Partagas D4 Review (Serie D No. 4)

The Partagas D4, or Partagás Serie D No. 4 in full, is the Cuban robusto that smokers reach for when they want flavour. It is earthy, spicy and fuller than most Havanas. This review checks its specifications, sets out the profile most smokers report and weighs its bold character against its known rough edges.

The Partagas D4 at a glance

Partagás is one of the oldest Cuban brands. Jaime Partagás founded it in Havana in 1845, and the factory became a landmark of the city. The brand’s lettered series started in the 1930s with many sizes. By the 1970s, however, the Serie D No. 4 was the only one left. Habanos revived the series from 2005 and added new sizes around it.

The No. 4 is a robusto of 4 7/8 inches by a 50 ring gauge, or 124 mm. Its factory name is Robustos. Today it is widely reported as the most popular Cuban cigar in the world. In 2021, Cigar Aficionado placed it in its Top 25 with 93 points. Our Cuban cigars guide explains the wider picture.

Construction and draw

Expect a solid, well-filled robusto with a darker colorado wrapper and a neat triple cap. The red-and-black band is easy to spot. Most cigars feel firm and even.

However, the huge volume brings some variation. Reports of a tight draw or an uneven burn are more common than with smaller lines. A careful toast of the foot helps. If the burn wanders, a quick touch-up usually fixes it.

First third

Expect a bold start. Most smokers report earth, cedar and a sharp red pepper on the first puffs. Behind that, there is often a little sweetness, sometimes described as orange peel or vanilla. The strength already sits at medium.

Second third

Next, leather and wood come forward. Meanwhile, a mineral, slightly salty note is commonly reported. The pepper softens a little, and a hazelnut or toasted nut flavour lingers on the finish. This is where the Partagas D4 is usually at its most balanced.

Final third

Finally, the cigar reaches medium-full or full. Earth, coffee and spice dominate, and the finish grows long. If you smoke too fast, this part can turn harsh. On the other hand, a slow pace rewards you with deep, rich notes.

How it compares

The Cohiba Robusto is the same size, but smoother and more refined. It also costs much more in most markets. The Partagás trades polish for power and earthiness.

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is also the same size. By contrast, it is creamy and mellow. If the Partagás is a strong kopi, the Hoyo is a milky teh tarik. Our cigar strength guide explains these differences.

Smoking it in Malaysia

A full Cuban like this suffers badly if stored too wet. In that case, the burn goes uneven and the spice turns bitter. Keep it at about 65–69% RH and below 24°C. Our cigar humidity guide shows how.

For pairing, strong kopi-o or a dark rum handles its spice well. A peated Islay whisky also suits the earthy finish. Before you light up, check our guide on where to smoke cigars in Malaysia, since Act 852 bans smoking in many places.

Verdict

The Partagas D4 is a flavour-first Cuban robusto. Its earth, leather and spice give it a clear identity, and its sweeter notes add balance. For many smokers, it is the definitive full-bodied Havana.

Its weak spots are consistency and roughness. Some boxes draw tight, some burn unevenly, and young cigars can be harsh. It suits experienced smokers who like strength. Beginners should wait. Remember too that every cigar carries health risks.