When it comes to legendary Cuban cigars, the Partagás brand consistently delivers craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Among its distinguished portfolio sits a vitola that captured the hearts of enthusiasts for over half a century—the Serie du Connaisseur No.2. This particular parejo represents everything that makes Cuban cigar culture remarkable: heritage, consistency, and flavors that tell stories with every puff. Though discontinued in 2010, the Serie du Connaisseur No.2 remains a sought-after treasure among collectors who appreciate its unique place in tobacco history.
Origins and Historical Significance
The Serie du Connaisseur No.2 entered the world during what many consider the golden age of Cuban cigar manufacturing—well before 1960. For more than fifty years, this vitola remained a staple in Partagás humidors worldwide, embodying the brand's unwavering commitment to producing reliable, high-quality smokes that appealed to knowledgeable smokers. The timing of its release positioned it perfectly to become embedded in the traditions of Cuban cigar culture, when production methods were evolving yet still maintaining the meticulous attention to detail that defined the industry.
Its decades-long production run meant that multiple generations of cigar lovers experienced this particular vitola, creating lasting memories and associations with the Partagás name. The cigar's eventual discontinuation marked a significant moment in the collecting community, closing a chapter on a smoke that had become synonymous with accessible excellence within the Cuban portfolio.
Construction and Visual Evolution
Measuring 166mm with a 38-ring gauge, this torpedo-shaped parejo fell into the classic Churchill category, offering smokers a generous canvas for flavor development. The construction remained consistently handmade throughout its production life, weighing in at approximately 8.90 grams—measurements that positioned it comfortably among the brand's intermediate-sized offerings.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Serie du Connaisseur No.2 involves its visual transformation over the years. Early iterations, particularly those manufactured before roughly 2005, arrived completely unadorned—no secondary band, no decorative elements. This minimalist presentation appealed to traditionalists who valued substance over flash, reflecting an era when cigars were often judged solely on their smoking merits rather than aesthetic appeal. As production continued, later releases adopted Partagás's standard band A, aligning the vitola with the brand's more contemporary marketing approach while maintaining its core construction qualities.
The cigars shipped in slide-lid boxes containing 25 units each, a presentation format that balanced practicality with the ceremonial unboxing experience collectors cherish.
Tasting Notes and Smoking Experience
The Serie du Connaisseur No.2 delivered a medium-bodied profile that welcomed both developing palates and seasoned enthusiasts. Scoring an impressive 4.17 out of 5 across consumer reviews, this vitola earned particular acclaim for its refined elegance—a characteristic that received perfect marks from those who sampled it. The balance between complexity and approachability scored solid 4 ratings, as did its lingering aftertaste, while strength registered at a moderate 3, positioning this smoke as engaging without being overwhelming.
The flavor journey unfolded gradually, revealing layers that rewarded patient, attentive smoking. Prominent BBQ notes intermingled with fruit expressions, creating an unexpected harmony that distinguished this vitola from more traditional Cuban offerings. Leather emerged as a foundational element, providing that classic Cuban backbone smokers expect from established Habanos. Supporting these primary characteristics came baking spice, bright citrus, silky cream, and subtle herbal undertones.
Those who examined their draws closely might have detected additional nuances hiding within the smoke—hints of lemon zest, traces of licorice, occasional melon sweetness, woody oak tones, and even sourdough earthiness. Tea-like qualities appeared in the finish, alongside pure tobacco expressions and that distinctive Cuban twang enthusiasts chase. A whisper of vanilla completed the experience, offering gentle sweetness that rounded sharp edges and created a memorable conclusion to each smoking session.
Collectibility and Modern Legacy
As a discontinued vitola spanning five-plus decades of production, the Serie du Connaisseur No.2 naturally commands attention in collecting circles. Its extended manufacturing timeline means variations exist between different production periods, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate the historical narratives embedded in their cigars. The bandless early releases hold particular appeal for those seeking authentic representations of the cigar's traditional presentation.
Finding well-preserved examples requires patience and often significant investment, as humidors worldwide gradually release their aged stock into the secondary market. For those fortunate enough to experience this vitola, the smoking represents more than mere tobacco consumption—it offers a connection to an era when Cuban cigars defined global excellence and Partagás led the conversation with products like this remarkable parejo.
