Description
The late afternoon sun painted the terrace of Club Havana in Geneva in golden hues as I settled into one of their leather armchairs overlooking Lake Geneva. I’d just finished a long day of meetings and wanted something approachable yet satisfying—something that wouldn’t overwhelm but would definitely deliver. The humidor curator smiled knowingly when I mentioned wanting a Cuban with character but not intensity, sliding the mahogany box toward me with a gentle “try this one.”
That was my introduction to the Montecristo Open Eagle, a cigar that’s become my go-to recommendation when friends ask about Cuban cigars that won’t knock them sideways. It’s part of Montecristo’s Open series, designed specifically for outdoor smoking and casual enjoyment.
Construction and Appearance
Right away, you notice the Open Eagle’s substantial presence. This isn’t a delicate lancero—it’s built like a small torpedo with serious intentions. The silky Colorado wrapper catches light beautifully, showing off that characteristic lighter tone that separates quality Cuban leaf from the imposters.
What impressed me most was the wrapper application. Perfect. Not a single crack or rough edge, with those telltale longitudinal veins running the length of the cigar. The triple cap was applied so precisely it looked machine-made, though I knew better. The body felt firm throughout—no soft spots or inconsistencies that make you wonder about the filler blend.
Two bands grace this beauty: the traditional Montecristo band we all recognize, plus a second golden band with “OPEN” lettering and the “Eagle” vitola designation. Honestly, it’s one of the more elegantly presented cigars in my rotation. The presentation alone tells you this is finestcigars territory.
Flavor Profile: A Journey in Three Acts
First Third: Gentle Introduction
The opening draws were pure elegance. Light-bodied earth and wood dominated, with just enough spice to keep things interesting. I picked up notes that reminded me of spiced Caribbean coffee—not the aggressive espresso you’d get from a Partagás, but something mellower. There were hints of chocolate and cedar weaving through the background, creating complexity without overwhelming the palate.
This is where the Open Eagle shows its genius. It doesn’t slap you with intensity right out of the gate. Instead, it invites you in, makes you comfortable, then gradually reveals its character.
Middle Third: The Heart of the Matter
Around the halfway point, everything shifted beautifully. The body moved into medium territory as nutty notes emerged—roasted almonds, maybe hazelnuts. Fresh grass and intensified earthiness created this wonderful outdoor smoking experience. The creamy coffee notes became more pronounced, joined by subtle caramel undertones that added sweetness without cloying.
This is where I typically pair it with a quality rum or aged whiskey. The flavors seemed designed for these combinations, though I’ve found that a well-made cortado works magnificently too.
Final Third: The Grand Finale
The final stretch delivered everything I love about well-aged Cuban tobacco. Balanced spice returned, but now it was accompanied by wood, cocoa, and surprising fruit notes. The creamy flavors persisted, now joined by sweet cream and a whisper of cinnamon. Cedar made another appearance, tying the whole experience together with classic Cuban character.
Even as the cigar burned down to the nub, it never turned harsh or bitter. That’s the mark of quality construction and proper aging.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 150mm (5.9 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 54 (21.43mm diameter) |
| Vitola | Geniales (Robusto Extra/Super Robusto format) |
| Strength | Light to Medium |
| Smoking Time | 60-90 minutes |
| Wrapper | Cuban Colorado |
Perfect Pairings
Given its mellow and savory profile, the Open Eagle pairs beautifully with a wide range of beverages. My personal favorite is a well-aged rum—something like Zacapa 23 or Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva. The rum’s sweetness complements the cigar’s creamy notes while the aged complexity matches the tobacco’s sophistication.
For whiskey lovers, I’d recommend a Highland single malt like Glenlivet 18 or Macallan 15. The whiskey’s oak influences play beautifully with the cigar’s wood and spice notes. If bourbon’s more your style, try something smooth like Blanton’s or Eagle Rare—the corn sweetness won’t fight with the tobacco.
Coffee enthusiasts shouldn’t overlook this pairing either. A quality Cuban coffee or a well-made cortado brings out those coffee notes in the second and third thirds magnificently. I’ve also had great success with port wine, particularly vintage tawny ports that echo the cigar’s nutty, caramel characteristics.
Cutting and Lighting
With that beautiful triple cap, you’ll want to use a quality cutter—I prefer a sharp guillotine cut about 2mm from the head. The 54 ring gauge gives you plenty of real estate to work with, so don’t be timid. A clean, confident cut prevents wrapper unraveling.
For lighting, take your time. This cigar rewards patience. Use a butane torch or cedar spills, never regular matches that can impart sulfur flavors. Toast the foot evenly, rotating slowly until the entire surface is glowing orange. The first few draws should be gentle—let the cigar establish its rhythm before settling into your normal smoking pace.
Given the 60-90 minute smoking time, you’ll want to pace yourself. This isn’t a cigar to rush through during a quick break. It’s designed for leisurely enjoyment, whether you’re on a golf course, terrace, or in a comfortable lounge.
Who Should Smoke This
The Open Eagle occupies a sweet spot in the Cuban cigar world. It’s approachable enough for relative newcomers who want authentic Cuban character without overwhelming strength, yet complex enough to satisfy experienced smokers looking for a mellow afternoon option.
I particularly recommend it for outdoor activities. The name isn’t just marketing—this really shines during golf, fishing, or any extended outdoor activity where you want a quality smoke that won’t demand constant attention. The construction is solid enough to handle a bit of movement without falling apart.
Business settings work well too. It’s sophisticated enough for client entertainment but won’t leave you or your guests struggling with intense nicotine. I’ve shared these during outdoor business dinners with great success.
If you’re someone who typically smokes full-bodied cigars, consider this for morning or early afternoon sessions. It provides complexity and satisfaction without the intensity of an Cohiba Esplendidos or Partagás Serie P No. 2.
Authenticity Guide
Unfortunately, Cuban cigars attract counterfeiters, and Montecristo is a frequent target. Here’s what to look for when you order authentic Open Eagles.
The wrapper should be that characteristic silky Colorado color with a lighter tone than you’d see on maduro cigars. The triple cap should be perfectly applied—fakes often show rough or poorly executed caps. The body should feel firm throughout with visible longitudinal veins running the length.
Pay special attention to the bands. Authentic Open Eagles have both the traditional Montecristo band and the second golden band with “OPEN” lettering and “Eagle” vitola designation. The printing should be sharp and clear, colors vibrant. Fakes often show poor printing quality or incorrect fonts.
Check the dress box for the Habanos Packing Code: CB-UW-C/L-10-n-20 on boxes of 20 cigars. This should be printed clearly, not smudged or crooked. When shopping online, stick to authorized retailers like those found through reputable Cuban cigar specialists who guarantee authenticity.
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Quality Cuban cigars command fair prices due to their production methods and aging requirements.
Storage and Aging
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the Open Eagle’s excellent construction and flavor profile. Like all Cuban cigars, store these at 70% relative humidity and 21°C (70°F) in a quality humidor. I’ve found they perform beautifully straight from proper storage, but they also age gracefully if you want to lay some down.
The quality construction means these cigars come ready to smoke, but six months to a year of additional aging can add complexity to the flavor profile. The woody and spice notes tend to meld beautifully with time, while the creamy characteristics become more pronounced.
If you’re new to Cuban cigar storage, invest in a quality humidor and reliable hygrometer. Poor storage can ruin even the finest cigars, turning that silky wrapper brittle or creating draw problems that destroy the smoking experience. For detailed guidance, check out these proven storage techniques that’ll keep your investment protected.
Monitor your humidor regularly, especially during seasonal changes when ambient humidity and temperature fluctuate. Consistent conditions are more important than perfect numbers—stability prevents the expansion and contraction that can crack wrappers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Open Eagle compare to other Montecristo vitolas?
The Open Eagle is distinctly mellower than traditional Montecristo offerings. While cigars like the Montecristo No. 2 deliver medium-full body with more intensity, the Open Eagle provides a more approachable experience. It maintains Montecristo’s characteristic quality and construction but in a format designed for casual, outdoor smoking. Think of it as Montecristo’s answer to golfers and terrace smokers who want authentic Cuban character without the commitment of a stronger cigar.
Is this suitable for beginners to Cuban cigars?
Absolutely. The light-to-medium strength makes this an excellent introduction to authentic Cuban tobacco. The flavor complexity will educate your palate without overwhelming it, and the consistent construction means you’re less likely to encounter the draw or burn issues that can frustrate newcomers. It’s forgiving enough for technique development while delivering the genuine Cuban experience that makes the learning curve worthwhile.
Can I smoke this indoors or is it really just for outdoor use?
While designed with outdoor smoking in mind, there’s nothing preventing indoor enjoyment in well-ventilated spaces. The “Open” designation refers more to the approachable flavor profile and casual smoking occasion than a requirement for outdoor use. I’ve enjoyed these in quality cigar lounges without issue. The key is having adequate ventilation and time to appreciate the 60-90 minute smoking duration properly.
How can I tell if my Open Eagle is properly aged and ready to smoke?
A properly conditioned Open Eagle should feel firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure—like a good loaf of bread. The wrapper should have a subtle sheen without being oily, and there should be no visible cracks or soft spots. When you smell the foot, you should detect pleasant tobacco aromas without any ammonia or harsh chemical scents that indicate insufficient aging. If stored properly at 70% humidity and 70°F, these cigars are typically ready to smoke upon purchase from a reputable store.
What’s the best time of day to enjoy this cigar?
The Open Eagle’s light-to-medium strength makes it versatile for various times, but I find it particularly excellent for afternoon smoking. It’s substantial enough for after-lunch enjoyment but won’t overpower your palate if you’re planning dinner afterward. Weekend morning sessions work beautifully too, especially with coffee pairings. The key is allowing the full 60-90 minutes for proper appreciation—this isn’t a quick smoke, so plan accordingly for whatever time you choose.
Understanding the nuances that separate quality Cuban tobacco from the rest helps appreciate why cigars like the Open Eagle command respect in the cigar world. For those interested in diving deeper into Cuban cigar production and history, the journey from Vuelta Abajo tobacco fields to finished product reveals the craftsmanship behind every quality smoke.
The Montecristo Open Eagle represents everything I value in Cuban cigars: authentic character, approachable strength, impeccable construction, and the flexibility to enhance rather than dominate any smoking occasion. Whether you’re expanding your Cuban cigar knowledge or seeking that perfect outdoor companion, this mellow cigar delivers satisfaction that justifies its place among the finestcigars in any humidor. For those ready to experience this exceptional smoke, swisscubancigars and other reputable sources ensure you’ll receive the authentic product that makes every moment count.
