Montecristo Joyitas Review: A Petite Cuban Powerhouse

Brand: Montecristo
Size: 4.5" x 26 (Panetela)
Wrapper, Binder, Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium-Full
Price: £125 (Box of 25)

The Montecristo Joyitas is a small but flavorful Cuban cigar, delivering Montecristo’s signature blend in a compact size. Though short and slender, it offers a rich experience for seasoned smokers or those seeking a quick Cuban fix.

Look & Feel: 17/20

The Montecristo Joyitas has a rustic appearance, with a medium-brown, slightly veiny wrapper. Despite its unassuming look, I think that the cigar is pretty well-constructed, with a firm feel throughout. Its slim profile is ideal for a quick yet enjoyable smoke, fitting nicely in hand and making it easy to handle.

Pre-Light: 15/20

My pre-light draw revealed hints of earth, cedar, and a faint touch of spice. There was a slight resistance, but it wasn’t overly tight, and promised a smooth draw once lit. The cold aroma is warm and inviting, with notes of leather and a faint nuttiness that adds depth.

Burn: 16/20

First thing I noticed is that the Joyitas tends to burn evenly, but it's slender ring gauge can sometimes lead to a slightly quicker burn than expected. Minimal touch-ups were required on my side to maintain an even line, but the ash held well for its size. The draw remained smooth and consistent throughout, releasing ample smoke with each puff.

While the burn can be a bit fast, it’s generally hassle-free. The ash holds longer than expected for such a slim cigar, making it manageable and enjoyable from start to finish.

Flavor: 18/20

The flavor journey of the Montecristo Joyitas is surprisingly complex for its size:

• First Third (0-10 minutes): The cigar opens with earthy tones, dominated by cedar and leather. There’s a touch of pepper that lingers on the palate, adding a spicy kick that enhances the experience. The smoke is rich and medium-bodied, with hints of cocoa in the background.
• Second Third (10-20 minutes): Moving into the middle, I experienced a blend of nutty and toasty notes. The pepper mellows, allowing a slight sweetness to come through, balancing the wood and leather. Retrohaling reveals hints of dark chocolate and a touch of cinnamon.
• Final Third (20-30 minutes): In the last stretch, the Joyitas gains intensity, with the leather and earth taking center stage. I noticed a faint coffee flavor emerge, giving a satisfying finish to the smoke. The pepper returns mildly, rounding off the flavor profile with a final kick. 

Overall Experience: 17/20

For fans of Montecristo or Cuban cigars in general, the Joyitas offers a powerful, flavorful experience in a quick format. In my opinion, it’s ideal for those who want a brief smoke without sacrificing depth or quality. 

Comparative Analysis

Here’s how the Montecristo Joyitas compares to similar small cigars:

Pairings

The Montecristo Joyitas pairs well with beverages that enhance its rich flavors:

• Espresso: The boldness of espresso complements the cigar’s earthy and leathery notes.
• Aged Rum: A touch of sweetness from rum pairs beautifully with the cedar and cocoa undertones.
• Dark Chocolate (70% or more): For a decadent treat, the bitter richness of dark chocolate brings out the cigar’s subtle cocoa notes.

Final Thoughts

I give Montecristo Joyitas a solid score of 83/100. 

Its compact size and rich flavor profile make it a satisfying option for quick smokes or short breaks. With its bold flavors and medium-full strength, I believe it’s a fitting choice for seasoned smokers looking for a quick Cuban experience. 

Despite minor burn issues, its depth and complexity made it a worthwhile addition to my humidor.