Partagas Serie D No. 4 Review: Rich, Full-Bodied Cuban Perfection

Brand: Partagas

Line: Serie D

Size: 4.88" x 50

Wrapper: Cuban

Binder: Cuban

Filler: Cuban

Strength: Full

Price: £625 (Box of 25)

When I need a strong and flavorful smoke, the Partagas Serie D No. 4 is my top pick. Let’s break it down!

Look & Feel (19/20)

The construction of Partagas Serie D No. 4 is outstanding, with a firm, well-packed body and a slightly oily, dark wrapper that feels rich to the touch. 

The cigar has a luxurious appearance, and the iconic Partagas red band makes it instantly recognizable. It's a well-made, attractive cigar that feels premium in every way.

Pre-Light: (18/20)

Before lighting, I get strong earthy, leathery aromas mixed with a hint of spice. 

The pre-light draw is easy, with subtle hints of pepper and wood that already set the stage for a bold experience. It promises a rich, full-bodied smoke right from the start.

Burn (17/20) 

The burn is even and steady throughout the smoke, with no significant issues. The ash holds firmly and is a nice, clean white, which is always a good sign. 

Although it occasionally required minor touch-ups, the overall burn was consistent, making the experience enjoyable from beginning to end.

Flavor (20/20)

The flavors of the Partagas Serie D No. 4 are where this cigar truly excels. From the first puff, rich earthy tones mix with a creamy nuttiness that feels smooth and satisfying. As the smoke develops, more complexity emerges with layers of cedar, cocoa, and a subtle touch of sweetness.

• First Third (0-20 minutes):
• Begins with bold earthiness and toasted bread notes.
• Smooth nutty undertones add a creamy texture.
• Subtle hints of black pepper and cedar reveal themselves on the retrohale, adding depth.
• Second Third (20-40 minutes):
• Flavors transition into richer leather notes paired with a creamy cocoa essence.
• A hint of dried fruit sweetness appears, enhancing the complexity.
• A gentle spice balances the flavor profile, making this third the most complex.
• Final Third (40-60 minutes):
• Dark espresso and bittersweet chocolate flavors come to the forefront.
• Peppery spice intensifies, delivering a bolder profile.
• Finishes with a lingering woodsy character and a touch of charred oak, leaving a memorable finish.

I love how the flavors remain complex and consistent throughout, with each third revealing something new. It's a full-bodied cigar that delivers on every level.

Overall Experience (19/20)

This cigar delivers a truly satisfying experience, from its bold, complex flavors to its excellent construction. 

Whether I’m enjoying it with a strong coffee or a fine whiskey, the Partagas Serie D No. 4 consistently provides a rich, powerful smoke. It’s a go-to for those times when I want a cigar that’s as bold as it is refined.

Comparative Analysis

I’ve laid out a comparison of some of the cigars I regularly enjoy. The Partagas Serie D No. 4 is my top choice when I’m craving something bold and full-bodied, with rich spicy and leathery notes. 

Each cigar on this list offers something different—from the earthy robustness to subtle sweet finish. This table highlights the flavor profiles, strength, and construction quality I look for when deciding which cigar to enjoy next. It’s a great tool for making sure I pick the perfect smoke for any occasion.

Pairings

The Partagas Serie D No. 4 pairs best with bold choices that match its full-bodied flavors. Here are the perfect companions for this rich, spicy cigar:

• Bold Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, enhances the cigar’s earthy flavors and adds layers of complexity to the smoking experience.
• Strong Coffee: The intense, unsweetened flavor of strong coffee emphasizes the cigar’s spiciness, adding depth and richness to each draw.
• Whiskey: A robust whiskey, particularly a bourbon or rye, complements the leathery and woody notes of the cigar, creating a harmonious balance that enhances the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

The Partagas Serie D No. 4 easily earns a strong 93/100 from me. Its bold, full-bodied flavor profile, with rich notes of spice, leather, and wood, makes it a standout cigar for those who enjoy an intense smoking experience. The excellent construction and smooth draw only add to its appeal, providing a consistently enjoyable smoke.

Whether I’m pairing it with a strong Scotch or just enjoying it on its own, this cigar never disappoints. It’s the perfect choice for those moments when I want something with power and depth, making it a favorite in my humidor. If you’re into bold, robust cigars, the Partagas Serie D No. 4 is a must-try.

James Peasley

James started out in the cigar industry in 2009, working for the leading cigar specialist in the UK for nearly a decade, slowly crafting his deep knowledge of cigars and developing a very refined palate. There's not many Cuban cigars he hasn't tasted, including Limited Edition Habanos and pre-embargo Davidoffs, as well as a large section of the New World offerings. When away from his desk he's usually found out walking in the countryside, or following other hot pursuits.