Montecristo Cigars, a renowned brand in the cigar industry, was established in 1935 in Havana, Cuba. This brand has gained fame and recognition worldwide due to the exceptional quality and exquisite flavor of its cigars. The name Montecristo was inspired by the classic novel “”The Count of Monte Cristo”” by Alexandre Dumas, which was a favorite among the torcedores (cigar rollers) at the factory where the Montecristo cigars were produced.
Montecristo Cigars are known for a wide range of cigar offerings, including the popular Montecristo No. 2, a torpedo-shaped cigar that has consistently ranked among the best cigars globally. Montecristo Cigars are crafted with skill and precision, often employing the finest tobacco leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region in Cuba, renowned for its premium tobacco. This brand is also known for its meticulous attention to detail, from the careful selection of tobacco leaves to the intricate rolling process. The Montecristo White Series is especially known for its smooth flavor, offering a lighter option that still gives that classic Montecristo feel. The result is a cigar that provides a smooth, rich smoke with complex flavors, making Montecristo Cigars a favorite among cigar connoisseurs. After changes in Cuba’s tobacco industry, there are now two kinds of Montecristo Cigars: the original Montecristo Habana cigar from Cuba, made by Habanos S.A., and another version made in the Dominican Republic by Altadis S.A. Both types keep up the brand’s high standards, which is reflected in the Montecristo cigar price. Whether you choose a traditional Montecristo cigar or try the Montecristo White Series, you’re in for a top-notch smoking experience that Montecristo has been known for over the years.
Montecristo Espada Oscuro
Montecristo Espada Oscuro cigars elevate the renowned Espada line with a rich and captivating experience. Crafted in collaboration with Plasencia, these cigars feature a striking Nicaraguan Oscuro wrapper that embodies dark chocolate notes and adds a layer of complexity to the blend. The binder and filler are meticulously grown in Nicaragua, resulting in a full-bodied smoke with a symphony of flavors. The initial draw reveals intense pepper and espresso undertones, gradually evolving into a delightful medley of dark cocoa, leather, and a subtle sweetness.
The exceptional construction ensures an even burn and a satisfying draw. The Montecristo Espada Oscuro stands as a testament to the expertise of Montecristo’s master blenders and Plasencia’s generations of tobacco knowledge. Whether you’re a Montecristo enthusiast or a lover of rich, intense cigars, the Espada Oscuro promises an unforgettable journey for your palate. Indulge in this harmonious combination of Nicaraguan flavors and craftsmanship, and experience the evolution of the classic Montecristo profile in a bold and exciting way.
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Size: 6 x 50 Toro
Strength: Full
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Rosado Oscuro
Binder/Filler: Nicaragua
Construction and Overall Appearance: The wrapper is dark and even in color and reveals an attractive reddish hue when held to the light.
Draw: Ideal.
Pre-light flavor: Leather, cedar, cocoa.
Toasting & Light:
Base flavors: Sweet tobacco, earth, cedar.
Retrohale: Pepper.
Aroma: Sweet.
Burn / Ash Quality: Burns evenly and holds a firm grey ash that ranges from light to dark.
Balance of flavors: Excellent.
Montecristo Espada Signature
Taking its cue from its iconic logo (of three pairs of swords forming a triangle) the Montecristo Espada Signature is a collaborative creation by three cigar industry greats: Rafael Nodal, Altadis U.S.A. Grupos de Maestros, and the Plasencia Family. Working in concert this impressive trio have developed the Espada by Montecristo Signature. This is a Nicaraguan puro that uses carefully aged tobacco, which has been grown on the Plasencia Cigars farm in Nicaragua. The Montecristo Espada Signature joins the famous Espada line, which includes the Estoque and Oscuro.
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Size: (6”x 55) Valiente (Double Toro)
Strength: Medium to Full
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Construction and Overall Appearance: Wrapper was milk chocolate in color, silky and oily to the touch.
Draw: Open with just a touch of resistance.
Pre-light flavor: Black pepper, leather, and cedar.
Toasting & Light:
Base flavors: Black pepper, earth, creaminess, leather, nuts.
Retrohale: N/A.
Aroma: Sweet and grassy.
Burn / Ash Quality: Flawless.
Balance of flavors: Great.
Montecristo 1935 Anniversary Nicaragua
When it came time to celebrate the 85th anniversary of the world-famous Montecristo brand, the celebration cigar had to be something special, and Montecristo 1935 Anniversary Nicaragua certainly fit the bill. Released in late 2020 as a collaboration between brand ambassador Rafael Nodal, the Grupo de Maestros, and none other than the infamous AJ Fernandez, this cigar is extraordinary to say the least. Each stick is born in the San Lotano Factory in Nicaragua and is rolled under the supervision of Fernandez himself, using 100% Nicaraguan leaves from his very own family farms—wrapper, filler, and binder. It may seem a bit ironic that the anniversary cigar for a Dominican brand is a Nicaraguan puro, but just about anyone would agree that they really did hit it out of the ballpark with this one. The folks at Cigar Aficionado certainly think so, as this blend has already earned a very respectable 95 rating!
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Size: No 2. 6 ⅛ x 52
Strength: Full
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano
Binder & Filler: Nicaragua
Construction and Overall Appearance: Soft box-press, and perfectly applied triple cap. The wrapper has an oily appearance. No soft spots or veins were present.
Draw: Just the right pull.
Pre-light flavor: Cocoa and coffee.
Toasting & Light: No problems, contained earthy and peppery notes.
Base flavors: Earth, nuts, sweet spices, pepper, charred oak, black coffee.
Retrohale: N/A.
Aroma: Sweet.
Burn / Ash Quality: Just about perfect.
Balance of flavors: Ideal.
Montecristo Epic Vintage 12
The Montecristo Epic Vintage 12 is an exquisite addition to the renowned Montecristo Epic cigars series. This cigar is a celebration of the finest tobaccos from the 2012 harvest, showcasing a full-bodied blend that combines the excellence of Ecuador Sumatra wrapper, a Dominican binder, and a carefully curated mix of Nicaraguan and Dominican filler tobacco. What sets this blend apart is its commitment to using only the highest quality seeds, cultivated in the most exclusive soils to yield tobacco worthy of an epic cigar. The result is a masterpiece that epitomizes the artistry and dedication of Tabacalera de Garcia’s Grupo de Maestros, a team of seasoned cigar makers with centuries of collective experience.
The crafting of the Montecristo Epic Vintage 12 demands meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering passion for perfection at every stage. With only two sizes available, Toro and Torpedo, each cigar is a super-premium masterpiece that deserves to be experienced firsthand. These cigars are a true testament to the art of hand-rolled cigars, offering a rich and indulgent smoking experience, especially enjoyable after a satisfying meal. The next time you open your humidor and discover these cigars, you’ll undoubtedly be filled with excitement, knowing that an exceptional and unforgettable smoking experience awaits.
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Size: 6” x 52
Strength: Full
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano
Binder & Filler: Nicaragua
Construction and Overall Appearance: The wrapper has a dark chocolate color which is even throughout. There are no soft spots, and the cap is well done.
Draw: Perfect.
Pre-light flavor: Wood, leather, spice.
Toasting & Light: Pepper, sweetness.
Base flavors: Oak, leather, dark chocolate, baking spices, earthiness.
Retrohale: N/A.
Aroma: Leather.
Burn / Ash Quality: Ideal with a dense, grey ash.
Balance of flavors: Spot-on.
Montecristo Nicaragua Cigar Review
Montecristo is one of the most iconic names in the cigar world, but let’s be honest: choosing a Montecristo can be confusing. There are at least a dozen versions of this line available in the U.S., and the styles range from very mild to quite full bodied to everything in between. Sometimes, there can be too many choices. This year, however, the choice was clear. The Montecristo Nicaragua Series Robusto was the most balanced and dynamic Montecristo we encountered in 2018.
The cigars are sold and distributed in the U.S. through Altadis U.S.A., a subsidiary of Tabacalera USA, which, in turn is owned by tobacco giant Imperial Brands PLC of Great Britain. While it may sound overly corporate, the people behind this brand are true cigar lovers with full understanding of the market, the industry and the reputation of a classic trademark like Montecristo.
The cigar is a new one, launched in the summer of 2018. Its blend is a collaboration between Rafael Nodal, head of product capability for Altadis U.S.A., and cigarmaker A.J. Fernandez, who makes quite a few brands for Altadis, including this one. The result is a fine cigar made in Nicaragua, and made solely from Nicaraguan tobacco.
The balance of this cigar is undeniable, medium to full in body, resonating with the fine qualities of chocolate-covered espresso beans, rich woods and dried fruit.
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Size: Robusto (5″ x 54)
Strength: Full
Wrapper/Binder/Filler: Nicaragua
Construction and Overall Appearance: Beautiful, copper-hued wrapper is silky and seamlessly rolled with a well-applied cap. Tobaccos are evenly-packed throughout, and the cigar has a nice feel and weight in the hand.
Draw: Perfect.
Pre-light flavor (cold draw): Sweet and leathery.
Toasting and Light: Hardly any resistance to flame, and the cigar virtually lit itself evenly across simply by blowing on the foot several times.
First few puffs: Earth, wood and peppery spice.
Retrohale: Black pepper, burnt caramel.
Base flavors: Earth, sweet spice, charred cedar, black pepper.
Aroma: Sharp with a subtle sweetness.
Burn / Ash Quality: Excellent. The burn is mostly even with a ripply carbon line. The ash is almost entirely gray color and forms a nice crown and cherry.
Balance of flavors: Excellent.
Conclusion about Montecristo cigars
Montecristo cigars stand out as a top choice for those who love a touch of luxury and quality in their cigars. Known worldwide for their excellent craftsmanship and the great blend of tobacco they use, Montecristo offers cigars that are rich in flavor. This brand keeps impressing cigar lovers with both their classic favorites and new offerings. Each Montecristo cigar, whether it’s from their regular line or the lighter Montecristo White Series, shows the brand’s focus on making quality cigars. The smooth taste and balance in each puff make smoking a Montecristo cigar a real treat.
The brand has a long history that adds to the enjoyment of smoking their cigars. Whether you’re new to cigars or you’ve been enjoying them for years, Montecristo has something special to offer. They’re not just about smoking; choosing a Montecristo cigar means choosing a lifestyle of elegance and taste. With a variety of options, including the best Montecristo cigar for many fans, the Montecristo White Series, and the classic Montecristo Habana cigar, there’s a lot to explore. Prices vary, from the more accessible Montecristo White Series cigar price to the premium Montecristo Habana cigar price, but each cigar promises quality. You can buy Montecristo cigars in boxes, making it easy to enjoy your favorites or share them with friends. So, when you’re looking to buy a Montecristo cigar, remember you’re getting more than just a cigar – you’re getting a premium smoking experience that’s been crafted with care and expertise.
Read also about: Ashton Cigars