Montecristo No.3
More Information
| Brand | Montecristo |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 5.625" |
| Strength | Medium |
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Product Specifications
| Brand | Montecristo |
| Line | Línea Clásica |
| Vitola | Corona |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 142 mm (5 5/8″) |
| 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 | 45-60 minutes |
| Release Year | 1935 |
About This Cigar
The Montecristo No.3 is a classic corona from the prestigious Línea Clásica range, part of Montecristo’s numbered series since 1935. This elegant format showcases the brand’s refined tobacco blend in a perfect morning or afternoon smoke size.
Tasting Notes
Smooth, full-bodied with exotic spices including cinnamon and nutmeg. Superb burn with a pleasing cedary finish. Rated 95 Corona by Cigar Aficionado.
The Monte Cristo 3: Like Finding Your Favorite Worn-In Leather Jacket at a Thrift Shop
You know that feeling when you’re browsing through a vintage shop and your hand lands on this perfectly broken-in leather jacket? It’s not flashy, doesn’t scream for attention, but the moment you slip it on, everything just… fits. That’s exactly what happened when I first lit up a Monte Cristo 3 about fifteen years ago in a little cigar lounge in Miami.
I’ll be honest – I’d been so caught up chasing the Cohiba hype and flirting with those monster Churchill sizes that I almost overlooked this unassuming corona. Big mistake on my part. The monte cristo 3 taught me that sometimes the middle child deserves more attention than we give it.
First Light: Expectations vs Reality
Here’s the thing about Monte Cristo cigars – they’ve got this reputation for being “safe” choices. You know, the cigar equivalent of ordering chicken at a steakhouse. But that’s doing the No. 3 a real disservice.
Right off the bat, this thing surprised me. The construction is solid (I mean, it’s Cuban, so duh), but what caught me off guard was how the wrapper had this subtle oil sheen that reminded me of my grandfather’s old humidor. Not too oily, just… present. The pre-light draw gave me hints of cedar and something I couldn’t quite place – maybe leather? Maybe toast? Hell, maybe both.
The first few puffs were clean. Really clean. Almost too clean, if I’m being picky (and after twenty-something years of this hobby, I definitely am). But here’s where it gets interesting – that initial mildness isn’t weakness, it’s restraint. Like a jazz musician who knows when not to play.
The Flavor Journey (Or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Build)
Forget all that “first third, second third, final third” nonsense for a minute. The monte cristo 3 doesn’t work that way. It’s more like… okay, you know how some conversations start slow but gradually get more interesting? That’s this cigar.
For the first inch or so, you’re getting acquainted. There’s cream, there’s cedar (lots of cedar, actually – more than I expected), and this subtle nuttiness that reminded me of the cashews my buddy Roberto always keeps in his shop. Nothing groundbreaking, but solid groundwork.
But then something shifts. Maybe it’s around the halfway point, maybe a bit before – honestly depends on how you’re smoking it. The cream starts backing off and these earthy notes creep in. Not dirt-earthy, more like… fresh coffee grounds? Yeah, that’s closer. And there’s this hint of sweetness that comes and goes like it’s playing hard to get.
The final stretch is where this cigar either wins you over or doesn’t. Some people complain it gets bitter – and look, they’re not wrong if you’re puffing like a freight train. But slow it down (and I mean really slow it down) and you get these gorgeous notes of dark chocolate and something almost spicy. Not pepper spicy, more like… cinnamon bark?
I’ve smoked probably fifty of these over the years, and that flavor development is remarkably consistent. Which brings me to a controversial point: I think the monte cristo 3 might actually be more reliable than its bigger siblings. There, I said it.
What I Pair This With (And What You Shouldn’t)
Coffee’s the obvious choice, but let me get specific here. This pairs beautifully with a proper Cuban espresso – not that Starbucks stuff, but real Cuban coffee. I discovered this combo during a trip to Key West back in ’09, sitting on the porch at this little B&B while watching the sunrise.
For alcohol? Here’s where I might lose some of you – I love this with a good añejo tequila. I know, I know, everyone expects me to say cognac or single malt. But there’s something about how the agave plays with those earthy notes in the cigar that just works. Specifically, I’ve had great luck with Herradura Añejo or, if you’re feeling fancy, Casa Noble.
What doesn’t work? Heavy wines. Tried it with a Cabernet Sauvignon once and it was like wearing a tuxedo to a barbecue – technically possible, but why would you? The wine overwhelmed everything subtle about the cigar.
Beer’s tricky. Light lagers are too weak, but anything hoppy fights with the cigar’s natural progression. If you must go beer, try a wheat beer or maybe a mild porter.
Who Should Smoke This (And Who Should Keep Walking)
If you’re new to cigars, this is actually a fantastic starting point. It won’t knock you on your ass like some of the full-bodied monsters out there, but it’s got enough character to teach you what to look for in a good smoke.
Experienced smokers looking for complexity might be disappointed initially. This isn’t a cigar that grabs you by the lapels and demands attention. You’ve got to meet it halfway.
Morning smokers will love this. It’s got enough flavor to be interesting but won’t ruin your palate for the day. I’ve enjoyed many of these with my morning coffee on the weekends.
Who should skip it? If you’re the type who needs power in your cigars – you know who you are, always reaching for the Partagás Serie D or the Bolivar Belicosos Finos – this might leave you wanting. It’s not weak, but it’s definitely not aggressive.
Storage and Aging: Some Hard-Won Wisdom
Here’s something most people don’t talk about: the monte cristo 3 actually benefits from a bit of aging. Not decades (though I’ve had some five-year-old ones that were spectacular), but even six months to a year can really smooth out any rough edges.
Storage-wise, these are pretty forgiving. I keep mine at 65% humidity rather than the usual 70%, and I think it helps preserve that cedar character. Too much moisture and they can get muddy-tasting.
One quirk I’ve noticed – and this might just be me – but boxes from different years can taste noticeably different. I had a 2018 box that was significantly creamier than a 2020 box that leaned more toward the earthy side. Not better or worse, just different. Keep that in mind if you’re buying singles versus a whole box.
The Burn and Construction Story
Let’s talk about the practical stuff for a minute. The burn on these is usually excellent – straight, even, minimal touch-ups needed. The ash holds well (usually about an inch before I knock it off out of habit).
Draw is typically spot-on, though I did have one box where about half the cigars were a bit tight. That’s more of a Cuban cigar thing in general rather than specific to the No. 3, but worth mentioning.
Smoke production is moderate. You’re not going to fog up the room, but there’s enough to satisfy. The smoke itself is smooth – rarely harsh, even when you get toward the nub.
Answering the Questions Everyone Asks
How long does it take to smoke? Usually about 45 minutes to an hour for me, depending on pace. It’s a corona, so not a huge time commitment.
Is it worth the price? That depends on what you’re paying, honestly. If we’re talking about legitimate Cuban monte cristo 3s, yeah, they’re usually fairly priced within the Cuban cigar market. Not cheap, but not outrageous either.
How does it compare to other Monte Cristo sizes? I find it more approachable than the No. 2 (which can be a bit intense) and more interesting than the No. 4 (which sometimes strikes me as one-dimensional). The No. 1 is a different beast entirely – longer smoke, more development.
Should I age these? Not necessary, but beneficial if you’ve got the patience. They’re perfectly smokeable fresh, but six months to two years can really enhance the experience.
My Final Take (Such As It Is)
Look, the monte cristo 3 isn’t going to change your life or make you rethink everything you know about cigars. But it’s a damn solid smoke that does exactly what it sets out to do. It’s reliable, approachable, and has enough character to keep things interesting.
In my rotation, it’s become the cigar I reach for when I want something good without having to think too hard about it. Some days you want to analyze every note and transition – other days you just want to enjoy a well-made cigar while watching the world go by.
If I had to describe it in one word? Comfortable. And honestly, after two decades of chasing the next great smoke, comfortable is pretty damn appealing.
Is it the best Cuban cigar out there? No. Is it one you should try if you haven’t? Absolutely. Sometimes the middle child surprises you.
35 reviews for Montecristo No.3
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Ann Crawford –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.3. 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!
Andrew Thompson –
Great smoke for the price. This Montecristo No.3 offers excellent value for a premium Montecristo cigar. Good flavor with notes of almonds and honey, even burn, and consistent quality. Perfect for a weekend smoke. Happy with this purchase!
Harold Wells –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.3 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!
Gary Wood –
The Montecristo No.3 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.
Paul Price –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.3 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of wood and leather throughout the smoke. Lasted about 90 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Brian Parker –
Very good cigar. The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 lives up to its reputation. Beautiful wrapper, good construction, and nice flavor development. Tasted earth and nuts with a smooth finish. Not the absolute best I’ve had, but definitely solid. Would buy again.
Theresa Lawson –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.3. Montecristo consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of cedar and coffee. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
Diane Ross –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Montecristo No.3 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 86 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – wood and leather. Will definitely order more!
David Williams –
Very good cigar. The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 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.
Sandra Young –
Solid cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.3 has nice flavors of wood and leather and good construction. Enjoyed about 59 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to Montecristo.
Catherine Murray –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of earth and nuts. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Amanda Phillips –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.3! 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!
Mildred Pierce –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.3 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of cocoa and cream. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Carol King –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 delivered on flavor (cedar and coffee) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Doris Spencer –
Great smoke for the price. This Montecristo No.3 offers excellent value for a premium Montecristo cigar. Good flavor with notes of almonds and honey, even burn, and consistent quality. Perfect for a weekend smoke. Happy with this purchase!
Raymond Morgan –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 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!
Ruth Powell –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.3. Rich flavor profile featuring almonds and honey, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Howard Lynch –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of wood and leather. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Jacqueline Porter –
Great smoke for the price. This Montecristo No.3 offers excellent value for a premium Montecristo cigar. Good flavor with notes of spice and toast, even burn, and consistent quality. Perfect for a weekend smoke. Happy with this purchase!
Henry Gardner –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.3! 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!
Donna Campbell –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of cedar and coffee. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Angela Griffin –
Excellent cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.3 has a refined flavor profile – lots of spice and toast. Draw was perfect and it burned for about 88 minutes. Only minor complaint is it’s slightly strong for my taste, but overall a great smoke.
Lawrence Rose –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.3! 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!
George Collins –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.3. Montecristo consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of almonds and honey. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
Jack Peterson –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.3. Rich flavor profile featuring spice and toast, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Shirley Neal –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of cocoa and cream. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Richard Howard –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.3! 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!
Deborah Stewart –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The Montecristo Montecristo No.3 delivered on flavor (cocoa and cream) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Scott Henderson –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.3 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of spice and toast throughout the 58 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Betty Lewis –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.3 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of cocoa and cream. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Anna Sanders –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.3. Rich flavor profile featuring cedar and coffee, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Carolyn Jenkins –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.3. Rich flavor profile featuring spice and toast, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Peter Hayes –
Solid cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.3 has nice flavors of almonds and honey and good construction. Enjoyed about 57 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to Montecristo.
Gregory Murphy –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.3 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of almonds and honey throughout the smoke. Lasted about 90 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Anthony Harris –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.3 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!