Padron manages to pack a good amount of flavor into this stick as well. A tasty chocolate flavor kicks things off. A good amount of pepper soon joins in that adds some boldness. Earth and leather also make an appearance, as do some notes of coffee. There is a rather sweet flavor as well that comes in here and there and helps smooth out the overall flavor profile.

It's certainly is not pretty, but the Padron Delicias Maduro shows that its what is on the inside that counts. The initial appearance is underwhelming, but once in action, this is one enjoyable cigar. The lack of negative burn issues is a plus, and so is the fact that the flavors are complex and varied enough to keep things interesting. Like other Padron offerings, the Delicias Maduro is a great value. A single can be found for around $3 to $4, making it affordable and worthy as a frequent smoke. It also comes in boxes of 26. Although it does pack a good enough punch that should keep experienced smokers satisfied, it strays from being too overpowering. In that sense, a beginning smoker could also give it a shot.

The Padron Delicias Maduro is an excellent value and earns a strong rating of three out of four stars.

Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 Robusto

Rocky Patel has been making quality cigars that have been popular with fans for a good amount of time now. His Vintage 1990 line is no exception, as it has received plenty of critical acclaim. Is the Vintage 1990 Robusto all hype, or is it actually as good as its ratings? There's only one way to find out.....

The Vintage 1990 measures 5 1/2x 50 in its Robusto size. Rocky Patel offers the popular line in a variety of other sizes as well: the 4 x 38 Juniors, the 4 x 48 Perfecto, the 4 1/2x 44 Petite Corona, the 6 x 60 Sixty, the 6 1/2x 52 Toro, the 6 1/4x 52 Torpedo, and the 7 x 48 Churchill. The Vintage 1990 has a filler blend of tobaccos from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua that have been aged seven years. The binder is also Nicaraguan, and the cigar is topped off with a Honduran Broadleaf wrapper. The wrapper is aged 12 years for added flavor and complexity. Fans of smooth cigars are the target of this selection, as it is mild to medium-bodied.