Among the long‑standing names in Havana’s storied cigar world, Romeo y Julieta has long supplied smokers with everything from premium hand‑rolled masterpieces to modest, everyday sticks. One of the most recognizable budget‑friendly vitolas from this house was the Chicos, a compact, machine‑assembled cigar that served as an entry point for countless enthusiasts before it quietly disappeared from the catalog.
History and Background
The Chicos can trace its roots back well before the 1960s, making it one of the brand’s oldest, continuously produced, affordable options. For more than four decades it occupied a steady spot in Romeo y Julieta’s regular line‑up, delivering a brief, satisfying Cuban smoke at a price that didn’t break the bank. By the early 2000s, the format’s production was halted, and the final release rolled off the line in 2002, closing the chapter on a historic, machine‑assembled format.
Specifications
Below are the key technical details that defined the Chicos:
- Cigar name: Chicos
- Factory designation: Chicos
- Ring gauge: 29
- Length: 106 mm (approximately 4 ⅛ inches)
- Official weight: 3.00 g
- Construction method: Machine‑assembled
- Band style: Classic Romeo y Julieta “A” band
- Packaging: Dress box containing 25 cigars, each individually wrapped in cellophane
- Status: Discontinued in 2002
The Smoking Experience
At just over four inches and a slender 29 ring, the Chicos offered a compact, fast‑paced smoke. The thin profile ensured that the wrapper’s character took center stage, delivering a concentrated burst of flavor that was mellow yet distinctly Cuban. Thanks to its mechanized filler bunch, the draw was consistently smooth and the burn line remained even throughout the short session. Smokers looking for a quick break or a convenient introduction to Cuban tobacco often turned to this petite vitola.
Collectibility and Market Availability
Since its retirement, the Chicos have become a rare find on the secondary market. The cigar no longer appears in the current Romeo y Julieta catalog, which means collectors must rely on specialty tobacconists, auction platforms, or dedicated online forums to locate sealed boxes or single sticks. While pristine examples command a modest premium, they remain a prized piece for enthusiasts seeking a taste of a bygone era of Cuban machine‑assembled cigars.
