The Por Larrañaga Montecarlos (2) represents a distinguished addition to one of Cuba's oldest and most respected cigar brands. Introduced in 2002, this handmade cigar replaced its machine-made predecessor, the Montecarlos (1), marking a significant upgrade in craftsmanship and quality for enthusiasts of the Por Larrañaga marque.
Specifications
| Cigar Name | Montecarlos (2) |
| Factory Name | Deliciosos |
| Ring Gauge | 33 |
| Length | 159 mm (6¼″) |
| Official Weight | 6.23 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Band | Standard band A |
| Packaging | Dress box of 25 cigars |
| Status | Current Regular Production |
| Release Date | 2002 |
Background and History
The Montecarlos (2) entered the Por Larrañaga portfolio as a circa 2002 release, transitioning what was previously a machine-made offering into a fully handmade cigar. This change reflected the brand's commitment to elevating the smoking experience for its loyal followers.
Collectors and enthusiasts should note an interesting naming inconsistency across official materials. While the cigar appears as "Montecarlos" in official catalogues, the costero (side of the box) displays "Monte Carlo," and the cubierta (lid) reads "Monte-Carlo." This variation in nomenclature adds a layer of intrigue for those studying Habanos packaging conventions.
Flavor Profile
The Montecarlos (2) delivers a nuanced smoking experience characterized by its mild to medium strength. Based on 168 enthusiast reviews, the cigar earns particular praise for its aftertaste, which rates highest among all measured attributes.
| Elegance | 3.0 / 5 |
| Balance | 3.0 / 5 |
| Strength | 2.0 / 5 |
| Complexity | 3.0 / 5 |
| Aftertaste | 4.0 / 5 |
| Overall Rating | 3.9 / 5 |
Tasting Notes
Smokers consistently report a sweet and woody character from this slender vitola, with the following flavor notes emerging across reviews:
- Primary Notes: Caramel (61), Wood (40), Honey (34), Coffee (31)
- Secondary Notes: Toast (19), Nut (13), Tobacco (12), Toffee (8), Spice (7)
- Subtle Notes: Twang (4), Baking Spice (3), Cream (3), Earth (3), Almond (2), Hay (2)
- Occasional Notes: Butter, Cedar, Cinnamon, Floral, Graham Cracker, Grass, Leather, Lemon, Milk Chocolate, Mint, Salt, Tea, Toasty, Vanilla
Smoking Experience
With its slender 33 ring gauge and generous 6¼-inch length, the Montecarlos (2) offers an elegant, prolonged smoking session. The Deliciosos vitola format provides a concentrated yet refined flavor delivery, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the delicate interplay of sweet and woody notes that Por Larrañaga is known to produce.
The cigar's relatively mild strength profile makes it approachable for newer enthusiasts while still offering enough complexity to satisfy seasoned palates seeking a lighter, more contemplative smoke.