The Ultimate Guide to H. Upmann Cigars

Upmann Cigars is one of the most iconic names in the cigar world, boasting nearly two centuries of history. Founded in 1844 by German banker Herman Upmann in Havana, Cuba, the brand became known for its refined flavor, impeccable construction, and sophisticated presentation — even winning multiple gold medals at 19th-century world fairs.

Today, while Cuban H. Upmann cigars are still produced for markets outside the U.S., the non-Cuban version — made in the Dominican Republic by Altadis U.S.A. — continues the tradition with blends that showcase smoothness, complexity, and elegance.

Herman Upmann was both a banker and a cigar enthusiast. He moved to Havana in the mid-1800s, established a banking business, and began giving cigars with his bank’s logo to clients as gifts. These cigars became so popular that Upmann launched a dedicated cigar brand, quickly gaining international acclaim.

After the Cuban Revolution, production was split:

• Cuban H. Upmann – Made in Havana for non-U.S. markets.
  
• Dominican H. Upmann – Produced by Altadis U.S.A. for U.S. distribution, blending Dominican, Nicaraguan, and other tobaccos for a modern audience while maintaining the brand’s classic elegance.
  

For the U.S. market, H. Upmann cigars are handcrafted in La Romana, Dominican Republic at the prestigious Tabacalera de Garcia factory.

Production hallmarks include:

• Premium Long-Filler Tobacco – Often a mix of Dominican, Nicaraguan, and Honduran leaves.
  
• Diverse Wrappers – From silky Connecticut Shade to rich Maduro and bold Habano.
  
• Classic Cuban Influence – Balanced strength, subtle complexity, and refined aroma.
  

Strength: Medium-Full
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Tasting Notes:

• Cedar, toasted almond, and nutmeg
  
• Hints of cocoa and leather
  
• Smooth, lingering finish
  Best Pairings: Bourbon, café au lait, roasted almonds
  Highlight: A modern reinterpretation of the brand’s classic flavor profile with richer complexity
  

Strength: Medium
Wrapper: African Cameroon
Tasting Notes:

• Sweet spice, cedar, and floral notes
  
• Gentle creaminess mid-smoke
  
• Lightly sweet finish
  Best Pairings: Spiced rum, chai tea, pecan pie
  Highlight: Celebrated for its distinct wrapper flavor and aromatic character

Strength: Mild-Medium
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut
Tasting Notes:

• Cream, citrus peel, and white pepper
  
• Smooth nutty core
  
• Mellow, balanced finish
  Best Pairings: Cappuccino, light pilsner, lemon biscotti
  Highlight: A collaboration that adds subtle spice to the traditional Connecticut profile
  

Strength: Medium-Full
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Tasting Notes:

• Espresso, dark cocoa, and sweet spice
  
• Earthy undertones
  
• Full, rich finish
  Best Pairings: Espresso, single malt Scotch, dark chocolate
  Highlight: Pays homage to Herman Upmann’s banking roots, packaged like gold bars

Strength: Medium-Full
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Tasting Notes:

• Black pepper, leather, and roasted nuts
  
• Dark fruit sweetness mid-smoke
  
• Long, spicy finish
  Best Pairings: Rye whiskey, espresso, smoked almonds
  Highlight: A bold, modern expression from a master blender
  

Upmann Legacy – Smooth, balanced blend with rich Honduran influence.
H. Upmann Hispaniola – Nicaraguan-forward blend with spice and depth.

• Appreciate the heritage — Many blends are inspired by classic Cuban recipes.
  
• Retrohale gently — Unlocks the floral and spice nuances of Cameroon and Habano wrappers.
  
• Try AJ Fernandez collaborations — For a bolder, more modern take.
  
• Age medium-to-full blends — Additional humidor time deepens complexity.
  

Q: Are H. Upmann cigars Cuban?
A: Cuban versions exist but are not available in the U.S.; Dominican-made blends are crafted for the U.S. market.

Q: Which is the mildest H. Upmann cigar?
A: The Connecticut by AJ Fernandez offers the most approachable profile.

Q: Which is the richest?
A: The Banker and AJ Fernandez blends deliver the most full-bodied experiences.

Q: Are H. Upmann cigars hand-rolled?
A: Yes. Every cigar is handmade at Tabacalera de Garcia.

Upmann Cigars offers an enduring blend of history, elegance, and craftsmanship. From the creamy Connecticut to the bold The Banker, there’s a cigar to suit every palate while carrying forward a legacy that spans over 175 years.

Shop the full Cigars collection now at ElementVape.com