AshMap
Overview
The H. Upmann Magnum 46 represents a quietly profound chapter in the storied Cuban portfolio—a cigar that, since its introduction in 2004, has been overshadowed by the more commercially prominent No. 2 and Magnum 54, yet possesses a character of such refined elegance that it commands the attention of the discerning smoker. Crafted at Havana’s La Corona factory, with occasional runs attributed to El Laguito, the Magnum 46 is built entirely from Vuelta Abajo leaf: a Habano Rosado wrapper in a warm Colorado shade, exhibiting a silky, tawny-brown complexion with fine veining; a matching binder; and a filler blend drawing primarily from the Partido and Remedios regions, aged a minimum of two years before rolling. This deliberate aging lends the cigar a creaminess and floral composure that is rarely found in milder Cuban smokes, positioning it firmly within the Prestige tier of the H. Upmann family.
The Magnum 46’s vitola—a 5.7 x 46 Gordo/Toro—was chosen to honor H. Upmann’s classic proportions while offering a slightly more generous smoking duration than traditional corona sizes. The construction is exemplary of La Corona’s quality control: the draw is effortlessly open yet resistant enough to produce dense, cool clouds of smoke, and the burn line remains even and self-correcting, depositing a firm grey-white ash that holds 1.5 to 2 inches. In the first third, the smoker is greeted with gentle creaminess layered over white cedar and toasted almonds, accented by refined floral notes of jasmine or light rose—hallmarks of well-matured Vuelta Abajo leaf—alongside mild fresh hay and a subtle citrus zest on the retrohale. As the second third unfolds, the profile deepens into a smooth interplay of roasted cashews, sweet cream, and mild espresso, with light leather emerging mid-way to add structure without aggression, while a honeyed sweetness weaves through each draw.
The final third transitions to warm toasted oak and white pepper on the retrohale, the cream note persisting admirably. A gentle earthiness—the unmistakable imprint of Cuban terroir—appears without overpowering, leaving a clean, balanced finish of medium length. This is a cigar that rewards patience: while already approachable upon release, it benefits significantly from two to five years of post-box aging, during which the creaminess deepens and the floral nuances truly open. The aficionado note is clear: the Magnum 46 is one of the most underappreciated cigars in the H. Upmann portfolio, offering a textural elegance and floral complexity that is almost uniquely its own. It is the cigar for the experienced smoker who has grown tired of power and seeks refinement—a quiet companion for a 60–75 minute afternoon or early evening respite, best enjoyed with focused attention rather amid conversation. In an era where boldness often commands the spotlight, the Magnum 46 stands as a testament to the enduring allure of subtlety and balance.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Cuban Vuelta Abajo — Habano Rosado — Colorado |
|---|---|
| Binder | Cuban Vuelta Abajo |
| Filler | Cuban Vuelta Abajo — primarily Partido and Remedios leaves, aged minimum two years at La Corona factory |
| Country of Origin | Havana, Cuba — La Corona factory (Fábrica El Laguito occasionally attributed in some runs) |
| Vitola / Shape | Gordo / Toro |
| Size | 5.7 x 46 |
| Strength | Mild-Medium |
| Price | $25–$35 per cigar (LCDH and authorized retailers) |
| Tier | Prestige |
| Aging | Minimum two years leaf aging before rolling; benefits significantly from 2–5 years of post-box aging to open up creamine |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
Opens with a gentle creaminess layered over white cedar and toasted almonds. There is a refined floral note — jasmine or light rose — characteristic of well-aged Vuelta Abajo leaf, supported by mild fresh hay and a subtle citrus zest on the retrohale.
Second Third
The profile deepens into a smooth interplay of roasted cashews, sweet cream, and mild espresso. Light leather emerges mid-way through, adding structure without aggression, while a honeyed sweetness threads through the smoke with each draw.
Final Third
The finish transitions to warm toasted oak and white pepper on the retrohale, with the cream note persisting admirably. A gentle earthiness — characteristic Cuban terroir — emerges without overpowering, leaving a clean, balanced finish with medium length.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is exemplary of La Corona's quality control — the draw is effortlessly open yet resistant enough for dense, cool smoke. The burn line is even and self-correcting, producing a firm grey-white ash that holds 1.5 to 2 inches comfortably.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Aged Cognac (Rémy Martin XO or Hennessy Paradis) or a lightly peated Scotch (Glenmorangie 18 or Dalmore 15) — the cigar's creaminess integrates beautifully with spirits that carry dried fruit and vanilla
Wine
White Burgundy (Meursault Premier Cru) or a restrained Rioja Reserva — avoid tannic reds that overwhelm the subtle floral register
Non-Alcoholic
A single-origin Colombian filter coffee (medium roast, washed process) or a high-grade Darjeeling first flush — both mirror the cigar's delicate floral and nutty notes
Who Should Smoke This?
The H. Upmann Magnum 46 is crafted for the seasoned aficionado who has moved beyond the pursuit of strength and now seeks nuance, balance, and elegance in every draw. This cigar rewards patience and attentiveness; it is not a casual smoke to be rushed but a deliberate 60-to-75-minute meditation, best reserved for quiet afternoons or early evenings when the smoker can give full focus to its floral, creamy, and nutty complexities. It will appeal especially to those who appreciate the subtle artistry of well-aged Cuban tobacco—smokers who find joy in the interplay of jasmine and toasted almond, or the gentle transition from sweet cream to roasted oak. Beginners may find it charming, but its true depth reveals itself to the experienced palate. If you are a collector or devotee of the H. Upmann lineage, this vitola belongs in your humidor as a benchmark for refined, mild-medium smoking.
Bottom Line
The H. Upmann Magnum 46 is a quiet masterpiece of Cuban cigar-making—a mild-medium smoke of extraordinary floral and creamy complexity that stands apart in the H. Upmann portfolio. It rewards the patient smoker with elegance over power, and with proper aging, it becomes nothing short of transcendent. For those seeking refinement over brute force, this is an indispensable addition to any serious humidor.
Similar Cigars
Explore all H. Upmann (Cuban) cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the H. Upmann Magnum 46 a strong cigar?
No. The H. Upmann Magnum 46 is classified as Mild-Medium on the strength scale, rating a 2 out of 5. It prioritizes creamy texture, floral notes, and balanced complexity over nicotine intensity, making it an excellent choice for those who seek refinement rather than power.
What does the H. Upmann Magnum 46 taste like?
The profile opens with gentle creaminess, white cedar, toasted almonds, jasmine, and subtle citrus zest on the retrohale. The second third introduces roasted cashews, sweet cream, mild espresso, light leather, and honeyed sweetness. The final third features warm toasted oak, white pepper, and a clean, faint earthiness, with cream persisting throughout.
How long does the H. Upmann Magnum 46 take to smoke?
This cigar offers a leisurely smoking experience of approximately 60 to 75 minutes, depending on your pace. It is best reserved for focused enjoyment during an afternoon or early evening session, as its nuanced character rewards unhurried attention.
What is the best pairing for the H. Upmann Magnum 46?
An aged Cognac such as Rémy Martin XO or Hennessy Paradis, or a lightly peated Scotch like Glenmorangie 18 or Dalmore 15, pairs beautifully, as the cigar's creaminess integrates with dried fruit and vanilla. For wine, a White Burgundy (Meursault Premier Cru) or a restrained Rioja Reserva complements the floral register. Non-alcoholic options include a single-origin Colombian filter coffee or a high-grade Darjeeling first flush.
Is the H. Upmann Magnum 46 good for beginners?
While the mild-medium strength makes it physically accessible, the Magnum 46’s subtlety—its delicate floral notes, gentle creaminess, and refined transitions—is best appreciated by experienced smokers. Beginners may enjoy its smoothness, but the cigar’s true complexity and reward for patience are better suited to those with a developed palate.
Where can I buy the H. Upmann Magnum 46?
The H. Upmann Magnum 46 is available at La Casa del Habano (LCDH) locations worldwide, authorized Habanos specialists, and reputable online retailers that ship Cuban cigars. Due to its Prestige tier status and limited production, availability may vary; always purchase from certified sources to ensure authenticity.
What is the price of the H. Upmann Magnum 46?
Expect to pay between $25 and $35 per cigar at LCDH and authorized retailers. Prices may fluctuate based on market conditions, region, and availability. Given its position as a Prestige-tier Cuban cigar, this pricing reflects the quality of aged Vuelta Abajo leaf and meticulous construction at La Corona factory.
Is the H. Upmann Magnum 46 worth aging?
Absolutely. While enjoyable upon release, the Magnum 46 benefits significantly from 2 to 5 years of post-box aging. This period allows the creaminess to deepen and the floral and nutty nuances to fully open, transforming an already refined cigar into one of exceptional elegance and complexity.
What wrapper does the H. Upmann Magnum 46 use?
The cigar features a Cuban Vuelta Abajo Habano Rosado wrapper in a Colorado shade. This wrapper presents a warm golden-tawny brown color, a silky texture, and subtle veining—characteristics that contribute to its refined appearance and mild-medium flavor profile.
Where is the H. Upmann Magnum 46 made?
The H. Upmann Magnum 46 is hand-rolled (totalmente a mano) in Havana, Cuba, primarily at the La Corona factory. Some production runs have been attributed to the Fábrica El Laguito. All tobacco used is grown in the Vuelta Abajo region and aged a minimum of two years before rolling.