A true Nicaraguan puro, the Padron Standard series is easily the best value in cigars: near impeccable burn and draw, with loads of spicy Nicaraguan flavor. At $4.99 (California) retail, it cannot be beat. This weekend, I treated myself to both the “maduro” and natural lines. I use the word “maduro” in quotes because the darker version lacks all the negative hype of typical maduros, in that it is still smooth as silk while delievering an extra boost of flavor. Although I still prefer the natural wrapper, I would almost consider these gars interchangeable in terms of desireability.

I still can’t believe that Padron can put out such a high-quality product at such a reasonable price. They are about 75% as good as the 1964 line, at 25% of the price. This will definitely be my next box purchase (assuming I don’t get a kick-ass bonus, in which case I’m going with a box of the 1964 Exlusivo 1964s–keep your fingers crossed!) Either way, these will a part of my holiday season.

LT Rating: 8 / 10

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