Habanos, S.A. A Legacy of Excellence and Aging Tradition
Habanos, S.A. boasts a remarkable portfolio that includes some of the oldest and most esteemed cigar brands available. With a rich history and deep-rooted traditions, Habanos captivates cigar enthusiasts and collectors around the globe. Many aficionados choose to preserve Habanos cigars released decades ago due to their unique qualities, making them particularly well-suited for aging.
The Tradition of Aging Habanos
The tradition of aging Habanos is especially prominent in markets such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Hong Kong. This aging process enhances the cigarsβ biochemical and sensory characteristics, creating a unique smoking experience without altering their original essence. Experts agree that Vintage Habanos offer a smoother, more refined taste with subtle sweet and woody notes.
Understanding Vintage Habanos
Itβs important to note that the aging of Vintage Habanos is not related to the aging of the tobacco leaves or the harvest time. Instead, Vintage Habanos are cigars that have already been rolled, placed in their original wooden boxes, sealed, and stamped with the month and year of manufacture. These cigars are then left to age for years under optimal conditions, a process monitored by the Regulatory Council of the Protected Appellations of Origin of Habanos (P.A.O.), a unique authority in the premium tobacco industry.
Aging Process and Conditions
According to Habanos, S.A. and the Regulatory Council, a minimum of five years is required for the aging benefits to become evident. The conditions necessary for the βVintageβ classification include:
- Maintaining a temperature between 16ΒΊC and 18ΒΊC
- Humidity levels between 65% and 75%
- An environment free from odors, fumes, and other elements that could compromise the productβs quality
The arrangement of the cigars during this resting period is also crucial, whether stored in original sale crates, wooden crates, bundles, or in contact with cedar sheets or cedar boxes.
Categories of Vintage Habanos
The Regulatory Council categorizes Vintage Habanos into four distinct groups based on their aging period:
- Vintage 5: Cigars aged for more than five years but less than ten years from the date they were rolled and stored.
- Vintage 10: Cigars aged for more than ten years but less than fifteen years from the date they were rolled and stored.
- Vintage 15: Cigars aged for more than fifteen years but less than twenty years from the date they were rolled and stored.
- Grand Vintage: Cigars aged for more than twenty years from the date they were rolled and stored.
Inaugural Release of Vintage Habanos
The inaugural release of Vintage Habanos is now available, marked by a limited series of humidors created in collaboration with the renowned Parisian firm S.T. Dupont to celebrate Trinidadβs 55th anniversary. This exclusive, numbered series includes 1,000 units, each containing 55 Trinidad Fundadores Vintage 10 cigars, reserved for the most dedicated Habano enthusiasts.
Habanos, S.A.βs dedication to preserving the heritage and quality of their cigars ensures that each Vintage Habano offers a truly exceptional smoking experience, cherished by connoisseurs worldwide.
