For many cigar aficionados, the allure of Cuban tobacco is often associated with high price points and rare vintage releases. However, the Quintero Londres Extra serves as a reminder that the rich flavors of Habanos are accessible to a broader audience. This vitola offers a distinct entry point into the world of Cuban cigars, combining a storied heritage with a modern shift in craftsmanship. It stands as a testament to the brand's ability to adapt, delivering a handmade experience that retains the authentic character smokers expect from the island.
A Heritage Reimagined: From Machine to Hand
The story of the Quintero Londres Extra is one of evolution. The brand itself is deeply rooted in Cuban history, with the Londres Extra vitola tracing its lineage back to the era before 1960. For decades, this cigar was defined by its industrial origins; it was produced using machine-made methods, a common practice for value-oriented brands at the time. This method of production was the standard for the Londres Extra for the better part of the 20th century.
However, a pivotal shift occurred in approximately 2002. During this time, the production of the Londres Extra transitioned entirely from machine manufacturing to fully handmade construction. This was a significant move for the marque, signaling a commitment to elevating the quality of the cigar. Along with this change in technique came a change in presentation. The earlier iterations of the cigar were packaged in cellophane, a practical choice for machine-made goods. When the switch to handmade production occurred, the cellophane was retired in favor of traditional dress boxes, aligning the Quintero with the presentation standards of premium Cuban labels.
Technical Specifications and Construction
The Quintero Londres Extra is classified under the factory name "Standard," a moniker that belies the unique characteristics of this smoke. It measures 123 mm (approximately 4 7/8 inches) in length and features a ring gauge of 40. These dimensions place it comfortably in the category of a classic Corona, offering a smoking duration that is neither too brief nor overly committing, with an official weight of 6.90 grams.
One of the defining structural elements of this cigar is its use of short-filler tobacco. Unlike "long-filler" cigars, which utilize whole leaves running the length of the cigar, short-filler consists of chopped tobacco leaves. This method is often employed to ensure a consistent draw and burn, and while it differs from the construction of ultra-premium gran coronas, it remains a legitimate and traditional method for delivering the essential flavors of Cuban tobacco.
Vitola Details
- Factory Name: Standard
- Dimensions: 123 mm (4 7/8″) x 40 Ring Gauge
- Filler: Short-filler (tripa corta)
- Packaging: Dress boxes of 25 cigars
- Status: Current Regular Production
The visual presentation is completed with the standard Quintero banding, featuring both Band A and Band B, which wraps the cigar in its recognizable livery before it is nestled into boxes of 25.
The Smoking Experience: Flavor and Ratings
When analyzing the performance of the Quintero Londres Extra, consumer feedback paints a picture of a straightforward, approachable smoke. Aggregated reviews from smokers highlight a specific profile that leans heavily toward the milder side of the Cuban spectrum. The strength rating typically hovers around a 2 out of 5, making this an ideal choice for a morning smoke or for those who prefer a less intense nicotine kick.
In terms of sensory qualities, the cigar scores moderately. Complexity and balance both register at a 3 out of 5, suggesting a flavor profile that is coherent without being overly intricate. It delivers the core earthy and grassy notes associated with the brand but does so without the dramatic shifts in flavor that characterize more expensive, aged cigars. The aftertaste is similarly rated at a 3 out of 5, providing a pleasant finish that lingers just enough to satisfy.
With an overall rating of 3 out of 5, the Londres Extra is recognized not as a world-beating luxury item, but as a solid, reliable performer. Its elegance rating sits lower, at 2 out of 5, reflecting its utilitarian roots and short-filler construction. However, for the smoker seeking value, these numbers translate to a satisfying, no-nonsense Cuban experience that prioritizes flavor and affordability over refinement.
Collectibility and Variations
While the standard Londres Extra is a regular production item readily available on the market, collectors with an eye for history may seek out the Quintero Londres Extra Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor. This special release represents a distinct chapter in the brand's history and offers a curated experience for the enthusiast. For the everyday smoker, however, the standard release remains a staple. It successfully bridges the gap between the machine-made past and the handmade present, offering a taste of pre-revolutionary brand history in a modern, accessible format.
