Montecristo No. 1

HISTORY

Montecristo is the best known and probably the most appreciated brand of Havanas throughout the world. It forms the benchmark for many Havana smokers against which other brands are judged.

The name comes from Alexandre Dumas’ famous novel ‘The Count of Montecristo’, which was a firm favourite when read to the Torcedoras (cigar rollers) at the factory where it was founded in 1935.

The original Montecristo range of sizes was composed of a narrow assortment numbered from 1 to 5. Today it consists of a wide variety of vitolas to cover every level of the cigar enthusiast’s needs.

2009 saw the introduction of a new Series, Montecristo Open, consisting of four sizes blended to a lighter flavour than other sizes in Montecristo’s range and aimed at a new generation of smokers who enjoy the pleasures of outdoor pursuits.

More recently, the 2017 addition of La Linea 1935 provided a welcome full-flavoured option for the brand’s many admirers.

Whether it is within the classic medium-to-full line, the lighter Open Series, or the newer, more powerful Linea 1935, Montecristo’s perfectly balanced blends are all created exclusively with selected filler and binder leaves from the Vuelta Abajo zone, home of the finest tobaccos in the world.

All sizes are ‘tripa larga, totalmente a mano’ – long filler, totally handmade.

The lead size of Montecristo when it was introduced in 1935. The standard bearer for the medium to full, tangy taste that conquered the world. A treasure for the cognoscenti of Havana cigars.

TASTING NOTES

An elegant Lonsdale format with a Medium-to-Full-bodied smoke that delivers the classic Montecristo blend. The cigar is defined by rich earth, dark roasted espresso, and a dominant tangy black pepper spice. As it develops, subtle notes of sweet cedar, vanilla cream, and leather emerge.

This cigar pairs best with spirits, such as an XO Cognac, aged Rum, or a strong, clean Oolong or Pu-erh Tea.

CIGAR INFORMATION

Country of Origin: Cuba

Flavour profile: Medium to Full-bodied

Vitola: Cervantes/Lonsdale

Size: 42 ring gauge, 6 1/2 inches

Smoking time: 45 minutes