Romeo y Julieta Capuletos EL 2016

Description

Romeo y Julieta returned to its Shakespearean roots with the Capuletos—named for Juliet’s family, the Capulets—debuting at an event in Verona, Italy, in 2016. The brand that took its name from literature’s most tragic lovers paid tribute with a cigar befitting the drama: a substantial Sobresalientes format at 53 ring gauge, crafted from select tobaccos aged minimum two years. The Edición Limitada designation ensures this release stands apart from standard production, offering complexity and refinement that honor both the brand’s heritage and its literary namesake.

The Smoking Experience

First Third: The Capuletos opens with elegant smoke production—voluminous, aromatic clouds that justify the Sobresalientes format. The draw reveals cocoa sweetness from the outset, accompanied by multi-grain bread notes and subtle earthiness. Wood provides the foundation while a creamy texture coats the palate. Spice emerges gradually—not aggressive pepper but warming spice reminiscent of Christmas fruit cake. Peanut shell and juniper notes add unexpected complexity. The body settles into comfortable medium territory, approachable yet engaging. Romeo y Julieta’s signature florals appear in the aroma, connecting this limited edition to the brand’s classic profile.

Mid-Section: The heart of the Capuletos reveals its aging potential. Nougat emerges as the dominant note, sweet and satisfying, while mocha undertones add coffee richness. Fresh cedar brings brightness to the bouquet. The power increases noticeably—this is where the Edición Limitada shows its depth. Licorice and anise create darker spice notes, beautifully balanced against the continuing creaminess. Wood flavors remain present, now richer and more complex. The medium body holds steady while flavors layer and interweave. Each draw delivers something new; attention is rewarded with discovery.

Final Third: The conclusion demonstrates why limited editions deserve patience. Power reaches its peak—still medium but more assertive, hinting at what additional aging will unlock. Coffee notes dominate the closing act, medium-roasted and satisfying. The earlier sweetness recedes, allowing earthier flavors to emerge. Spice returns with purpose. The finish extends elegantly, Romeo y Julieta’s trademark refinement persisting through the final draw. Those who give this cigar time in the humidor will find the youthful edges softening, the complexity deepening, and the balance improving further.

Flavor Profile

The Romeo y Julieta Legacy

Established in 1875, Romeo y Julieta built its reputation on romantic elegance—cigars for lovers of refinement rather than raw power. The brand’s association with Shakespeare’s tragedy runs deep: the factory once employed readers who recited literature to rollers, and the Juliet balcony remains a symbol of the marca’s identity. Winston Churchill’s devotion brought international fame, but Romeo y Julieta earned its reputation long before—favored by European aristocracy and artists who appreciated sophistication over strength. The Capuletos continues this tradition, offering a medium-bodied experience where complexity substitutes for power, where nuance matters more than nicotine. The Verona launch location was no accident; this cigar honors its literary heritage with every element of its presentation.

Perfect Pairings

• Port: Tawny or LBV—the nougat and cocoa notes find perfect harmony with port’s grape sweetness.
• Cognac: VSOP—matching the cigar’s medium body with spirit of equivalent refinement.
• Coffee: Medium roast with cream—echoing the cigar’s smooth, approachable character.
• Dessert Wine: Sauternes or Tokaji—the sweetness complements rather than competes.

Ideal For

The Romeo y Julieta Capuletos suits smokers who prioritize elegance over intensity. The Sobresalientes format provides substantial smoking time—60-90 minutes depending on pace—while maintaining the approachable medium body that defines Romeo y Julieta. This is an after-dinner cigar for evenings when contemplation matters more than celebration, when conversation flows easily and haste has no place. The limited edition status rewards collectors who appreciate aging potential; a box cellared properly will improve significantly over the coming years. For those new to Cuban Edición Limitadas, the Capuletos offers an excellent introduction—complex enough to engage, balanced enough to enjoy without intimidation. For veterans, it demonstrates what Romeo y Julieta achieves when given premium aged tobacco and creative freedom.

Aging Note: The Capuletos benefits significantly from additional humidor time. Many reviewers note the cigar shows its youth when fresh; those who allow 2-3 additional years will discover softer edges, improved balance, and deeper complexity. Patience transforms a very good cigar into an exceptional one.