From the first wisp of smoke that rises from its tapered end, the Montecristo No.2 signals its status as a benchmark of Cuban cigar artistry. This slender pyramid—classified as a figurado—has been winning over smokers since well before the 1960s and continues to hold a permanent place in the brand’s core range. Its lasting allure comes not only from its striking silhouette but also from the consistent, evolving flavor journey it delivers.
Heritage, Design, and Packaging
Released as a pre‑1960 production, the No.2 has weathered changing tastes and market fluctuations without losing its identity. The cigar stretches 156 mm (about 6 ⅛ inches) and carries a 52‑ring gauge, presenting a medium‑to‑large vitola that sits comfortably in the hand. Its pyramid shape, with a pointed cap and a wider foot, forces the smoker to experience a gradual shift of flavors as the stick narrows. Hand‑made construction guarantees that each piece receives individual attention, resulting in an even burn and a firm ash that holds its form far longer than many expect.
Montecristo offers the No.2 in several packaging styles, allowing retailers and collectors to pick the format that best fits their needs. The most common option today is a 15‑cigar display box, divided into five cardboard trays of three cigars each—a layout introduced in 2003 to streamline transport and shelf presentation. For a more intimate setting, a dress box holding ten cigars is available, as is a larger dress box that houses twenty‑five sticks. A sleek aluminium tube pack of ten cigars provides a travel‑friendly alternative without sacrificing protection.
Flavor Profile and Sensory Impressions
Aggregated feedback from a broad community of enthusiasts awards the Montecristo No.2 an overall score of roughly 3.94 out of 5. The cigar scores high for balance and aftertaste, each rated at 4, while its strength registers as medium, and its elegance and complexity both sit at a 3. This combination creates a smoking experience that feels refined yet approachable.
Primary Notes
- Cocoa – the dominant note, cited in most reviews
- Rich coffee – lending depth and a roasted edge
- Nutty nuance – adding a subtle crunch to the palate
- Creamy texture – softening the overall profile
- Citrus brightness – delivering a refreshing lift
Secondary and Accent Layers
- Leather – a grounding, earthy undertone
- Twang – a slight tang that awakens the senses
- Dark chocolate – complementing the cocoa
- Roasted tobacco – reinforcing the cigar’s core identity
- Milk chocolate – offering a smoother, sweeter finish
- Spice – a hint of peppery heat
- Cinnamon – a fleeting warmth
- Mocha – blending coffee and chocolate into a single note
- Monte character – a term smokers use to describe the brand’s signature house style
- Bitter chocolate and cedar – adding complexity to the final third
Beyond these core elements, a variety of subtle nuances emerge as the smoke progresses. Earthy tones, floral hints, fresh‑cut hay, toasted bread, wood, and a whisper of grass interlace with occasional notes of nutmeg, salt, sweetness, vanilla, almond, biscuit, caramel, clove, and even a touch of Cointreau, honey, latte, molasses, peanut, raisin, raspberry, and tea. This layered symphony ensures that each draw feels slightly different, rewarding the smoker with a dynamic experience from start to finish.
Special and Limited Editions
The No.2’s reputation has inspired a series of limited‑run releases that highlight its versatility and appeal to collectors. Notable variants include the Montecristo No.2 Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor, a celebratory release marking a new millennium; the 510 Aniversario Humidor, commemorating a historic brand milestone; the Selección Pirámides, a curated selection emphasizing the pyramid vitola; the Selección Box, which packages the No.2 in an exclusive wooden case; and the Gran Reserva Cosecha 2005, a long‑aged edition that showcases the depth that extended maturation can bring.
Final Thoughts
For those who appreciate the art of Cuban cigar making, the Montecristo No.2 remains a must‑try. Its historic pedigree, impeccable construction, and multifaceted flavor profile combine to deliver a smoke that is both timeless and continually surprising. Whether enjoyed in a quiet moment or displayed as a centerpiece in a collector’s humidor, this pyramid‑shaped gem continues to embody the essence of Montecristo’s legacy.
