When a storied Habano house decides to release a vitola that can only be found in its own boutique chain, the cigar world pays close attention. The Partagás Salomones, launched in 2008 as a La Casa del Habano (LCDH) exclusive, is a hand‑rolled parejo that stretches the limits of size and complexity, making it a coveted piece for collectors and seasoned smokers alike.
Craftsmanship and Dimensions
The Salomones shape is a masterclass in torcedor skill. Its tapered head leads into a gracefully curved body that widens toward a flared foot, a silhouette that requires a delicate touch and a high degree of expertise to produce consistently. Measuring 184 mm (7¼ inches) in length with a 57‑ring gauge, the cigar offers a generous amount of filler tobacco, allowing flavors to evolve over a long, unhurried smoke. The official weight of each stick is recorded at 16.97 g, a figure that reflects the substantial filler blend packed inside.
- Factory name: Salomon
- Length: 184 mm (7¼ in)
- Ring gauge: 57
- Weight: 16.97 g
- Construction: Handmade
- Release year: 2008
Flavor Journey
Smokers often describe the experience of lighting a Salomones as a slow‑burning expedition. The first third opens with a rich combination of dark chocolate and roasted coffee, underscored by a subtle cinnamon spice that tingles the palate. As the cigar progresses, an earthy base becomes more pronounced, grounding the profile while bright fruit accents—think ripe plum or dried apricot—peek through, adding a lively contrast.
The final third is where the classic Cuban character truly shines. The initial sweet and spice blend gives way to a woody, cedar‑like finish that lingers on the tongue, accompanied by a faint, pleasant twang that enthusiasts associate with premium Habano tobacco. Throughout the entire smoke, a balanced integration of all these notes keeps the profile cohesive, never veering into harshness.
Enthusiast Ratings and Reception
A panel of fifteen dedicated hobbyists has weighed in on the Salomones, offering scores across several key dimensions. Their consensus paints a picture of a well‑balanced, if not overwhelmingly strong, smoke:
- Elegance: 3.0 / 5
- Balance: 4.0 / 5
- Strength: 3.0 / 5
- Complexity: 3.0 / 5
- Aftertaste: 3.0 / 5
- Overall rating: 4.07 / 5
The standout metric is the Balance score, which reflects how harmoniously the diverse flavor components meld together. The overall rating of 4.07 out of 5 signals strong satisfaction among those who have managed to secure a box.
Where to Find the Exclusive
Because the Salomones is an LCDH exclusive, its distribution is tightly controlled. It arrives in a dress box containing 10 cigars, each adorned with the traditional Partagás band and a secondary LCDH strip that instantly marks it as a boutique‑only release. This packaging makes the cigar an ideal candidate for gifting or for adding a rare piece to a personal humidor. Prospective buyers should contact an authorized La Casa del Habano retailer to confirm availability, as the limited run and high demand often lead to swift sell‑outs.
