Montecristo No.2
More Information
| Brand | Montecristo |
| Ring Gauge | 52 |
| Length | 6.125" |
| Strength | Medium |
- Delivery & Satisfaction Guaranteed or Your Money Back.
- Free Returns within 15 days.
- Worldwide Shipping, including the USA.
- All major Credit Cards are Accepted.
- USA Shipping Takes 3 to 5 Business Days!.
Any questions?
Contact our customer service
Product Specifications
| Brand | Montecristo |
| Vitola | Pirámides (Torpedo) |
| Ring Gauge | 52 |
| Length | 156 mm (6 1/8″) |
| Wrapper | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) – Colorado |
| Binder | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Strength | Medium to Full |
| Factory | H. Upmann Factory, Havana |
| Country | Cuba |
| Box Count | 10, 15, 25 |
| Smoking Time | 60-90 minutes |
| Brand Established | 1935 |
| Awards | Cigar Aficionado #1 Cigar of the Year 2013 |
About the Montecristo No. 2
The Montecristo No. 2 is a world-famous Cuban cigar that aficionados have enjoyed for generations. Named after Alexandre Dumas’ famous novel “The Count of Monte Cristo,” this torpedo-shaped cigar is considered the gold standard in shaped Cuban cigars.
Tobacco & Construction
Made with the finest tobaccos from the Vuelta Abajo region of Cuba, the Montecristo No. 2 features a beautiful golden-brown Colorado wrapper. The torpedo shape concentrates the flavors, delivering a rich, complex smoking experience from start to finish.
Tasting Notes
The Montecristo No. 2 offers a medium-full body with rich smoke and complex aromas. Expect flavors of cedar, coffee, chocolate, and a subtle spiciness. The cold draw is smooth, and the cigar delivers consistent excellence throughout.
The Montecristo No.2 – Why I Keep Coming Back to This Cuban Classic
I’m sitting here on my back patio, maybe fifteen minutes into a fresh Monte 2, and I’ve got to tell you – this torpedo never fails to remind me why I fell in love with Cuban cigars in the first place. The draw’s perfect (thank God, because you never know with these days), and I’m getting those familiar earthy notes that hit just right with my evening bourbon.
Look, I’ve been smoking cigars for over two decades now, and if there’s one stick that’s been consistently good to me, it’s the Montecristo No.2. Sure, there are flashier cigars out there. More expensive ones too. But this pyramide keeps showing up in my humidor for a reason.
First Impressions – The Good and the Ugly
Let me be straight with you about what you’re getting when you find a Montecristo #2 Cuban for sale. The construction is usually solid – we’re talking about one of Cuba’s flagship cigars here, so they generally don’t mess around. The wrapper’s got that beautiful Colorado shade, maybe leaning slightly toward maduro depending on the box. I’ve noticed the more recent boxes (2021-2023) have been particularly well-made.
But here’s the thing nobody wants to tell you: these cigars can be temperamental as hell when they’re young. I learned this lesson the hard way back in ’08 when I bought a whole box and tried smoking them right away. Harsh. Bitter. Just not pleasant. Now I know better – give these babies at least two years of aging, preferably three or four if you can manage the patience.
The pre-light draw usually gives you hints of what’s coming. Cedar, definitely. Sometimes a bit of cocoa. Occasionally you’ll get a whiff of that Cuban farm smell – you know what I’m talking about if you’ve been to the island.
The Flavor Journey (My Way)
Forget all that “first third, second third” nonsense. That’s not how I experience cigars, and I bet it’s not how you do either. This Monte starts mellow – deceptively so. You light it up thinking you’re in for a gentle ride, and then about twenty minutes in, it starts showing its teeth.
The flavors build in waves rather than distinct sections. First you get the classic Monte earthiness – it’s like rich potting soil after rain. Then the wood notes come in. Not just “wood” – specifically cedar chest wood, the kind my grandfather kept his winter clothes in. There’s a sweetness underneath it all that keeps things from getting too serious.
Around the halfway point (and this varies wildly depending on how you smoke), you start getting into Monte territory. The strength kicks up a notch. The flavors get more complex. I usually pick up leather, sometimes a hint of coffee, and if I’m lucky – and if the cigar’s properly aged – there’s this incredible nutty quality that appears.
Here’s where it gets interesting: the last portion of this cigar is where it either shines or falls apart. A good Monte 2 will develop this almost chocolatey richness without getting harsh. A young one or a poorly stored one? It’ll bite you. Hard. I’ve had to put down more than a few because they turned unsmokable in the final stretch.
What I Pair It With (Real Recommendations, Not Marketing BS)
Coffee? Please. That’s what everyone says, and frankly, it’s boring advice. Here’s what actually works:
My go-to pairing is Elijah Craig Small Batch bourbon. The vanilla and caramel notes complement the Monte’s earthiness without competing. I’ve been doing this combination for probably eight years now, ever since my buddy Carlos (who owns a cigar shop in Miami) suggested it during a particularly good evening.
If you’re a rum person, try it with some aged Guatemalan rum – Zacapa 23 if you can find it. The sweetness plays beautifully against the cigar’s natural earth tones. Wine drinkers should go for something with some weight – maybe a decent Rioja or a California Cab. Skip the delicate stuff; this cigar will steamroll right over it.
For non-alcoholic options (and yes, sometimes you don’t want booze), I’ve had great success with really good espresso or even a quality root beer. Sounds weird, I know, but the vanilla and sassafras in root beer create this interesting contrast.
Who Should Smoke This (And Who Shouldn’t)
This isn’t a beginner cigar, despite what some people might tell you. The Montecristo brand has cachet, sure, but the No.2 specifically can be overwhelming if you’re not used to medium-plus strength cigars. I’ve seen too many newcomers try these as their “first Cuban” and end up green around the gills.
If you’re coming from Dominican or Nicaraguan cigars, you’ll probably love these. The flavor profile’s different but not so alien that you’ll be lost. If you’ve been smoking Cohibas exclusively, the Monte might seem a bit rough around the edges at first, but give it a chance.
Honestly, these are perfect for the intermediate smoker who wants to understand what classic Cuban flavor is all about. They’re also great for experienced smokers who want something reliable without breaking the bank (relatively speaking, since we’re talking Cuban cigars here).
Skip these if: you only like mild cigars, you’re pregnant (obviously), or you’ve got less than 90 minutes to dedicate to the experience. These demand time and attention.
Storage and Quirks – The Stuff Nobody Tells You
Keep these at 65% humidity, not the 70% that everyone preaches. Higher humidity makes them burn unevenly, and trust me, there’s nothing worse than a tunneling Monte 2. I learned this after ruining a few good sticks.
The boxes usually come with a manufacturing date, and here’s my controversial opinion: don’t smoke these for at least 18 months after that date. I know it’s painful to wait, but young Montes are harsh and one-dimensional. Age transforms them into something special.
Another quirk – these cigars respond really well to a dry box period before smoking. If your humidor’s running on the higher side, take the cigar out and let it sit in a slightly drier environment for a day or two before lighting up. It improves the burn and intensifies the flavors.
Watch out for fake ones. The Monte 2 is probably one of the most counterfeited Cuban cigars out there. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Buy from reputable dealers only.
Some Real Talk About Availability and Pricing
Finding authentic Montecristo #2 Cuban for sale can be a challenge depending on where you live. In the US, you’re looking at the gray market or travel purchases. Expect to pay anywhere from $25-40 per cigar if you’re buying singles, less if you commit to a box.
The pricing’s gotten crazy over the last few years. I remember when these were under $20 each pretty regularly. Those days are gone, probably for good. Is it worth the premium? For special occasions, absolutely. For daily smoking? That’s your call and your wallet.
Quick FAQs From My Experience
How long does it take to smoke one?
Plan for 90 minutes minimum. I’ve had some last nearly two hours when I’m really taking my time. Don’t rush these.
Can you smoke half and save the other half?
Technically yes, but why would you want to? The flavor changes after relighting, and not in a good way. Commit to the full experience.
What’s the difference between a Monte 2 and other Montecristo sizes?
The torpedo shape concentrates the smoke differently. You get more intensity than you would from, say, a Monte 4. The No.1 is longer but similar flavor-wise.
How do I know if mine are properly aged?
The wrapper should have a slight give to it – not spongy, but not rock hard either. The pre-light aroma should be pleasant, not sharp or ammonia-like.
Final Thoughts
Look, the Montecristo No.2 isn’t perfect. It’s not the most complex Cuban cigar, it’s not the smoothest, and it’s definitely not the cheapest. But it’s reliable in a way that a lot of other cigars aren’t. When I want a good Cuban experience without overthinking it, this is what I reach for.
Is it overhyped? Maybe a little. The Montecristo name carries weight that sometimes exceeds the actual smoking experience. But when you get a good one – properly aged, well-stored, smoked at the right pace – it reminds you why Cuban cigars have the reputation they do.
If you’re looking to add some Monte 2s to your collection, be patient, buy from trusted sources, and give them time to develop. They’ll reward the wait.
36 reviews for Montecristo No.2
Add a review
Explore other premium cigars with the same Ring Gauge 52 from different brands:
| Brand | Product Name | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bolivar | Bolivar Petit Belicosos 2009 Limited Edition | $ 1,208.70 | View → |
| Partagas | Partagas Series P. No. 2 (Tubos)(3) | $ 643.80 | View → |
| Romeo y Julieta | Romeo y Julieta Belicoso | $ 599.70 | View → |
| Cohiba | Cohiba Maduros 5 Magicos | $ 1,040.70 | View → |
| Trinidad | Trinidad La Trova | $ 866.40 | View → |
| Romeo y Julieta | Romeo y Julieta Pirámides Añejados | $ 840.15 | View → |
| Hoyo de Monterrey | Hoyo de Monterrey Piramides Edicion Limitada 2003 | $ 1,469.10 | View → |
| Ramon Allones | Ramon Allones Belicosos | $ 618.60 | View → |
Annie Griffin –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.2 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of almonds and honey. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Christine Hayes –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.2! 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!
Beverly Mason –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.2 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of almonds and honey. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Kimberly Roberts –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.2 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!
Ralph Morrison –
Solid cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 has nice flavors of wood and leather and good construction. Enjoyed about 82 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to Montecristo.
Marie Reynolds –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.2. 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!
Philip Mason –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.2 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of cedar and coffee throughout the smoke. Lasted about 65 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Gary Wood –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.2 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of cocoa and cream throughout the smoke. Lasted about 62 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Steven Ross –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.2! 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!
Diane Ross –
Very pleased with this Montecristo No.2. Montecristo quality shines through with almonds and honey flavors and solid construction. A touch expensive but worth it for special occasions. Good smoke!
Paul Price –
Decent cigar but not my favorite from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 has good flavor – almonds and honey – 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.
Lisa Barnes –
Great cigar! Montecristo Montecristo No.2 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!
Joe Fisher –
Excellent cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 has a refined flavor profile – lots of earth and nuts. 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.
Keith Dixon –
Solid cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 has nice flavors of earth and nuts and good construction. Enjoyed about 86 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to Montecristo.
Anthony Harris –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.2! Montecristo continues to impress with their quality. Wonderful complexity with cedar and coffee, smooth creamy smoke, and perfect construction. One of my all-time favorites!
Eric Turner –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.2. Rich flavor profile featuring wood and leather, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Theresa Lawson –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.2! 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!
Doris Spencer –
Absolutely love this Montecristo No.2! 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!
Douglas Wells –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 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!
Evelyn Russell –
The Montecristo No.2 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.
Harold Wells –
Top-tier quality from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 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!
Patricia Rodriguez –
Five stars all the way! The Montecristo Montecristo No.2 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of almonds and honey. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Michelle Adams –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.2 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of almonds and honey throughout the smoke. Lasted about 53 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Cynthia Bailey –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Montecristo No.2 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 60 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – spice and toast. Will definitely order more!
Kenneth Brooks –
Solid cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 has nice flavors of earth and nuts and good construction. Enjoyed about 55 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to Montecristo.
Jesse Reynolds –
The Montecristo Montecristo No.2 is a quality cigar. Nice balance of flavor and strength. I enjoyed the cedar and coffee notes throughout. Construction was very good with only one minor touch-up needed. Good cigar for experienced smokers.
Sharon Scott –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Montecristo No.2 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 90 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – spice and toast. Will definitely order more!
Virginia Howard –
Excellent cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 has a refined flavor profile – lots of cocoa and cream. Draw was perfect and it burned for about 74 minutes. Only minor complaint is it’s slightly strong for my taste, but overall a great smoke.
Raymond Morgan –
Very good cigar. The Montecristo Montecristo No.2 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.
Victor Harper –
Solid cigar from Montecristo. The Montecristo No.2 has nice flavors of cedar and coffee and good construction. Enjoyed about 45 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to Montecristo.
Gregory Murphy –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The Montecristo Montecristo No.2 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of earth and nuts. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Jeffrey Watson –
Incredible cigar! The Montecristo No.2 from Montecristo is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of spice and toast throughout the smoke. Lasted about 70 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Irene Cole –
Really enjoyed this Montecristo No.2. 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!
Howard Lynch –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Montecristo Montecristo No.2 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!
Anna Sanders –
Great smoke for the price. This Montecristo No.2 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!
Henry Gardner –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! Montecristo really knocked it out of the park with the Montecristo No.2. Rich flavor profile featuring earth and nuts, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!