Discover the rich history and flavors of the Sancho Panza Sanchos, with a deep dive into a cigar rolled 24 years ago.
Hello dear reader,
Today, I want to take you on a journey through the flavors of a cigar and also through time. We’re diving into a cigar that’s been resting and maturing for 24 years, the Sancho Panza Sanchos, rolled in the year 2000. But before we get to that, let’s take a moment to talk about the brand that brought us this gem.
Sancho Panza is a brand that often flies under the radar, but for those who know, it’s a hidden treasure. Founded in 1848, by Don Emilio Ohmstedt, who also created El Rey del Mundo, it was named after the beloved character from Miguel de Cervantes’ famous novel Don Quixote. Much like the character it’s named after, Sancho Panza cigars are reliable, grounded, and unpretentious.
While the brand doesn’t always make the headlines like its more famous counterparts, Sancho Panza cigars have carved out a loyal following. Known for their balanced profiles and great vitolas, both for regular production and for regional editions, these cigars are often regarded as providing excellent value for those looking to enjoy a consistent Cuban smoke. They offer a medium-bodied experience, focusing on smoothness rather than intensity, and for those who appreciate subtlety and nuance, Sancho Panza cigars are a treat.
A Closer Look at the Sanchos.
Now, let’s concentrate on one of the most iconic vitolas in the Sancho Panza lineup: the Sancho Panza Sanchos. This cigar, discontinued in 2006, with its imposing 235mm length and 47 ring gauge, is a prime example of the "Gran Corona" size. It’s a vitola that demands both time and patience, not just from the smoker but from the tobacco itself. Cigars of this size require impeccable craftsmanship to ensure a smooth, even draw throughout their lengthy burn.
Despite its size, the Sancho Panza Sanchos has a reputation for being a surprisingly smooth and elegant smoke. The tobacco blend, as is customary with Cuban cigars, is sourced from the famous Vuelta Abajo region, which we know very well. What sets the Sanchos apart, though, is its ability to deliver layer upon layer of subtle flavors, all while maintaining an easygoing, medium-bodied profile and because of its imposing length is offers many flavour transitions
The Review: Sancho Panza Sanchos
Now, the moment we’ve been waiting for, the review of a Sancho Panza Sanchos that’s been resting for 24 years. Cigars like these, with two and a half decades of age on them, are special. The passage of time has a way of mellowing and deepening the flavors, creating an experience that can’t be replicated by a fresh cigar.
Upon cutting the cigar, the cold draw gave me immediate notes of aged cedar, earth, and just the faintest hint of sweetness. There was an undeniable smoothness to the pre-light experience, which hinted at what was to come.
After lighting, the first few puffs were remarkably smooth, as expected from a cigar of this age. The dominant flavor was cedar, but there were also undertones of leather. The smoke was creamy, coating the palate with a velvety texture. What stood out the most was the balance, nothing was overpowering, and the flavors melded together in perfect harmony.
The draw was effortless, which, considering the size of the cigar and its age, was a pleasant surprise.
As I moved into the second moment, the flavors began to deepen. The cedar note remained but was joined by roasted coffee and subtle spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg. There was a soft sweetness that reminded me of dried fruits, perhaps dates, which added a new dimension to the smoke. The aged tobacco had a richness to it that’s hard to describe, smooth but full of character, with none of the sharpness that you might find in a younger cigar.
The retrohale was particularly enjoyable, bringing out more of the cigar’s earthy qualities, with a hint of toasted nuts lingering in the background. The smoke remained thick and plentiful, creating a luxurious experience with every draw.
By the time I reached the end, the Sancho Panza Sanchos had really come into its own. The spice notes became more pronounced, especially black pepper, which added a bit of a kick to the otherwise mellow profile. The sweetness had mellowed, leaving behind a lingering note of rich, dark chocolate and espresso. It was a decadent finish to an already wonderful experience.
Despite its length, the cigar never became harsh or bitter, a true testament to the aging process and of course rolling quality. The flavors remained well-balanced right until the end, with each puff offering something new to savor.
Smoking a 24 year old Sancho Panza Sanchos was a reminder of why aged cigars hold such a special place in my heart. Time has a way of softening the edges and bringing out layers of complexity that you just don’t find in newer cigars. The 24 years this cigar has spent aging have transformed it into a masterpiece, a perfect balance of smoothness, flavor, and richness.
For those who have the patience and the opportunity to smoke an aged cigar like this, it’s an experience that is truly unparalleled. And while innovations like NFC tags and new releases are exciting, there’s something irreplaceable about lighting up a cigar that has been resting for decades, patiently waiting to reveal its story.
Wishing you rich flavors and good company. Until we meet again.