The Montecristo No. 2 is one of the most recommended cigar to come out of Cuba. The brand itself is iconic around the globe. The number 2 specifically though is something special. You have heard the rumors. There is always a constant chatter. Read the review below to see if it as good as the world says it is.
STATS:
Brand: Montecristo
Line: Number 2
Profile: Medium/Full
Collection:
Wrapper: Cuba
Binder: Cuba
Filler: Cuba
Length: 6.125 inches
Gauge: 52
Shape: Torpedo
Country: Cuba
Pricing: (Box of 25) - $299.00
(per stick) - $11.96
First Impression:
This cigar just feels great. The band is classic and simple with a metallic finish that scream luxury. Being as iconic as it is expectations have to be through the roof. While this is for the purpose of review, how could the majority of the cigar smoking world be wrong?
Pre-Smoke Ritual:
This cigar has amazing construction. Subtle aroma is noticed when it comes near your face. It reminded me of almonds. I made my cut and took a slow and smooth cold draw. It revealed notes of chocolate and mixed spices. It did not have any pepper to it, but an Earthy baseline was definitely there.
Lighting, Draw, and Burn:
This cigar lights right up. No issues what-so-ever. Amazing construction. The draw is perfect. No to loose and not to tight. It is literally perfect. The burn is medium paced. It is very even and deliberate. Perfect on all accounts.
Flavor:
This cigar was packed with flavor, but it wasn't overpowering. The almond flavor was very solid with mixed spices. There were notes of Earth and oak. The second third introduces hints of chocolate along with a feint flavor of cedar. The combination and transitions are really good. The final third really finishes out well. The cedar seems to have taken a much larger role int he flavor profile. The spices has turned into pepper while the other flavors remained. This is really an explosion of goodness on the palette.
My Preference:
This cigar was from a 2017 box. It was aged for three years. I made my cut with a Colibri 1928 v-cutter. My source of fire was a classic brass Zippo with a duel flame butane insert.
Final Thoughts:
This is was no hype train. I did not expect it to be, but I got to see first hand how good this cigar really is. It is near perfect in every aspect. I have smoked a lot of great cigars. High end, low end, limited edition, hand rolled, custom, and a bunch of other categories. I can safely say that the Montecristo No. 2 will go to and remain in my top 3 of all time for a very long time. Find some and get them. Then get some more.