More refined than many standard offerings, the El Príncipe highlights the San Cristóbal de la Habana brand, a line paying homage to Cuba's original capital city name. This cigar has maintained its place in regular production since its introduction in 1999, offering enthusiasts a classic Cuban smoking experience in a compact format.
Specifications
| Cigar Name | El Príncipe |
| Factory Name | Minutos |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 110 mm (4⅜″) |
| Official Weight | 7.46 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Band | Standard band A |
| Packaging | Dress box of 25 cigars |
| Release Date | 1999 |
| Status | Current Regular Production |
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
Based on extensive reviews from 124 smokers, the El Príncipe delivers a balanced and approachable smoking experience. The cigar earns particular praise for its balance, scoring a 4 out of 5 in this category, while maintaining medium strength levels that make it accessible to a wide range of palates.
The flavor profile is characterized by rich, sweet notes that define this cigar's personality:
- Primary Notes: Molasses emerges as the dominant flavor, accompanied by pronounced cocoa and coffee characteristics that form the core of the smoking experience.
- Secondary Notes: Spice and pancake notes add depth and complexity, with subtle tobacco undertones.
- Supporting Nuances: Additional flavors detected include baking spice, cedar, wood, chocolate, earth, and fruit. More subtle hints of marshmallow, nut, and toast appear throughout the smoke.
- Rare Notes: Occasional traces of bitter chocolate, butter, cane sugar, caramel, citrus, cream, floral, hay, herbal, honey, leather, mint, tea, and vanilla have been reported.
Consumer Ratings Summary
| Elegance | 3.0 / 5 |
| Balance | 4.0 / 5 |
| Strength | 3.0 / 5 |
| Complexity | 3.0 / 5 |
| Aftertaste | 3.0 / 5 |
| Overall Rating | 3.96 / 5 (based on 124 reviews) |
The Smoking Experience
The El Príncipe offers a well-balanced medium-bodied experience that showcases the craftsmanship of Cuban cigar making. Its slender 42 ring gauge and modest 110mm length make it an ideal choice for those seeking a shorter smoking session without sacrificing flavor complexity. The handmade construction ensures consistent quality, while the standard band A presentation maintains the traditional aesthetic associated with Cuban cigars.
Released at the turn of the millennium, this cigar has established itself as a reliable staple in the San Cristóbal de la Habana portfolio, continuing to attract both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to Cuban cigars.