For the discerning aficionado, few pursuits are as rewarding as tracking down a cigar that has officially left the production line. The La Flor de Cano Selectos (2) is precisely this kind of treasure—a relic from a bygone era of Cuban cigar manufacturing that offers a unique story along with its smoke. While it may no longer grace the shelves of authorized distributors, this vitola remains a sought-after prize for collectors eager to experience a specific blend of value and craftsmanship that defined the La Flor de Cano brand for decades.
The Evolution from Machine to Hand
The history of the Selectos (2) is defined by a significant transformation in manufacturing technique. The early 2000s marked a pivotal moment for this specific format. Before 2002, the market was accustomed to the Selectos (1), a predecessor that relied on machine-assisted construction. However, the introduction of the Selectos (2) signaled a distinct upgrade, transitioning the cigar into the realm of fully handmade artisan products.
Despite this shift toward artisanal construction, the cigar retained the brand's signature "short-filler" identity. This means that instead of whole tobacco leaves running the length of the cigar, the interior comprises chopped or cut leaves. This method, often associated with more accessible pricing, allowed the brand to offer a handmade experience without the premium cost associated with long-filler counterparts. It was a strategic move to bridge the gap between casual smoking and serious cigar appreciation, a balancing act that La Flor de Cano managed with considerable success for nearly twenty years.
Technical Specifications and Dimensions
The Selectos (2) cuts a distinct figure in the hand, adhering to traditional dimensions that favor elegance over brute strength. Known internally by the factory name Cristales, the cigar presents a slender profile that hearkens back to classic Cuban sizing conventions.
- Dimensions: The vitola measures 150 mm (approximately 5 7/8 inches) in length.
- Ring Gauge: It features a ring gauge of 41, placing it firmly in the category of thinner, longer smokes.
- Weight: The official weight is recorded at 8.97 grams.
- Bands: It is adorned with the standard band A, consistent with the brand's visual identity.
This combination of length and girth typically suggests a smoking duration that allows for a leisurely burn, letting the smoker settle into the flavor profile without the commitment required by massive ring gauges.
A Shift in Brand Strategy
La Flor de Cano has historically occupied a unique space in the Habanos portfolio. It has never been the most expensive or exclusive brand on the list; rather, it has served as an entry point for those wishing to explore genuine Cuban tobacco without breaking the bank. The Selectos (2) embodied this philosophy perfectly. By offering a handmade product at a value-oriented price point, it provided an accessible gateway for newcomers while still offering enough complexity to satisfy seasoned palates looking for a daily smoke.
The packaging of the era further reflected this practical approach. While the standard dress box contained 25 cigars, there was also a brief period where consumers could purchase cardboard packs of five. However, this smaller packaging option was phased out by 2006, leaving the dress box as the sole option for the remainder of the cigar's lifespan.
The End of the Road and the Secondary Market
After a production run spanning roughly 17 years, the Selectos (2) reached the end of its journey in 2019. Habanos officially discontinued the cigar, removing it from the active catalog and ceasing distribution to retailers. This discontinuation has inevitably pushed the vitola into the realm of the secondary market.
For those wishing to sample this retired blend, the hunt now requires patience and caution. Finding a well-preserved box demands scrutiny, as storage conditions vary wildly in the aftermarket. However, for the enthusiast willing to put in the effort, the Selectos (2) remains a fascinating footnote in Cuban cigar history—a handmade, short-filler experiment that successfully bridged the gap between budget-friendly smoking and premium construction.
