Montecristo Mini Review: A Bite-Sized Luxury for On-the-Go Enjoyment

Brand: Montecristo
Line: Mini
Size: 3 1/2" x 20 (Petit)
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican
Strength: Mild to Medium
Price: £94 (10 x Pack of 10)

The Montecristo Mini 100s have become my go-to companion during brief breaks, spontaneous adventures, and relaxed evenings. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey!

Look & Feel: 18/20

The Montecristo Mini 100s are a delightful sight to behold. Its elegant Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper is a light golden-brown hue, impeccably smooth and free of blemishes. Holding it in hand, the petite size feels surprisingly substantial, fitting snugly between the fingers. Its 3 1/2" x 20 dimensions make it a perfect pocket cigar, easily transportable for those moments when time is limited.

The construction is impressive, showcasing Montecristo's renowned craftsmanship. The cigar has just the right amount of firmness when squeezed, indicating a well-packed filler that promises a satisfying draw.

Pre-Light: 14/20

As I cut the cap, the cold draw reveals a promising mix of sweetness and earthiness. Notes of hay and subtle vanilla dance on my palate, while a hint of cedar teases the senses. The aroma wafting from the unlit foot is pleasantly toasty, suggesting a well-aged tobacco experience awaits.

The draw is perfect, providing just enough resistance to keep the anticipation building. It’s a tantalizing prelude that hints at the enjoyable journey ahead.

Burn: 16/20

Upon lighting, the Montecristo Mini ignites effortlessly, producing a creamy smoke that envelops the mouth. The burn line begins even but can occasionally wander. I found myself needing to make minor touch-ups about once every third, which, while slightly distracting, didn’t detract too much from the overall enjoyment.

Flavor: 17/20

The flavor journey of the Montecristo Mini is remarkable for its size:

1. First Third (0-15 minutes):
   The cigar opens with a delightful creaminess, complemented by a subtle sweetness reminiscent of honey. Notes of toasted almonds emerge, providing a nutty character that’s both comforting and inviting. The smoke is smooth and mild, with a buttery texture that coats the palate beautifully. Retrohaling introduces a hint of white pepper, adding just a touch of zing to the experience.
2. Second Third (15-30 minutes):
   As I progress, the flavor profile evolves, introducing more complexity. The nuttiness transitions to a gentle spice, with hints of cedar and a whisper of baking spices, creating a harmonious balance. The creaminess persists, now accompanied by a soft leather note that adds depth to the profile. Final Third (30-45 minutes):
   In the final stretch, the cigar unveils a surprising sweetness akin to caramel, intertwining with the existing leather and spice notes. This sweetness beautifully rounds out the flavor profile, making each puff deeply satisfying. The retrohale becomes richer, highlighting layers of oak and a lingering creaminess that keeps the palate engaged until the last puff.

Throughout the smoke, the aroma is an inviting mix of toasted nuts and sweet tobacco, often drawing compliments from those nearby, making it not just a personal delight but a social one as well.

Overall Experience: 19/20

The Montecristo Mini delivers an impressive performance, particularly given its $3.50 price point. It offers the classic Montecristo quality and flavor in a bite-sized format that doesn’t compromise on experience.It’s an exceptional choice for both newcomers and seasoned smokers alike who appreciate a quick yet luxurious smoke.

Comparative Analysis

While the Montecristo Mini shines on its own, it’s beneficial to see how it stacks up against other cigars in a similar price range.

In this comparison, the Montecristo Mini stands out for its balance of quality, flavor complexity, and overall experience. While it may not offer the deep richness of some larger cigars, its accessible price and delightful flavor make it a top contender in the mini cigar category.

Pairings

To enhance the Montecristo Mini experience, consider these delicious pairings:

• Espresso: The bold, rich flavors of espresso complement the creamy and nutty notes of the cigar beautifully.
• Sweet Bourbon: A sip of sweet bourbon brings out the caramel notes and enhances the overall sweetness of the smoke.
• Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate contrasts well with the cigar’s creaminess, creating a delightful flavor interplay.

The Verdict

I rate the Montecristo Mini 100s a solid 84/100. Its flavor profile, construction, and value make it an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a quick yet luxurious smoke. While it doesn’t provide the same depth as larger, more premium options, it’s certainly worth trying out.

For anyone new to the Montecristo brand or looking for a convenient cigar that doesn’t sacrifice quality, the Mini is an excellent choice. Just remember to keep a reliable lighter handy for those quick touch-ups, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a flavorful journey through the world of Montecristo cigars, no matter where you are.

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.