Montecristo No.1
More Information
| Brand | Montecristo |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 6.5" |
| Strength | Medium |
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Product Specifications
| Brand | Montecristo |
| Line | Línea Clásica |
| Vitola | Cervantes (Lonsdale) |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 165 mm (6 1/2″) |
| Wrapper | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Binder | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Strength | Medium |
| Factory | H. Upmann, Havana |
| Country | Cuba |
| Box Count | 25 cigars |
| Smoking Time | 75-90 minutes |
| Release Year | 1935 |
About This Cigar
The Montecristo No.1 is a classic lonsdale format from the prestigious Línea Clásica range. Its elegant, elongated shape allows for a longer, more contemplative smoke and showcases Montecristo’s refined tobacco blend.
Tasting Notes
Medium-bodied with rich, creamy flavors and hints of nuts, coffee, and cedar. Features a first-rate cap, silky wrapper, and smooth delivery from start to finish. Ideal after a meal.
Why the Montecristo No.1 Became My Default Recommendation (And Maybe Shouldn’t Have)
Look, I’ll be straight with you right off the bat – I’ve probably recommended the Montecristo No.1 to more newcomers than any other Cuban cigar over the past two decades. It’s been my safe bet, my “you can’t go wrong with this” option when someone walks into a shop looking confused or asks me what to try first from Cuba. But here’s the thing that’s been nagging at me lately: maybe I’ve been doing some of y’all a disservice.
Don’t get me wrong. This isn’t going to be some contrarian takedown piece where I trash a classic just to be edgy. The Montecristo No.1 is still a damn fine smoke, and there’s a reason it’s survived this long in one of the most demanding cigar markets in the world. But after smoking hundreds of these things (and I mean that literally – I went through a phase in ’08-’09 where this was practically all I smoked), I’ve got some thoughts that might surprise you.
First Impressions: The Good, The Expected, and The “Wait, What?”
My first Montecristo No.1 was back in 2003. Got it from a guy who shall remain nameless during a “business trip” to Nassau (wink wink). I remember thinking it looked almost too perfect – that classic lonsdale shape, immaculate wrapper, the kind of cigar that makes you feel like you should be wearing a tuxedo to smoke it.
The pre-light draw was everything you’d expect from a Monte. Sweet tobacco, that distinctive hay-like quality that screams “Cuban,” and just a hint of something I could never quite put my finger on. Cedar? Vanilla? My buddy Carlos always insisted it was almonds, but Carlos also thinks pineapple belongs on pizza, so take that with a grain of salt.
What I wasn’t expecting was how damn finicky the thing was to light. Maybe it was just that particular stick, or maybe I was still learning (okay, I was definitely still learning), but I went through half a book of matches trying to get an even burn going. Pro tip that took me way too long to figure out: these things benefit from a really slow, patient toast. Don’t rush it.
The Flavor Journey (Or: How I Learned to Stop Overthinking and Just Enjoy the Ride)
Here’s where I’m gonna diverge from those overly clinical reviews that break everything down into rigid thirds. That’s not how smoking actually works, at least not for me. Flavors don’t just switch on and off like someone’s flipping a switch every inch and a half.
The Montecristo No.1 starts gentle. Almost too gentle if you’re coming from something like a Partagás or a Bolívar. There’s this creamy, almost buttery quality that dominates the first half inch or so. It’s pleasant, don’t get me wrong, but it’s also… safe. Predictable. The kind of flavor profile that won’t offend anyone but might not excite everyone either.
But stick with it (and honestly, at $25-35+ a stick depending on where you’re getting them, you’d better stick with it). Around the halfway point, things start to get interesting. The cream gives way to this wonderful interplay between leather and coffee – not the bright, acidic coffee you get from some Nicaraguans, but more like the smell of coffee grounds mixed with brown sugar.
The last third is where the Monte No.1 either wins you over completely or leaves you wanting more. There’s this earthy complexity that develops, almost mineral-like at times. I’ve smoked these on beaches in Mexico, on rooftops in Chicago, in my garage during Minnesota winters (don’t recommend that, by the way), and that final third always takes me to the same place mentally – it’s meditative. Contemplative.
Here’s my controversial take though: I think the Montecristo No.1 might actually be too subtle for its own good sometimes. In an era where everyone’s palate has been trained on fuller-bodied sticks from Nicaragua and Honduras, the Monte’s restraint can come across as boring rather than sophisticated. It’s like trying to appreciate a watercolor painting when everyone around you is looking at Jackson Pollock.
Pairing Adventures (Some Hits, Some Misses, One Disaster)
I’ve paired the Montecristo No.1 with everything from top-shelf rum to gas station coffee (long story involving a delayed flight in Atlanta). Here’s what actually works:
Rum: Obviously. But skip the Bacardi and go for something with character. I’m partial to Zacapa 23 or, if you’re feeling fancy, Appleton Estate 21. The sweetness complements without overwhelming.
Whisky: This is where it gets tricky. I tried pairing it with a Macallan 18 once and it was like watching two polite people have a conversation – pleasant but forgettable. Better to go with something that has a bit more backbone. Highland Park 12 works surprisingly well. So does a good bourbon – I’ve had great experiences with Blanton’s.
Coffee: Cuban coffee if you can get it, obviously. But a good medium roast from anywhere will do. Just avoid anything too dark or you’ll overpower the cigar completely.
The disaster: Never, and I mean NEVER, pair a Montecristo No.1 with wine. I don’t care what that sommelier at the fancy restaurant told you. I tried it once with a Barolo that cost more than my car payment and it was like mixing fine perfume with motor oil. Just don’t.
Who Should Smoke This (And Who Should Run the Other Way)
If you’re new to Cuban cigars, the Montecristo No.1 is probably a solid choice. It’s forgiving, well-constructed (usually), and won’t knock you on your ass with nicotine. It’s the cigar equivalent of training wheels – nothing wrong with that.
If you’re someone who appreciates subtlety and complexity over power, you’ll probably love this stick. It rewards patience and attention. It’s a cigar for quiet moments, not celebrations.
But if you’re the type who gravitates toward full-bodied powerhouses, or if you need your cigars to announce themselves loudly, you might find the Monte No.1 a bit underwhelming. And that’s okay! Not every cigar is for every smoker.
Also – and this might ruffle some feathers – I don’t think this is always the best “special occasion” cigar. Yeah, it’s got the pedigree and the price point, but sometimes special occasions call for something with more… presence. More personality. The Monte No.1 is more of a “Tuesday evening on the back porch” smoke than a “celebrating my promotion” smoke.
Storage Notes and Insider Stuff
These age beautifully if you’ve got the patience. I’ve got a box from 2015 that’s just hitting its stride now. The harshness (and yes, young Montecristos can be a bit harsh) mellows out completely, and you start getting these incredible honey notes that simply aren’t there in fresh sticks.
Storage-wise, they’re pretty forgiving. I keep mine at 65% humidity, maybe 66% in the winter when the air gets dry. Any higher and you risk losing some of that delicate flavor profile.
One thing I’ve noticed over the years: the quality control on Montecristo No.1s can be inconsistent. I’ve had boxes where every single stick was perfect, and I’ve had boxes where three out of ten had burn issues or were plugged. It’s frustrating when you’re paying premium prices, but it’s also just reality with Cuban cigars sometimes.
If you’re buying singles, give them a gentle squeeze before purchasing. They should have just a bit of give without feeling spongy. And always check the foot for any signs of cracking or damage.
The Bottom Line (After 20+ Years of Overthinking It)
The Montecristo No.1 is a good cigar. Sometimes it’s even a great cigar. But it’s not the be-all, end-all of Cuban cigars that some people make it out to be. It’s dependable, pleasant, and occasionally transcendent, but it’s also predictable and maybe a little too concerned with being inoffensive.
Would I recommend it? Yeah, probably. Especially if you’re just starting to explore Cuban cigars or if you’re looking for something mellow for a quiet evening. Just don’t expect it to blow your mind or change your life.
And honestly? Sometimes predictable is exactly what you want. Not every smoke needs to be an adventure.
Common Questions (Because I Get Asked These All the Time)
How long does it take to smoke? Plan on 75-90 minutes if you’re not rushing. These aren’t quick smokes, and they shouldn’t be treated as such.
Are fakes common? Unfortunately, yes. Buy from reputable sources and know what to look for. The bands should be crisp, the construction should be flawless, and the price should make you wince a little.
How do they compare to the No.2? Different animals entirely. The No.2 has more punch but less elegance. Depends what you’re in the mood for.
Worth the price? That depends on your definition of “worth it.” They’re expensive, no question. But if you appreciate the history, the craftsmanship, and the experience, then yeah, probably worth it for special occasions.
At the end of the day, the Montecristo No.1 is a cigar that’s earned its reputation through consistency rather than brilliance. And you know what? There’s something to be said for that.
58 reviews for Montecristo No.1
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Kathleen Cooper –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.1! Montecristo continues to impress with their quality. Wonderful complexity with cocoa and cream, smooth creamy smoke, and perfect construction. One of my all-time favorites!
Matthew Jackson –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of earth and nuts. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Raymond Morgan –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of earth and nuts throughout the 80 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Eric Turner –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of cocoa and cream. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Lawrence Rose –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.1. Rich flavor profile featuring almonds and honey, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Larry Barnes –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Montecristo No.1 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 85 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – almonds and honey. Will definitely order more!
Ann Crawford –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of almonds and honey throughout the 81 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Theresa Lawson –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of spice and toast, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Scott Henderson –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of almonds and honey, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Anthony Harris –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.1! Montecristo continues to impress with their quality. Wonderful complexity with almonds and honey, smooth creamy smoke, and perfect construction. One of my all-time favorites!
Carol King –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of spice and toast, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Philip Mason –
Very pleased with this Montecristo No.1. Montecristo quality shines through with cocoa and cream flavors and solid construction. A touch expensive but worth it for special occasions. Good smoke!
Joshua Clark –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.1 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of earth and nuts throughout the smoke. Lasted about 55 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Roger Webb –
Great cigar! Montecristo Montecristo No.1 offers excellent quality and flavor. Notes of cocoa and cream throughout, good burn, nice draw. Not quite perfect but very close. Will definitely order again!
Angela Griffin –
The Montecristo No.1 is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of almonds and honey, decent construction. However, I found it a bit one-dimensional compared to other Montecristo offerings. Not bad, but there are better options in this price range.
Doris Spencer –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of earth and nuts throughout the 49 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Barbara Thomas –
The Montecristo No.1 is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of cocoa and cream, decent construction. However, I found it a bit one-dimensional compared to other Montecristo offerings. Not bad, but there are better options in this price range.
George Collins –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of wood and leather, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Mildred Pierce –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of spice and toast. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Anna Sanders –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Montecristo No.1 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 56 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – spice and toast. Will definitely order more!
Maria Patterson –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of almonds and honey, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Samuel Morris –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of almonds and honey throughout the 70 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
David Williams –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.1. Montecristo consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of earth and nuts. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
Annie Griffin –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.1. Rich flavor profile featuring earth and nuts, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Diane Ross –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.1! Montecristo continues to impress with their quality. Wonderful complexity with earth and nuts, smooth creamy smoke, and perfect construction. One of my all-time favorites!
Richard Howard –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 delivered on flavor (wood and leather) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Nancy Martin –
Excellent cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 has a refined flavor profile – lots of wood and leather. Draw was perfect and it burned for about 55 minutes. Only minor complaint is it’s slightly strong for my taste, but overall a great smoke.
Walter Sanders –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of wood and leather, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Keith Dixon –
The Montecristo No.1 is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of almonds and honey, decent construction. However, I found it a bit one-dimensional compared to other Montecristo offerings. Not bad, but there are better options in this price range.
Lisa Walker –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 delivered on flavor (spice and toast) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
William Garcia –
The Montecristo No.1 is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of wood and leather, decent construction. However, I found it a bit one-dimensional compared to other Montecristo offerings. Not bad, but there are better options in this price range.
Kimberly Roberts –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of cedar and coffee. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Catherine Murray –
Very good cigar. The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 lives up to its reputation. Beautiful wrapper, good construction, and nice flavor development. Tasted cocoa and cream with a smooth finish. Not the absolute best I’ve had, but definitely solid. Would buy again.
Julia Holmes –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.1. Rich flavor profile featuring earth and nuts, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Emily Nelson –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of cedar and coffee throughout the 52 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Betty Lewis –
Solid cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 has nice flavors of spice and toast and good construction. Enjoyed about 57 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to Montecristo.
Jessica White –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of cedar and coffee, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Harold Wells –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of wood and leather. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Dorothy Hughes –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of earth and nuts, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Alexander Green –
The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 is a quality cigar. Nice balance of flavor and strength. I enjoyed the wood and leather notes throughout. Construction was very good with only one minor touch-up needed. Good cigar for experienced smokers.
Dennis Wallace –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.1! Montecristo continues to impress with their quality. Wonderful complexity with spice and toast, smooth creamy smoke, and perfect construction. One of my all-time favorites!
Jack Peterson –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.1 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of earth and nuts throughout the smoke. Lasted about 54 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Thomas Perry –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.1 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of cedar and coffee throughout the smoke. Lasted about 54 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Steven Ross –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of cedar and coffee. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Albert Ross –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of almonds and honey throughout the 65 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Debra Warren –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of cocoa and cream. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Evelyn Russell –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.1 is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of cocoa and cream, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Ruth Powell –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.1. Rich flavor profile featuring spice and toast, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Ryan Hall –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of spice and toast. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Willie Ford –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of cedar and coffee. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Teresa Myers –
Great cigar! Montecristo Montecristo No.1 offers excellent quality and flavor. Notes of wood and leather throughout, good burn, nice draw. Not quite perfect but very close. Will definitely order again!
Shirley Neal –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of wood and leather. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Edward Coleman –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of wood and leather. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Amanda Phillips –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of spice and toast throughout the 53 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Karen Lee –
Very good cigar. The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 lives up to its reputation. Beautiful wrapper, good construction, and nice flavor development. Tasted spice and toast with a smooth finish. Not the absolute best I’ve had, but definitely solid. Would buy again.
Peter Hayes –
Excellent cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.1 has a refined flavor profile – lots of cocoa and cream. Draw was perfect and it burned for about 82 minutes. Only minor complaint is it’s slightly strong for my taste, but overall a great smoke.
Susan Richardson –
The Montecristo No.1 is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of cedar and coffee, decent construction. However, I found it a bit one-dimensional compared to other Montecristo offerings. Not bad, but there are better options in this price range.
Jeffrey Watson –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Montecristo Montecristo No.1 delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of wood and leather. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!