The King Is Dead The Last Payday Cigar

The King Is Dead “The Last Payday” Cigar by Caldwell Cigar Co.

If you’re searching for a cigar that breaks from tradition and challenges expectations, The King Is Dead “The Last Payday” by Caldwell Cigar Company is here to deliver. Part of Caldwell’s iconic The King Is Dead line, The Last Payday is a bold, medium-to-full-bodied cigar that’s rich, complex, and unapologetically unique—crafted for smokers who crave flavour and character in every draw.

This Dominican puro uses a rare and distinctive blend of tobaccos, showcasing Caldwell’s commitment to sourcing uncommon and high-quality leaves. At its core is a dark, oily Negrito wrapper from the Dominican Republic, which adds depth and a touch of natural sweetness to the blend. Beneath that lies a mix of Dominican binder and filler leaves, including Corojo and HVA (Hybrid) varieties, which add structure, spice, and an earthy backbone to the profile.

Pre-Light: The pre-light aromas are full of intrigue, with hints of cedar, earthy cocoa, and a touch of spice. The cold draw reveals a subtle sweetness with notes of raisin, pepper, and a slight nuttiness, offering a preview of the complex journey ahead.

First Third: Once lit, The Last Payday opens with an immediate burst of flavour. Dark chocolate and espresso notes dominate the start, with a peppery spice that gives it a bold entrance. As you settle into the smoke, you’ll pick up nuances of dried fruit and a savoury, earthy undertone that adds depth and character without overwhelming the palate.

Second Third: As the cigar develops, the flavours evolve beautifully. The spice softens, allowing creamier, nutty notes to take centre stage, balanced by hints of sweet caramel and leather. There’s a subtle tanginess, almost like dark berries, that adds complexity, while the body remains smooth and full. This middle section is where The Last Payday truly shines, offering a nuanced blend that keeps you engaged with every puff.

Final Third: In the final third, the flavours deepen, bringing out toasted oak, rich tobacco, and a slight bitterness akin to dark roasted coffee. The sweetness fades, giving way to a more robust, earthy profile with hints of cedar and a touch of mineral-like salinity. The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering spice that ties together the entire experience.

Overall Experience: The King Is Dead “The Last Payday” is an adventurous and layered smoke, perfect for aficionados who appreciate a cigar with depth, balance, and bold flavours. The construction is top-notch, with an even burn and a solid ash, showcasing Caldwell’s dedication to quality. This isn’t a quick smoke—it’s a cigar to savour, best paired with a rich bourbon, peaty scotch, or even a robust porter to complement its complexity.

In The King Is Dead, Caldwell has crafted a cigar that’s as memorable as it is enjoyable—a tribute to the unconventional, designed for those who embrace the unexpected in their cigars. Whether you’re new to Caldwell or a seasoned fan, The Last Payday is a standout experience worth every puff.