Romeo y Julieta No. 2

Description

Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers lend their names to one of Cuba’s most recognized brands, and the No. 2 represents the entry point to the Romeo experience. In the classic Mareva format—arguably the most popular vitola in the entire Habanos portfolio—this cigar delivers refined Cuban character in a half-hour package. Since transitioning from machine to hand-rolled production in 2002, the No. 2 has earned its place as a go-to smoke for those who appreciate elegance over brute strength.

The Smoking Experience

First Third: The No. 2 opens with characteristic Romeo refinement. Floral notes appear immediately—delicate, almost perfumed, like walking past a tobacconist’s open window. Herbal undertones provide depth while a spicy pepper kick announces the Cuban tobacco’s presence. The smoke is light and creamy from the first draw, coating the palate without overwhelming. Cedar emerges as the dominant wood note, clean and inviting. There’s sweetness here too, hints of caramel developing on the finish. The body sits comfortably at light-to-medium, approachable and unpretentious.

Mid-Section: The heart of the cigar mellows beautifully. That opening spice softens into background warmth while cedar takes center stage. Leather appears, supple and refined rather than tannic. Coffee notes develop—not espresso intensity, more café au lait creaminess. The signature Romeo florals persist, threading through the profile like a recurring musical theme. Nuts emerge: almonds, perhaps cashews, with a marzipan sweetness that plays against the wood. This middle passage showcases why Romeo y Julieta built its reputation on finesse rather than power.

Final Third: The finish maintains the cigar’s composed character. Wood and earth gain prominence without becoming harsh. A touch more pepper returns, providing welcome contrast to the prevailing smoothness. Cocoa undertones appear in the final inch, bittersweet and satisfying. The cream and sweetness from earlier persist through the last draws. There’s no nicotine punch here, no sudden strength escalation—just consistent, refined flavor delivered until you set it down.

Flavor Profile

A Legacy of Romance

Romeo y Julieta was established in 1875 by Inocencio Alvarez and Manin Garcia, who chose Shakespeare’s immortal lovers as their emblem. The brand became synonymous with quality and elegance, famously favored by Winston Churchill (who has his own vitola in the line). For over a century, Romeo has represented the gentler, more aromatic side of Cuban cigar making—tobacco poetry rather than tobacco power. The factory produces one of the largest portfolios in the Habanos catalog, yet the No. 2 remains the gateway for countless new enthusiasts discovering what Cuban cigars can offer.

Perfect Pairings

• Champagne: Brut Rosé—its berry notes and acidity complement the cigar’s florals while the bubbles refresh the palate.
• Whisky: Speyside single malt like Glenfiddich 12 or Glenlivet—honey and apple notes that echo the cigar’s sweetness without competing.
• Coffee: Medium-roast Costa Rican or Guatemalan, bright and clean, matching the cigar’s refined character.
• Tea: Earl Grey—the bergamot complements the floral notes beautifully.

Ideal For

The Romeo y Julieta No. 2 fits anywhere a thirty-minute window exists. It’s the lunch break cigar, the pre-dinner smoke, the companion to afternoon coffee. Beginners will find it supremely approachable—no harsh learning curve here—while experienced smokers will appreciate a change of pace from heavier fare. The elegant aluminum tube makes it travel-ready and gift-appropriate. This isn’t the cigar to impress power-hungry guests; it’s the one to share with someone who appreciates subtlety. Keep a tube in your jacket pocket for those unexpected moments when the day offers a brief reprieve and you want to spend it well.

Smoker’s Note: The 42 ring gauge means this cigar demands a patient pace. Rush it and you’ll generate heat that masks the delicate flavors. Treat it gently, draw slowly, and let the Romeo romance unfold.