Partagas — Heritage & History

Partagas is a name synonymous with cigar history, tracing its origins to 1845 when Don Jaime Partagas Ravelo founded the legendary brand in Havana, Cuba. Known for producing some of the island’s most robust and boldly flavored cigars, Partagas quickly became a pillar of the Cuban cigar industry. Following the Cuban Revolution, the brand’s rights and trademarks were split: Cuban production continued under Habanos S.A., while the non-Cuban version was established in 1974 by General Cigar Company (now Scandinavian Tobacco Group) in the Dominican Republic. Today, the Dominican-made Partagas is crafted at the La Romana facility, honoring the original spirit with a range that includes the Serie P No. 2, a torpedo shape that echoes the classic Cuban vitola. The brand remains a benchmark for full-flavored, complex cigars that appeal to experienced smokers seeking depth and power without sacrificing balance.

Blending Philosophy

Partagas’ blending philosophy centers on delivering a bold, unapologetic character that stays true to the brand’s Cuban heritage. The Dominican version achieves this through careful selection of aged Dominican and Cuban-seed wrappers, along with hearty fillers from the Dominican Republic and other regions. The goal is balance with boldness: rich, earthy flavors with layers of spice and leather, yet enough refinement to avoid harshness. Unlike milder counterparts, Partagas prioritizes intensity and complexity, making it a favorite for those who seek a full-bodied experience without losing nuance.

Flavor Profile

Signature Partagas cigars are characterized by a deep, earthy core with notes of black pepper, cedar, and leather. Across the range, you’ll find secondary layers of dark cocoa, roasted nuts, and a subtle sweetness on the finish. The Serie P No. 2, for example, offers a medium-full profile with a peppery start that mellows into creamy wood and spice. There’s a consistent presence of toasted tobacco and a slight minerality, often with a lingering, savory finish. The blend is designed to be rich and satisfying, rarely veering into bitterness, making it a classic choice for experienced palates.

Best for Beginners

The Partagas Serie P No. 2 is a natural entry point for newcomers, despite being a torpedo. Its medium-full strength provides a manageable introduction to the brand’s bold profile. The tapered head concentrates flavor, but the draw remains smooth, delivering rich earth and spice without overwhelming the palate. It’s a rewarding smoke for those ready to explore fuller-bodied cigars.

Partagas Cigar Lineup

Explore 1 Partagas cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Partagas cigars made?

Partagas cigars are made in two locations: the original Cuban version is produced in Havana, Cuba, while the non-Cuban version is handcrafted at the General Cigar La Romana facility in Santiago, Dominican Republic.

What is Partagas known for?

Partagas is known for producing bold, full-flavored cigars with rich, earthy profiles and notes of pepper, leather, and cedar. It is a historic brand with a legacy of strength and complexity, popular among experienced smokers.

Are Partagas cigars strong?

Yes, Partagas cigars are generally medium to full in strength, with the non-Cuban range (including the Serie P No. 2) typically sitting at medium-full. They are considered more robust than many other premium brands, making them better suited for smokers who enjoy intensity.

What is the best Partagas cigar for beginners?

The Partagas Serie P No. 2 is a solid choice for beginners thanks to its balanced medium-full strength and smooth draw. Its torpedo shape adds a touch of complexity, but the flavors of earth, cocoa, and spice are approachable for those ready to explore bolder cigars.

How much do Partagas cigars cost?

Non-Cuban Partagas cigars typically range from $18 to $24 per cigar, depending on the vitola and retailer. Prices may vary in different markets and for limited releases.

What wrapper does Partagas use?

Non-Cuban Partagas cigars commonly use a Cuban-seed Cameroon wrapper or a Dominican-grown wrapper, depending on the specific line. The blends often incorporate aged Dominican wrapper leaves as well.

Are Partagas cigars Cuban?

Partagas exists in two separate families: Cuban Partagas, made in Havana under Habanos S.A., and non-Cuban Partagas, made in the Dominican Republic by General Cigar. Both share a historical name but are distinct products.

Where can I buy Partagas cigars?

Non-Cuban Partagas cigars are widely available at premium cigar retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar shops across the United States and other non-embargoed markets. Cuban Partagas can be purchased in countries where Cuban cigars are legally sold, such as Canada, the UK, and parts of Europe.