Few experiences in the world of premium cigars compare to discovering the full range of a legendary brand's portfolio in a single, thoughtfully curated package. For devotees of Cuban tobacco heritage, the Montecristo Selección Box delivers exactly this opportunity—a distinguished collection that brings together five of the most celebrated vitolas from one of Havana's most iconic manufacturers.
Montecristo's Signature Selection
Montecristo has maintained its position as one of Cuba's most revered cigar houses since its establishment, consistently producing blends that embody the essence of Caribbean tobacco craftsmanship. The Selección Box represents a special limited release that encapsulates the brand's core offerings, making it an ideal introduction for newcomers while providing seasoned smokers with a comprehensive reference collection.
Understanding the Five Vitolas
This remarkable assembly contains exactly fifty cigars, organized as ten examples of each size. The collection showcases five distinct formats that have become foundational to the Montecristo identity over decades of production.
- Montecristo No.1 (Cervantes) – This elegant long panatela measures 42 ring gauge by 165mm (6½ inches), weighing approximately 10.80 grams.
- Montecristo No.2 (Piramides) – Perhaps the most famous vitola, this pyramid shape features a 52 ring gauge, tapering to 156mm (6⅛ inches) in length with a weight of 14.26 grams.
- Montecristo No.3 (Coronas) – The quintessential Corona format measures 42 ring gauge by 142mm (5⅝ inches), weighing about 9.29 grams.
- Montecristo No.4 (Marevas) – A beloved Petit Corona style at 42 ring gauge, 129mm (5⅛ inches), weighing approximately 8.46 grams.
- Montecristo No.5 (Perlas) – The smallest vitola measures just 40 ring gauge by 102mm (4 inches), weighing around 5.91 grams.
Construction and Presentation Quality
Every cigar included in the Selección Box is crafted entirely by hand using time-honored techniques. The leaves are sourced from the finest tobacco plantations in the Vuelta Abajo region. All five sizes proudly display the brand's iconic band design in burgundy and gold, immediately identifying them as products of Cuba's most celebrated factory. The collection arrives in a semi-natural wooden box that provides both elegance and functionality for storage and aging.
Historical Significance and Modern Availability
The Montecristo Selección Box first appeared before 1960, establishing it among the earliest special releases from this prestigious brand. While officially listed as discontinued—with the most recent documented release occurring in 2003—persistent rumors suggest that extremely limited quantities continue to be produced on an annual basis for select markets. This combination of historical prestige and ongoing rarity has made the collection particularly attractive to serious collectors, with well-preserved examples commanding significant premiums in the secondary market.
For those seeking to explore the Montecristo legacy, whether for personal enjoyment or investment purposes, the Selección Box remains an essential acquisition that captures the essence of Cuban cigar craftsmanship in its most accessible and comprehensive format.
