Montecristo Open Eagle

Box of 20s 5 1/2 x 52,

When Habanos S.A. introduced the Montecristo Open Series in 2009, they revolutionized the way aficionados enjoy premium Cuban cigars outdoors. The Montecristo Open Eagle, the flagship vitola of this distinguished line, represents a masterful balance between the legendary Montecristo character and a lighter, more accessible smoking experience. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about this exceptional Cuban cigar, from its unique specifications to its complex flavor profile.

What Makes the Montecristo Open Eagle Special?

The Montecristo Open Eagle stands as the largest and most impressive cigar in the Open Series collection. Launched alongside the Montecristo Open Golf Tournament—Cuba’s premier international golf competition—this cigar was specifically designed for the modern smoker who enjoys their premium cigars in outdoor settings, whether on the golf course, sailing, or during other leisurely activities.

Cigar Specifications and Vitola

The Open Eagle features dimensions that cigar enthusiasts immediately recognize as substantial yet manageable:

• Length: 150mm (5 7/8 inches / 5.9 inches)
• Ring Gauge: 54
• Vitola de Galera: Geniales
• Shape: Robusto Extra / Super Robusto
• Format: Hand-rolled Cuban puro
• Presentation: 20-count boxes and aluminum tubes (3-count packs)

The 54 ring gauge represents the largest ever produced for a standard straight-sided Cuban cigar at the time of its release, making the Open Eagle an impressive statement piece that delivers generous smoke output while maintaining excellent draw characteristics even in challenging outdoor conditions.

Construction and Appearance: A Visual Masterpiece

Wrapper and Build Quality

The Montecristo Open Eagle showcases exceptional Cuban craftsmanship through its meticulous construction. The cigar presents a beautiful silky Colorado wrapper with dark reflections that immediately catch the eye. The wrapper leaf, sourced from Cuba’s premier tobacco-growing region, Vuelta Abajo, displays a slightly oily sheen with a texture that ranges from smooth to moderately rough depending on the specific harvest.

Upon inspection, you’ll notice:

• Evident but not pronounced veins that attest to authentic Cuban tobacco
• Triple cap construction providing a clean, professional finish
• Firm roll consistency throughout the cigar’s length
• Spongy feel with medium weight when held, indicating proper humidity and filling
• Excellent construction standards with tight, consistent rolling

The longitudinal veins running along the wrapper demonstrate the expertise of the torcedores (cigar rollers) at the Montecristo factory, ensuring structural integrity that withstands outdoor elements like wind and varying temperatures.

The Montecristo Open Series Philosophy

Understanding the Open Eagle requires appreciating the philosophy behind the entire Open Series. Habanos S.A. created this line with a specific mission: to offer cigars bearing the prestigious Montecristo name but with a lighter, more contained strength profile that appeals to a broader audience.

Target Audience and Smoking Occasions

The Open Series targets what Habanos describes as “sporty outdoor smokers”—a new generation of cigar enthusiasts who:

• Enjoy active lifestyles and outdoor pursuits
• Appreciate premium quality without overwhelming strength
• Seek cigars that perform well in challenging conditions
• Value the Montecristo brand heritage with modern accessibility
• Prefer medium-bodied smokes over full-strength powerhouses

This makes the Open Eagle ideal for golf outings, yacht excursions, hiking adventures, or any outdoor social gathering where you want a sophisticated smoke that won’t overpower your senses or detract from the activity at hand.

Flavor Profile: A Journey Through Cuban Terroir

Pre-Light Experience

Before lighting your Montecristo Open Eagle, take a moment to appreciate the cold draw and aroma. The unlit cigar reveals:

• Rich earthy notes characteristic of premium Cuban tobacco
• Spicy undertones hinting at the blend’s complexity
• Subtle cocoa aromas that promise sweetness
• Leather accents adding depth and sophistication
• Woody essence providing a foundation for the flavor profile

First Third: The Opening Act

As you light the Open Eagle and settle into the first third, the cigar immediately establishes its character:

Dominant Flavors:

• Pronounced woodiness (cedar and oak)
• Mineral and earthy base notes
• Good sapidity (savory, salty quality)
• Subtle sweetness that remains restrained
• Slight astringency adding structure

Strength Level: Light (1/5)

The initial draw delivers generous smoke with a somewhat grey texture, carrying cream and vanilla notes that dance alongside hints of cedar and honey. The draw proves consistently even, a testament to the cigar’s excellent construction, making it effortless to enjoy even for less experienced smokers.

Second Third: Building Complexity

As the burn progresses into the middle section, the Montecristo Open Eagle begins revealing its true complexity:

Flavor Evolution:

• Sweetness becomes more pronounced, equaling the initial sapidity
• Roasted nuts (cashew, almond) emerge prominently
• Coffee notes develop, adding richness
• Spicy sensations appear intermittently
• Cedar and straw flavors maintain the woody foundation
• Earth tones provide grounding depth

Strength Level: Light to Medium (2/5)

This section represents the cigar’s sweet spot, where the balance between different flavor families achieves harmony. The medium-bodied character becomes more apparent, though never overwhelming, making it accessible for both novices and seasoned aficionados.

Final Third: The Refined Conclusion

The last portion of the Open Eagle brings subtle shifts that complete the smoking experience:

Final Notes:

• Sweetness diminishes, making room for slight bitterness
• Tangy, woody smoke intensifies
• Salt notes may emerge
• Spice and wood remain dominant
• Overall profile maintains consistency

Strength Level: Medium (2/5)

While some reviewers note the evolution becomes slightly monotonous in this section, the cigar maintains pleasant, approachable characteristics that never turn harsh or unpleasant. The burn typically remains even, though occasional touch-ups may be necessary depending on smoking pace and environmental conditions.

The Vuelta Abajo Difference

What sets the Montecristo Open Eagle apart from non-Cuban alternatives is its exclusive use of Vuelta Abajo tobaccos—leaves from Cuba’s most celebrated tobacco-growing region in Pinar del Río province.

Complete Cuban Puro Blend:

• Wrapper: Premium Vuelta Abajo tobacco
• Binder: Selected Vuelta Abajo leaves
• Filler: Carefully chosen Vuelta Abajo blend

This 100% Cuban composition ensures the authentic taste profile that has made Montecristo the world’s most recognized Cuban cigar brand. The Vuelta Abajo leaves contribute distinctive characteristics including mineral complexity, natural sweetness, and that indefinable “Cuban twang” that smokers worldwide prize.

Smoking Time and Occasions

Duration

Given its substantial dimensions, the Montecristo Open Eagle offers:

• Smoking time: Approximately 60-90 minutes
• Pace: Best enjoyed slowly to appreciate nuances
• Ideal conditions: Outdoor settings with good ventilation

Perfect Pairing Occasions

The Open Eagle excels in situations such as:

• Golf rounds: The large ring gauge performs excellently in wind
• Boating and sailing: Cool smoke even in warm, humid conditions
• Outdoor celebrations: Weddings, parties, special events
• Evening relaxation: Patio or balcony enjoyment
• Business entertainment: Impressive yet approachable for clients

Beverage Pairings

Coffee Pairings

The Open Eagle’s coffee and nutty notes complement:

• Cuban espresso
• Cappuccino
• Cold brew coffee
• Café con leche

Alcoholic Pairings

For spirit enthusiasts, consider:

• Rum: Cuban añejo rums (Havana Club 7 Year, Santiago de Cuba 12 Year)
• Whisky: Light to medium single malts, bourbon
• Cognac: VS or VSOP expressions
• Wine: Medium-bodied reds (Merlot, Tempranillo)
• Beer: Amber ales, porters, stouts

Non-Alcoholic Options

• Sparkling water with citrus
• Ginger beer
• Premium tonic water
• Fresh coconut water

Storage and Aging Potential

Optimal Humidor Conditions

To maintain your Montecristo Open Eagles in peak condition:

• Humidity: 65-70% relative humidity
• Temperature: 65-70°F (18-21°C)
• Storage: Keep in original box when possible
• Rotation: Smoke within 2-3 years for optimal freshness

Aging Considerations

While the Open Eagle smokes beautifully fresh, many aficionados report:

• 6-12 months: Flavors integrate and mellow further
• 1-2 years: Sweetness becomes more pronounced
• 2+ years: Risk of losing the lighter character that defines the blend

Given the Open Series’ lighter profile, extended aging beyond 3 years may diminish rather than enhance the smoking experience, unlike fuller-bodied Montecristo lines that benefit from longer maturation.

Comparison to Other Montecristo Vitolas

How the Open Eagle Stacks Up

vs. Montecristo No. 2 (Torpedo):

• Open Eagle offers lighter strength
• No. 2 provides more complexity and evolution
• Open Eagle better for outdoor conditions
• No. 2 preferred for contemplative indoor smoking

vs. Montecristo Edmundo:

• Similar length but Open Eagle has larger ring gauge
• Edmundo delivers fuller body and strength
• Open Eagle more accessible for beginners
• Edmundo offers greater aging potential

vs. Other Open Series Cigars:

• Open Junior: Shorter smoke (110mm x 38), quickest in the line
• Open Master: Traditional robusto size (124mm x 50)
• Open Regata: Figurado shape (135mm x 46), closest to Montecristo No. 2
• Open Eagle: Largest and most impressive presentation

Authenticity and Counterfeits

Identifying Genuine Montecristo Open Eagles

The Montecristo brand faces widespread counterfeiting. Ensure authenticity by:

Visual Checks:

1. Distinctive green secondary band specific to Open Series
2. Holographic warranty seal on box
3. Habanos S.A. authentication code that can be verified online
4. Triple cap construction with clean, even application
5. Consistent color across all cigars in the box

Purchase from Authorized Sources:

• Licensed La Casa del Habano retailers
• Reputable online Cuban cigar specialists
• Authorized distributors in your region
• Duty-free shops in Cuba

Price Reality Check: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Genuine Montecristo Open Eagles typically retail between $16-25 per cigar depending on market and taxes.

Expert Reviews and Ratings

Critical Reception

The Montecristo Open Eagle has received generally positive reviews from the cigar community:

• Cigar Aficionado: Solid performer with tangy, woody smoke
• CigarsLover Magazine: Rating of 86/100, praised for pleasant daily smoke
• Gentlemen Prestige: 4.4/5 stars, highlighted accessibility and construction
• Aficionado Consensus: Excellent choice for outdoor smoking and novice-friendly

Common Praise Points

• Excellent construction and burn
• Approachable strength profile
• Performs well in wind and outdoor conditions
• True to Montecristo character while being lighter
• Generous smoke output from large ring gauge

Constructive Criticisms

• Evolution can be somewhat linear and predictable
• May lack complexity compared to traditional Montecristo lines
• Lighter profile might disappoint full-strength enthusiasts
• Long smoking time may be excessive for some occasions

Who Should Smoke the Montecristo Open Eagle?

Ideal Smoker Profiles

Perfect For:

• Newcomers to Cuban cigars seeking an accessible entry point
• Outdoor enthusiasts who want premium cigars for active settings
• Morning or daytime smokers who prefer lighter strength
• Montecristo fans exploring the brand’s range
• Gift-givers seeking impressive presentation with broad appeal

Less Suitable For:

• Full-strength aficionados seeking powerful nicotine kick
• Budget-conscious smokers (many cheaper alternatives exist)
• Those seeking maximum complexity and evolution
• Smokers preferring shorter formats (consider Open Junior or Master)

Final Verdict: Why Choose the Montecristo Open Eagle

The Montecristo Open Eagle succeeds brilliantly in its intended mission: delivering the prestige and quality of the Montecristo brand in a lighter, more versatile format optimized for outdoor enjoyment. While it may not challenge the complexity of legendary vitolas like the Montecristo No. 2 or Edmundo, it never aspires to—and that’s precisely its strength.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Exceptional outdoor performance with large ring gauge handling wind beautifully ✓ Approachable strength making it suitable for various experience levels ✓ Reliable construction ensuring consistent smoking experience ✓ Versatile flavor profile with pleasant wood, nut, and coffee notes ✓ Prestigious presentation backed by the world’s most recognized cigar brand

For golfers, sailors, hikers, and anyone who enjoys premium cigars in active outdoor settings, the Montecristo Open Eagle represents an excellent choice. Its light-to-medium body won’t overwhelm your palate or interfere with physical activities, while the generous dimensions provide ample smoking time to savor Cuba’s finest tobacco.

Is it the most complex Cuban cigar you’ll ever smoke? No. But that’s not what it’s designed to be. The Open Eagle is your sophisticated companion for life’s outdoor moments—a cigar that brings Montecristo’s legendary quality to settings where other premium cigars might struggle.

Ready to Experience the Open Eagle?

Whether you’re building your humidor, seeking the perfect golf course companion, or exploring the Montecristo portfolio, the Open Eagle deserves consideration. Its unique combination of impressive size, approachable character, and outdoor versatility makes it a standout choice in the Cuban cigar landscape.

Purchase from authorized retailers to ensure authenticity, store properly at 65-70% humidity, and enjoy this exceptional cigar in the outdoor settings for which it was masterfully crafted. The Montecristo Open Eagle isn’t just a cigar—it’s your passport to sophisticated outdoor smoking experiences.

Specifications Summary:

• Brand: Montecristo
• Series: Open
• Name: Eagle
• Length: 150mm (5.9″)
• Ring Gauge: 54
• Shape: Robusto Extra
• Strength: Light to Medium
• Origin: Cuba (Vuelta Abajo)
• Wrapper/Binder/Filler: 100% Cuban tobacco