Oregon Man Review - Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Natural

Torpedo - Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Natural

A Cigar Worthy of a Family Celebration

Some cigars deserve more than an ordinary evening—they deserve a special occasion surrounded by the people who matter most. That was exactly the setting for my experience with the Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Natural.

Earlier that day, I stopped into Broadway Cigars in Lake Oswego, Oregon, where I was greeted by a well-dressed and incredibly knowledgeable tobacconist, Billy C. After taking the time to learn what I enjoy in a premium cigar, he confidently recommended the Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Natural.

That evening happened to be one of our cherished Martini Fridays, but this one was especially meaningful. Our entire Oregon family had gathered in the backyard to celebrate my son Ryan's 42nd birthday. As the sun began to set, Ryan, my son Steve, and I slipped away for a few quiet moments with our cigars then the rest of the family joined us for great conversation and lots of laughter.

One of our favorite birthday traditions is sharing stories about the guest of honor. Before long, everyone was recalling funny memories, family adventures, and moments that perfectly captured Ryan's personality. There was plenty of laughter, a few exaggerated tales, and more than a little good-natured ribbing. These are the moments that remind me life isn't measured by the years we celebrate, but by the memories we create together.

With a perfectly crafted Padron in hand, now switched to Woodford Double Oak Bourbon, and my family gathered around me, it was hard to imagine a better setting for such an exceptional cigar.

This cigar was created to celebrate Padron's 30th anniversary, the 1964 Anniversary Series has become one of the most respected premium cigars in the world. Produced in limited quantities, every cigar is meticulously handcrafted, box-pressed in the traditional Cuban tradition, and aged for four years before reaching the humidor. Oh, did I mention it was Cigar Aficionado’s Cigar of The Year 2021.

After the first draw, Ryan and I looked at each other as we realized this was going to be an amazing experience. It was obvious why this cigar has earned its legendary reputation.

The draw could have been effortless but all I had with me was a V cutter. The head of this cigar was a Torpedo shape and I didn’t get a deep enough of a cut at first. The construction was flawless from start to finish. The burn remained razor straight while producing a firm, beautiful ash.

The flavor profile is wonderfully layered. Rich notes of freshly roasted coffee and dark cocoa lead the way, followed by earthy undertones that form the cigar's backbone. As the smoke develops, subtle hints of cayenne pepper emerged adding a bit of spice. Every third revealed another layer of complexity, yet the transitions remained remarkably smooth.

What impressed me most was its refinement. While firmly medium to full-bodied, the cigar never became harsh. Instead, it remained silky smooth throughout the entire smoke, delivering richness with elegance.

The Natural wrapper allows the exceptional Nicaraguan tobaccos to shine, producing a balanced profile that is both sophisticated and incredibly satisfying.

The Oregon Man Rating

(5/5) Construction: ★★★★★ 

(5/5) Draw: ★★★★★ 

(5/5) Burn: ★★★★★ 

(5/5) Flavor: ★★★★★ 

(5/5) Complexity: ★★★★★

Overall Rating: 98/100

I think some cigars are memorable because they're rare. Others because they're exceptional. This one will always be memorable because of where I enjoyed it and who I shared it with. The Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Natural delivered everything a world-class cigar should, but the laughter of family, the stories celebrating Ryan, and another unforgettable Martini Friday made it an experience I'll remember long after the last wisp of smoke drifted into the Oregon evening.

Oregon Man...