Montecristo Classic Series Mini 2 7/8″ x 20

The Montecristo Classic Series Mini is a machine-made dry cigarillo from Altadis U.S.A., produced in the Dominican Republic. This is the non-Cuban Montecristo; the original Cuban brand was named after The Count of Monte Cristo, the novel once read aloud to rollers in the factory.

It pairs a Connecticut Shade wrapper with a Dominican binder and filler at a mild to medium body, leading with cream, cedar, almond and coffee. At 2 7/8 by 20, the slim format pushes the wrapper forward and burns a touch faster.

Mild is not the same as simple. A good shade wrapper carries cream, cedar and almond through the finish, and because there is no maduro sweetness to hide behind, any flaw in the filler shows immediately.

Pairs well with coffee or espresso.