Prominentes
The Prominentes is the official Cuban factory size, or vitola de galera, for what is commonly known as the Double Corona. Measuring an imposing 194 mm (7.6 inches) with a 49 ring gauge, it is one of the largest straight-sided formats in regular production. This substantial size provides torcedores with the volume to blend multiple filler leaves, resulting in a complex smoke that develops gradually.
Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas, rolled in the Prominentes size
Dimensions and shape
A vitola de galera denotes the precise factory specifications, while the vitola de salida is the commercial name printed on the box. The Prominentes is a classic parejo shape, meaning it has a straight cylinder ending in a rounded head. Its 49 ring gauge translates to a diameter of 19.45 mm. The considerable 194 mm length ensures the smoke cools as it travels the barrel, yielding a measured and consistent draw from start to finish.
Prominentes — Common name: Double Corona — Ring gauge: 49 — Length mm: 194 — Length in: 7.6 — Shape: Parejo — Typical smoking time: 90–120 minutes
Notable Prominentes releases
Several of the most respected Habanos marques rely on the Prominentes for their flagship large cigars. The Partagás Lusitanias, in regular production since at least 1960, is perhaps the most famous, offering the robust, earthy profile the house is known for. The Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas and Punch Double Coronas, both also dating back to 1960, provide their own distinct blends in this format. The Ramón Allones Gigantes, introduced in 1978, completes the primary regular production line-up. Each delivers the distinct character of its respective house, maintaining popularity among serious smokers for decades.
Smoking characteristics and storage
Smoking a Prominentes requires a deliberate commitment of time. The length dictates a burn time of at least an hour and a half, often stretching beyond two hours for slower smokers. The blend expresses itself in distinct thirds. The initial draws are often mild, with the intensity and flavour concentration building steadily as the ash lengthens and the core warms.
Due to the volume of tobacco and the complexity of the blending required for this size, Prominentes are prime candidates for long-term storage. The large format means the tobacco is often packed densely, and resting them in a stable environment for three to five years allows the leaves to marry. Cabinets of 50 are highly sought after by collectors for this exact purpose. Always verify the English Market Selection status and check the box codes to ensure proper provenance and track the ageing process.
At MokaCigar
We source and verify a select range of Prominentes, focusing on condition and ageing potential for our clients. Our catalogue frequently includes the Partagás Lusitanias, both in recent production and occasional vintage formats such as the Lusitanias C50 1998. We also stock the Ramón Allones Gigantes when the factory releases them. Browse our current selection of these substantial formats in the shop.