Padrón 1926 No. 9 Maduro Cigar Review: Specs & Overview
- Brand: Padrón
- Line: 1926 Series
- Size: No. 9 (5.25" x 56)
- Wrapper: Nicaraguan Maduro
- Binder: Nicaraguan
- Filler: Nicaraguan
- Strength: Full
- Price: Around $20 per stick ($500 per box of 25 cigars)
Crafted to honor José O. Padrón’s 75th birthday, the Padrón 1926 No. 9 Maduro exemplifies what precision aging and blending can achieve. It’s a Nicaraguan puro that radiates richness and depth, elegant yet commanding. When I crave a cigar that feels like a slow, luxurious experience, this is one I instinctively reach for.
Look & Feel (19/20)
The Maduro wrapper on the 1926 No. 9 is a visual treat, deep espresso-brown with a rich, oily sheen that glows under soft light. It’s box-pressed with those signature Padrón edges that feel refined yet comfortable in hand. Minimal veins, seamless wrapping, and that velvety texture make it feel as premium as it smokes.
Pre-Light (18/20)
Before lighting, the aroma of the foot carries a seductive mix of cocoa, aged wood, and hints of leather. On the cold draw, I picked up rich dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a slight undertone of spice. The draw was flawless, just enough resistance to promise an even burn and satisfying smoke output. The anticipation alone set high expectations.
Burn (18/20)
The burn started straight and even, producing thick, luxurious plumes of smoke. Through the first half, the ash held firm, stacking beautifully for over an inch at a time. What stood out most was consistency; the 1926 No. 9 burns slow, cool, and deliberate, offering a meditative rhythm perfect for savoring every draw.
Flavor (19/20)
The Padrón 1926 No. 9 Maduro is a masterclass in full-bodied sophistication. It’s powerful yet elegant, with layered flavors that evolve gradually and reward patience. The balance between sweetness, spice, and earthiness is nothing short of remarkable.
- First Third (0–20 min):
It opens with notes of espresso, dark cocoa, and toasted almonds, warm and inviting. The retrohale adds a creamy sweetness with a faint peppery zing that energizes the palate. A hint of cedar lingers softly in the background. - Second Third (20–40 min):
Flavors deepen as leather, molasses, and black cherry come into play. The smoke becomes silkier, with undertones of spice and oak weaving in beautifully. This is where the cigar shows its refinement; no single note dominates, everything works in harmony. - Final Third (40–60 min):
The finish grows bolder, with espresso and dark fruit leading the way. Pepper intensifies slightly but never overwhelms, joined by a touch of clove and cocoa dust. The body remains full, the texture creamy, and the final draws leave a lasting impression of warmth and sophistication.
Overall Experience (19/20)
Every time I smoke the 1926 No. 9 Maduro, I’m reminded why Padrón sits at the top of the cigar world. It’s not just flavor; it’s the balance, the craftsmanship, and the calm assurance that every stick will perform perfectly. It’s the cigar I choose for quiet reflection or when I want something special to mark an evening. Refined, powerful, and endlessly consistent.
Comparative Analysis
The Padrón 1926 No. 9 Maduro belongs in a league of refined, full-bodied cigars that combine strength with finesse. Here’s how it compares with similar high-caliber options:
| Cigar | Size | Price | Strength | Flavor Profile | Construction | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Padrón 1926 No. 9 Maduro | 5.25" × 56 | $18–$20 | Full | Espresso, dark cocoa, leather, black cherry | Impeccable | Best for depth and precision |
| Padrón 1964 Exclusivo Maduro | 5.5" × 50 | $13–$15 | Medium–Full | Cocoa, espresso, nuts, molasses | Excellent | Softer, sweeter alternative |
| Liga Privada No. 9 | 5.25" × 54 | $14–$16 | Full | Dark fruit, espresso, earth, leather | Excellent | For a denser, heavier smoke |
| Ashton VSG Robusto | 5.5" × 50 | $13–$15 | Full | Earth, spice, oak | Excellent | For those who enjoy sharp spice |
The 1926 No. 9 doesn’t try to impress with gimmicks; its mastery lies in subtlety, control, and unwavering quality.
Pairings
- Aged Rum: A deep, aged rum like Diplomatico Reserva or Flor de Caña 18 complements the cigar’s dark sweetness and spice.
- Espresso or Turkish Coffee: Enhances the rich cocoa and roasted nut notes, making each puff more vibrant.
- Rye Whiskey: The caramel and spice in a good rye pair perfectly with the cigar’s cedar and leather elements.
- Dark Chocolate Porter: Adds a malty sweetness that mirrors the cigar’s dessert-like depth.
- Cognac: For a luxurious pairing, Cognac’s warmth and fruitiness elevate the cigar’s finish beautifully.
My Conclusion
The Padrón 1926 No. 9 Maduro is not just a cigar; it’s an experience that rewards patience and appreciation. Every puff reflects the brand’s dedication to quality, consistency, and balance. It’s rich without being heavy, bold without being brash, and complex without losing coherence.
I reach for it when I want to unwind in silence, mark a milestone, or simply remind myself why craftsmanship matters. If you’re building a collection or curating a box of guaranteed satisfaction, the 1926 No. 9 Maduro earns its place every time; timeless, indulgent, and unmistakably Padrón.
