Montecristo No. 4

The Montecristo No. 4 is, by most accounts, the best-selling Cuban cigar on the planet. It's a Petit Corona — 5.1 inches by a 42 ring gauge (the factory name is Mareva) — and for many smokers it's the definitive "first real Cuban," the one against which others get measured.

What it tastes like

For a smaller cigar it delivers a lot: classic Montecristo coffee and cedar, an earthy core, cocoa, and that signature tangy, slightly citrusy spice the brand is known for. It's medium-to-full, not a featherweight, but the modest size keeps the session to around 45 minutes — perfect when you want the real Havana experience without committing to a giant.

Who it's for

This is the Montecristo to reach for if you've graduated from mild cigars and want to understand what the fuss over Cuba is about. Smoke it with a strong coffee or an aged rum and take your time.

If you're deciding between this and the bolder Central American style, our Cuban vs Nicaraguan comparison lays out the differences. Storage matters with any premium cigar too — start with how to store cigars — and you can track your humidor and rate each smoke in the Casa DNC app.