Description
The Montecristo No. 2 is not merely a cigar; it is a global benchmark of excellence, often cited as the quintessential premium Cuban torpedo cigar by which all others are measured. Defined by its iconic Piramides vitola and a sophisticated medium-to-full-bodied profile, this masterpiece offers an evolving tapestry of flavors including creamy cedar, rich cocoa, roasted coffee, and exotic spice. Hand-rolled with precision at the legendary Partagás Factory in Havana, the No. 2 represents the pinnacle of Habanos craftsmanship, delivering a luxurious and balanced smoke that has captivated aficionados for nearly a century. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of Cuban vitolas, the Montecristo No. 2 stands as a mandatory inclusion in any well-curated humidor, promising a 55-to-90-minute ritual of unparalleled refinement.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Montecristo No. 2 Piramides | 10 Montecristo No. 2 Piramides |
| Packaging Type | Classic Habanos “Dress Box” (Labelled Box) | Compact “Dress Box” with Habanos Seals |
| Ideal For | Long-term aging and serious collectors | Gifting and short-term enjoyment |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar-lined for optimal moisture retention | Airtight seal with protective cedar dividers |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Piramides (Torpedo) |
| Length | 156 mm (6 1/8 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 52 |
| Wrapper | Cuban (Oily, toffee-colored, rustic) |
| Binder | Cuban |
| Filler | Cuban (Aged Vuelta Abajo blend) |
| Strength | Medium to Full-bodied |
| Body | Rich, creamy, and complex |
| Smoking Time | 55–90 minutes |
| Factory | Partagás Factory, Havana, Cuba |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
The Montecristo brand was founded in 1935 by Alonso Menéndez, who acquired the Particulares Factory and sought to create a new standard for Cuban luxury. The name was inspired by the classic novel *The Count of Monte Cristo* by Alexandre Dumas, which was a favorite among the *torcedores* (cigar rollers) who listened to the story being read aloud on the factory floor. This literary connection remains a symbol of the brand’s commitment to storytelling through the medium of tobacco, where every puff reveals a new chapter of flavor and history.
By the mid-20th century, Montecristo had become the most popular cigar brand in the world, a title it largely holds to this day. The Montecristo No. 2 is the crown jewel of the original “numbered” series. It survived the nationalization of the Cuban tobacco industry post-1960 and continues to be produced under the strict supervision of Habanos S.A.. Its legacy is cemented by its consistent critical acclaim, frequently earning scores as high as 96/100 in international publications and being favored by historical figures such as Winston Churchill, who appreciated its commanding presence and reliable construction.
The secret to its enduring success lies in the Vuelta Abajo region of Pinar del Río, where the world’s finest tobacco is grown. The Montecristo blend is unique for its balance; it manages to be powerful without being aggressive, and complex without being overwhelming. Today, the No. 2 is more than just a cigar—it is a cultural icon that represents the very soul of Havana’s cigar-making tradition.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The experience begins with a pre-light aroma of sweet hay, charred oak, and black licorice. Upon lighting, the Montecristo No. 2 greets the palate with a plush spiciness that quickly settles into a core of heavy cream and cedar. The initial draws are voluminous, carrying notes of strong espresso dusted with cinnamon and a surprising hint of sweet red bell pepper. This opening is remarkably smooth, setting a stage of medium strength that feels both sophisticated and accessible.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses into the middle third, the complexity intensifies. The creamy texture remains the backbone, but it is now joined by deeper notes of roasted cocoa, leather, and raisins. The cedar notes transform into a more robust charred meat and oak profile, providing a savory counterpoint to the underlying sweetness. The tapered head of the Piramides vitola concentrates these flavors, allowing for a precise delivery of nutmeg and cinnamon spices that tingle on the tongue without heat.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final act, the Montecristo No. 2 reaches its full medium-to-full-bodied potential. The flavors darken and deepen, moving toward earthy musk, tangy wood, and rich leather. The sweetness of the earlier thirds evolves into a mocha-like finish, while the spice profile shifts from baking spices to a more pronounced black pepper. Despite the intensity, the smoke remains cool and refined, never losing its balance even as it approaches the nub.
Finish
The finish is luscious, protracted, and elegantly coating. It leaves a lingering aftertaste of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and aged tobacco. It is a “splendiferous” conclusion that invites a moment of quiet reflection, staying with the smoker long after the cigar has been extinguished.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Cedar, Roasted Coffee, Rich Cream |
| Secondary Notes | Cocoa, Leather, Cinnamon, Nutmeg |
| Tertiary Notes | Black Licorice, Raisins, Red Bell Pepper, Charred Oak |
| Finish | Mocha, Earth, Tangy Wood |
| Aroma | Toffee, Sweet Hay, Spice, Aged Tobacco |
Aging and Collector Value
The Montecristo No. 2 is widely regarded as one of the best Cuban cigars for aging and long-term collection. Because of the density of the aged Vuelta Abajo filler and the specific Piramides shape, the oils within the tobacco require time to harmonize. While recent productions are extraordinary straight from the box, those with patience will be richly rewarded. Over time, the “edges” of the spice notes mellow, allowing the creaminess and floral sweetness to take center stage.
For the optimal experience, we recommend an aging period of 2 to 5 years in a temperature-controlled humidor. During this time, the cedar from the box will integrate with the wrapper, enhancing the woodsy notes. Collectors often look for “box codes” from specific years known for exceptional harvests. For storage, maintain a steady 70% relative humidity (RH) at 21°C (70°F). Whether stored in their original dress boxes or transferred to an airtight cabinet humidor, these cigars maintain their integrity and increase in value and flavor complexity as they mature.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Cuban Rum | The molasses sweetness of the rum perfectly complements the cocoa and raisin notes of the cigar. |
| Single Malt Scotch | A Highland or Speyside malt provides a honeyed backdrop that balances the No. 2’s cedar and spice. |
| Cognac (XO) | The deep fruit and oak profile of a fine Cognac mirrors the leather and earth tones of the final third. |
| Double Espresso | The bitterness of the coffee amplifies the roasted cocoa and mocha notes for a classic morning pairing. |
| Port Wine | A Tawny Port offers a nutty sweetness that highlights the nutmeg and cinnamon spices. |
| Sparkling Water with Lime | Cleanses the palate between draws, allowing the subtle nuances of the cream and hay to shine. |
Authenticity Verification
At our luxury boutique, we understand that purchasing a Montecristo No. 2 is an investment in quality. We guarantee the 100% authenticity of every stick and box in our humidor through the following Habanos S.A. standards:
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box features the official holographic seal with a unique barcode and hidden security elements visible only under UV light.
- Box Code Verification – Every shipment includes the factory code and date stamp on the bottom of the box, allowing for full traceability to its Havana origin.
- Factory Stamp – Look for the “Totalmente a Mano” (Totally by Hand) and “Tripa Larga” (Long Filler) hot-stamped seals.
- Triple Cap – Each No. 2 is finished with a traditional Cuban triple cap, a hallmark of master rollers that ensures a perfect draw and structural integrity.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015, we maintain the highest standards of provenance and storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Montecristo No. 2 taste like?
The Montecristo No. 2 is famous for its complex and evolving flavor profile. Initially, you will experience creamy cedar and light spice. As it burns, it develops into a rich mix of roasted coffee, cocoa, and leather, finishing with earthy notes and baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It is a balanced smoke that never feels overwhelming despite its richness.
How long does it take to smoke a Montecristo No. 2?
Due to its 52 ring gauge and 156 mm length, you should set aside 55 to 90 minutes for a full experience. Smoking it too quickly can cause the tapered head to overheat, which may turn the flavors bitter. A slow, rhythmic draw is essential to appreciate the transition of flavors across the three thirds.
Is the Montecristo No. 2 too strong for beginners?
While it is classified as medium-to-full-bodied, the Montecristo No. 2 is remarkably smooth. Beginners who have experience with lighter cigars will find it an excellent introduction to more complex Cuban blends. However, because of its size and the concentration of nicotine in the final third, we recommend enjoying it after a meal to fully appreciate its strength without discomfort.
How does the Montecristo No. 2 compare to a Cohiba Piramides Extra?
The Montecristo No. 2 is often considered more accessible and balanced, whereas the Cohiba Piramides Extra tends to be fuller-bodied with more pronounced “grassy” and “bean” notes characteristic of Cohiba’s third fermentation. The No. 2 is the classic choice for those who prefer creaminess and cocoa, while the Cohiba is a more intense, higher-priced alternative for those seeking maximum strength.
What is the best way to cut a Montecristo No. 2?
Because of its torpedo (Piramides) shape, the way you cut the No. 2 significantly impacts the draw. We recommend using a straight guillotine cutter and making a shallow cut at the tip. This allows you to control the concentration of smoke. If the draw is too tight, you can always cut a sliver more, but starting small preserves the cigar’s ability to concentrate flavors toward the palate.
