Padrón Damaso No.12 Cigar Review: A Softer, Creamier Side of a Legend
- Brand: Padrón
- Line: Damaso
- Size: No. 12 (Robusto) – 5 x 50
- Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut
- Binder: Nicaragua
- Filler: Nicaragua
- Strength: Medium
- Price: Around $16 per stick, ~$322 per box of 20
The Padrón Damaso No. 12 was named after Dámaso Padrón, the patriarch who first began cultivating tobacco in Cuba in the late 1800s. This line breaks tradition with its Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, giving it a creamy, smooth profile that’s more approachable than the brand’s fuller-bodied classics.
Look & Feel (18/20)
The first thing I noticed was how refined and silky the wrapper looked, a classic pale gold with minimal veins and tight, nearly invisible seams. It’s not box-pressed like the brand’s Anniversary lines, which adds to its distinct identity.
The cigar felt well-packed in the hand, with a solid roll and slightly spongy give near the foot. The cap was cleanly applied, triple-seamed, and textbook neat.
Pre-Light (17/20)
When I took a cold draw, I picked up notes of hay, cedar, and a soft sweetness, almost like vanilla cream. The aroma of the foot reminded me of toasted nuts and light earth, more subtle than most Nicaraguan cigars I’ve handled.
The draw was effortless, maybe a touch loose, but nothing concerning. It definitely gave me the impression of a soft, welcoming smoke ahead.
Burn (19/20)
It lit up evenly with a single match, and the initial burn line was impressively straight. The ash held on in clean white stacks for over an inch before gently dropping. Smoke output was excellent, silky, medium-bodied clouds with each puff. I didn’t need a single touch-up, and the construction held strong all the way through.
Flavor (16/20)
The Padrón Damaso No. 12 delivers a refined and approachable flavor journey that evolves gently from start to finish. It’s a mild-to-medium smoke that focuses on balance and smoothness rather than bold transitions, ideal for those who appreciate subtle complexity.
First Third (0–20 min):
- Delicate and smooth flavors of cream, cedar, and sweet bread
- Subtle nuttiness reminiscent of cashew
- Hint of white pepper on the retrohale
- Clean, refined profile that avoids being overwhelming
Second Third (20–40 min):
- Cedar becomes more pronounced with a deeper, toasty character
- Notes of buttered toast and light caramel
- White pepper softens while maintaining its presence
- A gentle floral undertone adds a touch of complexity
Final Third (40–60 min):
- Richer cedar and more prominent toasted nuts emerge
- Sweetness fades into a dry, lightly tannic finish
- Hints of black tea on the finish
- Smooth, elegant body with just enough grip to stay engaging
Overall Experience (17/20)
The Damaso No. 12 isn’t trying to be bold, and that’s what I appreciated most. It knows what it is: a premium mild-to-medium cigar that delivers class, consistency, and quality without punching you in the face.
I found it ideal for early-day smoking or pairing with a light drink. I’d recommend it to newer smokers exploring premium cigars or experienced aficionados looking for a gentle change of pace from the heavier stuff.
A Detailed Comparison
If you're considering this cigar, here are a few cigars in the same ballpark you might want to compare it to:
| Cigar | Price | Strength | Flavor Notes | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montecristo White Series Toro | ~$11 | Mild–Medium | Cream, almond, sweet hay | Softer, smoother Connecticut classic |
| Davidoff Signature 2000 | ~$17 | Mild | Grass, citrus, vanilla | Ultra-refined, great for special occasions |
| Perdomo Champagne 10th | ~$9 | Mild–Medium | Cream, toast, light spice | Great value and similar profile |
| Oliva Connecticut Reserve | ~$7 | Mild | Coffee, cedar, buttery toast | Affordable and beginner-friendly |
| Aging Room Quattro Connecticut | ~$10 | Mild–Medium | Citrus zest, oak, soft earth | Slightly bolder, more modern Connecticut profile |
It wasn’t just the bold flavors or smooth transitions. This cigar made me slow down, pay attention, and enjoy each moment. That’s what made it memorable.
My Best Pairings
A great drink can elevate any cigar experience. The right pairing balances flavor, enhances texture, and sets the tone, whether you’re unwinding, celebrating, or simply savoring a quiet moment. This is how I pair it:
- Light Roast Coffee: The creamy texture of the Damaso blends beautifully with a high-quality light roast. It enhances the nutty and bread-like notes while keeping things smooth and balanced.
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: For celebratory mornings or afternoon sessions, this pairing brings out the cigar’s subtle sweetness and adds a refreshing contrast.
- Aged White Rum (e.g., Flor de Caña 7): Its soft vanilla and oak character work wonders with the Damaso’s creamy core, creating a mellow, layered experience.
- Classic Gin & Tonic: Not a traditional cigar pairing, but surprisingly effective. The botanical sharpness cuts through the cream and lifts the cigar’s floral notes.
My Conclusion
The Padrón Damaso No. 12 is the cigar I reach for when I want to enjoy refinement without the weight. It’s perfect for morning coffee, light evening sessions, or introducing someone to the premium world without overwhelming them.
It stands apart from the rest of Padrón’s line, not because it’s lesser, but because it dares to be different. And it succeeds.
