What are the dimensions and ring gauge of El Rey del Mundo Elegantes cigars?

The El Rey del Mundo Elegantes measured 158mm (6.2 inches) in length with a 36 ring gauge, classifying it as a Panetela Larga vitola. This slender format was machine-bunched and hand-finished, typical of Cuban production methods for this size category. The cigar's proportions emphasized elegance over heft, offering a smoking duration of approximately 45-60 minutes depending on draw pace.

When was El Rey del Mundo Elegantes discontinued and why?

Habanos S.A. discontinued the Elegantes in the early 2000s, with final production ceasing around 2002-2003. The elimination followed broader portfolio rationalization targeting underperforming vitolas across multiple brands. The 36 ring gauge format had declined in market preference as consumer demand shifted toward thicker, more substantial cigars. Remaining stock became increasingly scarce through the mid-2000s.

What flavor profile and strength level characterized El Rey del Mundo Elegantes?

The Elegantes delivered a mild-to-medium bodied smoke with characteristic El Rey del Mundo sweetness—notes of honey, cedar, and light toasted tobacco dominated the profile. The slender ring gauge produced a concentrated, cooler smoke that emphasized wrapper leaf characteristics. Compared to thicker vitolas in the brand's lineup, the Elegantes offered quicker progression through flavor transitions, with less complexity but notable refinement and approachability for morning or novice smokers.

Cigar Information

El Rey del Mundo Elegantes

Mateo AlcántaraStaff Writer

The El Rey del Mundo Elegantes represents a distinguished chapter in Cuban cigar history—a slender, elegant vitola that graced humidors for decades before its eventual discontinuation. As part of the esteemed El Rey del Mundo brand, this cigar embodied the refinement and craftsmanship that made the marca a favorite among discerning aficionados.

El Rey del Mundo Elegantes — Cuban cigar

Historical Background

The Elegantes entered production prior to 1960, making it one of the older offerings in the El Rey del Mundo portfolio. The cigar enjoyed a production run spanning more than four decades before being officially discontinued in 2002. This lengthy tenure speaks to the enduring appeal of the format among traditionalists who appreciated its classic proportions and measured smoking experience.

Vitola Specifications

Classified under the factory name Panetelas Largas, the Elegantes measured 175mm (approximately 6⅞ inches) in length with a slender ring gauge of 28. This thin format demanded considerable skill from the rollers, as achieving proper draw and combustion in such a narrow diameter requires expert bunching techniques. Each cigar weighed approximately 5.01 grams and was entirely handmade.

Specification	Detail
Factory Name	Panetelas Largas
Length	175mm (6⅞″)
Ring Gauge	28
Official Weight	5.01g
Construction	Handmade
Band	Standard band A

El Rey del Mundo Elegantes — cigar packaging

Packaging

The Elegantes was offered in two distinct packaging formats throughout its production lifetime:

Slide lid box of 25 cigars — This traditional presentation was phased out prior to 2002
Dress box of 25 cigars — The final packaging configuration, discontinued in 2002 alongside the cigar itself

Related Releases

The Elegantes format found new life in a special edition release: the El Rey del Mundo Elegantes Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor. This limited presentation commemorated the turn of the millennium and offered collectors a unique opportunity to acquire the vitola in celebratory packaging.

Collectibility

As a discontinued pre-1960 release, the El Rey del Mundo Elegantes has become a sought-after find for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage Cuban cigars. Those fortunate enough to encounter well-preserved examples can experience a piece of Havana's golden era of cigar production.

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