Partagas Spanish Rosado Sabroso Review

[craigchilds]

Partagas Spanish Rosado Sabroso
Size: 5.88 x 44
Wrapper: Honduran
Filler: Dominican/Mexican/Honduran
Price: $5.95 (retail-single) / $3.40 (JrCigars-box price)

My only previous experience with Partagas was a wretched Partagas Black in August 2005, possibly the worst cigar I've ever smoked. I vowed back then never to give Partagas another chance, even though I've continued to read a lot of good things about this classic brand. I was in a local B&M a few days ago, looking to try something different, and I figured "What the heck?" I risked six dollars on the uniquely named Spanish Rosado. (What I really wanted was the Fuente Sun Grown Double Chateau, but I thought $12 was just obscenely expensive).

This cigar turned out to be a great investment. It had a dark reddish-brown wrapper, with a few veins but no visible blemishes. I sniffed but could not discern any prelight aroma. I was enticed by a unique, almost fruity taste.

After lighting up on my drive home from work, I soon realized this was going to a very sophisticated smoke. The aroma was odd, with a vague scent of fruits--or was it tea? The taste was very dry and dusty, although lightened by occasional draughts of sweetness, medium in body. The finish and aftertaste was heavy and full and slightly bitter, which of course made a great contrast with the sweet fruitiness of the initial taste on each draw.

I didn't want to waste this cigar, so I pulled my car over in Shelby Farms, turned up some blues music on public radio, and spent 15 minutes just savoring the first day of Spring. I have no doubt this cigar will get a second look in the near future--though probably in larger ring gauge.

By the way, General Cigar's website http://www.cigarworld.com calls the Spanish Rosado "the richest cigar in the world". The name is derived from the spicy cameroon wrapper that is grown exclusively for General Cigar in the San Agustin Valley in Honduras.

[TripleF]

Great review Thanks!

My limited experience with the Rosado has been very delightful. I'm definitely a fan, and yes I have had terrible experiences with the Black.

[SmokeyJoe]

The Spanish Rosado is probably my favorite Partagas. Thanks for the review.

[smokin5]

Thanks for the review!
A tasty smoke, indeed.
If you've not had one yet, next time try a Partagas Classic.
Not as complex, but an excellent combination of flavors,
well worth the money.

[St. Lou Stu]

Great review, I'm enjoying a Familia(6x54) right now!

[FishNSmoke]

Great review of a very favorable cigar... I've only tried the Ramon Y Ramon (Grand Corona), and of the 3 I've tried to date, each has progressively improved with age. Definitely my favorite Partagas, too (NC).

[bigben]

I have only had one of these but I have 3 more resting for this summer! I enjoyed my first and it was opbviously a little too dry so i am optamistic! Although I bought a Black based on good reviews and now i worry, oh well only one way to find out!

[craigchilds]

Originally Posted by bigben

I have only had one of these but I have 3 more resting for this summer! I enjoyed my first and it was opbviously a little too dry so i am optamistic! Although I bought a Black based on good reviews and now i worry, oh well only one way to find out!

You may like the Black, a lot of people do. I'm not a big maduro fan (Padrons and LGC Serie R being exceptions)

[DONNYXMX]

Thats a great smoke....Also the PARTAGAS SPANISH ROSADO SAN AGUSTIN is one of my favorites on a nice day lounging in my backyard with my stinky ashtray....Great review