Montecristo No.4
More Information
| Brand | Montecristo |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 5.0" |
| Strength | Medium |
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Product Specifications
| Brand | Montecristo |
| Line | Línea Clásica |
| Vitola | Mareva (Petit Corona) |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 129 mm (5 1/8″) |
| 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.4 is the best-selling petit corona in the world and one of the most iconic Cuban cigars. Part of the Línea Clásica range since 1935, it delivers the classic Montecristo experience in a compact, approachable format.
Tasting Notes
Strong, spicy flavor with earthy complexity and hints of coffee. Medium-bodied with notes of cedar, leather, and cocoa. Best savored after dinner. Rated 90 by Cigar Aficionado.
The Truth About the Montecristo No.4 – A Real Enthusiast’s Take
Let me start by crushing a myth that’s been floating around for years. People keep saying the Montecristo No.4 is some kind of “beginner’s Cuban” – like it’s training wheels for serious smokers. That’s complete nonsense, and frankly, it pisses me off every time I hear it.
I’ve been smoking Cubans since ’98, back when you had to know a guy who knew a guy just to get your hands on a decent box. The No.4 was one of the first Cubans I ever tried (got it from this sketchy shop in Montreal), and after two decades of exploring everything from Behikes to regional releases, I keep coming back to this little robusto. There’s a reason it’s been around since the 1930s.
Here’s my honest montecristo no 4 review – warts and all.
First Impressions: Don’t Judge This Book by Its Cover
The Monte No.4 isn’t much to look at, I’ll give you that. It’s not going to win any beauty contests sitting next to a Cohiba Esplendido or one of those gorgeous Davidoff limited editions. The wrapper’s usually a bit mottled (especially on the newer boxes), and the construction can look… well, rustic is being kind.
But here’s the thing – and this took me years to really appreciate – there’s something honest about its appearance. No fancy bands, no marketing gimmicks. Just tobacco rolled into a 5″ x 42 format that’s been perfecting itself for decades.
The pre-light draw usually gives you hints of what’s coming: hay, maybe some cocoa, and this distinct earthiness that screams Cuban terroir. Sometimes I get a whiff of cedar from the box aging, which is always a good sign.
The Smoke: A Journey Worth Taking
Now, most reviewers love to break cigars down into neat little thirds, like they’re analyzing a symphony or something. That’s not how I smoke, and it’s definitely not how the No.4 reveals itself.
The first few puffs are usually where you’ll know if you got a good one or not. A well-aged Monte No.4 (and I’m talking at least 2-3 years of proper storage) starts with this creamy, almost buttery introduction. It’s mild, sure, but there’s complexity hiding underneath that some people miss because they’re expecting fireworks.
About an inch in – and this is where it gets interesting – you start picking up these subtle shifts. Maybe it’s leather. Could be coffee beans. I’ve had sticks where I swear I’m tasting dark chocolate with sea salt (had one like that just last month while sitting on my deck during a thunderstorm). The beauty is in the subtlety.
The middle section is where the Monte really starts flexing. The strength bumps up just enough to remind you you’re smoking a Cuban, but it never gets aggressive. I’ve smoked these with buddies who are used to full-strength Nicaraguans, and they’re always surprised by how much flavor Monte packs into what feels like a medium-bodied smoke.
Here’s where I might lose some people: I actually think the final third is where the No.4 shines brightest. Yeah, I know conventional wisdom says most cigars fall apart at the end, but a good Monte keeps building. The earth tones get richer, sometimes you’ll catch hints of nuts or even honey. I’ve smoked these down to nubs that burned my fingers because I couldn’t put them down.
What I Pair It With (And What You Shouldn’t)
Forget what the magazines tell you about pairing Cuban cigars with expensive rum. I mean, if you’ve got a bottle of 23-year Zacapa lying around, go for it, but that’s not reality for most of us.
My go-to pairing? A decent Cuban coffee, black, maybe with just a touch of brown sugar. I discovered this combo during a trip to Havana in ’05, sitting in this little cafe near the Capitolio. The coffee’s bitterness plays perfectly against the Monte’s creaminess.
For spirits, I’ve had great luck with Highland single malts – specifically Glenlivet 12 or Macallan 12. Nothing too peated or aggressive. The honey notes in those whiskies complement the cigar without competing.
Beer? This might be controversial, but hear me out – a good porter or stout works beautifully. I’m talking Founders Porter or even Guinness if that’s what you’ve got. The roasted flavors create this amazing contrast that brings out both the beer and the cigar.
What to avoid: anything too sweet or fruity. I made the mistake once of pairing a No.4 with some dessert wine a friend brought over. Completely overwhelmed the cigar’s subtle flavors. Also, stay away from really peated Scotches – they’ll bulldoze right over everything the Monte’s trying to tell you.
Who Should Smoke This (And Who Shouldn’t)
Here’s the thing about recommendations – they’re personal as hell, and anyone who tells you otherwise is selling something.
The Monte No.4 is perfect for people who appreciate subtlety over power. If you’re someone who needs a cigar to smack you in the face to know it’s there, this probably isn’t your stick. Go find yourself a Partagas Serie D or a Bolivar instead.
It’s also ideal for people who smoke during the day or early evening. I’ve had these with morning coffee (yeah, I know, controversial), afternoon on the golf course, or right after dinner when you want something satisfying but not overwhelming.
New Cuban smokers? Absolutely. But not because it’s “mild” – because it teaches you to pay attention. It rewards patience and contemplation in ways that stronger cigars can’t.
Who should skip it? Honestly, if you’re someone who only smokes occasionally and wants every cigar to be a big, memorable experience, the No.4 might disappoint. It’s more like a great daily driver than a special occasion smoke (though it can absolutely be both).
Storage and Aging: What I’ve Learned the Hard Way
I’ve screwed up enough boxes of these over the years to give you some hard-earned advice.
First, if you can resist smoking them immediately (and I know it’s tough), give them at least a year in your humidor. The Monte No.4 transforms with age in ways that still surprise me. Fresh boxes can be harsh, almost green tasting. But with time, they develop this incredible smoothness.
Keep them at 65% humidity, maybe 67% if you live somewhere really dry. I learned this lesson the expensive way with a box from ’07 that I kept too moist. They developed this musty taste that never went away.
Temperature matters more than people think. I keep mine in the basement where it stays cool year-round. Heat will age them too quickly and not in a good way.
One quirk I’ve noticed: Monte No.4s seem to go through phases as they age. They’ll taste one way at six months, different at two years, then evolve again around five years. I’ve got a few singles from a 2015 box that taste completely different from how I remember them fresh.
The Controversial Take: Why I Think It’s Underrated
Alright, here’s where I’m gonna ruffle some feathers. I think the Montecristo No.4 is one of the most underrated cigars in the Cuban portfolio, and the cigar snob community is partly to blame.
We’ve created this culture where bigger, stronger, and more expensive automatically means better. The No.4 doesn’t play that game. It’s reasonably priced (well, as reasonable as Cubans get these days), it’s not trying to impress anyone, and it delivers a consistent, enjoyable experience.
I’ve smoked $50+ Cubans that couldn’t touch a well-aged Monte No.4 for pure smoking pleasure. But because it doesn’t have the mystique of a Cohiba or the strength of a Partagas, people dismiss it.
That’s their loss, honestly.
Common Questions I Get Asked
How do Monte No.4s compare to Edmundos? The Edmundo (5.5″ x 52) gives you more of everything – more time, more strength, more complexity. But the No.4 has this precision that the larger ring gauge sometimes lacks. It’s like comparing a sports car to a luxury sedan – different tools for different jobs.
Are there fake Monte No.4s to worry about? Oh hell yes. I’ve seen some convincing fakes over the years, especially online. Stick to reputable dealers, check the bands carefully, and if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Real Cubans cost real money.
How long should I expect one to last? About 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how fast you smoke. I tend to smoke slowly, so I usually get about an hour of enjoyment out of each one.
Do they make good gifts? Absolutely, but only for someone who actually smokes cigars. Don’t buy these for your boss who “mentioned liking cigars once.” Get them for someone who’ll appreciate what they’re receiving.
Final Thoughts
Look, the Montecristo No.4 isn’t going to change your life or become the star of your Instagram feed. What it will do is provide consistent, thoughtful smoking experiences that remind you why people have been passionate about Cuban cigars for over a century.
After twenty-plus years of smoking, I’ve learned that the cigars you remember aren’t always the strongest or the most expensive – they’re the ones that were there for the right moments. The Monte No.4 has been there for a lot of my right moments.
It’s earned a permanent spot in my humidor, and if you give it a fair chance, it might earn one in yours too.
36 reviews for Montecristo No.4
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Janice Hart –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 delivered on flavor (cedar and coffee) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Steven Rivera –
Excellent cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 has a refined flavor profile – lots of spice and toast. Draw was perfect and it burned for about 49 minutes. Only minor complaint is it’s slightly strong for my taste, but overall a great smoke.
Jack Peterson –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.4. Montecristo consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of spice and toast. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
David Williams –
Very good cigar. The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 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.
Rose Martinez –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of spice and toast. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Margaret Butler –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of wood and leather. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Barbara Thomas –
The Montecristo No.4 is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of spice and toast, 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.
Rebecca Cook –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of earth and nuts. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Ruth Powell –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.4. Montecristo consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of spice and toast. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
Lisa Barnes –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of almonds and honey. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Maria Patterson –
Decent cigar but not my favorite from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 has good flavor – cedar and coffee – but didn’t wow me like other Cubans I’ve had. Construction was fine, burn was mostly even. It’s good, just not exceptional. Worth trying though.
Deborah Stewart –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of almonds and honey throughout the 78 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Norma Palmer –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 delivered on flavor (cocoa and cream) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Susan Richardson –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 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!
Raymond Morgan –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.4. 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!
Donna Campbell –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.4 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of almonds and honey throughout the smoke. Lasted about 50 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Jacqueline Porter –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 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!
Melissa Evans –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.4 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of spice and toast throughout the smoke. Lasted about 79 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Victor Harper –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.4 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!
Christine Hayes –
A true masterpiece from Montecristo. This Montecristo No.4 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!
Roy Torres –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 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!
Betty Lewis –
Very pleased with this Montecristo No.4. Montecristo quality shines through with spice and toast flavors and solid construction. A touch expensive but worth it for special occasions. Good smoke!
Pamela Ward –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Montecristo No.4 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 68 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – earth and nuts. Will definitely order more!
Edward Coleman –
Solid cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 has nice flavors of cocoa and cream and good construction. Enjoyed about 59 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to Montecristo.
Angela Griffin –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.4! 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!
Doris Spencer –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of cedar and coffee throughout the 89 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Thomas Perry –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 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!
James Robinson –
The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 is a quality cigar. Nice balance of flavor and strength. I enjoyed the cocoa and cream notes throughout. Construction was very good with only one minor touch-up needed. Good cigar for experienced smokers.
Carol King –
Excellent cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 has a refined flavor profile – lots of almonds and honey. Draw was perfect and it burned for about 51 minutes. Only minor complaint is it’s slightly strong for my taste, but overall a great smoke.
Gloria Ferguson –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.4 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of spice and toast throughout the smoke. Lasted about 78 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Lawrence Rose –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.4. 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!
Patricia Rodriguez –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 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!
Brandon Wright –
Exceptional cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.4 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of cedar and coffee throughout the 89 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Daniel Moore –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of spice and toast. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Julia Holmes –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.4! 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!
Ryan Hall –
The Montecristo Montecristo No.4 is a quality cigar. Nice balance of flavor and strength. I enjoyed the earth and nuts notes throughout. Construction was very good with only one minor touch-up needed. Good cigar for experienced smokers.