Padron Damaso Review
3 min read
When you think “Padron,” chances are you picture something bold, box-pressed, and packed with Nicaraguan power. The family’s known for its rich, full-bodied cigars like the 1926 and 1964 Anniversary lines. But then there’s the Padron Damaso — a curveball from a brand that rarely throws them. And I gotta say: it’s one heck of a surprise. Let’s go over it in this Padron Damaso cigars review.
It is available in six sizes, including the popular Padron Damaso 8 and the Padron Damaso 32. I recently spent a weekend with a few sizes of the Damaso line — mostly the No. 12 and No. 15. If you’re like me and typically reach for fuller-bodied cigars, you might overlook something like this at first. But man, that would be a mistake. This cigar is Padron’s play in the Connecticut shade arena, and while it’s not your typical Padron bombshell, it still carries the same quality and craftsmanship we all know and love.
Padron Damaso No. 8

Strength
Mild-Medium
Cigar Afionado Rating
89
Ring Gauge
46
Length
5 1/2
Wrapper
Ecuador Connecticut
Binder
Nicaragua
Padron Damaso No. 12

Strength
Mild-Medium
Cigar Afionado Rating
89
Ring Gauge
50
Length
5
Wrapper
Ecuador Connecticut
Binder
Nicaragua
Padron Damaso No. 15

Strength
Mild-Medium
Cigar Afionado Rating
89
Ring Gauge
52
Length
6
Wrapper
Ecuador Connecticut
Binder
Nicaragua
Padron Damaso No. 32 – RED LABEL

Strength
Mild-Medium
Cigar Afionado Rating
85
Ring Gauge
50
Length
5 1/4
Wrapper
Ecuador Connecticut
Binder
Nicaragua
Padron Damaso Cigars Review – First Impressions
Let’s start with the presentation. The Damaso is traditional in shape (no box press here), with a silky-smooth, light brown Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper that screams elegance. It’s not flashy — it’s refined. The white and gold band looks more like something you’d see on a Cuban cigar, which makes sense, given that this line is named after Damaso Padron, the family patriarch who started the Padron cigar tradition after moving from Cuba to Nicaragua.
Construction-wise, these cigars are flawless. Great draw, razor-sharp burn, and zero touch-ups needed across the board. You expect that from Padron, and the Damaso delivers.
Flavor Profile
This is where things get interesting. The Damaso starts off mellow — cream, a little cedar, and a subtle sweetness like graham cracker or sugar cookie. But this isn’t a bland “mild” cigar. It’s got layers.
As it burns down, it opens up into a medium-bodied smoke with notes of toast, white pepper, and a touch of citrus zest. There’s a buttery texture to the smoke that I didn’t expect, and it really keeps you engaged without overwhelming your palate.
I paired one with a morning coffee, and another with a glass of light rum in the afternoon. Both pairings worked beautifully. The cigar has enough personality to complement a drink, but it won’t fight for attention.
Who’s It For?
This cigar is ideal for a few types of smokers:
- New smokers looking to ease into the premium world without diving headfirst into full-bodied Nicaraguan spice.
- Veteran smokers (like myself) who want a change of pace — maybe something for a morning smoke or an easygoing evening on the porch.
- Fans of Connecticut-wrapped cigars who want something with more depth and complexity than your standard mild stick.
And honestly, even if you’re not a Connecticut guy, this one is worth a try just to see what Padron can do when they color outside the lines.
Final Thoughts
I went into this review a little skeptical. I love Padron’s signature style — rich, earthy, and punchy — and the idea of a mild Padron felt… off. But now? I get it. The Damaso isn’t trying to be another 1926. It’s Padron showing us they can do mellow just as well as they do bold. It’s elegant, balanced, and still unmistakably Padron underneath the surface.
Will it become my go-to? Probably not. But will I keep a few in the humidor for when I want a smooth, classy smoke with my morning coffee or a relaxing afternoon? Absolutely.
Our rating: 91/100
Smooth, subtle, and expertly made — the Padron Damaso is a masterclass in restraint.
Cigar Aficionado‘s Review of Padron Damaso No 17

Where to Buy
If you’re ready to try the Padron Damaso for yourself after this review, you can pick it up right here at Cigar Country. We’ve got a full range of sizes in stock, shipped fresh from the Dominican Republic to your doorstep. Whether you’re stocking up your humidor or just curious to try something new, we’ve got you covered with fast shipping and premium service.
Smoke something good — shop Padron at Cigar Country.