Monte Cristo's Robusto is perfect for mild cigar lovers. Sure, its going to cost you, but there's no denying its quality. This is one pretty cigar, and it is a fine example, of a superior cigar from the Dominican Republic. It has all of the elements, such as an appearance that says "smoke me." I have to admit, this is one pretty cigar, as its wrapper and filler are a good reason, why its been on magazine covers. The light golden color, and the way that this is so lovingly packed tightly, are a reason to celebrate for sure. The Monte Cristo Company does not cut corners, and the wrapper if you run your fingers down the cigar, will show you how smooth it is. There are no bumps or defects of any type, and firing it up is even more proof of this.

Cutting this cigar is a cinch. All it takes is one quick guillotine indentation, and you are ready to fire it up. The 5x52 size is perfect for most smokers, and lighting it up takes less than thirty seconds with a triple butane model. Immediately you get a little bit of peppery infusion, and I liked that. Unfortunately, it loses that, and while you get some coffee and creamy notes, its just a bit too mild for my taste. Beginners will appreciate this, as it does offer an alternative to Macanudo and other "starter" types of cigars. The tobacco used is of high quality, and well aged. There's no doubt about that, and I did like the coffee flavor, even if a bit mellow for what I was looking for. Those who like to mix it up, might find this suitable for the morning "breakfast smoke."

Construction is excellent. The filler is packed in just right, and the draw rate is perfect. You cannot find better smoke volume in this size. I did like this a lot, but at the same time, there were a few plugs to contend with near the end. That dropped my passion for this cigar, even though with its mild taste, that was already a bit limited. As for the burn rate, that was fine, and I have no complaints. This is a cigar that will last you close to an hour, and at its price, that's a positive attribute. If you are a smoker who likes a change, this might work for you, but I prefer much stronger fare.

As for food pairings, go with breakfast, and stick with your coffee or tea. If you must make this an evening choice, go with a white wine. This is a cigar you can find anywhere, and Monte Cristo can be proud of its aged tobaccos. They are mild, but lack the green batches, that more laid back selections can be known for. I'll give it a recommend, but I think it will be awhile before I fire up one of these again. Its not that its a bad cigar, its just due to a personal preference for something, that puts me back in my seat  a bit. This is a good cigar, not great, and at $7 its going to cost you a bit more than some others. Yet for beginners, I think this is a good choice to get you on the road of cigars, and a example of the "Dominican Mild" that cigar smokers know quite well.     

Recommended: Yes

Cigar Name: Monte Cristo Robusto
Cigar Rating: A solid performer
Price per cigar ($US): 7