Launched in 1935 by the H. Upmann factory, the given name was a tribute to famed 'Count of Montecristo', the cigar smoking hero of Alexandre Dumas's novel. Today, Montecristo is the most sought after cigar in the world, currently accounting for almost 50 % of Cuba's annual cigar exports. Known by cigar lovers as "Monties", these cigars first appeared in 5 sizes: No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. The sizes "A" and Especiales were added in the early 70s. Delicious, full-flavored and highly recognizable to the palate due to their unique tobacco blend and distinctive flavor. The Montecristo brand is also highly popular as the result of it's exceptionally consistent quality.