Description
The Havana sunset painted everything in warm amber tones that evening as I sat on the terrace, fingers drumming against the worn leather of my humidor. Inside waited something I’d been anticipating for months – a single stick from a limited collection that had captured the imagination of aficionados worldwide. The Romeo y Julieta Capuletos Edición Limitada 2016 lay there like a promise of the perfect evening ahead.
I’d first heard whispers about this particular release at a small cigar shop in Miami, where the owner spoke in hushed tones about a special Romeo y Julieta that honored Shakespeare’s tragic heroine. The fact that this limited edition was launched in Verona – the very city where Romeo and Juliet’s story unfolded – gave it an almost mythical quality that goes beyond typical cigar releases.
What struck me immediately was how this wasn’t just another addition to the endless release list of Cuban cigars. This was something different. The Capuletos represented a continuation of the brand’s literary heritage, honoring the surname that inspired Romeo y Julieta’s creation back in 1875. In a world where many cigars from Cuba follow predictable patterns, this one felt like it had a story worth telling.
Technical Specifications
| Format | Sobresaliente |
| Length | 6.0 inches (153mm) |
| Ring Gauge | 53 |
| Strength | Medium to Medium-Full |
| Smoking Time | Approximately 60 minutes |
| Wrapper | Warm brown Cuban leaf |
| Box Count | 25 cigars |
Flavor Profile: A Journey in Three Acts
Like any proper theatrical performance, the Capuletos unfolds in distinct acts, each revealing new layers of complexity. The first third begins with what I can only describe as a refined welcome – subtle spices dancing alongside hints of cedar and a multi-grain scent that reminds me of walking through aged tobacco warehouses.
During these opening minutes, there’s a delicate medium bodied character that sets the tone perfectly. It’s not aggressive or demanding attention like some stronger Cuban cigars. Instead, the Capuletos begins with grace, offering layered notes that include a gentle earthiness complemented by the sweet undertones that Romeo y Julieta is known for. The flavor builds gradually, never overwhelming but always evolving.
The middle third is where this cigar truly reveals its pedigree. The cedar notes become more pronounced, joined by leather characteristics that speak to the quality of the Cuban tobacco. There’s a beautiful balance here – the cigar is complex without being chaotic. I’ve found that this section develops a wonderful spice profile that varies depending on your smoking pace, rewarding those who take their time with additional nuances.
In the final third, the Capuletos reaches its crescendo. The strength builds to medium-full territory while maintaining the refined character established from the beginning. Earth tones become more prominent, creating a complex bouquet that includes deeper leather notes and a lingering spice finish. It’s during these final draws that you understand why this particular Romeo y Julieta earned its place as a limited edition.
Construction and Craftsmanship
The warm brown wrapper immediately catches your attention – it’s the color of aged cognac with an oily sheen that speaks to proper fermentation and aging. Running my fingers along the length, the texture is smooth with just enough tooth to indicate quality tobacco from the renowned Vuelta Abajo region.
What impressed me most was the consistency of the construction. Each cigar I’ve smoked from my box has shown the same attention to detail – no soft spots, even density throughout, and a cap that cuts cleanly without unraveling. The draw has been consistently excellent, providing just enough resistance to concentrate the flavors without requiring excessive effort.
The ash builds steadily and holds well, forming in light gray segments that speak to the quality of the tobacco blend. I’ve rarely had issues with burn correction, though like any premium Cuban cigar, the Capuletos rewards proper humidification and careful lighting technique.
Who Should Consider This Cigar
Honestly, the Capuletos isn’t a beginner’s cigar, though it’s not intimidatingly strong either. I’d recommend it for someone who’s already comfortable with medium-strength Cuban cigars and is looking to explore more complex flavor profiles. If you enjoy other Romeo y Julieta cigars but want something with more depth and character, this is an excellent choice.
This is particularly suited for special occasions – the kind of evening where you have time to properly appreciate the complexity. It’s not a quick smoke or something for casual moments. I’ve found it pairs perfectly with celebrations, quiet contemplation, or those rare evenings when you want to slow down and really focus on what you’re experiencing.
For collectors, the limited edition status adds obvious appeal. But beyond the collectibility, this is a cigar that delivers genuine smoking pleasure that justifies the investment. Anyone building a collection of Cuban limitada releases should absolutely include the Capuletos 2016.
Proper Storage and Aging
Like all Cuban cigars, the Capuletos requires careful attention to storage conditions. I maintain my humidor at 65-68% humidity and 65-68°F temperature – proven techniques for preserving Cuban cigars that I’ve refined over years of collecting.
The aging potential is significant. While these cigars smoke beautifully with some rest after purchase, I’ve found that additional aging develops the complexity even further. If you can resist the temptation, try setting aside a few cigars for 2-3 years of additional aging. The cedar and leather notes become more integrated, while the spice elements mellow into a more harmonious blend.
For optimal results, avoid temperature fluctuations and ensure your humidor maintains consistent conditions. Proper humidor setup is crucial for preserving the investment you’re making in these limited edition cigars.
Perfect Pairings
The medium to medium-full strength makes the Capuletos incredibly versatile for pairings. My personal favorite is a quality aged rum – something like Zacapa 23 or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva. The sweetness complements the cigar’s refined character while the complexity matches the tobacco’s layered notes.
For whiskey enthusiasts, I’ve had excellent results with Highland single malts, particularly those with some sherry cask influence. Macallan 18 or Glenfarclas 21 create beautiful harmony with the cedar and leather characteristics. Avoid anything too peaty or aggressive – this cigar deserves a whiskey that won’t compete for attention.
Coffee pairings work wonderfully, especially in the morning or early afternoon. A medium roast with chocolate undertones enhances the sweet elements while the caffeine creates an interesting contrast with the tobacco’s earthiness. I particularly enjoy Cuban coffee with these cigars when the setting allows.
Wine lovers shouldn’t overlook this cigar either. A well-aged Rioja or Barolo provides enough structure to stand alongside the tobacco while offering complementary leather and earth notes. Even a quality port can work beautifully with the final third’s increased intensity.
Accessories Worth Considering
Given the investment in these limited edition cigars, proper accessories become important. A quality V-cut or straight cut – never a punch with this particular vitola – ensures optimal draw. Cedar spills for lighting help preserve the delicate opening flavors that might be overwhelmed by a torch lighter’s intensity.
Authentication and Purchasing
With any limited edition Cuban cigar, authentication becomes crucial. The genuine Capuletos EL 2016 features specific Habanos S.A. seals and markings that counterfeiters often get wrong. The bands should be perfectly aligned, with crisp printing and proper holographic elements where applicable.
When placing an order for these cigars, work only with established, reputable dealers who can provide provenance documentation. The box should include proper Habanos seals and authenticity features. Trusted retailers will be transparent about storage conditions and can provide detailed information about their sourcing.
Be particularly wary of prices that seem too good to be true – genuine Capuletos EL 2016 command premium prices due to their limited production and growing rarity. A reputable dealer will also be able to discuss the cigars’ current smoking condition and any additional aging benefits.
Cutting and Lighting Technique
The Sobresaliente format responds beautifully to a straight cut, removing about 1/8 inch of the cap to expose the filler tobacco without damaging the wrapper. I prefer a sharp guillotine cutter for clean results that won’t compress or tear the carefully constructed cap.
For lighting, take your time. Mastering proper lighting technique is especially important with premium cigars like this. Use cedar spills or a quality butane lighter, toasting the foot evenly while rotating the cigar slowly. The goal is an even burn from the start – rushing this process can affect the entire smoking experience.
Once lit, allow the cigar to establish its burn pattern before taking the first full draw. The Capuletos rewards patience, revealing its complexity gradually rather than all at once. Draw slowly and deliberately, giving the tobacco time to develop its full flavor profile between puffs.
Understanding the Romeo y Julieta Legacy
The Capuletos represents more than just another limited release – it’s part of an ongoing story that began when the Romeo y Julieta brand was established in 1875. The journey from plantation to perfection becomes particularly relevant when considering how this specific cigar honors both the brand’s literary heritage and Cuba’s tobacco-making traditions.
The choice of the Capuletos name – Juliet’s family surname – adds layers of meaning for those who appreciate the brand’s Shakespearean connections. It’s these kinds of thoughtful details that separate truly special releases from routine additions to any release list, making this particular cigar a standout among 2016’s offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Capuletos compare to other Romeo y Julieta releases?
The Capuletos offers more complexity and strength than standard Romeo y Julieta cigars like the Churchill or Short Churchill. It’s comparable to other edición limitada releases from the brand, but with its own distinct character that emphasizes cedar and leather notes over the typical Romeo y Julieta sweetness.
What’s the current availability and pricing for the Capuletos EL 2016?
As a 2016 limited edition, availability has become increasingly limited. Expect to pay premium prices, typically 40-60% above current regular production Romeo y Julieta cigars. Reputable dealers may still have boxes available, but supplies are diminishing as collectors acquire remaining inventory.
Can I age these cigars, and if so, for how long?
Absolutely. The Capuletos ages beautifully and can improve significantly with 3-5 years of proper storage. The cedar and leather notes integrate more harmoniously over time, while the spice elements become more refined. Some collectors report excellent results with even longer aging periods.
What makes this different from other Cuban limited editions released in 2016?
The Capuletos stands out for its refined balance and medium strength profile. While some 2016 releases from brands like Davidoff focused on fuller strength profiles, the Capuletos maintains accessibility while delivering genuine complexity. The Sobresaliente format also provides an excellent smoking time that allows the flavor profile to fully develop.
Is this cigar suitable for special occasions or daily smoking?
Given its limited edition status and premium pricing, most aficionados reserve the Capuletos for special occasions. The 60-minute smoking time and complex flavor profile make it ideal for celebrations, quiet contemplation, or moments when you want to focus entirely on the cigar experience rather than casual daily smoking.
