About the Montecristo D EL 2005
The Montecristo D Edición Limitada 2005 belongs to Habanos’ most collectible tier, the annual Edición Limitada program reserved for vitolas dressed in specially aged, darker wrappers. Montecristo remains Cuba’s flagship marca, born in 1935 and named for the Dumas novel that captivated the cigar rollers of the era. This release wears the factory name Dalias, a slim Lonsdale measuring 170 mm by a 43 ring gauge, and was presented in varnished 8-9-8 boxes of ten. The wrapper leaf was matured for roughly two years before rolling, giving the D the depth and poise that limited edition collectors prize.
Flavor profile by thirds
This is a medium to full smoke that opens with a spicy, almost chocolaty character and a generous coating of cream across the palate. Through the first third you meet hazelnut and a rich espresso note that lingers on the back of the draw, framed by the signature Habanos earthiness reviewers often describe as fermented loam. The middle picks up nutmeg and a thread of sweet tobacco, while the body firms up toward the band. By the final third the cigar settles into a deeper, woody and coffee-forward register, holding its composure when smoked patiently.
Pairings
- Aged Cuban or Dominican rum, whose molasses sweetness echoes the cigar’s cocoa and cream.
- A short, intense espresso or Cuban cafecito to mirror the natural coffee notes.
- A lightly peated single malt Scotch, which lifts the nutmeg and earthy undertones.
Aging and storage
As a discontinued 2005 Edición Limitada, properly stored examples have had years to marry and round out, and they continue to reward patience. Keep the D at roughly 65 to 70 percent relative humidity and around 16 to 18 degrees Celsius in a seasoned humidor. Slow, gentle aging softens any youthful edge, deepens the chocolate and coffee tones, and preserves the construction. Avoid sudden swings in temperature or humidity, since aged Limited Edition wrappers are delicate.
Who it is for
This cigar suits the collector and the seasoned smoker who appreciates a slimmer ring gauge that still carries weight. The Lonsdale format burns cooler and more elegantly than a fat robusto, making it a fine choice for an unhurried evening when you want nuance rather than sheer power. Newcomers may find the medium to full body and earthy core demanding, so it rewards a palate already comfortable with traditional Habanos flavor.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the Montecristo D EL 2005?
It is a Lonsdale, factory name Dalias, measuring 170 mm (about 6.6 inches) by a 43 ring gauge, packaged in 8-9-8 boxes of ten.
How strong is the Montecristo D Edición Limitada 2005?
It sits in the medium to full range, with spicy, chocolaty and earthy flavors that build gradually rather than overwhelming the palate.
Is this cigar still in production?
No. It was a one-time 2005 Edición Limitada release and is now discontinued, which is part of why it appeals to collectors.
Explore more
Browse all Montecristo cigars, see our Montecristo price guide, or try the Montecristo No.2 and Montecristo Double Corona Limited Edition 2001. Store yours in a seasoned humidor and see our guide on how long cigars last. Learn more from Wikipedia, the official Habanos S.A. site.
