When the Montecristo brand decided to branch out in 2009, they introduced a collection that would resonate with a new generation of smokers without abandoning the qualities that made the marca legendary. The Montecristo Open Master emerged as a standout vitola within this innovative series, offering a profile that balances tradition with contemporary accessibility. This robusto-sized smoke quickly earned its place among the brand's core offerings, demonstrating that even a historic Cuban marque could evolve while maintaining its distinguished character.
Specifications and Construction
The Montecristo Open Master presents itself in the popular robusto format, a size that has become synonymous with accessible yet complex smoking experiences. Measuring 124 millimeters in length with a 50 ring gauge, this handmade cigar strikes an ideal balance between smoking time and flavor concentration. The official weight of 11.66 grams positions it solidly within the medium-bodied range that characterizes much of the Open series lineup.
Construction-wise, the Master maintains the handcrafted excellence expected from Habanos SA's Cuban production. The vitola classification as Robustos refers to its specific dimensions, though the exact proportions give it a distinctive presence that separates it from other offerings within the Montecristo catalog. These measurements ensure a smoking duration that suits both casual enjoyment and more contemplative sessions.
Packaging and Presentation
Understanding that different occasions call for different presentation styles, Montecristo offered the Open Master in multiple packaging formats to accommodate varying preferences. The inaugural 2009 release featured a traditional dress box housing 20 cigars, designed to appeal to collectors and those who appreciate classic packaging reminiscent of the brand's heritage offerings.
A year later, in 2010, an alternative option expanded consumer choice. This secondary format arrived as a display box containing 15 cigars, each individually protected within aluminum tubes. These tubed specimens were organized into five cardboard packs of three cigars each, making this version particularly attractive to travelers and those who value added protection during transport. The tubes safeguard against damage while also preserving humidity levels, ensuring each cigar arrives in optimal smoking condition.
Visual Identity and Band Design
The Open Master carries the brand's signature band styling, incorporating the standard C and D bands that have long identified authentic Montecristo productions. What truly distinguishes this vitola is its dedicated Open Master band, which clearly signals its membership within the Open series family. This three-band combination creates an immediately recognizable aesthetic that honors the parent brand while establishing its own identity.
In a recent evolution, 2025 saw Montecristo introduce a special double band configuration specifically for the Open Master. This updated design imparts a refined and contemporary appearance, positioning the vitola distinctly within the brand's extensive portfolio. The double band treatment represents a subtle yet meaningful aesthetic refresh that appeals to collectors and modern smokers alike.
Development History and Market Position
During its conceptualization phase, this cigar carried the working designation "Sport" within the proposed range structure, ultimately receiving the Master name that it bears today. This athletic naming inspiration reflects the Open line's broader marketing strategy, which positioned these cigars toward active enthusiasts seeking quality without the formality sometimes associated with traditional Cuban cigars.
The Open series was conceived to attract newcomers to the Cuban cigar experience while providing existing aficionados with more approachable daily smokes. The Master fits perfectly within this mission, delivering the Montecristo quality signature in a format designed for modern lifestyles. As a current regular production item, this robusto remains widely accessible through authorized retailers worldwide, continuing to uphold the standards that have made Montecristo one of Cuba's most treasured marcas.
