Origin : Cuba
Format : Piramide
Size : 156 x 20.64 mm
Ring : 52
Weight : 14.26 g
Hand-Made
Price : ~$13 each

Diplomaticos was created back in 1966 as a less expensive alternative to Montecristo cigars. The line of cigars was similar in sizes to Montecristo and they were rolled at the José Marti factory, home to the production of most Montes. Today, the blends are completely different and it’s impossible to find taste similarities between the two. The No. 2 is a torpedo with the same dimensions as the Montecristo No. 2 that was previously reviewed on this site. It is approximately $5 cheaper, which would make it a good budget alternative if it had a decent flavor profile and construction. Let’s find out.

Appearance : Rating:
The looks are quite impressive. The wrapper is rustic, but still attractive. The smell emanating from the wrapper is nothing short of amazing – I immediately thought that this was going to be an incredible smoke. The cap seems to be hastily applied.

Construction : Rating:
Average construction. I have experienced some tunneling which needed regular corrections. After the second third, I’ve often been struggling to keep the cigar lit. The ash fell randomly between 1 and 2 inches.

Flavor : Rating:
Nasty surprise. I was expecting a flavorful smoke, considering the pre-light smell but, instead, I had a bland, banal, tobacco taste. Some sweetness and chocolate notes were perceptible from time to time, but it didn’t save the day. For 80 minutes, I tried to detect a flavor to my liking, but without success.

Value : Rating:
It’s obviously better to smoke one decent torpedo than two Diplomaticos No. 2.

Overall Rating : Rating:
I really hope that I ran into a bad batch. They are not as bad as Guantanamera, but I can still say that this is one of the worst Cuban cigars that I’m familiar with. I’m a bit surprised because, according to some reviews, they are supposed to be very good! I am curious to hear your experiences with this brand – please share them in the comments area.