Ramón Allones 8-9-8: A Timeless Homage to Cuban Craftsmanship

The Ramón Allones 8-9-8 Edición Regional 5ta Avenida, released in 2015 as part of the Regional Edition programme for Germany, represents a revival of a legendary format that encapsulates the finest traditions of Cuban cigar artistry. This limited-edition cigar, produced in only 2,000 varnished boxes of 25, is a tribute to the Ramón Allones legacy—a brand synonymous with innovation, bold flavour, and timeless elegance.

With its origins tracing back to 1837, Ramón Allones has earned its place as one of the oldest and most distinguished Cuban cigar brands. The 8-9-8 is not only a reimagining of a classic vitola but also a masterpiece that embodies the sophistication and craftsmanship that aficionados have come to expect from this historic name.

A Journey Through History

The Ramón Allones 8-9-8 derives its name from its unique box arrangement, where the cigars are meticulously stacked in three layers: eight on the top row, nine in the middle, and another eight on the bottom. This distinctive presentation was a hallmark of Ramón Allones in the 20th century, making the 8-9-8 format a symbol of luxury and refinement.

The 2015 reintroduction of this iconic format for Germany's Edición Regional programme serves as both a nod to the past and a modern reinterpretation. The original 8-9-8 was last produced as a regular offering before its discontinuation in 2002, making this release a long-awaited revival for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Ramón Allones was a trailblazer in the cigar industry, pioneering innovations such as colourful lithographed box labels and branding on the packaging—practices that have since become standard. The brand’s reputation for bold, full-flavoured cigars is upheld in this release, which combines the richness of tradition with the demands of a modern palate.

The Edición Regional programme itself is a celebration of exclusivity, offering unique vitolas and blends tailored to specific markets. The 5ta Avenida edition caters to the German cigar community with its balance of boldness, complexity, and refinement, making it a standout in the world of Cuban cigars.

Flavour Profile

The Ramón Allones 8-9-8 Edición Regional 5ta Avenida delivers a medium-bodied smoking experience, brimming with layers of complexity that evolve throughout the cigar. Each third is carefully crafted to provide a distinctive yet cohesive journey for the smoker.

First Third:

The opening draws offer a rich and inviting blend of cedar, toasted nuts, and a slight mineral undertone. Subtle hints of black pepper add a touch of spice, while nuances of leather and freshly baked bread provide depth and sophistication. The creamy texture of the smoke ensures a smooth and engaging start, with a perfect balance of strength and refinement.

Second Third:

As the cigar progresses, the flavour profile deepens, revealing notes of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and a caramel sweetness that complements the bolder elements. The spice from the first third mellows, allowing hints of dried fruit, walnuts, and subtle herbal undertones to shine. The retrohale offers a delicate interplay of balsamic and earthy notes, showcasing the cigar’s complexity at its peak.

Final Third:

The final third brings a crescendo of bold flavours. Espresso and dark cocoa dominate the palate, while a molasses-like sweetness adds a layer of richness. A re-emergence of black pepper on the retrohale enhances the overall depth without overpowering the cigar’s creamy smoothness. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of coffee, toasted almonds, and cedar that leave a harmonious aftertaste.

This evolving profile rewards the smoker’s patience, ensuring that every draw offers something new and memorable.

Vitola Details

The Ramón Allones 8-9-8 is crafted in the elegant Dalias vitola, a format celebrated for its refined proportions and ability to highlight the nuances of a complex blend.

Factory Name: Dalias
Dimensions: Ring gauge 43 x Length 170 mm (6.7 inches)
Construction: Handmade in Cuba
Wrapper: Cuban, featuring a reddish Colorado hue and a silky texture
Binder & Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium-bodied
Packaging: Limited to 2,000 varnished boxes containing 25 cigars

With a smoking time of approximately 90 to 120 minutes, the Dalias format offers a luxurious and immersive experience, perfect for savouring the cigar’s evolving flavours.

Construction and Craftsmanship

The Ramón Allones 8-9-8 showcases the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Cuban cigars. The reddish Colorado wrapper is flawless, with a slightly oily sheen and a smooth texture that enhances the cigar’s visual appeal. Expert rolling ensures a firm construction with just the right amount of give, promising a consistently excellent smoking experience.

The draw is smooth and effortless, producing ample, creamy smoke that highlights the cigar’s complex flavours. The burn is razor-sharp, requiring minimal touch-ups, while the ash is sturdy and well-structured, holding impressively before falling. These qualities reflect the skill of Cuba’s master torcedores, ensuring that each cigar meets the highest standards of quality.

Ideal Pairings

To elevate the Ramón Allones 8-9-8 experience, consider pairing it with beverages that complement its rich and layered profile:

Aged Rum: The natural sweetness and complexity of a premium rum enhance the cigar’s caramel and molasses notes.
Sherry-Cask Aged Scotch: A lightly sherried single malt brings out the cigar’s nutty and fruity undertones, adding warmth and balance.
Cognac: The floral and fruity characteristics of a high-quality Cognac harmonise beautifully with the cigar’s creamy and nutty elements.
Espresso or Cappuccino: The bold, roasted flavours of espresso align with the cigar’s coffee and cocoa notes, while a cappuccino provides a creamy contrast to the smoke’s richness.

The 8-9-8 Experience: A Classic Reimagined

The Ramón Allones 8-9-8 Edición Regional 5ta Avenida is more than a cigar—it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and Cuban artistry. Its limited production and iconic format make it a prized possession for collectors, while its bold, complex flavours ensure an unforgettable smoking experience.

This cigar offers the perfect blend of historical significance and modern elegance, making it a must-try for seasoned aficionados and newcomers alike. Whether savoured in moments of quiet reflection or shared in celebration, the 8-9-8 is a testament to the enduring legacy of Ramón Allones.

Rating for Ramón Allones 8-9-8

Here’s how the Ramón Allones 8-9-8 scores based on my rating system:

Appearance: 10/10 – A flawless, reddish Colorado wrapper with impeccable presentation.
Aroma: 9/10 – Inviting notes of cedar, leather, and toasted nuts.
Flavour: 19/20 – Complex and evolving, with a seamless blend of sweetness, spice, and creaminess.
Draw: 9/10 – Smooth and consistent, producing creamy, dense smoke.
Burn: 9/10 – Sharp, even burn with well-structured ash.
Construction: 10/10 – Exemplary craftsmanship from Cuba’s finest torcedores.
Strength: 8/10 – Medium-bodied, offering a satisfying balance of boldness and approachability.
Finish: 9/10 – Long and satisfying, with lingering notes of coffee, nuts, and cocoa.
Overall Experience: 9/10 – A refined and engaging cigar that pays homage to a classic format.

Total Score: 92/100

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