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Cohiba Espléndidos, rolled in the Julieta No.2 size
Julieta No.2
The Julieta No.2 is a classic Cuban vitola de galera, universally recognised by its common name, the Churchill. Measuring 178 mm (7 inches) in length with a 47 ring gauge, it is a substantial parejo that demands a significant time commitment. This format is historically significant and remains a cornerstone size for several leading Habanos marques.
The factory size versus the commercial name
A cigar's vitola de galera is the internal factory name for its exact dimensions and shape, whereas the vitola de salida is the commercial name printed on the box. In the case of the Julieta No.2, the most famous vitola de salida is the Romeo y Julieta Churchills. Other houses use different commercial names for this precise factory size, such as the Cohiba Espléndidos and the H. Upmann Sir Winston.
Specifications
Vitola de Galera — Measurement: Julieta No.2
Common Name — Measurement: Churchill
Ring Gauge — Measurement: 47
Length (mm) — Measurement: 178
Length (inches) — Measurement: 7
Shape — Measurement: Parejo
Typical Smoking Time — Measurement: 90–120 minutes
Smoking characteristics and blend expression
The generous dimensions of the Julieta No.2 allow the torcedor to incorporate a complex blend of filler leaves, providing a slow, progressive evolution of flavour. The 47 ring gauge ensures a cool, measured draw, preventing the tobacco from overheating during the extended 90 to 120-minute smoking time. This format excels in demonstrating a brand's signature profile, as the length provides ample physical space for the tobaccos to transition cleanly through distinct thirds.
Notable Habanos in the Julieta No.2 format
Several venerable cigars utilise the Julieta No.2 vitola. The Romeo y Julieta Churchills is the most historic, having cemented the format's association with the British statesman since its regular production began around 1960. The H. Upmann Sir Winston, also introduced in 1960, is celebrated for its refined, nuanced interpretation of the brand's profile. In 1989, the vitola was adopted for the Cohiba Espléndidos, introducing a richer, medium-to-full expression within the Línea Clásica range.
Comparisons with similar sizes
The Julieta No.2 sits comfortably among other prominent large formats. It is notably longer than the Hermosos No.4 (127 mm, 48 ring gauge) and the classic Robusto (124 mm, 50 ring gauge), requiring a more deliberate smoking pace. It shares a similar smoking duration with the Prominente (Double Corona, 194 mm by 49 ring gauge) but offers a slightly narrower ring gauge, which concentrates the flavour on the palate in a distinctly different manner.
Buying and ageing recommendations
When procuring cigars of this size, careful inspection of the box code and English Market Selection (EMS) stamp is paramount. The Julieta No.2 represents a significant investment in premium tobacco, and ensuring authenticity is crucial; consult our guide on spotting fake Cuban cigars for detailed verification advice. Due to the high volume of leaf required for this format, these cigars reward patience. Storing them in a well-maintained humidor for a minimum of three to five years allows the blend to integrate, while ten years of rest often results in a vastly smoothed profile.
At MokaCigar
We curate a rigorous selection of Julieta No.2 cigars for our clients. Our catalogue frequently includes regular production examples such as the Cohiba Esplendidos and H.Upmann Sir Winston, alongside well-rested stock like the Cohiba Esplendidos 2018 and 2019, and the H. Upmann Sir Winston 2001 and 2003. We also source exceptional limited releases, notably the Cohiba Esplendidos Gran Reserva Cosecha 2017, the H. Upmann Sir Winston Gran Reserva 2017, and the distinguished Cohiba Esplendidos Hunters & Frankau House Reserve 2001/2021. For current availability across all these lines, please explore our curated brand pages.