Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
good
Draw
easy
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- long
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The Montecristo Petit No. 2, with its length of 120.7 mm (4¾") and diameter of 20.6 mm (¾"), boasts an enchanting visual appearance. The beautiful colorados claro of its wrapper, slightly oily, immediately catches the eye. Its silky texture provides a pleasant grip, and its presentation, featuring a classic band, attests to the excellence of Cuban craftsmanship.
Upon first contact, the pre-light aromas reveal a rich olfactory palette. Notes of cocoa, accompanied by a hint of earth and wood, emerge upon lighting. The first puff offers a smooth and creamy experience, hinting at nuances of roasted coffee and subtle accents of black pepper. The olfactory evolution is complex and intriguing, providing several surprises as the smoke thickens.
On the palate, the development of flavors is well-structured across the three thirds. The first third focuses on the richness of cocoa and wood, while the second third introduces spicier notes, with a subtle blend of anise and a slight bitterness. The final third concludes with deep flavors of earth and coffee, returning to woody aromas. The aromatic progression is coherent, creating a pleasant sense of balance.
The finish offers an earthy sensation, delicately spiced, leading to a long finish with a pleasing residual sweetness. The balance is good, subtly blending strength and lightness. What makes this cigar unique is its ability to deliver a complex aromatic spectrum while remaining accessible.
This cigar is ideal for a moment of relaxation in the late afternoon, paired with a smooth whisky to enhance its rich aromas. A perfect experience for those looking to savor classic Cubans while exploring a touch of innovation in the torpedo format.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its complex and balanced aromatic profile, making it accessible while offering a beautiful richness. The nuances of cocoa, coffee, and wood are particularly appreciated. Although the construction has sometimes faced criticism, the flavor and finesse of this Montecristo make it a recommended choice for aficionados.
How to taste: Montecristo Petit No. 2
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1.The Visual Examination
The Montecristo Petit No. 2 stands out with its colorado wrapper, a shiny reddish-brown that is slightly oily. With its length of 120.7 mm (4¾") and a ring gauge of 52, its construction is very beautiful, characteristic of Cuban cigars.
This initial observation provides clues about the quality of the tobacco used and the craftsmanship of the manufacturing. A shiny and homogeneous appearance often indicates good aromatic potential.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting the cigar, inhaling the aromas reveals notes of chocolate, coffee, and wood. These scents prepare the palate for the upcoming tasting.
This step allows for anticipation of the cigar's aromatic profile and sharpens focus during tasting. The aromas captured at this stage are often more representative of the raw nature of the tobacco.
3.The Cut
A standard straight cut is made just below the cap, ensuring an adequate opening for the draw. This technique is essential to preserve the integrity of the wrapper.
A precise cut is crucial to avoid uneven burn. It ensures that the draw is optimal throughout the tasting, allowing for a smooth experience.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw is easy, indicating a pleasant smoking experience ahead. This step checks the airflow through the cigar before lighting.
A favorable draw confirms that the cigar is well-constructed and ready to be lit. In the case of a blocked draw, it allows for corrective action before starting the tasting.
5.Lighting
Lighting the Montecristo Petit No. 2 requires special attention to ensure an even burn. A gentle heat is applied to the foot for optimal ignition.
A careful lighting avoids canoeing issues, where one side burns faster than the other. This contributes to a more enjoyable and uninterrupted tasting experience.
6.First Third
The first third reveals a medium strength, dominated by aromas of chocolate and coffee, with a medium volume of smoke. This phase delights with the intensity of its flavors.
This initial contact allows one to acclimate to the strength of the cigar. The aromatic richness is often more pronounced and prepares the palate for the complexity to come.
7.Second Third
During the second third, secondary aromas of licorice, pepper, and damp earth emerge, balancing the experience. The evolution of flavors contributes to the complexity of the blend.
This phase is crucial for discovering the depth of the cigar. A good balance between dominant and secondary aromas enriches the overall experience.
8.The Finish
As the finish arrives, the gray ash testifies to a beautiful burn. The earthy and slightly spicy sensation leaves a sweet finish, marking the completion of the tasting.
The color of the ash and the finish provide clues about the quality of the tobacco and the drying of the leaves. A flavorful finish often indicates a well-thought-out blend.