Unlike standard production sizes, the Partagás Serie du Connaisseur No.3, known by its factory name "Carlotas," marks a truly unique chapter in Cuban cigar history. This slender vitola was part of Partagás's Connaisseur series, a line designed for discerning smokers who appreciated elegant, refined smoking experiences. Originally released prior to 1960, the cigar enjoyed decades of production before being discontinued in 2010, marking the end of an era for this classic format.
Vitola Specifications
| Cigar Name | Serie du Connaisseur No.3 |
| Factory Name | Carlotas |
| Production Status | Discontinued Regular Production |
| Ring Gauge | 35 |
| Length | 143 mm (5⅝″) |
| Official Weight | 6.39 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Packaging | Slide lid box of 25 cigars |
Band History
Collectors should note the interesting evolution of this cigar's presentation. Prior to approximately 2005, the Serie du Connaisseur No.3 was sold without any band, showcasing its elegant wrapper in unadorned simplicity. Following this period, Partagás applied its standard Band A to the cigar, giving it the recognizable branding that collectors would recognize from the brand's core lineup.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
The Serie du Connaisseur No.3 offered a sophisticated smoking experience characterized by remarkable elegance and balance. With a mild-to-medium strength profile, this vitola appealed to smokers seeking refinement rather than intensity.
Primary Flavor Notes:
- Leather (most prominent)
- Wood
- Bitter chocolate
- Cinnamon
- Citrus and lemon
- Clove
- Nutmeg
- Pepper
- Sourdough
- Spice
- Tea
Secondary Notes: The cigar also revealed subtle undertones of baking spices, BBQ characteristics, cilantro, coffee, floral elements, herbal qualities, hickory, licorice, mint, paprika, parsley, steak, tarragon, toast, pure tobacco, and an unexpected watermelon note that added intrigue to its complex profile.
Consumer Ratings
Based on 7 enthusiast reviews, the Serie du Connaisseur No.3 earned respectable scores across all categories:
| Elegance | 4 out of 5 |
| Balance | 4 out of 5 |
| Strength | 2 out of 5 |
| Complexity | 3 out of 5 |
| Aftertaste | 4 out of 5 |
| Overall Rating | 4.43 out of 5 |
Legacy and Collectibility
With its slender 35 ring gauge and generous 5⅝-inch length, the Serie du Connaisseur No.3 embodied the classic Cuban elegance of a bygone era. Its five-decade production run speaks to the enduring appeal of its refined character. Since discontinuation in 2010, remaining stocks have become increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the historical significance and distinctive smoking experience this vitola offered.