For smokers who want to explore Havana’s legendary烟草 without draining their wallets, the Petit Coronas (2) from La Flor de Cano offers a rare blend of quality and affordability. Launched in the early 2000s, this petite corona has become a reliable gateway for both newcomers and seasoned aficionados looking for a trustworthy everyday smoke. Its modest size conceals a carefully hand‑crafted core that delivers the classic Cuban experience at a price point that won’t break the bank.
The Evolution of a Classic
When La Flor de Cano decided to retire its earlier machine‑made offering, the brand seized the opportunity to raise the bar. The transition from automated rolling to skilled hand‑construction marked a pivotal moment in the brand’s history, reflecting a broader market shift toward authentic, artisan‑produced cigars. By moving production entirely into the hands of experienced torcedors, La Flor de Cano ensured that every Petit Coronas (2) would meet the rigorous standards expected of a premium Habano, while still remaining accessible to a wider audience.
Key Milestones
- Replacement of the original machine‑made Petit Coronas (1) on January 1, 2002
- Shift to fully handmade construction, a first for this size in the La Flor de Cano portfolio
- Continuous availability in the brand’s regular catalog, cementing its status as a long‑standing favorite
Construction and Visual Details
Measuring 123 mm (about 4 ⅞ inches) with a 40‑ring gauge, the Petit Coronas (2) sits comfortably in the “petite corona” category, making it ideal for a quick yet fulfilling smoke. The cigar’s filler is composed of smaller, carefully selected pieces of Cuban tobacco—commonly referred to as short‑filler—which allows the brand to keep costs lower without sacrificing authenticity.
Each stick is encased in a natural cedar sheet before being finished with the brand’s Standard Band A. The cedar wrapping serves a dual purpose: it protects the delicate inner leaves and subtly infuses the smoke with faint woody aromatics as you puff. The overall presentation is modest yet refined, aligning with La Flor de Cano’s understated elegance.
Flavor Profile and Sensory Impressions
Based on aggregated feedback from seven experienced smokers, the Petit Coronas (2) lands firmly in the medium‑strength range. Its balance and aftertaste receive respectable scores, while elegance and complexity are modest—reflecting a cigar that prioritizes approachability over intricate nuance.
Ratings Summary
- Elegance: 2 / 5
- Balance: 3 / 5
- Strength: 3 / 5
- Complexity: 2 / 5
- Aftertaste: 3 / 5
- Overall: 3 / 5
When it comes to actual taste, reviewers consistently detect three dominant notes:
- Nut – a roasted, slightly sweet kernel that adds body
- Pepper – a gentle spice that builds toward the finish
- Spice – a warm, earthy heat that lingers on the palate
Together, these elements create a warm, savory smoke that is satisfying without being overpowering—a quality that appeals to those who enjoy a mild‑to‑medium profile.
Purchasing Options and Practical Tips
The Petit Coronas (2) is currently offered in two packaging styles:
- Dress Box – contains 25 cigars, each individually wrapped in cedar, ideal for collectors or those who want a steady supply
- Cardboard Pack – originally released with 5 cigars, but this format was discontinued in 2006, so modern buyers will most likely encounter the dress box
Because the cigar is produced regularly, it can be found at authorized Habanos distributors, specialty tobacconists, and reputable online retailers. When selecting a box, look for the official Habanos seal and verify that the production date aligns with the current batch for optimal freshness.
For the best experience, allow the Petit Coronas (2) to rest in a humidor at around 68–70 % humidity for at least a few weeks before lighting. A gentle dry pull will reveal the cedar’s aromatic influence, and a slow, even burn will showcase the nut‑pepper‑spice trio that defines its character.
