Let's cut to the chase about the Monte by Montecristo Monte - this 6"x60 gordo packs Dominican-Nicaraguan fusion in a sleek black box of 16 cigars. At around $12 per stick, it's Montecristo's modern take using dual binders: spicy Dominican Olor and earthy Nicaraguan Corojo. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper glistens with oily sheen, hinting at decent aging potential despite its affordable positioning.
First Third: Immediate roasted almonds and cedar plank notes, with Dominican Olor binder delivering white pepper tingle on retrohale. Moderate smoke output keeps it sessionable.
Middle Third: Nicaraguan filler takes over - think dark chocolate nibs and leather-bound books. The sweetness transitions from caramel to burnt sugar, with slight tar buildup if drawn too fast.
Final Third: Earthy core emerges with mineral notes. Strength climbs to full-bodied territory - not for nicotine-lightweights. I find cutting ½ inch helps manage heat in this thick ring gauge.
Rolled at La Romana factory using vintage Dominican fillers aged 3-5 years. The Nicaraguan Corojo binder adds body without overwhelming Montecristo's signature smoothness. Ecuadorian Habano wrapper strikes balance between sweetness and combustion - expect minimal canoeing even at 60 ring.
