Montecristo Especial No. 2

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.

Another vitola that Montecristo shares with Cohiba. Slender ring gauges may not be in vogue these days, but 38 is sufficient to house the full Montecristo blend in a dapper shape.

TASTING NOTES

The smaller brother of the Especial, it has similar dominant notes of dark espresso, sweet cedar, and a sharp, tangy black pepper spice. The smoke is highly aromatic, evolving into notes of creamy vanilla bean, cocoa, and aged leather.

Due to its concentrated intensity and rich spice, the Especial No. 2 pairs perfectly with elegant, clean spirits that can handle its power, such as a High-Proof Añejo Rum, a rich VSOP Cognac, or a Robust Espresso.

CIGAR INFORMATION

Country of Origin: Cuba

Flavour profile: Medium to Full-bodied

Vitola: Laguito No. 2

Size: 38 ring gauge, 6 inches

Smoking time: 30 minutes