Montecristo Brillantes – Year of the Dragon Limited Edition 2024

A Regal Tribute to the Lunar New Year, from Cuba’s Crown Jewel

Released in 2024 by Habanos S.A., the Montecristo Brillantes “Year of the Dragon” is a luxurious, limited edition cigar crafted to honor the Lunar New Year’s most powerful zodiac symbol – the Dragon. This is the second time Montecristo has been selected for a Chinese New Year commemorative release, following the success of the Montecristo “Year of the Tiger” Magnum 52.

The Brillantes vitola is exclusive to this edition, offering a bold yet elegant format with a refined blend tailored to mark such a culturally and symbolically rich occasion.

Vitola and Presentation

• Vitola de Galera (Factory Name): Exclusivo – Brillantes

• Length: 128 mm (5.0 inches)

• Ring Gauge: 50

• Format: Robusto Extra

• Packaging: Ornate red lacquered boxes of 18 cigars

• Release Year: 2024

• Edition: Lunar New Year / Limited Edition – “Year of the Dragon”

• Bands: Dual bands – classic Montecristo + exclusive “Year of the Dragon” band with gold and red detailing

The luxurious red and gold packaging features Chinese calligraphy, dragon motifs, and Montecristo’s iconic fleur-de-lis emblem – a visual celebration of strength, good fortune, and legacy.

Origin and Tobacco

• Wrapper / Binder / Filler: 100% Cuban tobacco

• Tobacco Region: Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Río, Cuba

• Production: Totalmente a Mano, Tripa Larga (handmade, long filler)

• Aged Leaves: Selected and aged for superior smoothness and flavor complexity

• Factory: Crafted by elite torcedores in Cuba’s top factories for premium editions

This edition utilizes meticulously selected leaves from the best plantations, ensuring a refined and memorable smoke.

Flavor Profile and Smoking Experience

The Montecristo Brillantes delivers a medium-to-full-bodied experience – richer than standard Montecristos, yet well-balanced and smooth. It’s designed to provide both seasoned aficionados and collectors with a unique and evolving flavor journey.

Tasting Notes:

• First Third: Aromatic introduction with notes of cinnamon, cedar, and honeyed tobacco

• Second Third: Gains complexity with toasted nuts, light leather, and white pepper

• Final Third: Builds intensity with hints of dark cocoa, spice, and a subtle mineral finish

Draw is excellent, construction is impeccable, and the aroma is deeply fragrant with an oriental elegance befitting the occasion.

Key Details

• Brand: Montecristo

• Edition: Year of the Dragon – Lunar New Year 2024

• Vitola: Brillantes (Exclusive Robusto Extra)

• Length: 128 mm (5.0 inches)

• Ring Gauge: 50

• Strength: Medium to Full

• Wrapper/Binder/Filler: 100% Cuban (Vuelta Abajo)

• Packaging: Red lacquered box of 18 cigars

• Flavor Notes: Cedar, honey, toasted nuts, white pepper, leather, cocoa

• Smoking Time: 60–75 minutes

• Bands: Montecristo standard + Year of the Dragon commemorative band

• Status: Limited Edition – 2024 Release Only