Cuban cigar group Habanos has introduced a limited-edition series of humidors in collaboration with renowned Parisian firm S.T. Dupont to celebrate the 55th anniversary of its acclaimed cigar brand Trinidad.
The commemorative release contains 55 numbered Trinidad Fundadores Vintage 10 cigars and production is limited to 1,000 copies.
The cigars feature the brand’s signature band, which highlights its vintage category, and an additional foot band designed exclusively for this release.
Habanos has collaborated with renowned fashion designer and Casablanca Founder Charaf Tajer to produce a special artwork for 55 humidors. The colourful design depicts the Trinidad logo, while the inside of the lid features the artist’s name and the S.T. Dupont label, combining “tradition and the avant-garde”.
The humidor design is inspired by the travel boots commonly worn by upper-class men in the early 20th century, reflecting S.T. Dupont’s experience and history of luxury craftsmanship.
Tajer said: “As a Habanos enthusiast and collector, I have been an avid fan of Trinidad, so it is my dream to partner with her in collaboration with S.T. Dupont.
“My passion for Cuba, developed through my travels to the island over the years, has inspired me to create this exclusive collection of 55 humidors to pay homage to one of the most internationally acclaimed Habanos brands.”
Habanos, with its extensive portfolio that includes the oldest brands on the market, underlined the special method of ageing its vintage cigars and the unique properties that make them an ideal choice for this.
Grupo Habanos stated: “This process enhances the product’s biochemical and organoleptic characteristics, creating a unique smoking experience without altering its original traits.”
According to the company, experts attest that Vintage Habanos feature a “smoother, more delightful taste”, with delicate and sweet notes complemented by woody undertones.
The group emphasised that the ageing of these vintage cigars is not related to that of the tobacco leaves nor to when they were harvested. Instead, they are already stored in their original wooden boxes, sealed and labelled with the month and year of manufacture.
These Habanos are left to age for years in perfect conditions of conservation, a process established and monitored by the Regulatory Council of the Protected Appellations of Origin of Habanos.
From Habanos and under the supervision of the Regulatory Council, it ideally takes at least five years for the benefits of ageing to be appreciated.
The conservation conditions required for ‘Vintage’ categorisation are temperature (between 16ºC and 18ºC), humidity (between 65% and 75%) and atmosphere (free of odours, fumes and any environmental element that may alter the conditions of the product).
No less important is the arrangement of the product during the resting period, as it may be packed in original crates intended for sale, in wooden crates, in bundles or contact with cedar sheets or cedar boxes.
Vintage 5: Habanos aged for more than five years and less than ten years, counted from the date they were rolled and laid to rest.
Vintage 10: Habanos aged for more than ten years and less than 15 years, counted from the date of rolling and laying at rest.
Vintage 15: Habanos aged for more than 15 years and less than 20 years, counted from the date of rolling and laying at rest.
Grand Vintage: Habanos aged for more than 20 years, counted from the date of rolling and laying at rest. ✈
