For discerning cigar aficionados, few releases generate as much intrigue as the Edición Regional program, which tasks specific markets with exclusive tobacco offerings. Among the standout entries from the 2009 vintage was the Ramón Allones Celestiales Finos, a cigar crafted solely for enthusiasts residing in the Asia Pacific zone. This particular release provided a unique opportunity to experience the robust Ramón Allones brand through a vitola and presentation that were entirely distinct, quickly turning it into a "must-have" for serious collectors worldwide.
The Unique Britanicas Vitola
One of the most compelling aspects of the Celestiales Finos is its physical architecture. While the commercial name suggests something heavenly or ethereal, the factory designation tells a more technical story. Internally, this cigar is known as a Britanicas, a rare and distinctive shape within the Habanos S.A. portfolio.
This vitola measures 137 mm (approximately 5⅜ inches) in length and features a ring gauge of 46. These proportions create a smoking duration that is substantial enough to allow for flavor development yet manageable enough for a satisfying mid-day session. The listed official weight for each unit is 9.34 grams, a testament to the careful hand-rolling process that ensures a consistent draw and burn. By introducing this specific format to the Ramón Allones lineup, the brand was able to offer a smoking experience that felt both classic and refreshingly new.
Packaging and Exclusivity
The allure of the Celestiales Finos is not limited to what lies inside the wrapper; the presentation plays a significant role in its desirability. The cigars were packaged in traditional slide-lid boxes (SLB), each containing 25 units. True to the standards of limited releases, these boxes were individually numbered, adding a layer of collectibility for those who prize provenance.
Scarcity was a major factor in this release. The production run was capped at just 4,000 boxes, a relatively small number considering the global demand for Regional Editions. Visually, each cigar is adorned with the standard Ramón Allones band (designated as Band D), but it is the secondary band that signifies its special status. This extra band clearly marks the cigar as an exclusive release for the Asia Pacific region, distinguishing it from standard production lines found in other parts of the world.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
When it comes to the actual smoking experience, the Ramón Allones Celestiales Finos delivers a performance that has been highly rated by critics and consumers alike. Aggregated feedback from numerous smokers places this cigar in high esteem, often reflecting an overall score around 4.44 out of 5. The consensus points toward a smoke that is defined by its elegance and complexity, finishing with a memorable aftertaste.
The strength is generally classified as medium, striking a harmonious balance that appeals to a wide spectrum of palates. The flavor journey is intricate, weaving together various taste sensations:
- Primary Characteristics: The foundation of the profile is built upon rich notes of fruit and cocoa, deeply anchored by the earthy presence of leather.
- Mid-Palate Nuances: As the smoke progresses, sweeter impressions emerge, specifically evoking dried apricot, milk chocolate, and hints of berry.
- Complex Layers: The experience is further complicated by the introduction of spice and doughy notes, intertwined with cherry and additional chocolate nuances.
- Background Undertones: Subtle hints of cream, wood, and toast provide a soft, rounded backdrop that supports the more vibrant flavors without overpowering them.
A Collectible from 2009
Released over a decade ago, the 2009 Ramón Allones Celestiales Finos remains a significant marker in the timeline of the Edición Regional program. As one of the earlier iterations of these market-specific releases, it set a high standard for quality and exclusivity. While distribution was originally targeted at the Asia Pacific market, the passage of time has seen these cigars migrate into the humidors of international collectors through the secondary market. Today, finding a well-preserved box offers not just a smoke, but a glimpse into a specific era of Cuban cigar craftsmanship.
