One of Cuba’s most elegant cigar brands, La Gloria Cubana offers a refined range of cigars and rich flavours since 1885.
Hello dear reader,
Today, we’re diving into the story of one of Cuba’s cigar brands that doesn’t get the attention it deserves: La Gloria Cubana. It is known for its timeless elegance and sophisticated flavor profiles, La Gloria Cubana has a special place in the hearts of many cigar aficionados as it does in mine. Let’s take a look at this brand, its unique cigars, and the beautiful vitolas that have been released under its name.
La Gloria Cubana was established in 1885, making it one of the older brands in the Cuban cigar world. The oldest we have available, as you definitely know, is Por Larrañaga (1834). Founded by José Rocha and later passed to the Cifuentes family, the brand quickly gained a reputation for creating cigars of exceptional quality. The name itself is a fitting tribute to the Cuban tradition and tobacco culture that have shaped the cigar industry for centuries.
Despite being smaller in production compared to giants like Cohiba or Montecristo, La Gloria Cubana has maintained its “boutique” feel, appealing to those who seek a more nuanced and balanced smoking experience. The brand has a history of producing cigars that are medium in strength but rich in flavor, offering complexity without overwhelming the senses, exactly up my alley when it comes to profile preferences.
After the Cuban Revolution, like many other Cuban cigar brands, La Gloria Cubana came under the management of Habanos S.A. While it may not have the flashy presence of some of its competitors, it has remained consistent, reliable, and ever-elegant.
La Gloria Cubana is best known for producing cigars with a refined and delicate flavor profile. The brand’s portfolio is relatively small, which is part of its charm. Its cigars typically have a smooth, balanced character with subtle notes of cedar wood, and spice, making them perfect for smokers who appreciate elegance and subtlety.
Traveling the world and stopping by cigar lounges is just part of the journey for us, and whenever I spot someone enjoying a La Gloria Cubana, I can tell they know their cigars.
Among its most recognized vitolas are:
Medaille d’Or No. 4 (32 ring gauge x 152mm): A classic, slim cigar that delivers complexity despite its size, the Palmitas vitola de galera. It’s a popular choice for those who enjoy nuanced flavors in a more compact format.
La Gloria Cubana Turquinos (50 ring gauge x 141mm): A newer addition to the lineup, offering a bolder, richer smoke with slightly more body than traditional offerings.
La Gloria Cubana Glorias (49 ring gauge x 156mm): An LCDH edition that has captivated enthusiasts for its rich complexity and one of the more gorgeous looking boxes you’ll see on cuban cigars.
These cigars are medium-bodied, perfect for a relaxing moment where the goal is to savor rather than be overwhelmed.
What about Regional Editions?
Over the years, La Gloria Cubana has also released several notable Regional which have helped to raise the profile of the brand in the eyes of collectors and aficionados alike. Here are some of my favourites:
La Gloria Cubana Gloriosos (Regional Edition UK 2008): This vitola was exclusively produced for the UK market and quickly became a favorite among collectors for its balanced profile and rarity.
La Gloria Cubana Orgullosos (Regional Edition Switzerland 2018): Another highly sought-after regional edition, offering a medium-bodied experience with subtle notes of wood, leather, and spice.
La Gloria Cubana Alemarado (Regional Edition Asia Pacific 2017): Released exclusively for the Asia Pacific region, this cigar delivers a very balanced profile
La Gloria Cubana Británicas Extras (Regional Edition UK 2017): A unique release, loved for its bold flavors of cedar, leather, and dark chocolate, packaged in the uncommon Británicas vitola.
La Gloria Cubana D No. 5 (Regional Edition Lebanon 2020): A rare gem for the Lebanese market, this cigar brings notes of roasted coffee, wood, and a hint of sweetness.
La Gloria Cubana Medaille D'Or Especial: An elegant, slim release that’s perfect for those seeking subtlety with refined notes of wood and spice.
La Gloria Cubana Sublimes (Regional Edition Canada 2016): A large-format cigar that delivers a complex, slow-burning experience with layers of earth, cocoa, and spice.
La Gloria Cubana has a diverse range of vitolas that cater to various preferences, from slender Panetelas to more robust Corona Gordas. The cigars typically fall into the mid-range price point compared to other Cuban cigars, making them an accessible option for smokers seeking quality without the hefty price tag of Cohiba or Trinidad.
La Gloria Cubana is a brand that epitomizes the elegance and craftsmanship of Cuban cigar making. With over a century of history, it has maintained its position as a “boutique” brand, offering a refined smoking experience for those who appreciate subtlety, balance, and tradition. From its core vitolas to its highly sought-after regional editions, La Gloria Cubana continues to deliver cigars that truly live up to the glory of Cuba.
Wishing you rich flavors and good company—until we meet again.