The Montecristo 1935 Diamante Toro is the latest chapter in the 1935 legacy, crafted by the powerhouse duo Rafael Nodal and AJ Fernandez. With the original Montecristo 1935 earning a 95-point rating and a coveted #2 spot on Cigar Aficionado’s 2021 list along with being the #2 Top Rated STARS Review so far, expectations for the Diamante were high—and it delivers.
Out of the box, the presentation is classic and confident. The cigar is box-pressed and wears a medium brown wrapper that feels smooth and slightly oily to the touch. Minimal veins and tight seams signal high-quality craftsmanship and well-aged tobaccos. The wrapper—a hybrid leaf from Jalapa—adds a subtle silkiness to the visual appeal. Underneath, a Criollo binder from Ometepe and Esteli-grown fillers make this a true Nicaraguan puro.
The first third opens up with layers of salt, soft leather, and creamy milk chocolate. Like a gourmet dessert tray, a sweet drizzle of caramel syrup and notes of toffee on vanilla ice cream create a decadent start. There’s also a hint of black tea and oak that rounds out the profile with a touch of earth and tannins.
Transitioning into the second third, the flavors deepen. French roast coffee steps in with bold bitterness balanced by lingering caramel, now joined by a dusting of cinnamon and nutmeg. The graham cracker sweetness is mellow but present, adding texture to the smoke. Salt stays consistent—reminiscent of peanut shells—and the leather fades. Bright notes of lemon and spearmint peek through, adding a surprising and refreshing lift.
By the final third, the cigar turns more robust. Espresso comes forward, sharp and rich, followed by a distinct almond nuttiness. The salt remains a signature throughout, and the spice ramps up with a finish reminiscent of fire-roasted salsa.
What makes the Montecristo 1935 Diamante Toro special is how it demands your attention. It’s complex without being chaotic, bold yet refined. The construction is superb, offering a razor-sharp burn line and consistent draw. It’s a slow burn that rewards the patient smoker with layers of evolving flavor. Some STARS say this cigar feels like a cousin to the top-tier Padron lines—mature, bold, and full of character. A luxury smoke that doesn’t just sit quietly; it speaks up, makes its presence known, and takes you on a flavorful ride.
Overall Score: 90.18 out of 100
Overall Strength Score: 5.95 out of 10
This blind cigar review (Cigar #21-B) was scored by a panel of cigar enthusiasts, including: Rev Eldon, Jeffery Knipe, Bill F, Jeff Endrizzi, Daniel, Ruby Cannoli, Chief16., Ryan M., Vincent Cammarata, , Nick Ambeliotis, Chris V, MI_Cigar_and_Drink, & Jay Hagerman
