This December, a new cigar will join the Montecristo lineup. Known as the Montecristo M, it features a rare wrapper leaf aged for an impressive 20 years. Altadis U.S.A. is behind this release, offering something truly special for cigar lovers.
Expert Craftsmanship and Tradition
The Montecristo M is made by A.J. Fernandez in Nicaragua, known for his expertise in blending cigars. Like many Montecristos, it uses Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos. However, the standout feature is the wrapperβa leaf grown in Ecuador from Connecticut seed and aged for two decades. David Perez, a fifth-generation tobacco grower, provided this rare tobacco.
This partnership between Fernandez, Perez, and Altadis U.S.A. reflects their shared commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and tradition.
Medium-Bodied Flavor with Subtle Complexity
While many of A.J. Fernandez’s cigars are full-bodied, the Montecristo M takes a different approach. It delivers a medium-bodied experience, letting the delicate flavors of the aged wrapper shine. The Ecuador Connecticut wrapper is known for its mildness, which offers subtle and layered flavors.
By keeping the Nicaraguan binder and filler slightly less intense, the cigarβs blend focuses on highlighting the wrapperβs complex yet refined profile. Rafael Nodal, vice president of product capability at Tabacalera USA, says the blend is a “harmonious combination” of Nicaraguan tobaccos and the unique characteristics of the aged wrapper.
Elegant Packaging and Size Options
The Montecristo M cigars come in sleek boxes of 20, with each box containing a certificate of authenticity signed by Fernandez, Perez, and Nodal. The cigars are available in four different sizes:
- Robusto: 4 3/4 inches by 54 ring gauge ($30)
- Toro: 6 inches by 52 ring gauge ($32)
- No. 2: 6 1/4 inches by 52 ring gauge ($33.50)
- Churchill: 7 inches by 50 ring gauge ($35)
For those who prefer a smaller commitment, the Toro size is also available in a five-pack.
Rare, but Not Limited
Although not a limited edition, the Montecristo M will be produced in small batches. This is due to the limited availability of the aged wrapper, adding to the cigar’s sense of exclusivity.
βThis launch is a major milestone for Montecristo,β says Davide Moro, CEO of Altadis U.S.A. It reflects the brandβs ongoing evolution while staying true to its roots.
A Step Forward for Montecristo
The Montecristo M will make its debut at the Tobacconistsβ Association of America conference in Aruba, where retailers will get an early preview. While it wonβt be available in stores until later in the season, the buzz is already building.
In short, the Montecristo M is a must-try for cigar lovers. It combines a rare 20-year-aged wrapper with a balanced Nicaraguan blend, offering a smoking experience thatβs both refined and rich in flavor. With its elegant presentation and thoughtful blending, the Montecristo M marks an exciting new chapter for this legendary brand.
