What are the dimensions of the Montecristo No.3 cigar?

The Montecristo No.3 is classified as a Corona vitola. It measures 142 mm (5 5/8 inches) in length with a ring gauge of 42 (16.67 mm). This size is a benchmark format in Cuban cigar history, offering a slightly longer smoke than the standard Corona size found in other brands. These specific dimensions allow for a moderate smoking time, typically ranging between 30 to 45 minutes, making it a mid-day option for enthusiasts who prefer a traditional format without the commitment of a larger Robusto or Churchill.

What does the Montecristo No.3 taste like?

The flavor profile of the Montecristo No.3 is characterized by the classic Montecristo trademark taste: a medium-bodied blend featuring prominent notes of cocoa and coffee. Unlike the Edmundo or No. 2, which develop bolder spices, the No. 3 provides a more subtle, woody base with hints of dried fruit and a distinct grassiness often associated with Cuban tobacco. The 42 ring gauge concentrates the smoke, delivering a focused flavor intensity that remains consistent throughout the first and second thirds before mellowing in the final third.

Is Montecristo No.3 a good cigar for beginners?

The Montecristo No. 3 is widely considered a suitable choice for those new to Cuban cigars due to its balanced strength and manageable size. While many modern preferences lean toward larger ring gauges (50+), the No. 3 teaches the smoker how to handle a traditional Corona format, which requires careful attention to the draw and burn rate. Its medium-bodied strength is approachable, avoiding the overwhelming nicotine kick found in fuller cigars like the Partagás Serie D No. 4, while still offering the authentic, iconic Montecristo flavor profile.

What are the dimensions of the Montecristo No.3 cigar?

The Montecristo No.3 is classified as a Corona vitola. It measures 142 mm (5 5/8 inches) in length with a ring gauge of 42 (16.67 mm). This size is a benchmark format in Cuban cigar history, offering a slightly longer smoke than the standard Corona size found in other brands. These specific dimensions allow for a moderate smoking time, typically ranging between 30 to 45 minutes, making it a mid-day option for enthusiasts who prefer a traditional format without the commitment of a larger Robusto or Churchill.

What does the Montecristo No.3 taste like?

The flavor profile of the Montecristo No.3 is characterized by the classic Montecristo trademark taste: a medium-bodied blend featuring prominent notes of cocoa and coffee. Unlike the Edmundo or No. 2, which develop bolder spices, the No. 3 provides a more subtle, woody base with hints of dried fruit and a distinct grassiness often associated with Cuban tobacco. The 42 ring gauge concentrates the smoke, delivering a focused flavor intensity that remains consistent throughout the first and second thirds before mellowing in the final third.

Is Montecristo No.3 a good cigar for beginners?

The Montecristo No. 3 is widely considered a suitable choice for those new to Cuban cigars due to its balanced strength and manageable size. While many modern preferences lean toward larger ring gauges (50+), the No. 3 teaches the smoker how to handle a traditional Corona format, which requires careful attention to the draw and burn rate. Its medium-bodied strength is approachable, avoiding the overwhelming nicotine kick found in fuller cigars like the Partagás Serie D No. 4, while still offering the authentic, iconic Montecristo flavor profile.

Cigar Information

Montecristo Montecristo No.3

Montecristo No.3

The Montecristo No.3 stands as one of the most enduring vitolas in the legendary Montecristo portfolio. Released prior to 1960, this Corona-sized cigar has remained in continuous production for decades, earning its place as a cornerstone of the brand's regular lineup. Its longevity speaks to the timeless appeal of its format and the consistent quality that has defined Montecristo since its inception.

Specifications

Cigar Name	Montecristo No.3
Factory Name	Coronas
Ring Gauge	42
Length	142 mm (5⅝″)
Official Weight	9.29 g
Construction	Handmade
Status	Current (Pre-1960 Release)

Band and Presentation

The No.3 features Montecristo's standard band configuration, incorporating bands A, B, C, and D throughout its production history. This classic presentation has become instantly recognizable to cigar enthusiasts worldwide.

Packaging Options

Over its extensive production run, the Montecristo No.3 has been offered in numerous packaging formats:

Dress box of 25 cigars
Display box containing 25 cigars arranged in 5 cardboard packs of 5
Dress box of 10 cigars (discontinued in 2017)
Display box of 15 cigars in 5 cardboard packs of 3 (discontinued in 2013)
Slide lid box of 50 cigars (discontinued circa 1970s)
Dress box of 10 cigars in cellophane
Dress box of 25 cigars in cellophane
Dress box of 50 cigars
Dress box of 50 cigars in 10 aluminium tins of 5
Dress box of 100 cigars in cellophane
Dress box of 100 cigars in 20 aluminium tins of 5

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

Based on 33 enthusiast reviews, the Montecristo No.3 earns an overall rating of 3.52 out of 5, with balanced scores across all categories: elegance, balance, strength, complexity, and aftertaste each receiving average marks of 3. This consistency suggests a well-rounded smoking experience without extreme characteristics in any single dimension.

The flavor profile reveals a rich tapestry of tasting notes, with coffee and cocoa emerging as the dominant characteristics:

Coffee — noted in 6 reviews
Cocoa — noted in 5 reviews
Citrus — noted in 3 reviews
Nut — noted in 3 reviews
Twang — noted in 3 reviews
Chocolate — noted in 2 reviews
Cream — noted in 1 review
Grass — noted in 1 review
Honey — noted in 1 review
Leather — noted in 1 review
Mocha — noted in 1 review
Tobacco — noted in 1 review

Related Releases

The No.3 vitola has also appeared in special limited editions:

Montecristo No.3 Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor
Montecristo No.3 Selección Box

Questions & Answers

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