When the production lines finally fell silent in 2017, the cigar world bid farewell to one of its most enduring icons. The H. Upmann Petit Coronas, a staple of the Cuban cigar industry for decades, represented far more than just a smoking accessory; it was a tangible link to a bygone era of pre-revolutionary Havana. Known internally by its factory designation, the "Marevas," this vitola served as a benchmark for what a classic Cuban cigar ought to be. Its departure from the regular production lineup left a void that collectors and daily smokers have struggled to fill, cementing its status as a discontinued classic that is now highly sought after on the secondary market.
A Legacy Forged in History
The story of the Marevas is one of resilience and tradition. With a lineage tracing back to the years preceding 1960, this cigar survived the tumultuous shifts in the Cuban cigar industry, from nationalization to the modern global market. It was a survivor, offering a consistent experience across different eras of tobacco cultivation and rolling techniques. To hold a Marevas was to hold a piece of history, a vitola that had been rolled and enjoyed for nearly sixty years. Its discontinuation was not merely a catalog adjustment; it marked the closing of a significant chapter for the H. Upmann brand, removing a foundational pillar from its portfolio.
The Specifications of a Classic
The dimensions of the Marevas were timeless, adhering to the traditional "Petit Coronas" format. In an age where thick ring gauges have become increasingly popular, this cigar stood as a testament to the elegance of the past.
- Dimensions: Measuring 129 mm (approximately 5⅛ inches) in length with a ring gauge of 42, the cigar offered a comfortable, manageable smoke.
- Weight: It came in at an official weight of 8.46 grams.
- Construction: Entirely handmade, a fact that underscored the craftsmanship inherent in the H. Upmann brand.
Throughout its production life, the Marevas was presented in a dizzying array of packaging options, catering to every type of consumer. Enthusiasts could find it dressed in standard boxes of 25 or 10, slide-lid cabinets containing 25 or 50 cigars, or the ever-popular glass jars which held either 25 or 50 units. This variety spoke to the cigar's universal appeal and its role as a workhorse in the Habanos portfolio.
A Profile of Mild Sophistication
What truly set the H. Upmann Petit Coronas apart was its distinct flavor profile. It was never a cigar designed to overwhelm the senses with brute force. Instead, it garnered a reputation for being approachable, mild, and impeccably balanced. Scoring an impressive 4 out of 5 for balance in enthusiast reviews, the Marevas was a morning coffee companion or a mid-day respite for the seasoned palate, yet gentle enough for a novice.
The sensory experience was defined by a comforting richness rather than raw power. With a strength rating hovering around a "2" on a scale of 5, the cigar delivered a smooth draw that allowed its nuanced flavors to shine.
Notes on the Palate
Reviewers frequently highlighted a specific trio of primary flavors that became the signature of this vitola. The most prominent notes were a creamy coffee and rich shortbread, creating a bakery-like sweetness that was instantly recognizable. These were supported by a woody backbone of cedar, adding a classic Cuban "pulo" or earthiness to the mix.
As the smoke progressed, secondary nuances began to emerge. Sharp spikes of pepper and leather would occasionally interject, while hints of licorice added a dark sweetness. In the background, the most discerning palates could detect subtle whispers of toast, pure tobacco, and white pepper. Occasional flair notes of bitter chocolate, espresso, and even sourdough were reported, painting a picture of a complex yet harmonious smoke.
The End of an Era
The finality of the 2017 discontinuation cannot be overstated. For a brand like H. Upmann, shedding a vitola with such deep historical roots was a bold move. The Marevas was not just another size; it was the definition of the "Upmann" flavor profile—distinct, elegant, and mild. While the cigar earned an overall rating of 3.88 out of 5, its scores for elegance and balance remained high, proving that it was a well-crafted product until the very end.
Today, remaining stocks of the Marevas are treated with reverence. Collectors hunt for the slide-lid boxes and glass jars that survived the production cut, eager to preserve a taste of history. For those who appreciate a cigar that prioritizes balance and tradition over raw strength, the H. Upmann Petit Coronas remains a poignant reminder of the elegance inherent in the Cuban cigar heritage.
