Montecristo Original Cigars The Montecristo tradition goes all the way back to Cuba in 1935. While this isn't the oldest brand to originate in Cuba, it is one of the most beloved. Because of the strength of the brand's history, lovers of the leaf, in this case Altadis U.S.A., weren't going to let the embargo kill the Montecristo tradition for American smokers. Hand manufactured by skilled craftsmen in the Dominican Republic, the Montecristo Original (or Montecristo Yellow as it's also known) maintains its reputation as one of the finest cigars on the market and the standard by which others are judged. Montecristo cigars are built with only the highest-quality long filler tobacco starting with select Dominican binders and filler tobaccos. Known for its smooth and satisfying taste, Montecristo is a medium-bodied cigar with a rich aroma, smooth smoke and impeccable construction. Keep the tradition alive.