Sobresalientes
The Sobresalientes is a substantial Cuban cigar format, commonly known as the Robusto Extra. It is a straight-sided parejo measuring 153 mm (6 inches) in length with a commanding 53 ring gauge. While the vitola de galera refers to this exact factory specification, the vitola de salida is the commercial name under which individual brands market the cigar.
Montecristo Maltés, rolled in the Sobresalientes size
A contemporary format
The 53 ring gauge offers the torcedor a broad canvas to blend complex, multi-leaf fillers. This generous width ensures a cool draw and produces a dense, voluminous smoke from start to finish. Typical smoking time for a Sobresalientes is between 75 and 90 minutes, allowing the blend sufficient length to develop clearly defined thirds.
This vitola was selected for the Montecristo Línea 1935 Maltés, introduced in 2017 as a regular production line. In 2024, Quai d'Orsay adopted the format for the Especial d'Orsay. More recently, Romeo y Julieta utilised the size for their 2025 release, the Amantes.
Context among standard sizes
The Sobresalientes is noticeably larger than a standard Robusto (50 x 124 mm), delivering an extended progression of flavours and a cooler operating temperature near the head. It is slightly shorter but thicker than a standard Double Robusto or a Churchill, occupying a specific position for smokers who prefer a heavy ring gauge with a manageable length.
Buying and ageing notes
Large formats with densely packed filler leaves require ample time to integrate. Collectors should verify the box code to ascertain the packing date, as a Sobresalientes generally benefits from a minimum of three to five years of rest. When acquiring these boxes, the presence of English Market Selection (EMS) verification remains an indicator of correct handling and careful transit from Havana.
Specifications
Vitola de Galera — Detail: Sobresalientes
Common Name — Detail: Robusto Extra
Ring Gauge — Detail: 53
Length (mm) — Detail: 153 mm
Length (in) — Detail: 6 inches
Shape — Detail: Parejo
Typical Smoking Time — Detail: 75–90 minutes
At MokaCigar
At MokaCigar, we stock the Sobresalientes format subject to Havana's delivery schedules and our own strict EMS quality controls. Our Montecristo inventory regularly features the Montecristo LINEA 1935 Maltes. For those seeking recent releases, we also list the Romeo y Julieta Amantes 150 Anniversary Festival Gift Box 3 Cigars and the Romeo y Julieta Amantes 150 Anniversary Gift Box 5 Cigars within our Romeo y Julieta selection. We inspect every box for condition, and our clients can reference our guide on how to spot fake Cuban cigars for further assurance.