Edición regional cigars are Cuba's one-off editions for national markets, tailored to their tastes. By ADRIAN LESLEY  What better way to start the new year than by trying three exclusive new cigars for the European market? Since 2005, Habanos SA have released special regional edition cigars destined for both individual European countries and Asia. The edición regional series are one-off, limited-production cigars (around 1,000 boxes only) made for specific regional markets on a strictly one-off basis. To date 12 different cigars have been created for Italy, France, Germany, England, Spain, Switzerland and Hong Kong. Such efforts go to show just how hard Cuba is trying in its quest to offer aficionados around the World something different.
Adrian Lesley is the proprietor of CigarsUnlimited, south-west London's leading cigar specialist and Habanos Gold Medal retailer. Tel: +44 (0)207 386 9000, www.cigarsunlimited.co.uk HUMIDOR Juan Lopez Obus (140 mm x 52 ring gauge) This brand is not widely distributed and accounts for a very small percentage of total sales worldwide but should not be overlooked by those who enjoy top-quality cigars. Essentially a Belicoso Fino, this small piramide comes in an SLB Cabinet Selection box and has been allocated to France only. A well-made, medium-strength cigar appropriate for any time of day, the Obus was a delight to smoke. A good draw and an attractive wrapper was matched by a fresh, delicate, woody taste. Its distinctive floral aroma seduced me immediately. Rolled only last August, it may be a trifle early to judge its true quality but already I am marking this particular cigar as one that can only improve. Ramón Allones Belicosos, (140 mm x 52 ring gauge) Habanos created this cigar exclusively for the British market given that we have a particular penchant for Ramón Allones with their rich, earthy, almost spicy blend. First created as far back as 1845, only four sizes now survive. So the advent of a Belicoso provided a particularly welcome event for connoisseurs here in the UK. Floral, herbal overtones aligned to a honey sweetness overlaid with a medium toasted tobacco taste characterise this cigar. Great complexity and yet balance between strength and flavour make this an exceptional Havana cigar. Bolivar Libertadores (164 mm x 54 ring gauge) This large and powerful cigar is truly impressive. Made exclusively for the French market, it is strictly for mature smokers who favour a full-bodied cigar. Its heavy earthiness does not kick in initially. The typical dry, tangy, fruity sweetness is present, mixed with a distinct toasted aftertaste. But once the cigar warms up, its strength and complexity develop into a crescendo of strong flavours. Best sampled after a substantial meal, preferably with wine, the Libertadores are as yet too young to truly gauge, yet Bolivars traditionally have significant ageing potential. |