The first Montecristo cigar was handcrafted in 1935 using a signature blend of tobaccos, which remains the standard by which the brand still lives up to today. Now, 85 years later, Rafael Nodal and award-winning tobacco powerhouse AJ Fernandez have crafted the Montecristo 1935 Anniversary Nicaragua. This precise and exquisite proprietary blend of aged tobaccos pays homage to the original tobaccos used in the first Montecristo cigar.
The Montecristo 1935 No. 2 presents itself as a stunning chocolate-brown box-pressed torpedo. Its surface is textured with some toothiness, a trademark of AJ Fernandez wrappers. The cigar feels solid and well-packed, promising a satisfying smoke from the outset.
Upon lighting, the palate is greeted with a complex array of flavors. Rich leather intertwines with bold black coffee notes, while earthy undertones provide a solid foundation. Subtle hints of chocolate and a touch of pepper add layers of depth to the experience. This stage offers a harmonious blend where no single flavor dominates, providing a balanced and intriguing start.
As the cigar progresses into the second third, the flavors continues to captivate. The interplay between chocolate, coffee, and earthy tones persists, accompanied by lingering traces of barbecue and pepper. A subtle sweetness emerges, adding a delightful contrast to the robust profile. While the leather notes gradually recede, the overall complexity remains intact.
In the final third, the cigar maintains its allure with a refined evolution of flavors. Pepper and coffee persist, while the earthiness begins to take center stage, asserting its dominance. Rye bread notes emerge, providing a unique twist to the ensemble. As the smoke draws to a close, the palate is left with a lingering impression of depth and character.
The Montecristo 1935 No. 2 delivers a masterful performance, showcasing a commendable variation of flavors from start to finish. Its flawless construction ensures a perfect draw and burn, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the smoke. The aroma is rich and inviting, inviting enthusiasts to savor every moment. Multiple reviewers stated this is the best cigar they’ve reviewed yet by far.
Overall Score: 92.16 out of 100 – Best Overall Score from STARS to date
Strength Score: 6.79 out of 10 – Highest STARS Strength Score to date
This blind review (Cigar #8-D) was conducted by the Cigar Review Team comprising SamF , Tyler Ceola, James Elliott (Star Boner), Rick Galletta, JB Smith, Rob Brown, and Mike Mellon.
