About the Montecristo No.1
Few cigars carry the weight of reputation that the Montecristo No.1 does. Montecristo has been a cornerstone of Cuban tobacco since 1935, and the No.1 sits proudly among the brand’s most recognized vitolas. Rolled in the Cervantes format, this is the classic Lonsdale that many enthusiasts point to when they describe what a balanced, well aged Habano should taste like. Its slender, elegant silhouette and seamless construction reflect the level of craft that built the Montecristo name across nearly a century of production.
Flavor profile by thirds
The opening third leans into toasted tobacco and warm cedar, with a creaminess that softens the bolder early notes. As the cigar settles into its middle stretch, coffee and cocoa step forward alongside a gentle nuttiness, and the smoke takes on a rounder, more polished character. The final third brings the sweeter elements into focus, with hints of vanilla and bright citrus weaving through the toasty core, never tipping into bitterness or heat. It is a progression that rewards an unhurried pace.
Pairings
- An aged Cuban rum, which echoes the cigar’s vanilla and cocoa tones.
- A cup of espresso or dark roast coffee to amplify the toasty, roasted character.
- A lightly peated single malt whisky for those who enjoy a touch of contrast.
Aging and storage
The No.1 already smokes beautifully fresh, yet a few years of patience can deepen its creaminess and round off any youthful edges. Keep your cigars in a seasoned humidor held around 65 to 70 percent relative humidity and a steady temperature near 18 degrees Celsius. Stored well, a box of these Lonsdales will mature gracefully, with the wood and cocoa notes gaining richness over time.
Who it is for
This is a cigar for the smoker who values finesse over force. If you appreciate a medium bodied Habano with genuine complexity, a clean draw, and a long, contemplative burn, the No.1 belongs in your rotation. It suits both the seasoned aficionado revisiting a classic and the newer enthusiast ready to understand why Montecristo is held in such high regard.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the Montecristo No.1?
It is a Lonsdale in the Cervantes vitola, measuring 6.5 inches (165 mm) with a 42 ring gauge.
How strong is the Montecristo No.1?
It is a medium bodied cigar, complex and refined rather than overpowering, which makes it approachable across a wide range of palates.
How long does it take to smoke?
Expect roughly an hour of relaxed smoking, with each third offering its own distinct progression of flavor.
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.