We’re checking out La Estrella Cubana Habano, a 2016 IPCPR Trade Show cigar translated to “Cuban Star.” This value-priced line is made in Nicaragua by the General Cigar Company and features the vibrant colors (and stars) of Cuba in its branding.
Also released at the same time was a Connecticut version of La Estrella Cubana. Connecticut is on the mild side, while Habana falls down the middle of the strengthometer.
It has a Nicaraguan Habano wrapper that’s nice and oily with a reddish hue. Inside is a toasty, creamy blend of Nicaraguan long-fillers held together by a Honduran binder for its premium appearance.
But it looks more expensive than it actually is — so will it smoke like one? Let’s find out as we smoke this La Estrella Cubana cigar.
BRAND OVERVIEW
The General Cigar Company was founded in New York City by the Cullman brothers in 1906. It’s responsible for some of the world’s best cigars and has an extensive portfolio that includes household names such as CAO, Cohiba, and Macanudo.
Now owned by the Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG), the company announced at the beginning of 2021 that it would be splitting up its stable of premium cigar brands. Brands like La Gloria Cubana and Partagas would be moved into a new subsidiary called Forged Cigar Company, while select others were to remain under the existing General Cigar Company umbrella.
CIGAR SPECS
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium-Full
Wrapper: Nicaraguan
Binder: Honduras
Filler: Nicaraguan
Sizes Available:
La Estrella Cubana Habano Churchill (7 x 48)
La Estrella Cubana Habano Gigante (6 x 60)
La Estrella Cubana Habano Robusto (5 x 50)
La Estrella Cubana Habano Toro (6 x 50)
COLD DRAW
The box alone, with its simple yet elegant expression of Cuba’s colorful culture, would make for a great gift. Upon opening it, I was met with a sweet wood and honey aroma on the nose while a hint of cedar on the cold draw kept my palate grounded in wood.
FLAVOR PROFILE: FIRST THIRD
I lit up my Habano to reveal a deep, rich tobacco flavor that had a strong leather undertone throughout the first third. Around an inch in, the cigar reaches a beautiful richness where dark chocolate and pepper explode on my tongue.
The draw is spot-on with just enough resistance and the beautiful charcoal ash holds firm — further proof of the General’s quality craftsmanship.
FLAVOR PROFILE: SECOND THIRD
The profile becomes earthier in the middle section as earth, spice, and a distinct coffee note reminiscent of a bitter and dry shot of espresso are all present. This may be why the cigar left me feeling parched so I suggest having some water or scotch nearby when smoking this indulgent stick.
My stogie starts to veer into a rich and creamy direction as caramel, cream, and cinnamon roll off my taste buds towards the end of the second third. Suffice to say I was left wanting more as I prepared for the grand finale.
FLAVOR PROFILE: THE FINAL THIRD
La Estrella Cubana Habano’s last third still brings rich flavors. Nevertheless, the dark chocolate, cedar, white pepper and loyal coffee tinges mingle to a ruinous effect while mildness of light oak spice comes and goes as I burn towards the nub.
Oak is more flavor than spice which conveniently segues me into sporadic spice blasts that occurred within my smoking journey. It never got to the point where it was too much for my palate but stayed long enough for an enjoyable moment.
CONCLUSION
The Cubana Habano performed well above its price point. You could easily pass it off as a premium smoke when in reality it won’t cost you an arm and a leg. This is a good medium-bodied cigar that provides full rich creamy flavors.
A box of 20 Habano Churchills will each give you a couple hours of smoking pleasure. For only $61.30 you can’t beat it.