CIGARS for the Ages
By Debbie Stone Photos Linda Carfagno
Cigar and tobacco enthusiasts in-the-know head to Monte’s when they’re looking for a wide selection of premium products. The third generation family-operated business has been a fixture in Albuquerque for the past 40 years. It has served the Southwest with the finest cigars, pipes and tobacco, offering a variety of brands and trademarks, many of which are exclusively marketed for customers in New Mexico.
One of the shop’s best sellers is the Padron, which goes from $10 to $35 depending on the blend. Monte’s also has the largest pipe shop and best brand selection in the Southwest. And its private cigar lounge is the only one of its kind in the country, where members are welcome to kick back and enjoy a fine cigar or pipe, along with some good conversation.
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shop’s business consists of repeat customers. Then there are new buyers who make their way to the store based on word-of-mouth or social media reviews. “We also get tourists in here,” comments Monte. “New Mexico has a great tourist industry, which drives our business, especially during special events like Balloon Fiesta.”
Monte also cites honesty, integrity and fair pricing as being responsible for the success of the business. “The bottom line is that we have the best customers around,” he adds. “They’re very loyal, and it’s a pleasure working with them.” More than half of the
It might be surprising to learn that Monte’s customers defy stereotypes when it comes to gender, demographic, ethnicity and age. “We see all kinds of folks,” says Monte. “Some may come in for one cigar or a bundle. They might be looking for a premium, top-of-the-line blend like a Davidoff Anniversary #1, which costs about $40 for a single cigar, or something more reasonable like our Monte’s Dominican, which starts at $2.25 a single. Because our selection is so good, we can always satisfy their needs.”
he store boasts a 1,200 sq. ft. cigar climate-controlled humidor, a spacious selling floor stocked with elegant pipes and tobacco, and a private-membership Gurkha Cigar Lounge. Over the years, the Monte family has established relationships with the top tobacconists and cigar masters in the world. “We have manufacturers, blends and price ranges to please any level of cigar aficionado or pipe smoker, from the beginner to the most experienced,” says owner Matthew Monte. “And our staff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Customer service is at the heart of what we do.”
In addition, there are special events and incentive programs offered monthly. “We often have deals going on where our customers can purchase five cigars for the price of four, for example,” explains Monte. “Then we’ll have events where we’ll focus on a particular brand of pipe or cigar and a representative from that company will come in and introduce our customers to the product. The reps are really knowledgeable so it’s a good opportunity for our customers to learn more about different brands.” He adds, “Educating our customers is very important to us.” Monte’s Cigars, Tobacco and Gifts 3636 San Mateo Blvd. NE Albuquerque 505.881.7999 MontesCigarShop.com