San Cristobal El Principe box of 25

The San Cristóbal El Príncipe is a petit corona gem, offering a concentrated version of the brand’s signature spice and sweetness in a compact format. Measuring 102mm x 40 (4″ x 15.87mm), this 30-45 minute smoke is perfect for a quick yet flavorful Cuban experience. Packed in a cabinet-style box of 25, it’s one of the most affordable and age-worthy cigars in the San Cristóbal lineup.

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Construction & Presentation

• Wrapper: Colorado claro with a silky sheen

• Box: Traditional cedar cabinet (promotes aging)

• Recent Production (2022-2024):
  ✓ Draw: Consistently smooth (rare tightness)
  ✓ Burn: Even with minimal touch-ups
  ✓ Ash: Light gray, slightly flaky

Humidity Tip: 62-65% RH – the slim vitola prefers slightly drier conditions.

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Flavor Profile

A medium-bodied smoke with three distinct phases:

First Third (0-15 min):

• Cedar spice & toasted almonds

• Honey-drizzled pastry

• Faint white pepper

Middle Third (15-30 min):

• Roasted coffee beans

• Cinnamon stick warmth

• Cashew butter richness

Final Third (30+ min):

• Leather and earth

• Dark chocolate bitterness

• Clean, slightly sweet finish

Strength: Medium (approachable but flavorful)

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Aging Potential & Value

Why It’s Special:

• Best value San Cristóbal (great for daily smoking)

• Improves dramatically with 2+ years of age

• Classic Cuban petit corona size

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Perfect Pairings

✔ Coffee: Cuban café con leche
✔ Spirit: Havana Club 7 rum or Speyside single malt
✔ Wine: Amontillado sherry
✔ Food: Manchego cheese, almond croissants

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Vs. Similar Cuban Petit Coronas

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Final Verdict

★★★★★ (4.8/5) – A pocket-sized flavor bomb.

Ideal For:

• Morning or afternoon smokes

• Newcomers to San Cristóbal

• Stocking humidors for aging

Availability:

• Widely available at LCDHs and online retailers

• 2023-2024 boxes (TUA, UBL codes) show excellent construction

Last Word: The El Príncipe proves that great things come in small packages. Buy a box to enjoy now and another to age—it’s one of Cuba’s best-value cigars.

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Key Details

• Vitola: Petit Corona

• Box Code: Recent gems – TUA 23, UBL 24

• Strength: Medium

• Smoking Time: 30-45 min

• Humidity Sweet Spot: 62-65% RH

Pro Tip: Try one fresh vs. aged – the spice mellows into caramel after 2+ years.

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Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5) – The ultimate “short but satisfying” Cuban.