Cuban vs New World Cigars
Terroir, rules and style — both camps have their strengths.
Published 09/12/2026
Cuban cigars (Habanos)
- All tobacco is grown in Cuba, the finest in the Vuelta Abajo of Pinar del Río
- Distributed worldwide by Habanos S.A.
- Flavours are often described as earthy, cedar, honey and cocoa, with a distinctive Cuban terroir
- Released relatively young; many improve greatly with age
New World cigars
- Mostly made in the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and Honduras
- Free to blend tobaccos from many countries, e.g. an Ecuadorian wrapper with Nicaraguan filler
- Usually well aged before release and very consistent
- Wide range of styles, from mild Connecticut wrappers to powerful Nicaraguan ligero
Which to choose?
Neither is simply better. Suggestions:
- Start with a medium cigar such as the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.2 or Davidoff Signature 2000
- For bold flavour try the Partagás Serie D No.4 or the Padrón 1964 Anniversary
- Keep tasting notes and discover your own preferences