Coronas Grandes

The Coronas Grandes, commonly referred to as the Long Corona, is a classic slender Cuban cigar format defined by its 42 ring gauge and 155mm length. While the commercial name printed on the box is the *vitola de salida*, the *vitola de galera* designates the precise factory dimensions and shape used by the rollers. This elegant size offers a concentrated tasting profile suited to the experienced smoker who appreciates a cooler, extended smoke.

Cohiba Siglo III, rolled in the Coronas Grandes size

Physical specifications and smoking profile

Rolled as a parejo, or straight-sided cigar, the Coronas Grandes features a 42 ring gauge and measures 155mm (6.1 inches) in length. This narrow format places a heavy emphasis on the wrapper leaf, which consequently plays a dominant role in expressing the blend's flavour. The slender ring gauge concentrates the smoke directly onto the palate, requiring a slow and measured smoking pace to prevent the tobacco from overheating.

The extended length serves a practical purpose, allowing the smoke to cool significantly before it reaches the smoker's mouth. This physical trait typically results in a softer, more nuanced start that gradually builds in intensity as the ember progresses down the barrel. When correctly stored, a well-constructed Coronas Grandes provides a smooth draw and burns for approximately 50 to 70 minutes.

Notable Habanos in this format

Two of the most prominent regular production Habanos utilise the Coronas Grandes factory shape. The Cohiba Siglo III, introduced in 1994 as part of the Linea 1492, is perhaps the most famous contemporary example. It offers a sophisticated medium-bodied profile that highlights the brand's signature third fermentation process.

The format also claims a long history with the Montecristo marque. The Montecristo Tubos, released around 1960, is a classic Coronas Grandes packaged in an aluminium tube. This packaging historically aided in protecting the delicate wrapper during transit and continues to appeal to modern smokers seeking a reliable medium-to-full bodied cigar.

How it compares to similar sizes

The Coronas Grandes occupies a deliberate middle ground within the Habanos portfolio. It shares its 42 ring gauge with the standard Corona (142mm), but the additional 13mm in length cools the draw and provides a slightly longer smoking duration.

Conversely, it is shorter than the Lonsdale or Cervantes, which measures 165mm in length. The Coronas Grandes therefore provides the elegance of a long, thin cigar without demanding the full time commitment required by a Cervantes format.

Buying and ageing advice

When acquiring Coronas Grandes, always check the box code to verify the date and factory of production. As with all premium Cuban cigars, understanding how to spot fakes is essential, particularly for high-profile marques like Cohiba. Collectors in the UK should look for English Market Selection (EMS) stamps as a reliable marker of correct importation and initial quality control.

Slender vitolas often age exceptionally well because the higher ratio of wrapper leaf to filler dictates a stable, focused flavour over time. For long-term storage, maintaining a steady 65% relative humidity is advisable. This specific humidity prevents the filler leaves from swelling, which is the primary cause of tight draws in narrow ring gauge cigars.

Technical specifications

At MokaCigar

We maintain a rigorous selection of Coronas Grandes formats in our humidor. Our current inventory includes the celebrated Cohiba Siglo III and the classic Montecristo Tubos, alongside occasional vintage releases such as late 1970s Montecristo Tubos. Please review our brand pages for precise availability and current box codes.

Questions collectors ask

+ How long does a Coronas Grandes take to smoke?

+ How does it differ from a standard Corona?

+ Are Coronas Grandes prone to draw issues?