfy both seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers drawn to classic Havana craftsmanship.
