Trinidad Cigars at 55: Habanos World Days in London Celebrates a Legacy of Cuban Excellence

In June 2024, cigar aficionados from around the globe gathered in London for Habanos World Days, an event that celebrated the storied legacy of Trinidad cigars on their 55th anniversary. Over three days, the past, present, and future of this revered brand were explored in detail. Panels, tastings, and conversations provided insight into how Trinidad, once a diplomatic secret, has evolved into a global symbol of Cuban craftsmanship.

A highlight of the three days was a panel discussion moderated by the esteemed historian, writer, and Habanos Man of the Year Nick Foulkes, where leading voices in the cigar industry shared their perspectives on the brand’s journey. The conversation, held in front of an audience of enthusiasts, collectors, and experts, was both a celebration of the brand’s heritage and a reflection on its place in the modern cigar market.

Trinidad’s origins is unique amongst the portfolio of Habanos brands, giving it a special and enduring mystique. Trinidad was created two years after Cohiba in 1969 solely for diplomatic purposes, used as gifts for foreign dignitaries. Unlike Cohiba, which followed a similar path of secrecy before becoming widely available, Trinidad remained elusive for decades. It wasn’t until 1998 that the public was able to get their hands on the now-legendary Fundadores, a release that solidified the brand's status as one of Cuba’s most exclusive and celebrated cigars.

Edward Sahakian, owner of the world-renowned Davidoff of London and a panellist, recalled the impact of Trinidad's entry into the commercial market. “There was a certain mystique to the brand,” Sahakian said. “When Trinidad first became available, the demand was immediate. People knew they were smoking something special, something that had once been reserved for diplomats and foreign leaders.”

For Ana Lopez, who was instrumental in launching the Fundadores to the world, the memory of that pivotal moment is still fresh. She shared stories of the careful planning and thought that went into the decision to make Trinidad available to a broader audience. “There was a balance we had to strike,” she said. “We wanted to maintain that aura of exclusivity, but also ensure the cigars could find a place among the wider community of cigar lovers.”

Lopez’s remarks pointed to a central challenge that the brand has faced ever since—how to expand its reach without losing the prestige and allure that comes with being a once-hidden treasure.

As with all heritage brands, Trinidad has had to evolve with the times. While it remains deeply connected to its roots, today’s cigar market is different from that of 1998. New generations of smokers are entering the fold, and they are looking for something more than just history—they want innovation, without compromising on quality. This is a tightrope Trinidad has had to walk in recent years.

Rodrigo Gonzalez, Director of Strategic Marketing for Habanos S.A., addressed this issue during the panel. His focus was clear: innovation must serve the brand’s legacy, not overshadow it. He pointed to the reintroduction of the Robusto Extras, as well as the development of Vintage cigars, as examples of how Trinidad has continued to innovate while staying true to its core values. “What we’re doing with Trinidad is ensuring that the craftsmanship remains impeccable, while also recognizing that today’s consumers want variety, they want something new,” Gonzalez said.

The challenge, as Gonzalez explained, is in appealing to both long-time aficionados who value tradition and newer smokers who seek novelty. It’s a delicate balance, but one that Trinidad has managed skillfully.

For serious cigar collectors, Trinidad has always held a special place. Its historical exclusivity, combined with its limited availability, has made it one of the most coveted brands in the world. Max Gutmann, a prominent figure in the cigar world and an avid collector of rare cigars, shared his perspective on why Trinidad continues to captivate collectors. Gutmann’s collection includes rare Trinidad humidors signed by Fidel Castro, a fact that underscores the brand’s connection to Cuban history.

“For collectors, Trinidad is about more than the smoking experience,” Gutmann explained. “It’s about the story behind each cigar—the diplomacy, the heritage, the craftsmanship. Owning a box of Trinidad isn’t just owning cigars, it’s owning a piece of history.”

Gutmann’s insight added a personal dimension to the discussion. While many cigar enthusiasts are drawn to Trinidad for its flavour and quality, for collectors, it holds a deeper significance. The scarcity of certain releases only adds to the allure, and for those lucky enough to own a rare piece of Trinidad history, the cigars become more than just a luxury—they become artefacts.

While much of the event focused on the past, there was also a clear eye toward the future. The release of the Trinidad Cabildos Limited Edition was the centrepiece of the gala at the Victoria & Albert Museum, where guests were treated to an evening of cigar pairings and champagne in the stunning Raphael Court. This new release, designed to mark the brand’s 55th anniversary, is a statement of intent—an indication that Trinidad is ready to embrace the next chapter of its story.

Gonzalez was optimistic about the future of the brand. “We’ve seen over the years that Trinidad resonates with both seasoned cigar smokers and newer enthusiasts,” he said. “What’s important is that we continue to honour the brand’s heritage while also making it relevant to the changing market.”

The evening was more than just a celebration; it was a demonstration of how Trinidad intends to remain a dominant force in the world of premium cigars. As guests enjoyed Trinidad Vigia cigars paired with Krug champagne, the sense of tradition mixed with modern refinement was palpable.

As the event came to a close, it was clear that Trinidad’s journey is far from over. Its rich history, from a diplomatic gift to a global icon, remains at the heart of its appeal. For collectors like Gutmann and retailers like Sahakian, the brand represents the pinnacle of Cuban craftsmanship. For newer smokers, it offers a gateway into the world of luxury cigars, backed by a story that is as compelling as the cigars themselves.

With new releases like the Trinidad Cabildos Limited Edition and continued innovation, Trinidad is poised to build on its legacy while adapting to the demands of today’s market. Its next 55 years are bound to be as storied as the last.

Trinidad Habanos: Past, Present & Future | London Habanos World Days Trinidad Panel Presentation

As part of the June 2024 Habanos World Days in London, hosted by Hunters & Frankau, the rich and storied history of the Trinidad brand of Habanos cigars was thoroughly explored during a special panel discussion titled “Trinidad Habanos: Past, Present & Future.” Renowned author, historian, and 2007 Habanos Man of the Year for Communications, Nick Foulkes, moderated the panel, which included eight experts who delved into the legacy, development, and future of this iconic Cuban cigar brand. The discussion highlighted key milestones, personal anecdotes, and insider perspectives on what makes Trinidad one of the most revered names in the world of premium cigars.