Description
Indulge in the timeless elegance of the Montecristo A, a Gran Corona vitola that stands as a testament to Cuban cigar mastery. This medium-bodied puro, handcrafted from the finest Vuelta Abajo tobacco, offers a luxurious smoking experience marked by its signature creamy smoothness, evolving notes of cedar and leather, and a refined sweetness that will captivate the most discerning aficionado. A true icon of Havana, the Montecristo A promises an unforgettable journey through layers of exquisite flavor.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 | 10 |
| Packaging Type | Dress Box | Dress Box |
| Ideal For | Collectors, Celebratory Occasions, Extended Enjoyment | Gifting, Sampling, Special Moments |
| Humidity Protection | Spanish Cedar Lining | Spanish Cedar Lining |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Gran Corona “A” |
| Length | 235 mm (9 1/4 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 47 |
| Wrapper | Cuba Vuelta Abajo |
| Binder | Cuba |
| Filler | Cuba (long-aged Vuelta Abajo leaves) |
| Strength | Medium |
| Body | Medium |
| Smoking Time | 55-60 minutes |
| Factory | H. Upmann Factory, Havana, Cuba |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
Born in 1935, Montecristo quickly ascended to become one of the most recognized and respected names in the world of premium Cuban cigars. Founded by Alonso Menéndez, the brand drew inspiration from Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel, *The Count of Monte Cristo*, a tale of adventure, intrigue, and refined taste. This literary connection reflects the spirit of the brand: offering a sophisticated escape and an enduring symbol of Cuban excellence.
Montecristo’s legacy is deeply intertwined with Cuba’s golden age of cigar-making. Following the 1959 revolution, the brand continued to flourish, perfecting its blends using only the most select tobacco leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region. This unwavering commitment to quality has solidified Montecristo’s position as an official supplier to luxury markets worldwide, embodying the preeminent prestige of Havana cigars.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The Montecristo A commences with a creamy and smooth introduction, immediately showcasing its refined character. Dominant flavors of cedar and honey intertwine with the delicate sweetness of toasted almonds and a subtle hint of light pepper. An initial toastiness adds warmth, while gentle notes of cocoa and coffee begin to emerge, setting the stage for the cigar’s evolving complexity.
Second Third – The Heart
As the Montecristo A progresses, its heart reveals a more pronounced depth. The profile builds in complexity, with the emergence of leather and a subtle array of spices. The earthiness becomes more noticeable, complemented by a rich nutty character. The foundational notes of cedar and caramel sweetness intensify, balanced by the consistent creaminess that defines this exceptional cigar.
Final Third – The Crescendo
The final third of the Montecristo A deepens into a richer and more intense experience. The sweetness evolves into a molasses-like character, complemented by robust notes of coffee and a chewy earthiness. A lingering pepper provides a pleasant warmth, culminating in a savory and satisfying finish that leaves a lasting impression.
Finish
The finish of the Montecristo A is clean and lingering, characterized by a harmonious blend of leather and sweetness. A creamy and nutty afterglow ensures a smooth and refined experience. The cigar’s medium strength ensures that the flavors remain balanced, without any harshness, leaving a delightful memory on the palate.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Cedar, Leather, Cocoa |
| Secondary Notes | Coffee, Toasted Almonds, Honey |
| Tertiary Notes | Spices (Pepper, Cinnamon), Earth, Caramel |
| Finish | Lingering Leather and Sweetness |
| Aroma | Cedar-forward with Woody Pepper or Mellow Honey |
Aging and Collector Value
The Montecristo A possesses exceptional aging potential, transforming its already refined profile into one of profound depth and complexity. With proper cellaring, this cigar rewards the patient collector with an enhanced creaminess and a nuanced evolution of flavors. The youthful cedar and spice notes mellow over time, giving way to richer cocoa, leather, and sweet earth tones.
For optimal harmony, an aging period of 2-5 years is recommended, although the Montecristo A is enjoyable even when smoked fresh. Longer aging periods (5-10 years) can unlock a vintage-like elegance, adding further layers of complexity and refinement. To preserve the cigar’s oils and prevent drying, store it in a humidity-controlled humidor at 65-70% relative humidity and 65-70°F (18-21°C), ideally with Spanish cedar lining.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Cuban Rum (e.g., Havana Club 7 Años) | The rum’s inherent sweetness and notes of leather and oak complement the cigar’s profile, creating a harmonious and enriching experience. |
| Single Malt Scotch (Peaty Islay) | The peaty character of Islay Scotch provides a contrasting spice that balances the cigar’s creamy sweetness, adding a layer of complexity to the pairing. |
| Bourbon | The caramel and vanilla notes in bourbon create a synergistic pairing with the Montecristo A, enhancing its inherent sweetness and providing a smooth, complementary finish. |
| Espresso | The bold, dark roast flavors of espresso mirror the cocoa and coffee notes in the cigar, creating a robust and satisfying combination. |
| VSOP Cognac (e.g., Hennessy) | The nutty and oaky flavors of VSOP Cognac harmonize beautifully with the cigar’s creamy texture and subtle spice, creating a luxurious and well-balanced pairing. |
| Dark Roast Coffee | The roasted notes and slight bitterness of a dark roast coffee cut through the cigar’s creaminess, enhancing the earthier notes and providing a balanced, palate-cleansing effect. |
Authenticity Verification
We understand the importance of authenticity when purchasing premium Cuban cigars. That’s why we guarantee the authenticity of every Montecristo A we sell. Look for these key indicators to ensure you’re receiving a genuine Habanos product:
- Habanos Holographic Seal – A genuine Habanos cigar box will have a holographic seal on the left side, featuring a unique serial number. This seal is difficult to replicate and is a primary indicator of authenticity.
- Box Code Verification – Each box of authentic Habanos cigars is stamped with a unique factory code. This code can be verified through Habanos S.A.’s official website or authorized retailers to confirm the origin and authenticity of the cigars.
- Factory Stamp – The factory where the cigars were produced will leave an embossed stamp on the bottom of the box. This stamp indicates the origin and production date of the cigars, providing further assurance of their authenticity.
- Triple Cap – Authentic Cuban cigars, including the Montecristo A, feature a meticulously applied triple cap. This intricate detail is a hallmark of Cuban craftsmanship and is difficult to replicate on counterfeit cigars.
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 does the Montecristo A taste like?
The Montecristo A offers a complex flavor profile that evolves throughout the smoking experience. It begins with creamy notes of cedar, honey, and toasted almonds, progressing to include leather, cocoa, and subtle spices. The finish is characterized by a lingering sweetness and a hint of earthiness.
How long does it take to smoke a Montecristo Gran Corona A?
Due to its generous size (9 1/4 inches in length), the Montecristo A offers an extended smoking time of approximately 55-60 minutes. This allows for a leisurely and immersive experience, perfect for savoring the cigar’s complex flavors.
Is the Montecristo A a good cigar for beginners?
While the Montecristo A is a premium cigar appreciated by seasoned aficionados, its smooth, medium-bodied profile makes it accessible to beginners who are looking to explore the world of Cuban cigars. However, its larger size and longer smoking time may be better suited for those with some prior cigar experience.
How should I store my Montecristo A cigars?
To preserve the quality and flavor of your Montecristo A cigars, it is essential to store them in a humidity-controlled humidor. Maintain a relative humidity of 65-70% and a temperature of 65-70°F (18-21°C). Using a humidor with Spanish cedar lining will further enhance the aging process and protect the cigars from drying out.
