Among the many legendary Cuban cigar brands, few are as distinctive or as visually striking as Cuaba cigars. While brands such as Cohiba, Montecristo, and Romeo y Julieta often dominate conversations among cigar enthusiasts, Cuaba cigars occupies a unique place in the world of premium cigars. Created specifically to revive one of the oldest and most challenging cigar shapes, Cuaba has become synonymous with craftsmanship, tradition, and elegance.
A Brand Born from Tradition
Cuaba cigars was officially introduced in 1996 by the Cuban cigar company Habanos S.A. The brand was launched with a clear mission: to resurrect the historic "double figurado" cigar shape, which had been immensely popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries before gradually disappearing from regular production.
The name "Cuaba" comes from a word used by the Taíno people, the indigenous inhabitants of Cuba before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. It referred to a highly combustible shrub traditionally used to light tobacco during ceremonial rituals. This historical connection perfectly reflects the brand's emphasis on heritage and authenticity.
The Signature Double Figurado
What truly sets Cuaba cigars apart is its commitment to the double figurado shape. Unlike standard parejo cigars, which have straight sides and a rounded head, double figurados taper at both ends while expanding in the middle.
These unusual shapes are among the most difficult cigars to produce. The rolling process requires exceptional skill, precision, and experience. According to Habanos, double figurados represent the pinnacle of a cigar roller's craft, making Cuaba one of the most technically demanding brands in the Cuban portfolio.
The shape is not merely decorative. As the ring gauge changes throughout the smoke, many aficionados believe the flavour profile evolves more dramatically than in a conventional cigar, creating a more dynamic smoking experience.
Tobacco and Construction
All Cuaba cigars are handmade using long-filler tobacco leaves from Cuba's famous Vuelta Abajo region in Pinar del Río, widely regarded as one of the finest tobacco-growing areas in the world. The cigars are produced at the historic Romeo y Julieta factory in Havana and are generally classified as medium-to-full-bodied in strength.
The brand's emphasis on craftsmanship means that construction quality is especially important. A well-made double figurado requires perfect bunching and rolling to ensure an even burn despite its changing diameter.
Popular Cuaba Cigar Vitolas
Over the years, Cuaba has offered several sizes, each maintaining the brand's distinctive shape.
- Cuaba Divinos - A compact petit perfecto ideal for shorter smoking sessions. Despite its size, it often delivers surprising complexity and spice.
- Cuaba Tradicionales - One of the original sizes released in 1996, offering a balanced introduction to the brand's characteristic flavour profile.
- Cuaba Exclusivos - Perhaps the most widely recognised member of the line, combining manageable smoking time with excellent flavour development.
- Cuaba Distinguidos - A larger perfecto that provides a longer, more nuanced smoking experience.
- Cuaba Salomones - A dramatic double figurado often considered the flagship of the brand. Its large format allows flavours to unfold gradually and makes it a favourite among experienced smokers.
Flavour Profile
While flavour perceptions vary among smokers, Cuaba cigars are often described as delivering notes of cedar, earth, spice, toasted wood, and subtle sweetness. Community reviews frequently highlight cinnamon-like spice, creaminess, and evolving complexity throughout the smoke. The changing dimensions of the double figurado shape can create noticeable transitions from beginning to end.
Many enthusiasts find that Cuaba cigars benefit from aging, allowing some of their sharper edges to mellow and the flavours to integrate more fully.
A Niche Brand with a Loyal Following
Although Cuaba has never achieved the commercial fame of Cuba's largest cigar brands, it enjoys a devoted following among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate unusual formats and traditional craftsmanship. The brand has also appeared in several limited and commemorative releases over the years, enhancing its appeal among serious cigar collectors.
Today, Cuaba remains one of the few cigar brands in the world dedicated almost entirely to the double figurado format, preserving a style that might otherwise have been lost to history.
Why Purchase Cuaba Cigars from C.Gars LTD
All Cuaba cigars sold at C.Gars Ltd are 100% authentic and EMS certified. Each cigar is individually inspected by our specialist team and stored in climate-controlled humidors for optimal freshness. We offer fast UK dispatch, free delivery over £50, and service backed by more than 25,000 verified customer reviews. As the UK's largest Havana cigar specialist, C.Gars Ltd provides one of the most comprehensive Cuaba selections available.
Need it fast? Free UK delivery on orders £50+ and same-day dispatch before 2pm.
Browse All Cuaba Cigars HereFrequently Asked Questions
- Are Cuaba Cigars handmade?
- Yes, premium Cuaba cigars are handmade by expert cigar rollers.
- Are Cuaba Cigars suitable for beginners?
- Cuaba Cigars are not suitable for beginners due to their unique shape and strong flavour profiles.
- Where can I buy genuine Cuaba cigars in the UK?
- Authentic EMS-certified Cuaba cigars are available from C.Gars Ltd, trusted by over 25,000 verified customers and a leading Havana cigar specialist.
