For a brand as storied and celebrated as Romeo y Julieta, the introduction of a new regular production vitola is a significant event in the premium cigar calendar. Making its debut in December 2017, the Petit Royales quickly established itself as a vital addition to the marque's illustrious portfolio. This cigar addresses a modern dilemma: the need for a high-quality smoke that fits into a tighter schedule, without compromising on the thickness or complexity that enthusiasts demand from a premium Habano.
The Caprichos Vitola: Design and Dimensions
At the heart of this release is the specific vitola known at the factory as Caprichos. The dimensions are carefully calculated to provide a substantial feel in the hand while keeping the smoking duration manageable. Measuring 95 mm (approximately 3¾ inches) in length and boasting a 47 ring gauge, the Petit Royales strikes a perfect balance. It offers the draw and smoke volume associated with thicker cigars, yet it remains compact enough to be finished in a leisurely 30 to 45 minutes. Weighing in at 8.04 grams, this handmade cigar is a testament to the rolling expertise found within Cuban factories, ensuring a consistent experience across regular production lines.
Packaging and Presentation
Romeo y Julieta has ensured that this cigar is accessible to collectors and casual smokers alike through two distinct packaging options. Aficionados can choose the traditional route with a dress box containing 25 cigars, a classic presentation for the humidor. Alternatively, for those who value convenience and preservation, there is a distinctive display box option. This format houses 15 cigars, each protected within its own aluminum tube. Inside the box, these tubed cigars are cleverly organized into five cardboard packs of three units each. This configuration is particularly appealing for the traveling smoker, offering superior protection for the delicate wrappers and ensuring the cigars remain fresh while on the move.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
The smoking experience of the Petit Royales is defined by a sophisticated and well-rounded profile. Aggregating feedback from dozens of reviews, the cigar holds a respectable rating of 3.83 out of 5. It scores consistently across key categories—elegance, balance, strength, complexity, and aftertaste—landing firmly in the middle of the road with scores of 3 out of 5 in each. This suggests a smoke that is neither too aggressive nor too mild, but rather harmonious and approachable.
The flavor architecture is diverse, led by a distinct cherry note that appears most frequently in tasting reports. This fruity characteristic is beautifully supported by layers of chocolate and cocoa, adding a rich sweetness to the palate. Hints of anise provide a subtle spice, while a unique note of Turkish delight offers a surprising and delightful sweetness that sets this vitola apart from its peers.
Complexity and Secondary Nuances
Beyond the primary flavors, the Petit Royales reveals a complex tapestry of secondary notes. Smokers can expect the foundational tastes of toast and premium tobacco, interwoven with fruit and floral hints of rosewater. Spice is present but balanced, allowing other characteristics to shine.
- Fruit and Floral Notes: Beyond the dominant cherry, nuances of strawberry, berry, and general fruit notes are present, complemented by distinct floral touches.
- Earthy and Woody Elements: The cigar grounds itself with classic cedar and wood flavors, occasionally hinting at charcoal or walnut.
- Creamy and Savory Layers: Notes of cream, coffee, and various chocolate iterations—from milk to dark—add depth, while hints of sea salt, sourdough, and pepper provide a savory finish.
A Practical Choice for the Modern Smoker
The Romeo y Julieta Petit Royales stands out as a versatile instrument in a smoker’s collection. It encapsulates the heritage of one of Cuba’s most famous brands while adapting to the time constraints of contemporary life. Whether pulled from a tube during a travel break or selected from a humidor for a brief evening respite, it delivers a complex, flavorful, and satisfying experience that punches well above its compact stature.
