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Freud Cigar Co. is a luxury cigar brand that crafts its blends from the finest aged tobaccos, drawing inspiration from the legacy of one of history’s most renowned cigar smokers, Dr. Sigmund Freud.
The now-established Freud Cigar Company introduced this cigar as their first release, the Freud Superego Toro. Inspired by Dr. Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, which divides the psyche into the Id, Ego, and Superego, this cigar takes its name from the Superego, the moral conscience that balances the other two elements as a tribute to that concept.
Read our review below of the Freud Cigar Co. SuperEgo Toro Cigar and shop now to try this fantastic smoke for yourself.
Blender: Eladio Diaz
Factory: Tabacalera William Ventura
Origin: Dominican
Wrapper: Ecuador
Filler: Dominican, Indonesian
Strength: Medium
Size: Toro (6″ x 52)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The cigar opens with notes of toasted cedar, earth, and mild black pepper. The retrohale carries toasted cedar with a touch of light earth. At around an inch and a quarter, the earth becomes more pronounced, and by an inch and three-quarters a gentle creaminess enters the profile. As the first third concludes, toasted cedar leads, followed by dry earth, with subtle black pepper and cream in the background. Strength sits just below medium.
At the start of the second third, toasted cedar and dry earth sit evenly at the forefront. The retrohale mirrors this balance, combining both notes with a touch of mild black pepper. About an inch in, the black pepper becomes more pronounced. By the end of this section, toasted cedar and dry earth remain evenly matched, supported by black pepper through the middle and a light creaminess in the background. Strength rises to a solid medium.
In the final third, the black pepper softens while the creaminess fades away. By the half-inch mark, a touch of wood bitterness emerges, which develops into a more pronounced vegetal bitterness by an inch in. The retrohale shifts to a mix of toasted cedar and dry earth. Towards the close, the profile settles with toasted cedar and dry earth at the forefront, vegetal bitterness through the middle, and black pepper lingering in the background. Strength holds steady at medium.
The burn performed flawlessly, straight and even, producing plenty of smoke, maintaining a cool temperature, and holding firm ashes. The draw was equally excellent, offering just the right balance of airflow and resistance.
The Freud SuperEgo Toro delivered an elegant and nuanced flavour profile throughout, with consistently balanced and lighter flavour combinations. The burn was flawless, while the draw leaned slightly towards the resistant side. This is a cigar that requires attention, at times asking you to seek out its subtler notes.
Ross Rating: 9/10
Brugal 1888 Dominican rum would make an excellent pairing with the Freud SuperEgo Toro. Its rich layers of toffee, dried fruit, and gentle spice would complement the cigar’s nuanced flavour profile, while the rum’s smooth sweetness would balance the cedar, earth, and pepper notes. Together, they create a refined and harmonious experience.
It would pair excellently with Fanta Lemon.
I was impressed and would gladly smoke another when the opportunity arises.
Cigars with pigtail caps stand out for both their elegance and craftsmanship. That little twist of tobacco at the head isn’t just decorative, it’s a mark of artisanal rolling and a practical feature, as it can often be twisted off cleanly without a cutter. Whether you admire the visual detail or enjoy the tradition behind it, pigtail caps elevate the smoking ritual.
Here’s a handpicked list of some of the finest cigars that proudly wear a pigtail cap.
The Foundation Aksum Claro Robusto combines refined blending with a signature pigtail cap that adds to its artisanal appeal. This 5″ x 50 robusto pairs an Ecuadorian Sumatra-seed wrapper with a Connecticut Broadleaf binder and Nicaraguan fillers from Estelí and Jalapa.
Rated 93 points and ranked #12 in Cigar Aficionado’s Top 25 of 2024, it delivers a medium-bodied profile brimming with coffee, cedar, and cinnamon, all rounded by a creamy finish. The coiled pigtail completes its sophisticated presentation.
Size: Robusto
Length and Ring Gauge: 5″ x 50
Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra-Seed
The Plasencia Reserva Original Perfectico highlights the Plasencia family’s heritage, and its pigtail cap complements the unique perfecto shape. This compact 3 7/8″ x 52 cigar uses an all-Nicaraguan blend, wrapped in a smooth Habano leaf.
Its pigtail gives the cigar a traditional finishing touch, nodding to old-world craftsmanship. Once lit, you’ll enjoy balanced notes of earth, wood, spice, cocoa, and coffee, with flavours that evolve as the burn progresses thanks to its figurado format.
Size: Figurado (3 7/8″ x 52)
Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Light to Medium
Wrapper: Nicaragua
The Gurkha Cellar Reserve 18 Year Old Solara pairs luxury tobaccos with an elegant pigtail cap. This double robusto (5″ x 58) is topped with a neatly twisted head that underscores its artisanal build.
Wrapped in rare 18-year-aged Corojo leaf with Dominican binder and filler, it’s medium-bodied yet full-flavoured. Expect layered notes of wood, spice, and earth, with a complexity enhanced by its well-aged tobaccos. The pigtail finish makes this already rare cigar feel even more exclusive.
Size: Solara (5″ x 58)
Wrapper: Corojo
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican
Country Of Origin: Dominican Republic
The Davidoff Dominicana Short Robusto is a compact smoke with a bold profile, and its pigtail cap is a subtle but stylish touch that reflects Davidoff’s meticulous rolling standards.
This 4″ x 50 cigar is wrapped in an Ecuadorian leaf over Dominican tobaccos, delivering full-bodied complexity in a short format. It begins creamy and nutty with caramel and dried fruit, before deepening into coffee, oak, pepper, and finally leather and chocolate. The pigtail makes it visually distinct and contributes to its easy-cut design.
Size: Short Robusto (4″ x 50)
Origin: Dominican Republic
Strength: Full
Wrapper: Dominican Republic – Hybrid 257
The Cohiba Coronas Especiales is instantly recognisable by its slim profile and pigtail cap, a classic feature across Cohiba’s Linea Clasica. Measuring 6″ x 38, this elegant vitola was once reserved for Cuban diplomats.
The pigtail accentuates its refined look and ties into its diplomatic heritage. Flavour-wise, it offers cedar, cocoa, roasted nuts, and spice, with floral undertones and natural sweetness. Perfectly rolled, it smokes as beautifully as it looks.
Size: Palma (6″ x 38)
Origin: Cuba
Strength: Medium
Wrapper: Corojo
The Montecristo Especial No. 2 showcases a traditional Cuban pigtail cap, a hallmark of fine construction. At 6 1/8″ x 52, this cigar offers a slow, evolving smoke that matches its elegant appearance.
The twisted cap is both decorative and functional, adding charm before revealing rich flavours of cedar, coffee, chocolate, and earth as you smoke. The gradual burn allows you to savour the balanced transition of flavours, all while appreciating its artisanal finishing detail.
Size: Corona (6 ⅛” x 52)
Origin: Cuba
Strength: Medium-Full
Wrapper: Colorado
The Trinidad Vigia is known not only for its stout, modern format (4 3/8″ x 54) but also for its distinctive pigtail cap, which has become a defining mark of the Trinidad brand.
This medium–full-bodied Cuban opens with earthy spice before evolving into leather, roasted coffee, and dark chocolate. Creamy undertones balance the strength, while the iconic pigtail reminds smokers of its traditional roots.
Size: Vigia (4 3/8″ x 54)
Origin: Cuba
Strength: Full
Wrapper: Corojo
The Cavalier White Series Tempura Short Perfecto shows off its compact size and elegant pigtail head. At 4″ x 60, this cigar blends a Connecticut Shade wrapper with Nicaraguan fillers to create a smooth, medium-bodied experience.
The pigtail cap enhances its presentation, adding artisanal flair to a cigar that already stands out for its shape. Expect creamy almond, hay, citrus, and earthy undertones, perfect for when you want sophistication in a shorter smoke.
Size: Short Perfecto (4″ x 60)
Strength: Medium
Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Habano
The Trinidad Media Luna is another example of the brand’s iconic use of pigtail caps, here paired with a short robusto format (4 ½″ x 50).
Its twisted finish is instantly recognisable and reinforces the traditional rolling heritage behind the cigar. Medium–full in strength, the Media Luna offers earthy, woody, and spicy flavours, joined by cedar, roasted coffee, and chocolate. Vanilla and cream smooth out the profile before a peppery, sweet finish.
Size: Media Luna (4 1/2″ x 50)
Origin: Cuba
Strength: Medium to Full
Wrapper: Corojo
Pigtail caps are more than a flourish; they’re a signal of craftsmanship and a connection to cigar-rolling traditions. Whether it’s the diplomatic elegance of the Cohiba Coronas Especiales, the bold presence of the Trinidad Vigia, or the award-winning Foundation Aksum Claro Robusto, these cigars offer both aesthetic charm and remarkable smoking experiences.
If you want to enjoy cigars in the UK that look as good as they taste, this lineup of pigtail-capped masterpieces deserves a place in your humidor.
For cigar smokers, presentation and craftsmanship are part of the experience. While most cigars are finished with a standard rounded cap, some feature a distinctive little twist of tobacco at the head. Known as a pigtail cigar, this detail isn’t just decorative; it also offers smokers a unique way to prepare their cigar. But what exactly are pigtail cigars, and how do you cut (or even not cut) them?
A pigtail cigar is a handmade cigar finished with a small knot, swirl, or tightly twisted piece of tobacco leaf at the cap. This pigtail is formed by the torcedor (roller) during the final stage of rolling. Instead of being trimmed flat or rounded like a standard cigar cap, the tobacco is twisted and secured, leaving a characteristic little tail.
The tradition of finishing cigars with a pigtail dates back to classic Cuban craftsmanship. Master rollers would often leave a flourish at the cap, showcasing their skill and giving the cigar a distinctive look.
Many Cuban brands, such as Cohiba, Bolívar, and Trinidad Cigars, have historically released vitolas (sizes/shapes) with pigtail finishes. In the past, when cigar cutters were less common, the twisted pigtail offered smokers a way to open the cigar without a tool. A quick twist or snap could expose the filler for smoking.
Today, pigtails are found not just on Cuban cigars but also in New World brands from Nicaragua, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic. They’re often used on limited editions or artisanal releases to highlight craftsmanship.
You’ll often see pigtails on premium handmade cigars, especially limited editions or traditional Cuban styles, though many New World brands also use them.
Not always – that’s one of the advantages of the design. A pigtail cigar can be enjoyed in a couple of different ways:
Best for smokers who want to avoid carrying a cutter.
Preferred by those who like precision or want to avoid a too-small opening. Use a guillotine, punch, or V-cutter, just as you would with a normal cigar. Cutting ensures a neat, consistent draw.
While both methods work, most aficionados recommend using a cutter for the cleanest experience. Here are some considerations:
If you want to keep the smoking experience as the roller intended, simply twisting the pigtail off by hand is the most traditional method.
Pigtail cigars are a small but meaningful detail in the cigar world, a nod to tradition, artistry, and practicality. Whether you prefer the old-school twist-off method or the precision of a clean cut, smoking a pigtail cigar lets you enjoy both the heritage and the craftsmanship that go into fine hand-rolled cigars.
Next time you spot that little swirl of tobacco at the head of a cigar, you’ll know you’re holding more than just a smoke, you’re holding a piece of cigar-making history.
Want to try out a pigtail cigar for yourself? Check out our recommended pigtail cigars here!
The Charter Oak Original is the latest addition to the Charter Oak range, bridging the gap between the mellow Connecticut Shade and the bold Connecticut Broadleaf. Wrapped in a rich Ecuador leaf and filled with Nicaraguan binder and filler, it offers a medium-bodied profile that stays true to Charter Oak’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship.
Expect a well-balanced smoke with notes of spice, hot chocolate, and wood, rounded off by a deep, satisfying finish. Offering exceptional value, it was named Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Best Value Cigar.
This month, the Foundation Charter Oak Original Rothschild Cigar is our cigar of the month for August. Read our review below and be sure to order it this month to enjoy the cigar at our discounted price!
Owner: Nicholas Melillo
Factory: Tabacalera Fernandez
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Ecuador
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Medium
Size: Rothschild (4 1/2″ x 50)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The cigar opens with an unexpected dose of black pepper, layered over woodiness and distinct notes of peanut and peanut butter. Despite its lighter body, the flavours are punchy and well-defined. Pepper is more vivid on the retrohale, yet clean and balanced. As the first third progresses, the smoke gains body while maintaining a smooth, measured delivery. Flavour and body rest at a medium to medium-plus, with strength just below medium. Construction is excellent.
A touch of milky creaminess emerges, subtle and not overly sweet, blending seamlessly with returning peanut butter notes. Retrohales brighten with crisp white pepper, contrasting nicely against the richer core. As this section unfolds, peanut butter fades into dry peanuts and light, dry wood, with hints of white pepper and a floral sweetness on the aroma near the end. This becomes a standout feature, adding complexity and elegance. Flavour and body remain in the medium range, with strength catching up. Construction continues to be flawless.
Flavour shifts in the final third vary slightly between samples. The floral note softens, making way for drier wood and pepper, focused on the front of the tongue. Creaminess reappears, aiding overall balance. Some occasional chalkiness and mild earth emerge, slightly disrupting harmony but never overwhelming. Flavour ends at medium-plus with natural variance, body stays medium to medium-plus, and strength remains a steady medium. Construction is exceptional throughout, with no issues.
Excellent construction throughout. It burns evenly with firm ash and a consistent pace. The draw has ideal resistance, enhancing smooth flavour delivery.
The Charter Oak Original offers an engaging and evolving smoke, marked by clean pepper, creamy peanut butter, dry wood, and floral nuance. While some transitions bring minor imbalance, the overall experience is smooth, flavourful, and well-crafted. A fine choice for those seeking medium-bodied complexity with top-tier construction.
Ross Rating: 8/10
The Foundation Charter Oak Original Rothschild cigar pairs very well with Compass Box The Story of the Spaniard Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Compass Box (70cl / 43%). A 2018 addition to the Compass Box core range, this is a blend of Highland and Speyside whiskies, significant portions of which have been aged in sherry casks and – most notably – Spanish red wine casks. Predictably, this is a delectable dram full of dark fruit and berry flavours with a heavy dose of rich, woody spice.
It would pair excellently with Dr Pepper.
Yes, I would smoke the Charter Oak Original again. Its evolving flavour profile, especially the unique peanut butter notes, creamy texture, and balanced pepper, makes for an engaging and enjoyable experience. While there were minor inconsistencies in the final third, the overall construction, smooth transitions, and medium strength make it a solid repeat choice, especially for those who enjoy a nuanced Habano blend with great value.
Figurado cigars are a world away from the standard parejo (straight-sided) smokes. With their elegant curves, tapered ends, and often unconventional shapes, figurados are prized for their craftsmanship and complexity. But what exactly is a figurado, and why should you consider lighting one up?
Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious beginner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
A figurado is any cigar that doesn’t follow the traditional straight-sided, cylindrical shape (known as a parejo). Instead, figurados feature irregular forms; tapered, bulged, or even twisted, requiring more skill and time to roll.
This category includes shapes like:
Figurados offer more than just visual flair; they create a distinctive smoking experience. There are many reasons why cigar lovers reach for them:
The changing ring gauge throughout a Figurado cigar means the flavour profile evolves throughout the smoke. A wider middle section or a tapered head affects how the tobacco burns. This can result in a noticeable shift in flavours as you smoke.
The narrowing of the head in some Figurado shapes can concentrate the smoke, creating a more intense and flavorful draw.
Because of their intricate shapes, figurados require more expertise and time to roll. Smoking one is a nod to traditional cigar artistry.
Tapered shapes often concentrate the smoke more directly on the palate, offering a richer, more focused flavour.
Try them if you:
Avoid them if you:
Here are some exceptional figurados that highlight the category’s appeal.
Foundation Knight Commander is a limited edition addition to the Tabernacle range, available only in the 6 3/4”x52 Figurado format. The Knight Commander undergoes an extra 15 months of ageing in cedar prior to release, helping to create a complex, rich and full-bodied smoke.
Featuring a dark, oily Broadleaf wrapper from the Connecticut River Valley and a blend of the finest Nicaraguan tobaccos, the Knight Commander presents an intense blend of flavours, from bold espresso and dark chocolate to wood, leather and spice.
The size format allows for a satisfying draw and a long, leisurely smoke. This limited-edition cigar is designed for those who appreciate a full-bodied, complex profile with an array of intricate flavours that evolve throughout the smoke.
The Gurkha Cellar Reserve 18 Year Old Solara features a Corojo wrapper and 18-year-aged tobacco, providing a medium-body, full-flavour cigar. It offers a nuanced and sophisticated flavour profile, with notes of white pepper and earthiness, for a rich yet grounded smoking experience.
You can read our full review of the Gurkha Cellar Reserve 18 Year Old Solara for more tasting notes and pairing tips.
The Partagás Presidente is a double figurado, known as the ‘taco’ vitola, and presents a unique silhouette, measuring 7 x 47. The Presidente features a dark, oily wrapper and offers a medium to full-bodied experience. There are deep earthy flavours, with hints of wood, nuts, spice and leather.
It is complex, but well-balanced, with an excellent burn and smooth draw. It offers a robust yet refined smoking experience.
The Plasencia Reserva Original comes in a Perfecto shape, but only measures 3 7/8 x 52, making it a great choice if you’d like to sample a figurado cigar without committing to hours of smoking time!
Expertly handcrafted in Nicaragua, the cigar is wrapped in a Nicaraguan Habano leaf and filled with quality Nicaraguan tobacco. It offers a balanced and smooth profile with rich flavours of earth, wood and spice, with developing hints of cocoa and coffee. The Perfecto shape ensures that the flavour gradually evolves as it burns, providing a dynamic smoking experience.
The Plasencia Reserva Original Perfectico is medium-bodied, well-balanced and rich in flavour, making it ideal for both seasoned smokers and newbies alike.
You can read our full review of the Plasencia Reserva Original Perfectico for more tasting notes and pairing tips.
The Chateau Diadem Conviction Petit Belicoso is another smaller-format figurado cigar, offering a luxurious smoking experience at a compact size. The Petit Belicoso measures 4 x 55 and delivers a concentrated and flavourful smoke.
It features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with premium Nicaraguan filler tobacco, which together provides a full-bodied smoke with a complex flavour profile. Expect bold flavours of earth, wood and spice, developing into notes of dark chocolate, leather and coffee.
Ideal for cigar enthusiasts who appreciate bold, complex flavours in a shorter format, the Chateau Diadem Conviction Petit Belicoso offers an exceptional and refined smoking experience that can be enjoyed anytime.
You can read our full review of the Chateau Diadem Conviction Petit Belicoso for more tasting notes and pairing tips.
The Cohiba Pirámides Extra Cigar is part of the prestigious Línea Clasica collection and is the epitome of Cuban craftsmanship. It is a rare cigar, released in limited quantities each year.
The cigar is medium-full bodied, offering strong notes of smoked wood, vanilla and leather. These complex flavour notes are down to the four types of tobacco leaves used, in addition to the third fermentation process used in the creation of Cohiba cigars.
The distinct pirámides vitola measures 6 1/8″ x 52, with a tapered cap. It is perfectly balanced to provide a full-flavoured yet smooth smoking experience. It is an excellent choice for both seasoned connoisseurs and those starting their exploration into premium Cuban cigars.
Figurado cigars are for those who appreciate the artistry behind a fine smoke. They don’t just look good, they smoke differently. With evolving flavours, enhanced craftsmanship, and a unique draw, figurados offer a deeper level of engagement and enjoyment.
This summer marked a truly historic moment for the UK cigar scene: the very first cigar festival of its kind, The Summertime Smoke. Co-hosted by Bright Leaf Distribution and Havana House, the event took place at the prestigious E.J. Churchill Shooting Ground in Buckinghamshire, offering a full day of premium cigars, masterclasses, food, drink, and community.
Unlike a regular cigar sampling event, The Summertime Smoke was a full-scale outdoor festival, inspired by major international gatherings such as The Big Smoke in the US.
“Summertime Smoke was designed to elevate the UK cigar experience — to connect people not just with the cigars, but with the stories and craftsmanship behind them,” said Paresh Patel, festival organiser. “Our teams’ dedication made that vision a reality.”
Nestled in the Chiltern Hills, E.J. Churchill Shooting Ground provided the perfect backdrop. While shooting took place elsewhere on the estate, the festival was centred around The Pavilion and The Sharpshooters Shed; relaxed, stylish spaces ideal for the UK’s first cigar festival of this size.
The grounds, which date back to 1891, offered a welcoming mix of tradition and open space, with outdoor seating, shaded marquees, and a buzzing festival atmosphere.
Cigar Exhibitors & Guests
We were proud to welcome an exceptional line-up of cigar makers, brand representatives, and industry figures from both the UK and abroad. Exhibitors included:
Abe Flores – PDR Cigars
Jeremy Casdagli – Casdagli Cigars
Thierry Farah – Chateau Diadem
George Frakes – Foundation Cigars / 1573 Cigars
Jose Manuel Blanco – La Galera
Rocky Patel – Rocky Patel
Chris Smith from Barker’s of Harrogate – Kristoff Cigars
Philipp Kugler – Cigar Kings
Romy & Fouad Kashouty – Hiram & Solomon
Dave Wright & Iain Robinson – Silencio
Becky Moss-Allison from Barker’s of Harrogate – Gurkha Cigars
Roy Sommer & Michal Pasternak – Davidoff Cigars / Plasencia Cigars
Lewis Seymour – Arturo Fuente
Emmanuel Diaz – Freud Cigars
Alongside the cigars, guests could explore accessories from S.T. Dupont and VSB Accessories, as well as discover the perfect cigar pairing with Takamaka Rum and Nikka Japanese Whisky.
Each ticket included whisky and rum samples, BBQ and cigar masterclasses, as well as a festival pack containing exclusive offers, a 3D-printed cigar case, cutters, lighters, and five cigar cards. Guests used these cards to collect cigars directly from brand stands, encouraging meaningful conversations with the people behind the blends, and allowing guests to choose which cigars they’d love to try.
The festival began at midday, with guests welcomed to the Pavilion and given time to explore the exhibitor booths before joining masterclasses, tastings, and activities throughout the afternoon.
A highlight of the day was the series of cigar and spirits masterclasses, held in The Sharpshooters Shed, a cosy lodge setting. Sessions included:
Each 45-minute session offered insights into the history, craft, and industry of cigars, as well as providing great pairings for cigars.
For those who couldn’t attend, here’s a closer look at some of the cigars and stories that made the masterclasses so memorable.
Rocky Patel shared his journey from lawyer to one of the world’s most influential cigar makers, explaining how he built his company to ensure consistent quality. His talk also covered the challenges of regulation in the US and Europe, and the legal battles that have helped protect premium cigars in America. This was particularly important to consider while we are currently facing the generational smoking ban.
Guests sampled the Rocky Patel White Label:
George Frakes delivered a history-rich session, taking guests from the ancient Olmec cigar traditions through to Europe’s adoption of tobacco, and the cultural role of cigars in the UK from the 16th century onward. He also explored Foundation Cigars’ ethos of blending history, culture, and craftsmanship into their ranges.
Guests sampled the Olmec Robusto:
Midway through the afternoon, guests gathered for a BBQ buffet lunch, the perfect complement to an afternoon of cigars and conversation.
For those seeking extra experiences, the festival also offered:
The Summertime Smoke wasn’t just about cigars; it was about people. From passionate brand owners to retailers and everyday cigar lovers, the event created a unique space for the UK cigar community to come together and celebrate their shared passion!
For us at Havana House, co-hosting the UK’s first cigar festival alongside Bright Leaf Distribution was a proud and unforgettable moment. The success of The Summertime Smoke 2025 shows that the UK cigar community is not only thriving but hungry for more opportunities to gather, learn, and celebrate.
We look forward to building on this momentum and hope to see The Summertime Smoke become an annual fixture on the cigar calendar. Until then, thank you to everyone who joined us, and we’ll see you at the next one!
Las Villas Cigars crafts 17,000 cigars each day at its specialised factory in Estelí, Nicaragua. Every stage of production, from hand rolling to box making, is handled entirely in-house, guaranteeing full quality control. The facility is also equipped with advanced freezing systems to maintain the tobacco’s peak freshness. Each cigar embodies Guillermo’s expertise, passion, and steadfast dedication to excellence.
Here you can read our expert’s review of Las Villas Robusto, or shop the cigar today at Havana House to enjoy the flavours for yourself!
Owner: Guillermo Pena
Factory: Esteli, Nicaragua
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Mexican San Andreas
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Medium – Full
Size: Robusto (5″ x 52)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The Las Villas Robusto opened with a bold interplay of cedar and freshly brewed coffee. From the first few puffs, the cigar presented a richer, fuller-bodied profile. The cedar was sharp and aromatic, while the coffee brought a deep, roasted warmth. As the first third progressed, the coffee notes took centre stage, with the cedar adding a dry, woody backdrop. On the retro-hale, a faint trace of black pepper offered a subtle kick.
In the middle third of the Las Villas Robusto, the flavour profile evolved noticeably. The coffee began to fade, giving way to smooth, bittersweet cocoa. The transition was seamless, with the cocoa becoming the dominant note and adding a layer of creaminess to the smoke. The cedar lingered gently in the background, while the pepper on the retro-hale grew slightly more pronounced, adding complexity to each draw.
As the cigar approached its final third, the flavour profile took on a deeper, earthier tone. Spice notes emerged, predominantly baking spices with hints of clove and nutmeg, creating a warm and lingering finish. Earth became the most prominent note, grounding the experience, while subtle remnants of cocoa and cedar continued to provide balance. The nub remained soft and comfortably cool, offering a satisfying close to a rich and evolving smoke.
The Las Villas Robusto performed impressively from start to finish. It maintained a clean, even burn line with a steady, unwavering path. The ash was firm and carried a pale grey colour. Burn rate and temperature stayed consistent and ideal throughout the session.
The draw was near perfect, just the right amount of resistance, which I personally find enhances the experience. Flavour delivery was smooth and uninterrupted, making it a pleasurable, full-flavoured smoke without the need for fuss or attention.
The Las Villas Robusto delivers a richer, more full-bodied experience than one might expect from its elegant appearance. With pronounced notes of cedar, coffee, cocoa, spice, and earth, it offers a satisfying and flavourful journey that evolves beautifully from beginning to end. A fine choice for smokers seeking depth, complexity, and strength in a refined format.
Ross Rating: 8/10
The Las Villas Robusto cigar pairs very well with Black Tot Historic Solera Rum (70cl / 46.2%).
Coca Cola Regular – Glass Bottle.
All the Nicaraguan flavours I enjoy without an overwhelming intensity that puts me off Nicaraguan cigars sometimes. Yes, I’ll have another, please!
Weddings are full of traditions, from tossing the bouquet to cutting the cake. But one that has stood the test of time, especially among grooms and their parties, is the celebratory cigar. There’s something timeless and symbolic about lighting up a fine cigar to mark the start of a new chapter. It’s a ritual that adds sophistication, camaraderie, and a touch of indulgence to the festivities.
Whether it’s a quiet moment between the groom and his best man or a group celebration with guests on the terrace, cigars create memorable moments. Choosing the right ones can elevate the entire experience.
If you’re new to cigars, or can’t decide what will be suitable for the more novice smokers in your group, then don’t worry. We’ve put together a list of our best wedding cigars, so you can focus on preparing your dance moves for your special day.
Cigars have long been associated with celebration. Historically, they’ve been smoked at life’s most significant milestones: the birth of a child, a major promotion, retirement, and, of course, weddings.
Cigars can be seen as a luxury, making them a special treat for a special day, but they also offer a bonding experience for the wedding party, providing a moment to reflect and toast to the future.
Whether you’re handing out cigars to the groomsmen, offering them to guests, or simply enjoying a moment of reflection after the vows, here are some top picks that deliver on taste, presentation, and celebratory charm.
Size: Short Churchill (5″ x 50)
Strength: Medium
Flavour Notes: Cedar, toasted nuts, sweet spices, vanilla, coffee, cocoa.
The Short Churchill is a classic Cuban cigar, ideal for weddings because of its accessible flavour profile and shorter format. It delivers all the elegance of a full Churchill but in a more manageable size, perfect for a quicker 30–40 minute smoke.
Its romantic brand name and smooth character make it a great option to mark the moment without overwhelming guests who might be newer to cigars.
Size: Petit Panetela (4″ x 38)
Strength: Medium
Flavour Notes: Soft spice, coffee, cream, and cedar.
This elegant petit cigar is part of Davidoff’s luxurious Winston Churchill range, paying tribute to the great man’s love of cigars. The Raconteur format is ideal for weddings thanks to its short smoking time (around 15–20 minutes) and complex, smooth flavour.
It’s a crowd-pleaser; refined, beautifully presented, and non-intimidating for occasional cigar smokers.
Available as a set of 5 in a stylish tin or as single sticks, the Raconteur is an excellent choice for weddings.
Size: Robusto (5″ x 54)
Strength: Medium to full
Flavour Notes: Spicy pepper, earth, cocoa, espresso and leather.
The Zino Nicaragua Robusto is a bold and modern option. It’s got a little more kick than the others on this list, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a richer smoking experience.
Despite its strength, it’s beautifully balanced and burns evenly, making it ideal for celebratory toasts with a dram of whisky or rum.
Grab enough for all your groomsmen with our packs of four Zino cigars and boxes of 25.
Size: Grand Robusto (5 ¼” x 52)
Strength: Medium
Flavour Notes: Creamy, mild spice, toasted nuts and woody undertones.
From the Dominican Republic, this cigar offers exceptional value without compromising on experience. The Juliany Blue Line Grand Robusto is well-constructed and flavourful, making it ideal for handing out to a group of guests or including in a wedding welcome pack.
It has enough depth to satisfy aficionados, yet it’s smooth enough for less experienced smokers.
Available in bundles of 10, these are perfect for sharing with guests on your special day.
Size: Petit Corona (5 ⅛” x 42)
Strength: Medium
Flavour Notes: Cedar, leather, subtle spice, coffee, and toasted nuts.
One of the most famous Cuban cigars in the world, the Montecristo No.4 is an essential choice for any celebratory occasion. Its rich yet approachable profile and consistent draw make it perfect for weddings, whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just enjoying a special-occasion puff.
With its compact size and classic taste, it’s a versatile cigar that suits all moments, from speeches to sunsets.
Weddings are about moments you’ll never forget, and the right cigar can make those moments even more memorable. Whether you’re lighting up with your best mates or stealing a quiet moment under the stars, these cigars are the perfect companions for the occasion.
Browse our full collection of recommended wedding cigars to discover more exciting smokes perfect for the big day, plus more box size options and all the accessories you need to get smoking!
If you’re serious about cigars, you’ll know that storing and preparing them properly is just as important as the cigars themselves.
Enter Elie Bleu, a Parisian brand synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship, and the art of cigar appreciation. Known globally for its luxurious humidors and impeccably designed accessories, Elie Bleu has long been considered the gold standard for those who want to enjoy their cigars in style.
Whether you’re a long-time aficionado or beginning to curate your own collection, this guide will walk you through the world of Elie Bleu and the beautiful cigar accessories available in the UK at Havana House.
Elie Bleu was founded in 1976 in the historic Faubourg Saint-Antoine district of Paris, an area renowned for cabinetmaking and fine woodworking. From the outset, the brand focused on producing exquisitely made wooden objects, from jewellery boxes to humidors, combining traditional woodworking techniques with contemporary design.
Over the years, Elie Bleu’s reputation grew, particularly among cigar lovers, and the brand became an icon in the world of cigar storage and accessories.
Every Elie Bleu piece is handcrafted in France using fine woods that are air-dried for years before being shaped, polished, and lacquered. Their meticulous attention to detail and flair for design has attracted a global following, with customers including royalty, presidents, and discerning collectors.
Today, Elie Bleu is known not just for its products, but for representing a lifestyle of slow luxury, craftsmanship, and appreciation for life’s finer things.
The cornerstone of Elie Bleu’s offering is its range of luxury humidors, widely regarded as the finest in the world. Elie Bleu humidors are more than just storage boxes; they’re heirloom-quality pieces of art designed to protect your cigars in perfect conditions.
Available in sizes ranging from compact 25-cigar boxes to large 250+ capacity cabinets, each humidor features a meticulously engineered interior that maintains ideal humidity levels.
Elie Bleu uses only the best materials: Spanish cedar interiors, top-of-the-line analogue hygrometers, and a patented humidification system to ensure precision climate control.
But what truly sets these humidors apart is their visual design. Collections like Flor de Alba, Medals, Casa Cubana, and Che showcase the brand’s artistic roots, featuring inlaid marquetry, lacquered finishes, and bold, often playful themes.
Inspired by the original Cuban cigar boxes and labels, Elie Bleu’s Flor de Alba humidor is beautifully designed to inspire the very best from your cigar collection. Created with the finest natural Bubinga wood, a hardwood from Africa, this is a truly exquisite humidor and a worthy home for your best Cuban cigars.
This Flor de Alba humidor has space for 75 cigars, and also contains a humidifier & needle hygrometer, plus lock & key entry. It is also available in black and red designs.
The drying house for tobacco has been beautifully downsized into a handmade humidor. The El Secadero is a limited and numbered edition from 1 to 99.
It has a capacity for 75 cigars, and contains one humidifier and one needle hygrometer.
Whether you prefer classic woodgrain or eye-catching artwork, there’s an Elie Bleu humidor to match your taste, and it’s a guaranteed conversation piece in any cigar room.
No cigar experience is complete without a quality cutter, and Elie Bleu makes some of the finest. Their double-blade cutters combine sleek design with razor-sharp functionality, engineered to provide a clean, effortless cut every time. These cutters are available in a variety of finishes, including precious metals, lacquer detailing, and wood accents that complement their humidors.
Each cutter is not just practical but beautifully crafted, often sold with a protective leather sheath to keep it in top condition. Whether you’re prepping a robusto or a petit corona, Elie Bleu cigar cutters offer the precision and polish that a luxury accessory should.
Released in 2016 to celebrate 40 years of Elie Bleu, the Double Blade cigar cutter features the signature square double blade system. The cutter is made using Japanese tempered surgical stainless steel blades for a sharp and precise cut. Either side of the cutter has comfortable finger handles, to allow you to cut the cigar with ease. Designed to accommodate cigars up to a 58-ring gauge.
The Elie Bleu Double Blade Cuban Flag Cigar Cutter is a stunning tribute to Cuba’s rich cigar heritage, combining luxury, precision, and craftsmanship. Featuring razor-sharp stainless steel dual guillotine blades, it delivers a clean, effortless cut, ensuring an optimal smoking experience. Designed for cigars up to a 58-ring gauge, it accommodates various vitolas with ease.
Elie Bleu also offers a collection of premium lighters, ideal for those who value both performance and presentation. Models such as the J-12 (double flame) feature ergonomic shapes and reliable ignition systems, encased in stunning designs that mirror the artistry found in their humidors.
Lacquered finishes, engraved detailing, and rich colours make these Elie Bleu lighters stand out, more akin to high-end jewellery than utilitarian tools.
No cigar lounge or at-home smoking setup is truly complete without a great ashtray, and Elie Bleu’s cigar ashtrays are just as refined and thoughtfully designed as the rest of their accessory range.
Designed specifically for cigars, Elie Bleu ashtrays feature deep, wide trays to hold ashes securely and wide grooves to cradle larger ring gauge cigars without tipping. The ashtrays have options for two or 4 cigars, making smoking with friends even easier.
Elie Bleu ashtrays are made from high-quality porcelain and finished with vivid, kiln-fired colours and distinctive motifs that echo their humidor collections, such as Le Parisien, Flor de Alba, and the Che series.
Whether you’re placing one in your home lounge, study, or garden smoking space, an Elie Bleu ashtray adds a note of luxury to every cigar break. These ashtrays don’t just serve a purpose; they enhance the experience, turning a routine ash flick into something elegant.
Perfect as a centrepiece or a complement to other Elie Bleu pieces, they also make superb gifts for aficionados who already have the basics covered. And of course, they’re available through Havana House, making it easy to build a coordinated set of accessories that reflect your personal style.
When you’re on the move, an Elie Bleu cigar case ensures your favourite sticks travel in complete safety, and serious style. These cases are designed to hold two or three cigars, with a firm exterior to prevent crushing and a soft-lined interior to keep cigars fresh.
Like all of Elie Bleu’s products, the cases are beautifully finished, some with classic leather exteriors, others with bold colours or motifs like Cuban scenery. They’re an ideal gift for a cigar lover or the perfect personal investment if you enjoy cigars while travelling or at social events.
Havana House is proud to be one of the few UK stockists of Elie Bleu’s premium accessories. When you buy from Havana House, you’re not just purchasing a product; you’re joining a legacy of fine cigar appreciation and French craftsmanship.
Whether you’re looking for your first humidor or adding a show-stopping piece to your collection, Elie Bleu offers unrivalled quality.
Their products don’t just enhance the cigar experience; they elevate it. From the smooth glide of a lacquered lid to the precision of a double guillotine cutter, every detail is a reminder of the brand’s dedication to excellence.
If cigars are a part of your ritual, Elie Bleu deserves a place in your world. Their humidors and accessories combine luxury, functionality, and artistry in a way few other brands can match. Explore their latest pieces at Havana House, where timeless design and modern cigar culture come together beautifully.
Whether you’re investing in your first humidor or searching for the perfect gift for a cigar lover, Elie Bleu offers more than just tools; it offers a lifestyle.
When buying Cuban cigars in the UK, one of the easiest ways to spot quality and authenticity is by looking for the EMS stamp. Introduced over 25 years ago by Hunters & Frankau, the EMS (English Market Selection) stamp is a mark of excellence applied only to Cuban cigars that have passed a second layer of inspection here in the UK.
In this blog, we’ll explain what the EMS stamp is, why it was introduced, and what it means for cigar smokers who want the very best.
EMS is an acronym for ‘English Market Selection’. English Market Selection has been used for over a hundred years in Cuba to identify cigars designated for the British market. It is like a quality control stamp, ensuring that only the best smokes are being transported overseas to Britain. It is an additional quality inspection within the UK.
The UK and Cuba have long been linked with cigars and cigar distribution, with Imperial Tobacco, a British company, integral in distributing cigars around the world. The UK also regularly gets its own regional edition limited edition cigars produced by Habanos SA.
While the English Market Selection has been around for over a century, the stamp itself was not actually created until 1993, when Hunters & Frankau developed the EMS stamp. The stamp was created so that it would be an easily identifiable marker for authenticity and quality.
Now, when a box of Cuban cigars has passed a UK quality inspection, the box will receive an EMS stamp. All Cuban cigars that have been chosen for sale in the UK market will display the stamp.
Each stamp is also individually numbered, allowing the box’s history to be traced if required.
Since 1997, the colour of the stamp has changed annually, in an effort to reduce issues with counterfeiting.
As mentioned, the English Market Selection stamp is used to denote quality. With this comes a guarantee that:
When a box of Cuban cigars reaches the Hunters & Frankau warehouse, the box is opened, and the cigars are inspected to ensure that they are of good enough quality to be sold to the UK market. To do this, the seals of the cigar box will be cut open. Therefore, when you receive a box of cigars in the UK, the original Cuban seals and stickers will be cut through and then an EMS stamp will be placed instead.
Aside from guaranteeing the above points, the EMS stamp is also a key way of deterring the sale of counterfeit cigars in the UK. Unfortunately, counterfeiting is a big problem in the cigar industry, so the EMS stamp offers some extra security. As mentioned, the colour of the stamp is changed each year to help reduce the risk of counterfeiting.
If you have concerns about counterfeit cigars, then you can check out our previous blog post on how to spot a counterfeit Cuban cigar.
Here at Havana House, we have a wide range of genuine Cuban cigars. As well as being checked by Hunters & Frankau when imported, we check all of the cigars we receive at Havana House ourselves to ensure that the product meets our high standards.
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