When a cigar manages to stay relevant for more than six decades while the world around it changes dramatically, you know it has earned its reputation. The Punch Coronations (2) is just such a smoke—a petit corona that has outlasted trends, survived production overhauls, and still draws both newcomers and seasoned aficionados into its modest, yet richly layered, profile.
Heritage and Evolution
The Punch name dates back to the 1800s, a period when Cuban cigar makers were experimenting with branding and marketing in ways that would shape the industry for generations. First appearing before the 1960s, the Coronations (2) began its life as a modest, machine‑rolled offering that fit the era’s demand for consistent, affordable cigars. Over the decades it underwent a series of revisions, each reflecting the shifting tastes and manufacturing capabilities of its time.
The most pivotal transformation arrived around 2002, when the factory shifted from a fully mechanized process to hand‑crafted construction. This change elevated the smoke from a utilitarian option to a product that could showcase the nuanced artistry of Cuban torcedores. Today, the Coronations (2) stands as the sole survivor of its lineage; its sibling, the Coronations (1), was discontinued, leaving only this expression to carry the historic name forward.
Technical Specifications
Below are the essential details that define the physical nature of the cigar:
- Factory designation: Petit Coronas
- Ring gauge: 42
- Length: 129 mm (5 ⅛ inches)
- Official weight: 8.46 g
- Construction: Handmade
- Production status: Regular production, currently active
Packaging and Presentation
The cigar retains the classic Punch aesthetic, identifiable by the standard B and A band configurations that have long been associated with the brand. Modern buyers will find the Coronations (2) packaged in dress boxes containing 25 units, each sealed individually in an aluminum tube. The current tubes are finished in a green color that debuted in 2009, replacing the earlier silver‑tone tubes that have since been phased out. Prior to the 2002 overhaul, a smaller dress box of ten tubed cigars was also available; this option vanished as the brand moved to hand‑made production.
Tasting Impressions & Scores
Compiled from 28 user reviews, the Coronations (2) delivers a medium‑strength smoke that lands an overall rating of 3.54 out of 5. It shines particularly in two areas: aftertaste and balance, each earning a solid three points on the five‑point scale. The flavor profile is bold yet approachable, making it suitable for both those new to Cuban cigars and veterans seeking a concise, satisfying smoke.
Primary flavor notes detected by reviewers:
- Pepper (dominant)
- Anise
- Citrus
- Herbs
- Leather
- Spice
- Toast
- Tobacco
Rating breakdown:
- Elegance – 2/5
- Balance – 3/5
- Strength – 2/5
- Complexity – 2/5
- Aftertaste – 3/5
- Overall score – 3.54/5
All in all, the Punch Coronations (2) offers an accessible yet layered experience. Its moderate intensity, balanced finish, and classic Cuban character make it a reliable choice for a short, leisurely smoking session, while its storied past adds a touch of historical depth that many aficionados find rewarding.
