With premium quality and innovative blending, cigars made from the above regions are often alternatives to Cuban Cigars, as Cuban now has a limited supply and rising prices. 

The industry defines cigars by their rolling region instead of the origins of the tobacco in the cigar. For example, a cigar rolling in Nicaragua with full Dominican tobacco is classified as a Nicaragua cigar. However, when choosing a cigar, it is essential to look at the origin of the tobacco as well as that heavily affects the blending profile and aroma of the smoke.  

Read on to know more about the differences between tobacco from variance countries, and see our recommendation on the New World cigars you should be smoking right now!

Why are these places famous for producing cigars?

The significant contribution would be the climate and soil of these countries. These tropical countries are located in the Atlantic Ocean; all benefit from the warm and humid conditions, just like Cuba. The climate and soil allow them to grow the best tobacco compared to the rest of the world. 

Another factor is the Cuban revolution which lasted for over 6 years. After the revolution, the Cuban government decided to nationalise all private property, including cigar factories and farms. The instability and persecution have caused numerous cigar experts, such as rollers, farmers and merchants, to flee to nearby countries, like Nicaragua, contributing to the success of the New World cigars. Along with the USA embargo on Cuba, it benefited the demand for cigars from the New World brand. 

Differences between tobacco from these 3 origins:

Tobacco from the Dominican Republic:

With over 600,000 acres of tobacco fields, Dominican Republic is the world’s largest producer of cigars. Dominican Republic’s famous Connecticut tobaccos were perceived as milder but with distinctive and excellent taste. Its premium tobacco is widely chosen to use as filler. Numerous reknown New World cigar brands, such as Davidoff and AVO, their factory and field are also located in the Dominican Republic. 

Tobacco from Nicaragua:

If you are a connoisseur, I believe you have heard of Jalapa Valley. That’s one of the major growing regions of tobacco in Nicaragua. The red clay-like soil has contributed to the fine and elegant Nicaraguan wrapper. The other main production area is Estelí, where the renowned New World brands, such as Plasencia, Oliva and Padron, also have their tobacco field and factory. The black volcanic soil there is rich and fertile with those dark robust tobacco leaves.

Recommended cigar with Nicaragua Tobacco:
Davidoff Nicaragua Box-pressed Robusto
Plasencia Reserva 1898 Robusto 
E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel

Tobacco from Honduras:

Well-known for typically heavy and full-bodied flavours, Honduran tobacco seeds were mostly from Cuba. The famous growing region for Hondurans is called “Jamastrán Valley”, next to Nicaragua’s Jalapa Valley and only separated by the countries’ border. The premium and rich tobacco are fertile by the valley’s rich soil. 

Cognac and cigar always stand next to each other, side by side. This magical pairing has won the heart of global aficionados from the distant past. Even world-known connoisseur, Sir Winston Churchill, is also a big fan of cognac and cigar pairing. Whether you prefer iced or neat, there are a thousand ways to enjoy Cognac. Now read on to learn more about Cognac and pairing tips!

Is Cognac the same as Brandy? What is Champagne Cognac?

The first question, after all, would be what is Cognac. Cognac is a specific type of Brandy. The Brandy needs to be distilled twice and aged for at least two years in French oak barrels to earn the name Cognac. 

Champagne Cognac is not the bubbling spirit, but a cognac produced from grapes grown in two Grande Champagne regions. If Cognac is produced with at least 50% of its grapes from the Champagne region, it is a Fine Champagne Cognac. And if it is 100%, it is a Grande Champagne Cognac.

What is the meaning of V.S. / V.S.O.P/ X.O.?

These short forms symbolise the years of ageing of the Cognac.

V.S. means “very special”, and must be aged at least two years.

V.S.O.P means “very superior old pale” and must be aged at least four years.

X.O. stands for ” extra old” and must be aged at least ten years.

Some prefer a simple highball of cognac: simply add soda water and ice. We would suggest you reserve older cognacs for neat to allow you to taste the true aroma of this rare beauty.  Below are the perfect ideas, no matter for gifting or enjoyment as a digestif!

Pairing Ideas

1. Davidoff XO Cognac x Davidoff Dominicana Short Robusto

Davidoff XO Cognac is a prestigious vintage blend produced with only old eaux-de-vie from the finest areas of the Cognac region. Expressing complex notes of honey, plums and vanilla complimented by a long, rounded finish with a touch of dried fruits. 

Perfect for pairing with the Davidoff Dominicana Short Robusto. Exquisitely crafted with Dominican. Intense and complex smoking experience with pronounced aromas, perfect to enjoy with the sweet spices and fruitiness of Davidoff XO Cognac.

2. Audry Excéption Fine Champagne Cognac x Trinidad Coloniales

The enticing blend of a beautiful marriage between Grande and Petite Champagne eaux-de-vie, aged between 40-60 years. Full-bodied and complex, with notes of oak wood and sweet spices. Delivers a floral finish with a lingering note of rancio. Nothing better to pair this complex Cognac with a powerful Cuban. Allow Trinidad Coloniales’s progression of wood, toasted nut and toast aroma to elevate this pairing experience. 

Prepare this pairing for a luxurious moment, this harmonious pairing combines the liquid gold with wisps of seductive aromas.

3. Audry Memorial Fine Champagne Cognac x Plasencia Alma del Fuego Concepción

An exquisite blend of extremely well-aged eaux-de-vie of nothing younger than 30 years and up to 60 years of age. Full-bodied and rich with notes of star anise, liquorice, and violets. Complex flavours with hints of oak. A rare and rich Cognac finished with a buttery and lingering honeyed note.

Add a drop of water to open up the Cognac and pair it up with the Plasencia Alma del Fuego. A sweet spicy blend crafted with the Ometepe tobaccos from Nicaraguan. Enjoy the earth notes and spice aroma that adjoin by the smoke without overwhelming the buttery sweetness from the golden liquor.