Description
Experience the pinnacle of Cuban cigar craftsmanship with the Montecristo 80 Aniversario, a limited-edition Double Edmundo vitola celebrating eight decades of unparalleled excellence. This medium-to-full-bodied masterpiece, measuring a generous 6 1/2 inches with a 55 ring gauge, delivers a symphony of sophisticated flavors, evolving from sweet floral hints to bold spice and earthy depth. Indulge in a smoking experience that embodies the legacy of Montecristo, a true treasure for the discerning aficionado.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 20 |
|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 20 |
| Packaging Type | Lacquered Wood Box |
| Ideal For | Collectors, Special Occasions, Extended Enjoyment |
| Humidity Protection | Excellent (when properly stored) |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Double Edmundo |
| Length | 165 mm (6 1/2 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 55 |
| Wrapper | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Binder | Cuban |
| Filler | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo, Tripa Larga) |
| Strength | Medium to Full |
| Body | Medium to Full |
| Smoking Time | 90-120 minutes |
| Factory | Cuban State Production (Habanos S.A.) |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
Founded in 1935, Montecristo quickly rose to prominence, becoming synonymous with premium Cuban cigars. The brand’s name, inspired by Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel *The Count of Monte Cristo*, reflects a commitment to storytelling and a rich, layered experience.
Originating in Havana’s H. Upmann factory, Montecristo cigars were initially crafted to satisfy the refined tastes of discerning smokers. The brand’s signature blend, meticulously composed of the finest tobaccos from the Vuelta Abajo region, delivers a consistently balanced and flavorful smoke. Over the decades, Montecristo has evolved into a global icon, beloved by connoisseurs for its unwavering commitment to quality and its embodiment of Cuban craftsmanship.
The Montecristo 80 Aniversario is a testament to this storied legacy. Released in 2016 to commemorate the brand’s 80th anniversary, this limited-edition cigar showcases the very best of Cuban tobacco and the artistry of Habanos S.A. With its unprecedented size and exclusive Vuelta Abajo blend, the 80 Aniversario stands as a fitting tribute to Montecristo’s enduring appeal.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The initial puffs of the Montecristo 80 Aniversario offer a welcoming introduction, delivering a medium-bodied smoke with enticing notes of woodsiness, earthiness, and a delicate creaminess. Subtle hints of waffle cones and acorns add a touch of sweetness, complemented by the comforting aroma of burning woods. A pleasing tartness dances on the palate, intertwined with nuances of malt, coffee, vanilla, and a gentle spice.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses, the body and strength intensify, reaching a satisfying medium. The earthiness deepens, accompanied by richer notes of coffee and a subtle black pepper that begins to emerge. A luscious vanilla creaminess envelops the palate, while the sweetness diminishes slightly, giving way to the emergence of crème brûlée notes.
Final Third – The Crescendo
The final third of the Montecristo 80 Aniversario marks a shift towards a bolder and more intense experience. The sweetness fades completely, replaced by a pronounced woodiness and earthiness. The pepper escalates, creating a spicy backend that lingers on the palate. While some may experience a touch of harshness, the dominant flavors remain consistent, delivering a powerful and memorable conclusion.
Finish
The finish of the Montecristo 80 Aniversario is deeply gratifying, leaving a spicy and elegant linger that speaks to the cigar’s sophistication. The aftertaste is complex and nuanced, inviting you to savor the lingering flavors and aromas long after the final puff.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Earth, Wood, Coffee |
| Secondary Notes | Vanilla, Spice, Cocoa |
| Tertiary Notes | Caramel, Crème brûlée, Floral Hints |
| Finish | Spicy, Elegant, Lingering |
| Aroma | Floral, Sweet, Cinnamon |
Aging and Collector Value
The Montecristo 80 Aniversario possesses excellent aging potential, making it a prized addition to any collector’s humidor. While early samples may exhibit a touch of initial harshness, time will work its magic, refining the cigar’s strength and balancing the peppery intensity into a smoother and more elegant profile.
Optimal aging for the Montecristo 80 Aniversario ranges from 2 to 5+ years. During this period, the cigar’s creaminess will enhance, the pepper dominance will subside, and the overall complexity will elevate. Floral aromas, reminiscent of older Cuban cigars, will become more pronounced, further enhancing the smoking experience. Proper storage is crucial to preserving the cigar’s opulent gold-banded presentation and ensuring optimal aging. Maintain a humidity level of 65-72% and a temperature of 65-70°F within a lacquered wood box.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Dark Rum | The vanilla and malt notes in aged rum create a delightful synergy with the cigar’s earthy spice and subtle sweetness. |
| Peaty Scotch Whisky | The peaty character of Scotch complements the cigar’s peppery notes and woody undertones, creating a harmonious and complex pairing. |
| Bourbon Whiskey | The caramel and vanilla notes in bourbon enhance the cigar’s sweetness and creaminess, while the bourbon’s spice adds a touch of warmth. |
| Strong Black Coffee | The bold coffee notes in the cigar are amplified by a strong black coffee, creating a rich and stimulating pairing. |
| VSOP Cognac | The caramel and crème brûlée notes in VSOP Cognac harmonize beautifully with the cigar’s similar flavors, creating a luxurious and decadent experience. |
| Milk Stout | The chocolate and coffee notes in a milk stout complement the cigar’s cocoa and coffee flavors, creating a smooth and satisfying pairing. |
Authenticity Verification
We understand the importance of authenticity when purchasing premium Cuban cigars. That’s why we guarantee the authenticity of every Montecristo 80 Aniversario we offer. Each cigar undergoes rigorous inspection to ensure it meets the highest standards of Habanos S.A.
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box features the official Habanos holographic seal, a key indicator of authenticity. This seal is difficult to replicate and provides a visual assurance of the cigar’s origin.
- Box Code Verification – Verify the authenticity of your box using the unique code printed on the bottom. This code can be checked against the Habanos S.A. database.
- Factory Stamp – Look for the factory stamp, indicating the origin and date of production. This stamp is a hallmark of genuine Cuban cigars.
- Triple Cap – Authentic Cuban cigars, including the Montecristo 80 Aniversario, feature a meticulously applied triple cap, demonstrating the skill and attention to detail of the rollers.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ring gauge and length of the Montecristo 80 Aniversario?
The Montecristo 80 Aniversario is a Double Edmundo vitola, measuring 165 mm (6 1/2 inches) in length with a 55 ring gauge. This large format allows for an extended and luxurious smoking experience.
Is the Montecristo 80 Aniversario medium or full strength?
The Montecristo 80 Aniversario is considered a medium-to-full-bodied cigar. It offers a balanced smoking experience with a gradual increase in strength throughout the smoke.
How many Montecristo 80 Aniversario cigars were produced?
The Montecristo 80 Aniversario was a limited-edition release, with a total production of 30,000 boxes of 20 cigars (600,000 total cigars). This limited availability makes it a highly sought-after cigar among collectors.
Does the Montecristo 80 Aniversario age well?
Yes, the Montecristo 80 Aniversario has excellent aging potential. With proper storage in a humidor, the cigar’s flavors will evolve and mature over time, resulting in a smoother and more complex smoking experience. We recommend aging for 2-5+ years to fully appreciate its potential.
