Top 10 Maduro Cigars to Smoke on Halloween
Our 10 Best Maduro Cigar Picks to Enjoy on Halloween
Updated October 2023
Maduros are often lauded as the ‘candy bars’ of the cigar world. And for good reason. The leaves’ extra fermentation leaves them a bit mellower and a lot sweeter—the perfect complement to almost any blend. That’s also why they’re must-have smokes on Halloween.
The holiday may revolve around carved pumpkins, costumes, and trick or treating, but for cigar loving adults, it’s the prime occasion to enjoy a chocolatey Maduro. Whether you’re huddled around a campfire, rehashing that “one time at football camp” story, or just chilling on your porch, a premium Maduro is your best Halloween prop. From the big-shot brands to the underdogs, we’ve curated a list of 10 dark-leaf treats for new smokers and experienced smokers alike!
Have a favorite cigar of your own to smoke on All Hallow’s Eve? Let us know about it in the comments below!
Blackened M81 (Metallica) by Drew Estate
Body: Full
We knew from the second we heard that James Hetfield was working with Drew Estate, that the cigar they landed on was gonna sell out fast. What we didn’t expect, however, was that Blackened was going to be as refined, complex, and delicious as it was. It would have been easy for Drew to cash in on the iconic Metallica name and half-ass the cigar, but they painstakingly blended it over several years. The result: a pulse-quickening recipe of high-octane tobaccos—snug in their Mexican San Andres wrapper—with notes of espresso, pepper, earth, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. My summary in a word…encore.
CAO Flathead
Body: Full
From the onset, CAO Flathead weaves a rich tapestry of sweet flavors, dominant with notes of dark cocoa and roasted coffee beans. These are beautifully complemented by hints of black cherry and a subtle, peppery kick. The experience is made even more memorable by its velvety, thick smoke and an impeccably even burn. The Flathead is more than just a cigar; it’s a journey into the depths of flavor, making it a standout choice for those seeking a robust and captivating smoking experience.
Charter Oak Maduro
Body: Mellow+
Unbeatable at its price, Foundation Cigar’s Charter Oak Maduro is one of the best examples of how Maduros don’t need to be strong to be delicious. Indulge in rich notes of dark chocolate and espresso, with hints of dried plum and a touch of earthy leather. As the cigar burns, there’s a gentle emergence of sweet molasses and a hint of spice, adding layers to the experience. The burn is commendably even, with a smoke that’s both aromatic and creamy. For those seeking a well-rounded, flavorful journey, the Charter Oak Maduro is a delightful choice.
Cohiba Black
Body: Medium
From the outset, Cohiba’s celebrated Black blend boasts a dark, oily wrapper with an intense flavor journey. As you take the first draw, a robust blend of espresso and dark chocolate greets the palate, complemented by subtle hints of dried fruit and spice. The experience is further elevated by its creamy undertones and a touch of earthiness. The burn is impeccable, producing a fragrant, velvety smoke that envelops the senses. For those seeking a rich, full-bodied experience with a touch of elegance, trusty ol’ Black delivers on all fronts.
H. Upmann Nicaragua AJ Fernandez Heritage
Body: Full
From the moment it’s lit, AJ’s take on H. Upmann unveils a tantalizing array of flavors. Rich notes of roasted coffee beans meld seamlessly with nuances of sweet cedar and a hint of cinnamon. As the smoke progresses, there’s a delightful interplay of creamy nuttiness and a touch of dark fruit. The experience is further enhanced by its even burn and silky smoke, making each puff a sensory delight. This cigar is a testament to the mastery of its creators, offering a balanced and deeply satisfying smoking journey.
Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial
Body: Full
From the first draw, there’s an unmistakable richness, with notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and a hint of black pepper. As the Connecticut Broadleaf wrapped blend progresses, subtle undertones of leather and cedar emerge, resulting in a complex and layered flavor profile. Overall, Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial offers a memorable experience for both novice and seasoned alike. Highly recommended for those seeking depth in flavor and a refined smoking journey.
JFR Maduro by Aganorsa Leaf
Body: Full
Its deep, alluring wrapper sets the stage for a flavor profile that’s both robust and intricate. From first draw, there’s a delightful burst of dark cocoa and roasted nuts, seamlessly blending with undertones of ripe berries and a hint of leather. As the experience unfolds, a gentle spiciness adds depth and complexity to each puff. The burn is consistently even, producing a rich, velvety smoke that lingers pleasantly on the palate. For aficionados seeking a balanced yet bold experience, the JFR Maduro is a standout choice.
Padron 1964 Maduro
Body: Full
Immediately upon lighting Padron’s masterful 1964 blend, a symphony of flavors engulfed me—rich cocoa, roasted nuts, and a touch of dark fruit sweetness. Hints of earthy leather and a gentle spice soon came to the forefront, making each puff a delightful discovery. The Nicaraguan Habano Maduro wrapper brings a milk chocolate appearance along with its inherent coffee-laden sweetness. A testament to Padron’s commitment to excellence, offering an unparalleled smoking experience that lingers long after the final draw.
Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro
Body: Medium+
Its deep, lustrous wrapper hints at the rich experience that awaits. From Perdomo 20th’s initial draw, there’s a profound depth of flavors, with dark chocolate and ripe cherries taking center stage, followed by nuances of toasted oak and a whisper of black tea. As the cigar progresses, a subtle spiciness emerges, adding complexity to the profile. The burn is remarkably consistent, and the smoke is both dense and aromatic. This cigar is not just a smoke, but an experience, marking two decades of Perdomo’s dedication to excellence in the cigar world.
Rocky Patel The Edge Maduro
Body: Full
With its lush wrapper, Rocky’s The Edge Maduro unleashes a burst of rich cocoa and dark coffee flavors that envelop the palate. Each puff is complemented further by subtle undertones of sweet molasses and black pepper. As the experience deepens, there’s a delightful transition to earthy tones and a touch of leather. The burn is consistently even, producing a thick, aromatic smoke that enhances the overall experience. For aficionados seeking a bold yet refined flavor journey, The Edge Maduro by Rocky Patel is a must-try.