Description
The Romeo y Julieta No. 2 Tubos stands as a quintessential emblem of Cuban cigar heritage, offering a sophisticated smoking experience that balances accessible refinement with the deep, storied complexity of the Vuelta Abajo region. As a classic Petit Corona (known in the factory as a Mareva), this medium-bodied masterpiece is designed for the discerning aficionado who demands both portability and prestige. Encased in an elegant, cedar-lined aluminum tube, the No. 2 is meticulously handcrafted to preserve its silky, slightly oily wrapper and delicate aromatic profile. From the first draw, the palate is greeted with a harmonious tapestry of Spanish cedar, toasted nuts, and floral sweetness, evolving into a rich core of espresso and dark cocoa. Whether enjoyed as a midday indulgence or a celebratory travel companion, the Romeo y Julieta No. 2 remains a benchmark of consistency and luxury in the world of Habanos.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 (Standard) | Box of 10 (Selection) |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Individual Tubos | 10 Individual Tubos |
| Packaging Type | Dress Box (Labelled Box) | Compact Hinge Box |
| Ideal For | Long-term aging and daily rotation | Gifting and trial collections |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar-lined aluminum tubes for stability | Cedar-lined aluminum tubes for stability |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Petit Corona (Marevas) |
| Length | 129 mm (5 1/8 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Wrapper | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo – Pinar del Río) |
| Binder | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuba (Tripa Larga – Long Filler) |
| Strength | Medium |
| Body | Medium-bodied |
| Smoking Time | 35–60 Minutes |
| Factory | Habanos S.A. |
| Brand Owner | Romeo y Julieta |
Brand Heritage
Founded in 1873 by Innocencio Alvarez and Mannin Garcia, Romeo y Julieta quickly rose to international prominence, winning numerous awards at tasting exhibitions—a legacy still honored by the gold medals adorning the brand’s iconic logo. However, it was under the stewardship of “Pepín” Fernández in the early 20th century that the brand became a global powerhouse. Fernández was a master of marketing and a devotee of the arts, naming the brand after Shakespeare’s famous tragedy and catering to the world’s elite, including the legendary Sir Winston Churchill, for whom the brand’s flagship size was eventually named.
The Romeo y Julieta No. 2 Tubos represents the “everyman’s luxury” within this prestigious portfolio. While the brand is famous for its massive Churchills and Wide Churchills, the No. 2 focuses on the Mareva vitola, arguably the most important shape in the Cuban repertoire. By utilizing the finest leaves from the Vuelta Abajo zone in Pinar del Río, the brand ensures a balanced, aromatic, and medium-bodied profile that has remained remarkably consistent for decades. This commitment to traditional Totalmente a Mano (totally handmade) techniques ensures that every No. 2 offers a piece of Cuban history in every puff.
Today, Romeo y Julieta is recognized as one of the “Global Brands” by Habanos S.A., sitting at the pinnacle of the cigar world. The No. 2 Tubos, in particular, has become a staple for collectors who appreciate the marriage of 19th-century craftsmanship and modern convenience. The aluminum tube is not merely for aesthetics; it serves as a protective micro-environment, allowing the cigar to continue its maturation process while shielded from the fluctuations of external humidity—a nod to the brand’s dedication to quality and the preservation of the smoker’s experience.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
Upon ignition, the Romeo y Julieta No. 2 opens with a refined and inviting bouquet. The initial draws are characterized by a bright cedar aroma and a gentle earthiness that serves as the foundation for the entire experience. There is an immediate presence of toasted almonds and a subtle floral sweetness that dances on the retrohale. The construction is evident in the smooth, effortless draw, producing thick, creamy clouds of smoke. As the burn line settles, a faint hint of vanilla bean emerges, tempering the natural spice of the Cuban tobacco and providing a sophisticated introduction to this medium-bodied journey.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses into the second third, the flavors deepen and the body rounds out beautifully. The cedar notes become more pronounced and “warmer,” while the profile introduces rich layers of freshly roasted coffee beans and creamy cocoa. The texture of the smoke becomes more velvety, and the floral notes from the opening transition into a more complex leather and sweet spice accord. This is the heart of the No. 2, where the balance between strength and aroma is most palpable. There is a consistent, clean burn, and the ash remains firm and light grey, a testament to the high-quality long-filler (Tripa Larga) construction.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final stages, the Romeo y Julieta No. 2 gains a pleasant intensity without ever becoming harsh. The dark chocolate notes become more bitter-sweet, and the spice profile shifts toward black pepper and dried herbs. A surprising and refreshing hint of cool mint may appear, providing a sharp contrast to the deepening earthy tones. The nicotine strength builds slightly to a solid medium, offering a satisfying “kick” that signals the conclusion of the smoke. The leather and wood notes linger on the palate, evolving into a robust finish that demands the smoker take their time with the final inch.
Finish
The finish of the No. 2 is remarkably clean and lingering. It leaves a sophisticated aftertaste of salted caramel and aged cedar. Unlike lesser cigars that can turn acidic in the finale, this Petit Corona maintains its integrity until the very end, leaving the smoker with a refined, slightly sweet memory of the Vuelta Abajo terroir. It is a graceful exit for a cigar that prides itself on balance and elegance.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Spanish Cedar, Roasted Coffee, Earth |
| Secondary Notes | Dark Cocoa, Toasted Almonds, Leather |
| Tertiary Notes | Vanilla, Wildflowers, Black Pepper, Mint |
| Finish | Clean, Wood-driven, Lingering Sweetness |
| Aroma | Rich Tobacco, Floral, Sweet Cedar |
Aging and Collector Value
The Romeo y Julieta No. 2 Tubos is a prime candidate for aging, thanks to its aluminum tube packaging. The tube creates a semi-sealed environment that slows down the evaporation of essential oils, leading to a slower, more graceful fermentation process. For the collector, “tubed” cigars often develop a unique “tube-aged” characteristic—a heightened floral and vanilla sweetness that is less pronounced in cabinet-selection cigars. While excellent straight from the box, these cigars reach their peak refinement after 2 to 5 years of proper storage.
When aging the No. 2, it is recommended to keep them at a steady 65-70% Relative Humidity (RH) and a temperature of 18-21°C (65-70°F). Many collectors choose to slightly unscrew the cap of the tube or remove the cap entirely when placing them in a long-term humidor to allow for minimal air exchange, though the cedar lining inside the tube will continue to impart its oils regardless. Over time, the initial “spicier” notes of the No. 2 will mellow into a buttery, caramel-like smoothness, making aged boxes highly sought after at auction and among connoisseurs who value vintage Cuban profiles.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Cuban Rum | The molasses sweetness of an 7-year-old rum complements the cigar’s cocoa and vanilla notes. |
| Speyside Single Malt | The honeyed, floral character of Speyside whiskies mirrors the No. 2’s aromatic sweetness. |
| Espresso | A short, intense coffee amplifies the roasted bean and earthy core of the middle third. |
| VSOP Cognac | The fruit and oak notes of a fine Cognac elevate the cedar and leather profile of the cigar. |
| Port Wine | A tawny port provides a nutty, dried-fruit backdrop that pairs excellently with the final third. |
| Sparkling Water | A palate cleanser that allows the subtle floral nuances of the Vuelta Abajo tobacco to shine. |
Authenticity Verification
At our luxury boutique, we understand that authenticity is the cornerstone of the Cuban cigar experience. Every Romeo y Julieta No. 2 we ship undergoes a rigorous multi-point inspection to ensure it meets the exacting standards of Habanos S.A.
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Every box features the official Habanos warranty seal with a unique barcode and a holographic image that reacts to light, verifying its origin.
- Box Code Verification – The underside of each box is hot-stamped with the factory code and the date of packaging, allowing for full traceability of the batch.
- Factory Stamp – Look for the “Hecho en Cuba” and “Totalmente a Mano” stamps, applied with traditional ink and specific typography unique to authentic Cuban production.
- Triple Cap – Each No. 2 is finished with a traditional Cuban triple cap, a hallmark of expert rollers that ensures a clean cut and a perfect draw.
Our Guarantee: We source our cigars exclusively through authorized Habanos distributors. If any cigar fails Habanos verification or does not meet your expectations of quality, we provide a full refund or replacement. Trusted by luxury collectors since 2015.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the “Tubos” version of the No. 2 different from the non-tubed version?
The primary difference lies in the preservation and aging process. The aluminum tube contains a thin cedar sleeve that protects the cigar from physical damage and helps maintain humidity during travel. Furthermore, the tube traps the natural oils of the tobacco, often resulting in a more aromatic and slightly sweeter flavor profile over time compared to cigars stored in an open dress box.
Is the Romeo y Julieta No. 2 suitable for beginners?
Yes, the No. 2 is widely considered one of the best “entry-point” cigars into the world of premium Cubans. Its medium strength and balanced flavors are approachable for those new to cigars, while its complexity ensures that experienced smokers remain engaged. It offers a classic “Cuban” profile without being overwhelmingly strong or spicy.
How long does it take to smoke a Romeo y Julieta No. 2?
Given its 42 ring gauge and 129mm length, the No. 2 typically offers a smoking time of 35 to 60 minutes. This makes it an ideal “lunchtime” cigar or a perfect choice for a shorter evening session where you want a full flavor experience without the time commitment of a larger Churchill or Double Corona.
How does the No. 2 compare to the Romeo y Julieta No. 1 and No. 3?
The No. 2 is the middle child of the “No.” series. The No. 1 is a longer Corona (140mm), offering a slightly cooler and longer smoke. The No. 3 is a shorter Coronitas (117mm), ideal for a quick 20-30 minute break. The No. 2 (129mm) is often cited as the “Goldilocks” of the range, offering the most balanced ratio of length to ring gauge for the Romeo y Julieta blend.
