Por Larranaga Montecarlo - ??? AGO 20 (JBWP2RW)

[sho671]

I bought a fiver from a European vendor and was only able to get the box date, not the factory code. The first thing that struck me about the Montecarlo's is how skinny they are. I usually try to use a deep V cut but went with the straight cut this time around because I didn't think there was enough real estate for a deep V. The pre-light draw was a little more restrictive than I preferred, but it lit well and I was able to draw a fair amount of smoke. The first third of the cigar had the most flavor. It started off with a woodiness that was followed up by some sweet molasses. After that I was really only picking up some generic tobacco notes. I was drinking black coffee at the time, so maybe the cigar was overpowered. Either way I don't particularly like this vitola and hope that the few other Montecarlos I have left get better with time.

1/5

[NSXCIGAR]

If you're not used to that RG it's very possible you smoked it too fast. The beginning being much better than the end makes me think that's possible. 

[RDB]

I’m a big fan of these, but two caveats. First, they do often have construction issues (too tight). Second, a few years down can be important. They come in a wild range of wrapper colours, and the darker ones (like yours) definitely need more time. 
 

I’d put the others away for a while and see if you like them better next year…

[NSXCIGAR]

3 hours ago, RDB said:

I’m a big fan of these, but two caveats. First, they do often have construction issues (too tight). Second, a few years down can be important.

I've actually been very impressed with the draws on PLMC since 2017. Same with MdO4. They seem to have put some effort into making sure it's not a problem. 

Also, low rH is very important for long skinnies. Not just for draw but if it's too wet you'll be relighting every 30 seconds. 

As far as age, flavor-wise, yes, PLMC really cranks up after 2-3 years. I'm fine with them fresh but they do become really nice with a little time. 

[sho671]

6 hours ago, NSXCIGAR said:

If you're not used to that RG it's very possible you smoked it too fast. The beginning being much better than the end makes me think that's possible. 

I'm pretty sure this is the smallest ring gauge I've smoked. I don't think I smoked it too fast, but I could definitely smoke it slower.

6 hours ago, RDB said:

I’m a big fan of these, but two caveats. First, they do often have construction issues (too tight). Second, a few years down can be important. They come in a wild range of wrapper colours, and the darker ones (like yours) definitely need more time. 
 

I’d put the others away for a while and see if you like them better next year…

I'm going to forget about them for a while.