We are casting a gaze at a cigar launched in 2016 at the IPCPR Trade Show that translates to “Cuban Star” — the La Estrella Cubana Habano. Produced by the General Cigar Company, this value-priced line is handcrafted in Nicaragua, with the vibrant colors (and stars) of Cuba reflected in its branding.
A Connecticut version of the La Estrella Cubana was also released simultaneously. Connecticut is on the mild side, whereas the Habana falls down the middle of the strength-ometer.
The Habana showcases a handsome and hearty Nicaraguan Habano wrapper that gleams with a rosy complexion. It houses a toasty and creamy blend made with Nicaraguan long-fillers held together by a quality Honduran binder to complete its premium look.
Even though it looks above its pay grade, it begs the question — will it smoke above it? Let’s find out in our La Estrella Cubana cigar review.
Brand Overview
Founded by the Cullman brothers in New York City, the roots of the General Cigar Company can be traced back to 1906. They are responsible for many of the world’s finest cigars and boast an extensive portfolio that includes household names such as CAO, Cohiba, and Macanudo.
The company is now owned by the Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG), although it announced at the start of 2021 that it would be dividing its repository of premium cigar brands. Brands, including La Gloria Cubana and Partagas, would be transferred into a new subsidiary known as Forged Cigar Company, while select others would 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, with its simple yet classy expression of Cuba’s colorful culture, would make for a wonderful gift on its own. Upon lifting the lid, I was entranced by a fragrant aroma of sweet wood and honey, while a hint of cedar in the cold draw kept my taste buds on woody ground.
Flavor profile: first third
I heated my Habano to reveal a deep, rich tobacco flavor, with a strong undercurrent of leather in the first part of the third. At an inch in, the cigar reaches a gorgeous richness with a mix of dark chocolate and pepper erupting on my palate.
The draw is perfect with the right amount of resistance and the beautiful charcoal ash held firm, again illustrating the quality craftsmanship we’ve come to expect from the General.
Flavor profile: second third
The profile becomes earthier in the middle section, and I pick up notes of earth, spice, and a distinctive coffee note that’s not overpowering but bitter and dry like a shot of espresso. This may explain why the cigar left a thirsty sensation on my palate, so I recommend having a glass of water or scotch on hand while you smoke this decadent stick.
The spice mellows substantially towards the conclusion of the second third as my stogie begins to head in a rich and creamy direction. Caramel, cream, and cinnamon roll off the tongue, leaving me wanting more as I prepare for the grand finale.
Flavor profile: final third
The flavor profile remains predominantly rich during the final third of the La Estrella Cubana Habano. Dark chocolate, cedar, white pepper, and that faithful coffee note mingle to devastating effect, while light oak spice fades in and out as I progress towards the nub.
The oak is more a flavor than a spice, which conveniently brings me onto the sporadic spice blasts that showed up in my smoking journey. There never reached a point where my palate could no longer tolerate it, lingering only for a satisfying moment.
Conclusion
The Cubana Habano performs far better than its price range. It could be easily mistaken for a premium smoke when the reality is it won’t cost you an arm and a leg. It’s a pleasant medium-strength cigar that dishes out a rich, smooth embodiment of flavors.
A box of 20 Habano Churchills will each give you a couple of hours of smoking joy. For the bargain price of $61.30, you won’t be disappointed.