Raul Valladares, A World Without the Maestro.

Raúl Valladares, a cherished figure in the world of Cuban cigars, sadly passed away. For those who knew his work, his name evokes not only the iconic cigars he helped create but also a profound respect for the artistry and tradition of Cuban tobacco. Known as the “Maestro de Maestros”—a title that translates to "Master of Masters"—he left an enduring legacy that continues to define excellence in the cigar world.

Born in Pinar del Río, the heartland of Cuba's finest tobacco, Valladares grew up immersed in the rhythms of the land. His early years in the fields gave him a rare intimacy with the materials he would one day transform into legendary cigars. This deep connection shaped his entire career, inspiring a profound reverence for every leaf and the land it came from.

Valladares’ rise in the cigar world brought him to El Laguito, the prestigious factory responsible for producing Cohiba and Trinidad cigars. At El Laguito, Valladares quickly distinguished himself as a creative force. His technical mastery, combined with an intuitive understanding of tradition and modernity, solidified his reputation as one of Cuba's greatest innovators.

Among Valladares’ many contributions, the Trinidad Fundadores stands as a crowning achievement. Released to the public in 1998, this cigar marked a turning point for Trinidad, transitioning it from a secretive diplomatic brand to one celebrated by aficionados worldwide. The Fundadores embodied Valladares’ vision for a medium-bodied cigar with intricate layers of flavor, setting a new standard for sophistication and elegance.

Collaborating closely with Ana López, a pivotal figure at Habanos S.A., Valladares helped redefine Trinidad’s identity. The Fundadores became the brand’s hallmark, reflecting a refined style that balanced complexity with accessibility, appealing to both seasoned connoisseurs and new enthusiasts.

Beyond his work with Trinidad, Valladares was instrumental in the creation of the Habanos Limited Edition series, an innovation that captivated collectors and connoisseurs alike. Crafted with specially aged tobaccos, these cigars showcased Valladares’ dedication to pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship while preserving the authenticity of Cuban cigars. His contributions to these blends elevated Cuban cigars to unparalleled levels of artistry, cementing his place as a pioneer in the industry.

Valladares was more than a master blender; he was a guardian of Cuban cigar heritage. He approached his work with the belief that every cigar should tell a story—a reflection of the culture, history, and artistry that defined it. Those who smoked his creations weren’t just enjoying cigars—they were experiencing decades of knowledge, care, and passion.

Even in his later years, Valladares remained a source of inspiration. In interviews featured in the documentary The Legacy of Trinidad, he revealed his philosophy: blending cigars wasn’t merely about flavor—it was about creating an emotional connection. “Each blend,” he said, “must tell a story.”

Raúl Valladares’ passing marked the end of an era, but his work endures as a living testament to his genius. Cigars like the Trinidad Fundadores continue to be savored by aficionados around the world, carrying forward his legacy with every puff. Through his vision, skill, and passion, Valladares ensured his impact would resonate across generations.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of his remarkable contributions, the two-part documentary series The Legacy of Trinidad offers a heartfelt tribute to his life and work. It is a fitting celebration of a man whose dedication shaped not just cigars but the way the world enjoys them.

Raul Valladares | Trinidad Master Blender | The Legacy of Trinidad Habanos World Days Bonus Content

Raul Valladares is a legendary figure in the world of Cuban cigars, renowned as the Master Blender behind the iconic Trinidad Fundadores and the creator of the Habanos Limited Edition series. His expertise and passion for the craft have left an indelible mark on the cigar industry. Exclusively for attendees of the 2024 Habanos World Days, we have compiled uncut excerpts from our interviews with Raul that were not included in our “The Legacy of Trinidad” two-part documentary. Raul Valladares shares first-hand some of his memories associated with the pivotal moments in which he shaped the future of Cuban tobacco. Raul's journey to becoming a Master Blender was marked by years of dedication, honing his skills under the mentorship of some of the most esteemed figures in the industry. His deep understanding of tobacco leaves, combined with his innovative approach, has enabled him to create blends that are celebrated for their complexity, balance, and unique flavor profiles.

The Legacy of Trinidad - Part 1 | The Origins of an Icon | Cuban Cigars | Kirby Allison

PART 1: "1969-1998: The Origins of an Icon" In the inaugural episode of our "The Legacy of Trinidad" series, we trace the prestigious lineage of Trinidad cigars, an emblem of Cuba’s rich tobacco tradition, national history, and cultural heritage. Viewers will discover why the historic City of Trinidad was chosen as the namesake for Cuba’s diplomatic cigar, signifying not only its historic importance but also the city’s global cultural impact. The episode opens with the unveiling of Trinidad to the wider world: the discovery by Marvin Shanken and its inclusion at the famed 1994 Dinner of the Century. The piece then explores the historical importance and significance of Trinidad city to Cuba and the world. We'll travel back in history to the earliest days of the El Laguito factory, where Trinidad was rolled alongside the Cohiba at El Laguito, the country’s most important and exclusive factory. From the onset, Trinidad was designated as a national treasure reserved exclusively for diplomatic gifts rather than public sale.