Diplomaticos No.2 — The Pyramid That Rivals the Greats
The Diplomaticos No.2 is one of the most respected pyramid-format cigars in the entire Cuban catalogue, and for good reason. Measuring 156mm by 52 ring gauge in the Pirámides vitola, it is a full-strength cigar that delivers the kind of deep, dark, intense smoking experience that the torpedo format was designed for. The No.2 is often compared — favourably — to the Montecristo No.2, and among seasoned aficionados it is frequently preferred for its consistency, its boldness, and its willingness to embrace full strength without apology. This is a cigar for the smoker who wants power and complexity in equal measure.
Specifications
Tasting Notes
The No.2 comes out of the gate with a boldness that immediately signals its full-strength classification. Dark cedar leads — roasted and deep — and an earthy richness establishes itself from the first puff. This is not a cigar that builds slowly; it arrives with authority. A pronounced espresso bitterness enters within the first few minutes, and a dark cocoa note sits underneath, bitter and compelling. The retrohale delivers a firm, building black pepper that is more assertive than most Cuban pyramids. The 52 ring gauge produces a dense, voluminous smoke that fills the mouth completely.
The middle third is where the No.2 separates itself from the competition. The cocoa deepens into dark chocolate, and the espresso intensifies. A substantial leather note develops — richer and more pronounced than in medium-full cigars — and an earthy, loamy quality provides a deep foundation. A molasses sweetness coats the palate, dark and complex, balancing the bitter elements. The cedar warms into a sandalwood quality, and a subtle spice — clove and a hint of black pepper — adds aromatic depth. The full strength is unmistakable through this section, but the blend's complexity keeps the power in check. This is not strength for its own sake; it is strength in service of depth.
The final third is where the No.2 earns its reputation. The dark chocolate and espresso converge into a dense, bittersweet core, and the leather and earth intensify. A mineral, chalky note enters the finish — the signature of the finest Vuelta Abajo leaf. The pepper returns with a sustained warmth, and the strength builds to its fullest expression. The finish is extraordinarily long — dark, savoury, bittersweet, and powerful. This is a cigar that closes with real authority, the kind of finish that stays with you for minutes after the last puff.
Construction
The Pirámides vitola — a torpedo-shaped cigar with a pointed head — demands exceptional roller skill, and the Diplomaticos No.2 is consistently among the best-constructed pyramids in Cuban production. The pointed cap is applied with precision, the draw through the tapered head is ideal — concentrated but not tight — and the burn line tracks evenly as the cigar opens up through the widening gauge. The wrapper is a rich, dark Colorado with a visible oil sheen and fine veining. The triple cap is applied cleanly. Ash holds in dense, light-grey bands that resist early dropping. Smoke volume increases through the cigar as the ring gauge widens — the defining characteristic of the pyramid format that the No.2 exploits to full effect.
Pairing Suggestions
The No.2's full-strength, dark, intense profile demands a companion with equal stature. An aged dark rum — 15 years or older — is the classic pairing, its deep caramel and oak notes matching the cigar's cocoa and molasses. A heavily sherried single malt provides complementary intensity. For non-alcoholic options, a strong espresso ristretto draws out the cigar's coffee character without clashing, while a dark, unsweetened hot chocolate enhances the cocoa notes.
Value
The Diplomaticos No.2 sits in the upper-mid pricing tier of the Habanos catalogue, consistent with its Pirámides format, 52 ring gauge, and full-strength blend. For the aficionado who wants a cigar that delivers complete, evolving power from first puff to last, the No.2 represents outstanding value. It is a cigar that can be cellared for years and will reward the patience with deepening complexity.
Brand Background
Diplomaticos was established in 1966 and was originally created as a companion brand to Montecristo, offering a similar style at a more accessible price point. Over the decades, the brand has developed its own identity, with the No.2 — its flagship pyramid — earning a reputation as one of the finest full-strength cigars in the Habanos S.A. portfolio.
Storage
Store at 65–70% relative humidity and 18–20°C. The No.2's 52 ring gauge requires adequate acclimation time — allow six to eight weeks post-transit. The blend ages exceptionally well; three to five years of additional aging will mellow the pepper, deepen the cocoa and leather, and produce a remarkably integrated, complex smoke. Store in a well-seasoned humidor with good airflow to prevent mould on the pointed head.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vitola is the Diplomaticos No.2?
The No.2 is rolled in the Pirámides vitola — a pyramid-shaped cigar measuring 156mm by 52 ring gauge with a tapered, pointed head.
How does the Diplomaticos No.2 compare to the Montecristo No.2?
Both are Cuban pyramids in the same format, but the Diplomaticos No.2 is full strength (versus the Montecristo No.2's medium-full) and is often praised for its consistency and boldness. Many aficionados prefer it for its deeper, darker character.
Is the Diplomaticos No.2 good for aging?
Exceptionally so. Three to five years of additional aging will significantly deepen its complexity, mellow the pepper, and integrate the dark, rich flavour notes.
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