H Upmann Petit Coronas
The H Upmann Petit Coronas represents the brand's contribution to the enduringly popular petit corona format — the everyman's Cuban. At 129mm x 42, it delivers a manageable 40- to 50-minute smoke that embodies everything H Upmann stands for: balance, elegance, and restraint. Where some marcas use the petit corona to showcase power, H Upmann uses it to demonstrate finesse. This is a cigar for the smoker who values subtlety and craftsmanship over spectacle.
Specifications
Tasting Notes
From the first draw, the Petit Coronas establishes a mellow, aromatic character. Cedar, hay, and a faint floral sweetness define the opening third, carried on a light, airy smoke. There is no aggressive pepper hit here — instead, the cigar invites the smoker in gently. A subtle creaminess adds body without weight.
The middle section introduces toasted brioche and a mild nuttiness, along with a delicate honey note that sits on the finish. The transition into the final third sees a modest increase in spice — white pepper rather than black — and a drying woody quality. The cigar never strays beyond medium strength, making it consistent and approachable throughout. It is the kind of blend that rewards slow, deliberate puffing; rushed smoking flattens the nuances.
Construction
The Petit Coronas is built from Vuelta Abajo long filler and hand-rolled in Cuba. The wrapper typically presents as colourado claro, on the lighter end of the Cuban spectrum, with a smooth, slightly silky texture. The 42 ring gauge provides a comfortable draw with just enough resistance to encourage slow smoking. Burn performance is dependable when stored at 65–68% RH. The ash is light grey and moderately firm, requiring a gentle roll at roughly the three-quarter-inch mark.
Pairing
The Petit Coronas suits pairings that share its gentle profile. A young, fruity Viognier white wine complements the floral and honey notes surprisingly well. Light rum — particularly a Cuban white — keeps the pairing clean and refreshing. Beer drinkers should consider a wheat beer or blonde ale, whose soft malt character harmonises with the brioche notes. A mild tea, such as Darjeeling first flush, is an excellent caffeine-free alternative.
Brand Background
One of Cuba's oldest cigar brands, H Upmann was founded in 1844 by German banker brothers August and Hermann Upmann. The brand has survived revolution, nationalisation, and changing global markets to remain a cornerstone of the Cuban cigar industry. It is distributed by Habanos S.A. and sources all its tobacco from the Vuelta Abajo region. See the H Upmann Wikipedia article for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the H Upmann Petit Coronas a good everyday cigar?
Yes. Its medium strength, approachable flavour, and convenient 129mm length make it an excellent choice for regular, everyday smoking without palate fatigue.
How does the H Upmann Petit Coronas differ from the Magnum 46?
The Petit Coronas (129mm x 42, medium) is shorter and lighter than the Magnum 46 (142mm x 46, medium-full). The Petit Coronas prioritises finesse and brevity; the Magnum 46 offers greater depth and a longer session.
Related Cigars
Further Reading
