Romeo y Julieta Maravillas 8 – Año de la Rata 2020 (Limited Edition)

The Romeo y Julieta Maravillas 8 – Year of the Rat 2020 stands as one of the most exclusive and collectible cigars in Habanos’ portfolio. Released as part of the Edición Limitada 2020 series and coinciding with the Chinese Zodiac’s Year of the Rat, this majestic double robusto (160mm x 55, 6.3″ x 21.8mm) represents a rare fusion of Cuban tradition and commemorative artistry.

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Construction & Presentation

• Vitola: Maravillas 8 (a special size exclusive to this release)

• Wrapper: Dark, oily Corojo leaf from Vuelta Abajo (typical of EL series)

• Box: Stunning lacquered 10-count box featuring Chinese zodiac artwork

• Special Features:

  • Gold-embossed Year of the Rat insignia

  • Collector’s booklet detailing the blend

  • Individually numbered boxes

Recent Observations (2020-2024):
✓ Draw: Perfect resistance, ample smoke output
✓ Burn: Slow, even, with minimal touch-ups
✓ Ash: Dense, charcoal-gray with perfect flake

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Flavor Evolution

A bold yet refined smoke that unfolds in three distinct phases:

First Third (0-40 min):

• Black pepper and dark cocoa

• Stewed figs with a touch of balsamic

• Cedar spice box aroma

Middle Third (40-80 min):

• Leather and tobacco leaf intensity

• Roasted almond sweetness

• Cinnamon stick warmth

Final Third (80+ min):

• Espresso crema richness

• Charred oak and mineral earth

• Long finish with lingering umami

A full-bodied smoke, yet never harsh, powerful with elegance.

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Aging Potential & Rarity

• Limited Production: Only 5,000 numbered boxes worldwide

• Current Market Value:

  • Original MSRP: ~$450/box

  • 2024 Secondary Market: $1,200-$1,800/box (depending on condition)

• Aging Trajectory:

  • 3-5 years (now): Entering early maturity

  • 5-10 years: Expected to develop truffle & aged tobacco notes

  • 10+ years: Potential to rival Cohiba 1966 EL in depth

Collector’s Note:

• One of the last ELs before Habanos’ price hikes

• Highly sought after in Asian markets (especially China/Hong Kong)

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Ultimate Pairings

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Why the Maravillas 8 is Special

1. Rarest Romeo vitola – Never seen before or since

2. Perfect balance of strength & complexity – A true EL benchmark

3. Stunning presentation – Zodiac-themed box elevates collectibility

4. Strong secondary market performance – 3x appreciation in 4 years

Pro Tip:

• Best smoked after 3+ years of rest (now ideal)

• Try one fresh vs. aged – The transformation is remarkable

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Technical Details

• Size: 160mm x 55 (6.3″ x 21.8mm)

• Strength: Full-bodied (for Romeo y Julieta)

• Box Code: Mostly TUA 2020

• Humidity: 65% RH recommended

• Smoking Time: 90+ minutes (a contemplative smoke)

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Final Verdict

The Maravillas 8 – Year of the Rat is more than just a cigar—it’s a piece of Habanos history. Whether you’re a collector seeking a blue-chip investment or a smoker chasing profound flavors, this EL delivers on all fronts.

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) – A legend in the making.

Availability:

• Extremely scarce at retailers

• Occasionally surfaces at auctions (Cigar Aficionado, Bond Roberts)

• If found, buy without hesitation – This is a future unicorn.