Laguito No.2
The Laguito No.2 is a classic Cuban factory format, commonly known in the cigar trade as a Panetela. Measuring 152 mm (6 inches) with a slender 38 ring gauge, it is an elegant, straight-sided *parejo*. This format delivers a concentrated expression of the blender's craft, focusing the palate on the wrapper leaf and a tightly proportioned selection of filler tobaccos.
Cohiba Coronas Especiales, rolled in the Laguito No.2 size
Vitola de galera versus vitola de salida
In Cuban cigar manufacturing, it is essential to distinguish between the factory name and the commercial name. The vitola de galera refers to the factory specification that dictates the exact physical dimensions and shape of the cigar. Conversely, the vitola de salida is the commercial name printed on the box. The Laguito No.2 is the factory specification, while the most famous commercial examples rolled to these dimensions are the Cohiba Coronas Especiales and the Montecristo Especiales No.2.
How does the Laguito No.2 smoke?
With its narrow 38 ring gauge, the Laguito No.2 requires a slow, deliberate smoking pace to prevent the cherry from overheating and compromising the flavour. A typical smoking time is 45 to 60 minutes. The slender format means the wrapper leaf contributes significantly to the overall taste, often resulting in a more intense and direct delivery of the blend's core characteristics compared to thicker sizes. A well-constructed example offers a firm but manageable draw, providing dense, aromatic smoke.
Which houses use the Laguito No.2?
The format was initially created at the El Laguito factory in Havana, the home of Cohiba. Today, it remains an exclusive vitola reserved for two regular production cigars. The Cohiba Coronas Especiales, introduced in 1967, is perhaps the most celebrated expression, known for its refined and complex profile. It was joined in 1969 by the Montecristo Especiales No.2, which presents the characteristic earth and spice of the brand in this highly focused format.
Comparing the Laguito family
The Laguito No.2 sits neatly between its two sibling formats. The Laguito No.1 shares the 38 ring gauge but is considerably longer at 192 mm (7½ inches). Conversely, the Laguito No.3 is significantly shorter. The No.2 therefore acts as the medium option for smokers who appreciate the Panetela shape but prefer an hour-long smoke rather than the extended commitment of the longer format.
Buying and ageing notes
When acquiring a box of Laguito No.2 cigars, it is prudent to inspect the cigar box code to verify the factory and production date. Because slender cigars can occasionally suffer from tight draws, buying from an English Market Selection (EMS) specialist ensures the boxes have been thoroughly quality checked before they reach your humidor. These cigars respond exceptionally well to long-term ageing. Storing them in a stable environment for five to ten years allows the concentrated tobaccos to marry smoothly. Collectors should also review our guide on how to spot fake Cuban cigars when purchasing sought-after Cohiba releases.
Specifications
Vitola de Galera — Detail: Laguito No.2
Common Name — Detail: Panetela
Ring Gauge — Detail: 38
Length (mm) — Detail: 152 mm
Length (inches) — Detail: 6 inches
Shape — Detail: Parejo
Typical Smoking Time — Detail: 45–60 minutes
At MokaCigar
Our humidor occasionally holds exceptional examples of the Laguito No.2 format. We regularly verify and list the Cohiba Coronas Especiales, including sought-after aged stock such as the 2015 and 2016 releases. Due to the limited production of these slender vitolas, availability can fluctuate throughout the year. Browse our Cohiba selection to view current stock and add these classic Panetelas to your collection.