What is the history of the Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) cigar?

The Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) is a significant vintage release within the brand's portfolio, originating from the 1970s. It belongs to the "Series 1" classification, denoting specific dimensions and packaging standards from that era. Unlike the modern handmade cigars produced today, these cigars were machine-made at the time of production. They feature a distinctive lonsdale size, measuring approximately 165 mm in length with a 40 ring gauge. Due to its age and the fact that Por Larrañaga is one of the oldest Cuban marcas still in production, the Montecarlos (1) has become a sought-after item for collectors specializing in pre-revolutionary and vintage post-revolutionary Cuban tobacco.

What does a Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) taste like?

As a well-aged vintage cigar, the Montecarlos (1) offers a distinctively mild to medium-bodied smoking profile. The decades of aging have mellowed the tobacco, allowing for a smooth, refined character rather than aggressive strength. Smokers can expect prominent notes of cedar, dried hay, and toasted nuts, often accompanied by a subtle, sweet creaminess on the finish. Because these cigars were machine-fabricated using short-filler tobacco, the draw tends to be easy, but the burn may require occasional touch-ups compared to modern long-filler premiums. The flavor evolution is consistent throughout the long lonsdale format, providing a cool, leisurely smoke often described as elegant and nuanced.

Is the Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) worth the money?

For the dedicated cigar collector, the Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) represents a worthwhile investment primarily due to its rarity and historical value. Prices for these cigars are generally high on the secondary market because they are no longer in standard production. While the construction is machine-made rather than hand-rolled, the unique opportunity to taste decades-old Cuban tobacco justifies the cost for enthusiasts. It serves as a benchmark for how well Por Larrañaga tobacco ages. However, casual smokers accustomed to the complexity of modern full-bodied cigars might find the mild profile less satisfying. It is a purchase best suited for those interested in the heritage of the brand.

What is the history of the Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) cigar?

The Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) is a significant vintage release within the brand's portfolio, originating from the 1970s. It belongs to the "Series 1" classification, denoting specific dimensions and packaging standards from that era. Unlike the modern handmade cigars produced today, these cigars were machine-made at the time of production. They feature a distinctive lonsdale size, measuring approximately 165 mm in length with a 40 ring gauge. Due to its age and the fact that Por Larrañaga is one of the oldest Cuban marcas still in production, the Montecarlos (1) has become a sought-after item for collectors specializing in pre-revolutionary and vintage post-revolutionary Cuban tobacco.

What does a Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) taste like?

As a well-aged vintage cigar, the Montecarlos (1) offers a distinctively mild to medium-bodied smoking profile. The decades of aging have mellowed the tobacco, allowing for a smooth, refined character rather than aggressive strength. Smokers can expect prominent notes of cedar, dried hay, and toasted nuts, often accompanied by a subtle, sweet creaminess on the finish. Because these cigars were machine-fabricated using short-filler tobacco, the draw tends to be easy, but the burn may require occasional touch-ups compared to modern long-filler premiums. The flavor evolution is consistent throughout the long lonsdale format, providing a cool, leisurely smoke often described as elegant and nuanced.

Is the Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) worth the money?

For the dedicated cigar collector, the Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1) represents a worthwhile investment primarily due to its rarity and historical value. Prices for these cigars are generally high on the secondary market because they are no longer in standard production. While the construction is machine-made rather than hand-rolled, the unique opportunity to taste decades-old Cuban tobacco justifies the cost for enthusiasts. It serves as a benchmark for how well Por Larrañaga tobacco ages. However, casual smokers accustomed to the complexity of modern full-bodied cigars might find the mild profile less satisfying. It is a purchase best suited for those interested in the heritage of the brand.

Cigar Information

Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (1)

The Montecarlos (1) represents a fascinating chapter in the Por Larrañaga brand's long and storied history. As one of the older offerings from this esteemed Cuban marca, this cigar holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the heritage of pre-revolution Cuban tobacco craftsmanship.

A Historic Release

The Montecarlos (1) traces its origins back to before 1960, making it a genuine pre-revolution era release. For decades, this cigar served as a staple in the Por Larrañaga portfolio before eventually being discontinued around 2002. Its discontinuation marked the end of an era, as the Montecarlos (1) was subsequently replaced by the handmade Montecarlos (2), signaling a shift in production philosophy for this particular vitola.

Construction and Craftsmanship

Unlike its successor, the original Montecarlos (1) was produced using machine-made construction methods. This approach to manufacturing was common during its era and allowed for consistent production while maintaining the distinctive Por Larrañaga flavor profile that devotees had come to expect.

The cigar featured the brand's Standard band A, maintaining visual continuity with other offerings in the Por Larrañaga lineup.

Technical Specifications

Attribute	Measurement
Factory Name	Deliciosos (old)
Ring Gauge	35
Length	159 mm (6¼″)
Official Weight	6.67 g
Construction	Machine-made
Band	Standard band A

Presentation and Packaging

The Montecarlos (1) was offered in dress boxes containing 25 cigars. These cigars were available both wrapped in cellophane for individual protection and without cellophane, giving collectors and retailers options for storage and display preferences.

Legacy and Collectibility

Today, the Montecarlos (1) exists primarily as a collector's item, with remaining stocks being highly sought after by those who appreciate the historical significance of pre-2002 Cuban cigar production. The transition to the handmade Montecarlos (2) represents the industry's broader movement toward premium handcrafted cigars, making the original machine-made version an interesting artifact of Cuban cigar manufacturing history.

Questions & Answers

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