The past few years have been tough for the Cuban cigar industry, with Covid shutting down Cuban factories and impacting supply worldwide. Things are turning, though. Habanos S.A., the Cuban manufacturing company that controls the promotion, distribution and export of premium Cuban cigars, had a banner 2021.
Related: Five tips to store premium Cuban cigars without a humidor
Habanos S.A. just released its financials for 2021, reporting a 15 per cent growth in sales – a record $568 million. In ranking according to country, Habanos S.A.’s top 5 markets in terms of sales volume were Spain, China, Germany, France and Switzerland. Spain and China were once again the most important markets. By region, Europe remains Habanos’ main market, with 59% of sales volume. That’s followed by Asia Pacific (16%), America (14%) and Africa and the Middle East (11%).
Cuban cigars: Shortages of popular vitolas
According to a spokesperson, the company is aware of the impact and delays in the supply of some of their best-selling vitolas. That’s been caused largely by the pandemic and by strong international demand. Despite the situation, 38 new products were exported in 2021. After the first quarter of 2022, they are seeing a gradual improvement in supply.
Special Edition Cohiba released
Habanos, S.A., through its distributor Phoenicia T.A.A. Cyprus, this week presented the new Cohiba 55 Aniversario Edición Limitada (57 ring gauge x 150 mm length) on the occasion of the brand’s anniversary. Not many would argue the fact that Cohiba is the world’s most prestigious cigar brand. This vitola commemorates the 55th anniversary of Cohiba.
The presentation took place within the distribution area of Phoenicia T.A.A. Cyprus. It was held in a hybrid format with on-site events in nine countries (Cyprus, Greece, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria ). Aficionados from around the world took part virtually.
Walid Saleh, CEO of Phenicia T.A.A Cyprus, presented the launch of the Cohiba “Premier” Edition, which comprises the first batch of the Cohiba 55 Edición Limitada-Limited Edition. They are in luxury cases, numbered from the 1 to 10,000, containing five of these exclusive Habanos. In addition, this production includes a unique ring that mentions the name “Premier”. They will be sold exclusively within the distributor’s territory.
Touch of distinction
Cohiba 55 Aniversario Edición Limitada will arrive to markets around the world in a wooden box with 10 Habanos inside. In addition, this Edición Limitada incorporates a foot ring for the first time, giving it a touch of distinction for its anniversary.
This Habano has been produced under a careful selection of wrapper, filler and binder leaves, harvested by the best producers of the Vuelta Abajo zone in Cuba. The filler leaves undergo an additional fermentation in barrels. This special treatment gives Cohiba an unmistakable aroma and flavour that cannot be found in any other brand.
Medium to full strength, about 50 minutes in duration. Suggested pairing: Rum Extra Añejo 25 years.
