Montecristo Línea 1935 Dumas Review: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship and Flavor

Brand: Montecristo
Line: Línea 1935
Size: 4 3/4" x 52 (Robusto)
Wrapper: Cuban
Binder: Cuban
Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium-Full
Price: $18.00 per stick

The Montecristo Línea 1935 Dumas has quickly become a cherished gem in my cigar collection, offering an extraordinary experience with each smoke. This Robusto is a testament to the craftsmanship and heritage of Montecristo, and it never fails to impress, whether shared with friends or enjoyed during quiet moments of solitude.

Look & Feel: 19/20

The Montecristo Línea 1935 Dumas captivates with its stunning appearance. The wrapper is a rich, dark brown hue, almost oily, hinting at the exquisite flavor that lies within. The cigar is perfectly rolled, exhibiting a beautiful sheen that accentuates its premium quality. Its 4 3/4" x 52 size fits comfortably in hand, providing a substantial feel without being cumbersome.

Pre-Light: 15/20

Cutting the cap reveals a delightful pre-light draw that feels just right. The cold aroma is intoxicating, with notes of aged leather and a hint of sweet cedar. As I take my first few puffs before lighting, the flavors come alive – a blend of creamy chocolate and subtle spices tantalize my palate, building anticipation for the experience to come.

Burn: 15/20

Upon lighting, the Dumas produces a smooth, even burn that starts strong and maintains its integrity throughout the smoking experience. The first few puffs reveal rich, flavorful smoke that fills the air with a delightful aroma. The ash holds well, reaching about an inch before gracefully dropping, but it can occasionally flake, which is manageable.

Flavor: 16/20

The flavor profile of the Montecristo Línea 1935 Dumas is a symphony of rich, complex notes that evolve beautifully throughout the cigar:

1. First Third (0-20 minutes):
   From the first puff, I am greeted with an explosion of flavors: creamy leather mingles with hints of dark chocolate, creating a decadent opening. A gentle spice lingers in the background, reminiscent of white pepper and nutmeg, providing depth to the initial experience. 
2. Second Third (20-40 minutes):
   As I move into the second third, the flavors deepen and become more robust. The leather notes become richer, complemented by a distinct nuttiness that reminds me of toasted almonds. The chocolate evolves into a more bittersweet character, offering a delightful kick that keeps the experience lively. 
3. Final Third (40-60 minutes):
   In the final stretch, the Dumas introduce a surprising sweetness, reminiscent of dried fruits, particularly figs and raisins. A subtle earthiness emerges, grounding the flavor profile and adding depth. The retro-hale reveals a blend of toasted wood and spice, creating a lingering finish that invites me to savor every moment.

Throughout the smoking session, the aroma is inviting, with toasty notes that often elicit compliments from those nearby, enhancing the overall experience.

Overall Experience: 19/20

The Montecristo Línea 1935 Dumas stands as a prime example of Cuban craftsmanship, providing a luxurious smoking experience that is well worth the investment.

Comparative Analysis

To fully appreciate the Dumas, it's essential to see how it stacks up against other cigars in a similar price range:

The Montecristo Línea 1935 Dumas shines in this lineup, thanks to its remarkable balance of flavor, complexity, and value. While other cigars may offer their own unique characteristics, the Dumas stands out as a refined option that delights the senses.

Pairings

To enhance the Dumas experience, consider these exceptional pairings:

• Single Malt Scotch: The rich, peaty notes of a good Scotch complement the cigar’s earthiness beautifully.
• Aged Rum: Enhances the chocolate notes of a cigar when you’re drinking it, and, at the same time, adds a layer of biterness that harmonizes with the cigar.
• Dark Roast Coffee: The bold flavors of a well-prepared espresso cut through the richness of the smoke, creating a balanced pairing.

Final Thoughts

The Montecristo Línea 1935 Dumas scored a very decent 82/100 in my book, and the look and feel of the cigar are what really enhance the experience. Its exquisite flavor profile, expert craftsmanship, and luxurious smoking experience make it a good choice for those seeking a top cigar.

Treat yourself to this exceptional cigar for moments that deserve something truly special, and prepare for a journey through the rich heritage of Cuban tobacco. 

James Peasley

James started out in the cigar industry in 2009, working for the leading cigar specialist in the UK for nearly a decade, slowly crafting his deep knowledge of cigars and developing a very refined palate. There's not many Cuban cigars he hasn't tasted, including Limited Edition Habanos and pre-embargo Davidoffs, as well as a large section of the New World offerings. When away from his desk he's usually found out walking in the countryside, or following other hot pursuits.