Partagás Serie E No. 2: The Robusto Extra Revelation
The Serie E No. 2 emerged as a quiet revelation within the Partagás range — a 141mm × 54 ring gauge cigar that brought the brand's full-bodied character into a format that married modern ring gauge preferences with traditional Partagás blending. The "Serie E" designation signals a particular approach within the marque, and the No. 2 has become a reference point for those who appreciate generous gauge cigars that do not sacrifice intensity for width. At 54 ring, the Serie E No. 2 delivers the broad, cool smoke that thicker formats provide while maintaining the earth-and-pepper spine that defines the brand.
This is a cigar that proves width need not mean compromise.
Tasting Notes
The Serie E No. 2 opens with immediate generosity. The 54-ring gauge delivers a broad, cool draw that spreads Partagás' characteristic earth and pepper across the full palate. Cedar provides the initial framework, followed by a sweetness that reads as toasted coconut — a note the wider gauge seems to amplify. Pepper registers but with less sharpness than in narrower vitolas; the broader format softens its edges without diminishing its presence. The smoke volume is substantial, filling the mouth with each draw, and the combustion is notably cool thanks to the gauge.
The second half introduces darker elements. Leather, espresso, and a bitter chocolate note build through the middle, layered over the persistent earth. The pepper sharpens somewhat as the cigar shortens, the narrowing draw concentrating the smoke. The final third returns to the Serie E's defining combination: earth, pepper, cedar, now joined by a charred-wood quality that adds depth. The finish is full and lingering, carrying spice and dark notes well past the final puff. The Robusto Extra format means the experience is substantial but not exhaustive — roughly an hour of concentrated smoking.
Construction
The 54-ring gauge demands careful bunching to maintain consistent draw and combustion. Partagás' factory handles this with characteristic competence. Wrappers are colorado to colorado-maduro, oily, with moderate veining that the gauge accommodates. The cap is generously applied and trims cleanly. Burn performance is reliable, though the broader gauge means the burn line covers more surface — corrections, when needed, involve more leaf than in narrower formats. Ash is firm and grey-white, holding well through the first inch.
Pairing Suggestions
The Serie E No. 2's broad profile suits beverages with body. An aged bourbon — something with six to ten years — provides sweet-oak resonance. Alternatively, a Nicaraguan-style rum, richer and deeper than its Cuban counterparts, offers complementary sweetness. Coffee drinkers should consider a café cortado for the final third.
Value Proposition
The Serie E No. 2 has established itself as a staple within the Partagás range, appreciated for delivering the brand's full profile in a format that suits modern preferences. No specific pricing is given here, but the cigar's substantial smoke volume and full flavour make it a satisfying purchase for those seeking intensity without excessive duration. Boxes age well over three to five years.
About the Brand
Founded in 1845, Partagás is one of Cuba's oldest and most respected cigar brands. The factory operates in Havana with worldwide distribution via Habanos S.A.. Tobacco is sourced from Vuelta Abajo. Brand history at Wikipedia.
Storage Recommendations
Thicker ring gauges retain moisture longer than slender ones, which can lead to over-humidification if not monitored. Maintain 65–70% RH at 18–20°C. Allow extra acclimatisation time after shipping — the 54-ring gauge may require three weeks to settle properly. For aging, target the lower end of the humidity range to prevent the blend from becoming overly tannic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Robusto Extra vitola?
The Robusto Extra is a Cuban factory designation for a format larger than a standard robusto — approximately 141mm × 54 ring gauge, providing a broader, cooler smoke than the traditional 50-ring robusto.
Is the Serie E No. 2 stronger than the Serie D No. 4?
Both are full-strength Partagás cigars, but the Serie E No. 2's broader gauge delivers the blend with slightly less sharpness than the 50-ring Serie D No. 4. The difference is one of delivery rather than fundamental strength.
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