Of all the names in the Habanos lineup, Trinidad is probably the one that’s most overlooked.
It never had quite the same following as Cohiba, Montecristo, or Partagás, even though the boutique brand dates back to 1969. It takes its name from the Cuban city of Trinidad, and for much of its early life, its cigars weren’t even sold commercially, but produced as gifts for foreign dignitaries.
Now it has something rather new and exciting to talk about. Its first Reserva, the Trinidad Vigía Reserva Cosecha 2022, was unveiled in Montreux on September 19, and marks the first time the Cuban brand has used the Reserva designation in its history.
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The launch itself took place at the Petit Palais of the Fairmont Montreux Palace, with around 300 guests attending the Swiss premiere. Switzerland has long been an important market for premium cigars, and this is a release aimed very much at people who like to collect them as much as they like to smoke them.
There won’t be many to collect, either. Habanos is producing 5,000 individually numbered boxes of 20 cigars, along with another 5,000 three-cigar gift boxes. The three-pack will sell for $660, while the box of 20 is priced at $3,800.
The tobacco has had at least three additional years of aging before being rolled into the finished cigars, and the Vigía is 54 x 110mm, in size making it the largest ring gauge in the Trinidad range. It’s described by Habanos as medium strength.
“By allowing the filler, binder, and wrapper leaves to mature for at least three extra years, the tobacco achieves a superior level of harmony, depth, and complexity, revealing nuances layers that unfold throughout the smoke,” Alberto Donar Cruz Rojas, commercial vice president of Habanos, S.A. tells Elite Traveler.
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“The experience begins with notes of cedar and toasted hazelnut, followed by cocoa, roasted coffee, and sweet spices, all underpinned by a delicate floral character. As the Habano evolves, these flavors deepen, leading to a finish defined by notes of aged leather, sweetness, and white pepper,” says Donar Cruz Rojas. Habanos gives the cigar a smoking time of around 50 minutes.
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There is also an NFC chip built into the Reserva band; a quick tap lets the owner access product information and check the cigar’s authenticity. “The NFC technology integrated into the Reserva band and the box’s seal allows aficionados to access exclusive content and detailed product information simply by using a compatible mobile device, while also providing them a seamless way to verify the authenticity of their Habano,” Donar Cruz Rojas adds.
“This launch embodies the art of patience. There is something special about the anticipation that comes with a Reserva – much like a fine wine or champagne, time is an essential ingredient. With Vigía Reserva, that patience rewards aficionados with a Habano of exceptional depth and complexity.”
