H. Upmann

Founded in 1844 by Herman Upmann, a German banker, the brand was originally rolled in Cuba and then distributed by Mr. Upmann to his best customers as a promotion. Later, it became one of the most popular Cuban brands smoked in the world. Today, both the Cuban and Dominican versions are some of the most recognizable and highly rated cigars in the world. The Dominican version featured this month first became available in the U.S. beginning in 1975. Originally developed with a Cameroon wrapper and Dominican filler and binder, the cigar is now wrapped in Indonesian shade grown leaf and rolled using a blend of Olor and Cuban seed Piloto Cubano tobacco. The first you notice is the unusual shape of this cigar. Tapered at the head with a fairly small ring gauge and finished with a classic Figurado roll at the foot, there is no doubt that this is a very difficult cigar to roll. Only the most very experienced roller would even attempt a shape like this and as you would expect, the master craftsmanship shows. The wrapper has a silky feel to the touch, although it is a bit grainy as you run your fingers across it. While overall it is a medium-bodied cigar, the taste is full, smooth and mellow. A touch of sweetness on the lips and in the aroma, make it a great cigar to have with dessert.