5 Up Deep Dive : The Evolution of a Cigar: Montecristo Number 2

[El Presidente]

 

5 Up Deep Dive 

The Evolution of a Cigar: 

Let’s start with one of the great benchmarks:

Montecristo No. 2

Few cigars have the global reputation, consistency of production volume, and ageing history of the Monte 2. It should prove to be an excellent case study

 

The questions: 

 

• How do the characteristics of the Montecristo Number 2  change from: 

           5   months - 5   years - 10  years - 15 years+

 

• If you could define the greatest flavour change in a Montecristo Number 2 as it ages, what would it be and perhaps, what period is that change most discernible? 
• Where is your personal ageing sweet spot for a Montecristo Number 2?
• For those that have experienced 15+ years Montecristo 2: are they generally "Tremendous" or "Tired"

 

 

[Tunkat92]

I find Monte 2’s lose their chocolately edge that I love around 5 years and start to develop woody and leather notes.

I try to smoke my Monte 2’s around 2-3 year mark as most seem to need 12-18 months to loosen up the draw. 

I cannot remember smoking a 15+ year Monte 2.

[loose_axle]

Only ever had Monte 2s in the 2-6 range. I like the 3-5 year mark and beyond that I have no experience.