Padron 1926 Anniversary No. 9 Maduro

Padron 1926 Anniversary No. 9 Maduro

Experience the pinnacle of Nicaraguan cigar excellence with the Padron 1926 Anniversary No. 9 Maduro, the legendary 2007 Cigar of the Year that earned an extraordinary 97-point rating from Cigar Aficionado through its masterful blend of five-year aged tobaccos. This exceptional 5.25 x 56 box-pressed robusto celebrates Jose Orlando Padron’s 75th birthday with an unforgettable symphony of chocolate, espresso, roasted nuts, black cherry, and the signature Padron spice that has captivated aficionados worldwide, establishing it as one of the most sought-after cigars ever created.

Key Features

• 2007 Cigar Aficionado Cigar of the Year with 97-point rating
• Five to ten years of tobacco aging creates unparalleled smoothness
• Box-pressed construction using traditional Cuban rolling methods
• Dark, oily Nicaraguan maduro wrapper with exceptional tooth and sheen
• Individually numbered anti-counterfeiting band ensuring authenticity
• Full-bodied profile with perfect balance and extraordinary complexity
• Available in elegant wooden boxes of 24 cigars

Detailed Description

The 1926 Serie No. 9 Maduro represents the absolute zenith of Padron’s cigar-making artistry, emerging from their expanded Estelí factory under the watchful eye of Jose Orlando Padron, his son Jorge, and the extended family members who ensure each of their 5 million annual cigars meets impeccable quality standards. Released in 2002 to commemorate the patriarch’s 75th birthday, this particular vitola has achieved legendary status among aficionados as perhaps the finest expression of the entire 1926 line, blossoming with flavor from the very first puff through its lingering, seemingly endless finish.

Upon lighting, this box-pressed masterpiece unleashes waves of dark cocoa and espresso complemented by the distinctive Padron spice that announces its presence without overwhelming. The initial intensity quickly mellows into layers of roasted nuts, particularly cashews and almonds, while black cherry sweetness weaves throughout creating remarkable depth. Vanilla bean and five-spice notes emerge as the cigar develops, coating the palate with thick, luxurious smoke that displays perfect balance between strength and refinement. The retrohale delivers controlled pepper that enhances rather than dominates, adding dimension to the primary flavors while maintaining the smooth character that defines properly aged tobacco.

Construction quality exemplifies why Padron remains among the world’s most respected producers, with each No. 9 displaying flawless box-pressing that maintains shape despite the substantial ring gauge. The dark maduro wrapper exhibits an oily sheen with fine tooth that signals the exceptional tobacco within. Draw resistance can tend slightly loose, characteristic of Padron’s style, requiring measured pacing to prevent overheating that could introduce unwanted bitterness. When properly smoked with patient draws, the cigar rewards with voluminous, creamy smoke that creates an intoxicating room note of chocolate, roasted coffee, and subtle fruit sweetness that lingers long after the final draw.

Specifications

Summary

• Box Count: 24
• Region: Nicaragua
• Strength: Full
• Binder: Nicaraguan
• Wrapper: Nicaraguan Maduro
• Filler: Nicaraguan

What makes the Padron 1926 No. 9 Maduro legendary?

The No. 9 Maduro achieved legendary status by earning 2007 Cigar of the Year honors with an extraordinary 97-point rating, the highest score Cigar Aficionado had awarded in years. This box-pressed robusto delivers unmatched complexity through five to ten years of tobacco aging, creating perfect balance between chocolate, espresso, roasted nuts, and black cherry notes with a finish so long it seems never to leave the palate.

How does the No. 9 compare to other 1926 sizes?

The No. 9’s 56 ring gauge provides fuller flavor concentration than smaller vitolas while avoiding jaw fatigue of larger formats. Compared to the No. 6, it offers extended complexity development over its longer smoking time. While the No. 2 provides similar duration, the No. 9’s wider gauge delivers thicker, more luxurious smoke. Many consider it the perfect balance of size, strength, and smoking duration within the entire 1926 line.

Is the 1926 No. 9 suitable for beginners?

The full-bodied strength and intense opening make the No. 9 Maduro challenging for newcomers. This cigar demands respect and experience to properly appreciate its complexity without being overwhelmed by its power. Beginners should develop their palates with milder offerings before attempting this masterpiece, though ambitious novices who approach it carefully after meals with appropriate pairings might find it educational rather than overwhelming.

What beverages pair best with the No. 9 Maduro?

This powerful robusto pairs magnificently with cask-strength bourbon or aged scotch that matches its intensity. Port wine complements the black cherry sweetness while aged rum enhances chocolate characteristics. Espresso or Turkish coffee amplifies the roasted notes perfectly. For unique pairings, try mezcal whose smokiness creates intriguing contrast, or imperial stout that echoes the chocolate and coffee elements.

How should I properly smoke the No. 9 to maximize enjoyment?

Take slow, measured draws allowing 45-60 seconds between puffs to prevent overheating that introduces bitterness. The typically loose Padron draw combined with the large ring gauge requires patient pacing. Avoid double-puffing which quickly intensifies heat. Rotate the cigar occasionally for even burning. If the intensity becomes overwhelming, let it rest briefly before continuing with gentler draws to maintain optimal flavor balance.

When is the ideal time to enjoy a 1926 No. 9?

This cigar demands dedicated attention, making it perfect for special occasions, milestone celebrations, or contemplative evenings when you can focus entirely on the experience. The 50-60 minute duration and full strength work best after substantial dinners. Perfect for marking achievements, closing important deals, entertaining distinguished guests, or whenever only the absolute best will suffice.

How should I store Padron 1926 No. 9 cigars?

Maintain 65-68% humidity and 68-70°F temperature for optimal preservation. The oily maduro wrapper benefits from slightly lower humidity to prevent over-humidification affecting burn quality. Allow newly purchased cigars minimum two weeks rest before smoking to stabilize moisture content. These cigars continue improving with age, developing additional sweetness and complexity over years of proper storage, making them excellent investments for special occasion cellaring.

Why do some find the No. 9 less refined than other 1926 offerings?

The No. 9’s intensity can overwhelm some palates accustomed to the more refined No. 6 or balanced No. 2. Its full-bodied power and pronounced pepper presence create what some describe as a “dirtier” profile with less sweetness than other vitolas. This characteristic appeals to those seeking bold, uncompromising flavor but may disappoint those expecting the subtle elegance found in smaller formats. The larger ring gauge also produces slightly looser draw that requires careful pacing to maintain optimal flavor balance.