Unlike many retired formats, the Hoyo de Monterrey Opera debuted before 1960 and enjoyed a steady production run into the 1980s before exiting the regular lineup. This discontinued Cuban cigar offers collectors and enthusiasts a glimpse into the storied past of one of Cuba's most revered tobacco brands.
Historical Significance
Released prior to 1960, the Opera emerged during what many consider the golden age of Cuban cigar production. The vitola remained in regular production for approximately two decades before being discontinued sometime during the 1980s. Today, the Opera exists as a sought-after piece of Cuban cigar heritage, with surviving examples commanding significant interest among serious collectors.
Specifications
| Vitola Name | Opera |
| Factory Name | Coronas |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 142 mm (5⅝″) |
| Official Weight | 9.29 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Band | Standard band B |
| Packaging | Cajón of 100 cigars |
| Status | Discontinued (pre-1960 release; discontinued 1980s) |
Construction and Presentation
True to the traditions of premium Cuban cigar making, the Opera was entirely handmade. The vitola featured the standard Hoyo de Monterrey band B, maintaining brand consistency across the company's portfolio. Cigars were originally packaged in traditional cajón format, with each cabinet box containing 100 cigars—a presentation style that reflected the era's emphasis on generous quantities for serious aficionados.
The Coronas Format
Classified under the factory name "Coronas," the Opera measured 142 millimeters in length with a 42 ring gauge. This sizing placed it comfortably within the classic corona family, offering a smoking experience balanced between duration and flavor development. The format allowed the characteristic Hoyo de Monterrey blend to express itself fully, with sufficient length for the tobacco's flavor profile to evolve throughout the smoke.
Collectibility
As a discontinued regular production cigar with origins predating 1960, the Hoyo de Monterrey Opera holds particular appeal for collectors specializing in vintage Cuban tobacco. The combination of its historical production window, traditional handmade construction, and association with the prestigious Hoyo de Monterrey marque makes any surviving examples noteworthy additions to a serious collection.