Montecristo No. 4 Review: Cuban Journey With One of Montecristo’s Finest

• Brand: Montecristo
• Size: 5 x 42 (Petit Corona)
• Wrapper: Cuban
• Binder: Cuban
• Filler: Cuban
• Strength: Medium
• Price: £504 (Box of 25)

The Montecristo No. 4 is a staple in Cuban cigars, offering approachable flavors and consistent quality, and one of my personal favorites. Below are my insights on all the qualities of this iconic piece.

Look & Feel: 19/20

The Montecristo No. 4 impresses with a classic Cuban appearance, showcasing a smooth, caramel-brown wrapper with a soft, velvety feel. There are few veins, and the wrapper is seamless, in my opinion, with just the right amount of natural oil that speaks to the aging and quality of the tobacco.

This compact size provided me with a satisfying smoke session while still noticing the nuanced flavors Montecristo cigars are known for.

Pre-Light: 17/20

Before lighting, the cold draw offers inviting hints of cocoa, cedar, and a slight sweetness. There’s also an earthy aroma that fills the senses, adding a preview of the flavors to come. The draw is perfect—not too tight, not too loose—and hints at an even burn ahead. The Montecristo No. 4’s pre-light experience builds anticipation for a classic Cuban flavor journey.

Burn: 18/20

Once  I started smoking the Montecristo No. 4, the cigar demonstrated its quality with a near-perfect burn. The draw remained smooth throughout, producing a generous amount of smoke. I found the burn line to be razor-sharp, and the ash holds for over an inch, showcasing the cigar’s excellent construction.The cigar’s burn and draw are consistent, allowing you to focus on the evolving flavors.

Flavor: 18/20

The Montecristo No. 4 delivers a journey of balanced and evolving flavors:

• First Third (0-15 minutes)

My initial puffs revealed a creamy, smooth smoke with hints of cedar, cocoa, and light earthiness. There was a touch of sweetness that complements the nutty profile, creating a mellow yet complex opening. Subtle notes of leather add depth, and the smoke has a medium-bodied feel that coats the palate.

• Second Third (15-30 minutes)

As I progressed, the flavors developed more richness and complexity. The cocoa and cedar notes intensify, accompanied by a warm nuttiness and slight pepper on the retrohale. I noticed an earthy undertone that adds a satisfying depth, and the smoke takes on a slightly oily texture, making it more robust. 

• Final Third (30-45 minutes)

In the last portion, the Montecristo No. 4 introduced me with notes of roasted coffee and a touch of spice, adding a robust edge. The earthiness remains, but now with hints of dark chocolate and a savory quality that lingers. The retrohale brings out more pepper, creating a balanced finale that is rich and satisfying.

Overall, the flavors remain harmonious, with each third transitioning smoothly into the next. 

Overall Experience: 19/20

The Montecristo No. 4 exemplifies quality in a Petit Corona format. It’s versatile, offering a refined flavor journey in a manageable size that can be enjoyed any time. With its medium strength and accessible price, it’s an ideal cigar for those looking to explore Cuban flavors without the intensity of a larger, more powerful option.

Comparative Analysis

Pairings

The Montecristo No. 4 pairs wonderfully with:

• Cognac: The smooth, caramel sweetness complements the cigar’s creamy cocoa notes.
• Espresso: The rich, bitter profile of espresso enhances the earthy and nutty flavors in the cigar.
• Dark Rum: Aged rum with hints of vanilla and molasses brings out the subtle sweetness of the cigar, creating a harmonious pairing.

Final Insights

Scoring an impressive 91/100, the Montecristo No. 4 delivers an accessible yet sophisticated experience, and in my opinion, you should definitely give it a shot. 

In my eyes, It’s truly a classic choice for aficionados and a reliable option for those exploring Cuban cigars. Its elegant balance of flavors, smooth draw, and refined finish make it a worthwhile addition to any humidor.

The Montecristo No. 4 is a testament to the brand’s enduring reputation, offering an exceptional smoking experience that stands the test of time.

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.