Description
Experience the iconic Montecristo No. 4, the world’s best-selling Cuban cigar in the Petit Corona vitola. This medium-bodied masterpiece delivers a symphony of creamy and spicy notes, beginning with earthy undertones and evolving into a complex blend of cedar, cocoa, and spice. The Montecristo No. 4 is the perfect introduction to the legendary flavors of Cuban tobacco, offering a balanced and satisfying smoke that embodies the heritage and craftsmanship of one of the most prestigious names in the cigar world.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 10 |
|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 10 |
| Packaging Type | Dress Box |
| Ideal For | Gifting, Sampling, Personal Enjoyment |
| Humidity Protection | Excellent – Cedar Lined Box |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Marevas (Petit Corona) |
| Length | 129mm (5 ⅛ inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Wrapper | Cuban Tobacco (Chocolate-Brown) |
| Binder | Premium Vuelta Abajo, Cuba |
| Filler | Premium Vuelta Abajo, Cuba |
| Strength | Medium to Medium-Full |
| Body | Medium |
| Smoking Time | 30-45 minutes |
| Factory | Cuba |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
Since its founding in 1935, Montecristo has stood as a beacon of excellence in the world of Cuban cigars. Inspired by Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo,” the brand quickly rose to prominence, captivating aficionados with its consistently high quality and meticulously crafted blends. The numbered series, including the iconic No. 4, became synonymous with the brand’s signature flavor profile and unwavering commitment to tradition.
Montecristo’s enduring legacy is a testament to its dedication to using only the finest tobacco from the Vuelta Abajo region of Cuba, renowned for its rich soil and ideal climate. Each cigar is hand-rolled by skilled artisans, ensuring impeccable construction and a consistently satisfying smoking experience. For nearly a century, Montecristo has remained a symbol of prestige and sophistication, sought after by discerning smokers around the globe.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The Montecristo No. 4 begins with a smooth and inviting introduction, offering a creamy texture and subtle notes of wood, damp earth, and a hint of floral sweetness. The initial aromas are grounded and comforting, setting the stage for the complex flavors to come. A delicate nutmeg spice adds a touch of intrigue to the opening, creating a well-rounded and harmonious start.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses, the flavor profile deepens and expands, revealing a rich tapestry of cedar, pepper, coffee bean, and cocoa. The earthiness intensifies, providing a solid foundation for the emergence of sweet honey and roasted almond nuances. A subtle cinnamon spice adds warmth and complexity, creating a captivating interplay of flavors that dance on the palate.
Final Third – The Crescendo
The final third of the Montecristo No. 4 culminates in a sweet, spicy, and creamy conclusion. The pepper notes become more pronounced, adding a pleasant kick to the finish. The cocoa and coffee flavors linger, complemented by the persistent sweetness of honey and almond. The overall experience is one of balanced intensity, leaving a lasting impression of refined pleasure.
Finish
The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering sweetness and a subtle spice that warms the palate. Notes of cocoa and coffee persist, creating a pleasant aftertaste that invites contemplation. The overall impression is one of elegance and sophistication, a fitting end to a truly exceptional smoking experience.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Cocoa, Coffee, Cream |
| Secondary Notes | Cedar, Nut, Earth |
| Tertiary Notes | Cinnamon, Honey, Spice |
| Finish | Sweet, Spicy, Creamy |
| Aroma | Wood, Earth, Floral, Nutmeg |
Aging and Collector Value
The Montecristo No. 4 possesses excellent aging potential, rewarding patient collectors with enhanced complexity and refinement. While the two-year factory aging ensures the cigar is enjoyable upon purchase, allowing it to rest in a humidor for a minimum of three years unlocks its full potential. Over time, the flavors meld and deepen, the harsh edges soften, and the overall smoking experience becomes smoother and more nuanced.
With proper storage in a humidor maintained at 65-72% relative humidity and 65-70°F, the Montecristo No. 4 can be cellared for many years, developing greater depth and character. The creamy notes become more pronounced, the spice mellows, and the underlying sweetness intensifies. Collectors appreciate the opportunity to witness the evolution of this iconic cigar, transforming it into a truly exceptional and personalized smoking experience.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Cuban Coffee | The rich, bold flavors of Cuban coffee complement the cocoa and coffee notes in the cigar, creating a harmonious and satisfying pairing. |
| Aged Rum | The sweetness and spice of aged rum enhance the cigar’s creamy texture and subtle spice, creating a luxurious and indulgent experience. |
| Single Malt Whisky | The complex flavors of single malt whisky, with its notes of peat, smoke, and fruit, add depth and intrigue to the cigar’s profile. |
| Cognac | The smooth, mellow character of cognac complements the cigar’s creamy texture and subtle sweetness, creating a sophisticated and elegant pairing. |
| Dark Chocolate | The bitterness of dark chocolate balances the cigar’s sweetness and spice, creating a decadent and satisfying treat. |
| Spiced Beer | A spiced beer will compliment the spice notes found in the cigar. |
Authenticity Verification
We understand the importance of authenticity when purchasing premium Cuban cigars. That’s why we guarantee the authenticity of every Montecristo No. 4 we sell. Look for these key indicators to ensure you’re receiving a genuine Habanos product:
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box bears the official Habanos holographic seal, a tamper-evident sticker with unique serial numbers that can be verified on the Habanos S.A. website.
- Box Code Verification – The box is stamped with a unique factory code that identifies the origin and date of production. This code can be used to verify the authenticity of the cigar.
- Factory Stamp – The underside of the box features a factory stamp, indicating the specific manufacturing facility where the cigars were produced.
- Triple Cap – Authentic Montecristo cigars feature a meticulously applied triple cap, a sign of superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.
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
Is the Montecristo No. 4 a good cigar for beginners?
While Montecristo is a premium brand, the No. 4’s medium body and relatively short smoking time make it a good introduction to the world of Cuban cigars for those new to the experience. Its balanced flavors and consistent construction provide a satisfying and approachable smoke.
How long should I age a Montecristo No. 4?
While enjoyable fresh, the Montecristo No. 4 benefits from aging. We recommend a minimum of three years to allow the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a smoother and more complex smoking experience. Five to ten years of aging can further enhance its character.
What is the difference between the Montecristo No. 4 and other sizes in the numbered series?
The Montecristo No. 4 is a Petit Corona, offering a shorter smoking time and a more concentrated flavor profile compared to the larger sizes in the numbered series, such as the No. 1 and No. 3. While all share the brand’s signature flavors, the No. 4 provides a more accessible and convenient option for those seeking a quick yet satisfying smoke.
What is the best way to store Montecristo No. 4 cigars?
To preserve the delicate flavors and aroma of your Montecristo No. 4 cigars, store them in a humidor maintained at 65-72% relative humidity and 65-70°F. This will prevent the cigars from drying out and ensure they age properly, developing greater complexity and nuance over time.
