When Habanos S.A. decided to court the fast‑growing Asian and Pacific cigar community with a truly exclusive release, it turned to the historic La Gloria Cubana name. The result, launched in 2015, was the Revolution – a Regional Edition that not only celebrates the brand’s legacy but also introduces a brand‑new vitola to the Cuban portfolio. This limited‑run stick, built by hand and dressed in a distinctive regional band, was engineered to offer a fuller‑bodied experience while keeping the overall smoking time manageable for the modern enthusiast.
A Fresh Vitola Emerges
Introducing the Montesco
The Revolution marks the debut of the Montesco size, a robust extra format that stands out within the Habanos family. With a ring gauge of 55 and a length of 130 mm (5⅛″), the Montesco provides a substantial smoking core without the intimidation of an overly long cigar. The official weight sits at 16.00 g, ensuring a dense, even burn that showcases the craftsmanship of the roller.
- Vitola name: Montesco
- Ring gauge: 55
- Length: 130 mm (5⅛″)
- Weight: 16.00 g
- Construction: Handmade
This fresh size was deliberately engineered to give smokers a pronounced smoke path, allowing the filler blend to develop layered notes over a comfortable 60‑ to 80‑minute smoke.
Construction and Smoking Profile
True to La Gloria Cubana’s reputation, the Revolution is handcrafted using time‑tested Cuban techniques. The filler, binder, and wrapper are selected from premium Vuelta Abajo and semi‑Vuelta leaves, creating a medium‑to‑full-bodied profile that evolves as the cigar burns. Early draws reveal earthy undertones with a hint of dark chocolate, while the second third opens up to spicy cedar and toasted almond nuances. The draw remains effortless, producing a cool, thick smoke that coats the palate without overwhelming it. The ash holds firm, often forming a neat, cylindrical column that signals a well‑balanced construction.
Presentation and Visual Distinction
From the moment you lift a Revolution, the packaging speaks of exclusivity. The cigar is adorned with the classic La Gloria Cubana primary band, accented by a secondary band that boldly proclaims “Asia Pacifico.” This regional identifier is more than a label; it marks the cigar as a collector’s piece intended solely for the Asian and Pacific markets.
Each stick is encased in a numbered semi‑boîte nature box, a style that highlights the natural elegance of the cigars while providing a degree of protection. The boxes contain 20 cigars and are themselves numbered, reinforcing the limited nature of the release. Production was capped at 2,500 boxes worldwide, ensuring that only a select few can secure a full box for personal enjoyment or investment.
Market Impact and Collectibility
Because the Revolution was produced for a specific region and never released elsewhere, it instantly occupies a niche in the global Habanos collector’s market. The combination of a new vitola, a distinctive regional band, and a modest production run has made these cigars highly sought after. Early adopters have reported that the flavor profile benefits from a short aging period, with the spices mellowing and the chocolate notes deepening after six months to a year in a humidor.
For enthusiasts who enjoy both the smoking experience and the story behind a cigar, the Revolution offers a compelling narrative: a partnership between a historic Cuban brand and the burgeoning Asian‑Pacific market, culminating in a vitola that breaks new ground while staying true to its roots. Whether you are looking to expand your regional collection, explore a fresh size, or simply savor a well‑crafted smoke, the La Gloria Cubana Revolution Asia Pacifico stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Cuban cigar artistry.
