I've recent come back to this line after staying away form about 4 months. I wanted to see if the 2nd & 3rd production of these still measured up to my earlier praise.
Last night I smoked a Monte Regatta April '10, probably from the 2nd batch shipped out of Havana. This cigar has the same fragrant draw they had, when tasted in February. The burn continues to be top-notch and the quieter flavors excel. This is a rare figurado that I wanted to smoke slowly, resisting the temptation to look for hidden flavors, in too deep a draw. This cigar wont deliver to an exhortation, it does need a gentle touch. But if you can tease out the quiet Monte flavors with long slow, savory draws, this is a delicious cigar.
I do like the Regatta best, but the Master has the same offerings in a flat-out fine robusto.
I hope you dont pass up on these great Habanos, just because they have an ugly 2nd anillo.
Cheers
Drew P