The San Cristóbal La Punta is a refined yet flavorful corona that captures the essence of the brand’s signature spice and sweetness in a perfectly balanced format. Measuring 140mm x 42 (5.5″ x 16.67mm), this corona offers a 45-60 minute smoking experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate San Cristóbal’s complexity in a slightly slimmer vitola. Packed in a cabinet-style box of 25, it’s a fantastic choice for both daily enjoyment and aging.
Construction & Presentation
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Wrapper: Colorado claro with a smooth, slightly oily sheen
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Box: Traditional cedar cabinet (promotes gradual aging)
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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 slimmer vitola benefits from slightly drier conditions.
Flavor Profile
A medium-bodied smoke with three distinct phases:
First Third (0-20 min):
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Cedar and white pepper spice
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Honey-glazed almonds
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Faint citrus zest
Middle Third (20-40 min):
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Roasted coffee beans
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Cinnamon stick warmth
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Caramelized brown sugar
Final Third (40+ min):
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Leather and earth depth
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Dark chocolate bitterness
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Clean, slightly sweet finish
Strength: Medium (balanced, approachable)
Aging Potential & Value
Age | Development | Current Market |
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Fresh | Bright, spicy | $10-$15/stick |
3-5 yrs | Gains caramel and cocoa notes | +20-30% value |
5+ yrs | Rare – develops honeyed complexity | Auction-worthy |
Why It’s Special:
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Perfect “Goldilocks” size – not too short, not too long
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Excellent construction in recent batches
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More nuanced than El Príncipe, less intense than La Fuerza
Perfect Pairings
✔ Coffee: Cuban café con leche
✔ Spirit: Havana Club 7 rum or Speyside single malt
✔ Wine: Oaked Chardonnay or Rioja Crianza
✔ Food: Manchego cheese, almond croissants, dark chocolate
Vs. Similar Cuban Coronas
Cigar | Difference |
---|---|
Partagas Coronas Junior | More peppery, less refined |
Hoyo de Monterrey Coronations | Milder, creamier |
Trinidad Coloniales | More elegant, less spice |
Final Verdict
★★★★★ (4.7/5) – A perfectly balanced corona with San Cristóbal’s signature charm.
Ideal For:
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Afternoon or evening smokes
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Those who enjoy medium-bodied Cubans
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Aging experiments (improves beautifully over time)
Availability:
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Widely available at LCDHs and online retailers
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2023-2024 boxes (TUA, UBL codes) show excellent quality
Last Word: The La Punta is a hidden gem in San Cristóbal’s lineup—offering complexity and balance in a classic corona size. Buy a box to enjoy now and another to age; it only gets better.
Key Details
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Vitola: Corona
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Box Code: Recent gems – TUA 23, UBL 24
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Strength: Medium
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Smoking Time: 45-60 min
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Humidity Sweet Spot: 62-65% RH
Pro Tip: Try one fresh vs. aged – the spice mellows into deeper sweetness after 2+ years.
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.7/5) – A must-try for corona lovers.
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