Hi Umut, that’s really interesting, thanks for the info. I haven’t heard about fake cigars presented like that. I’ve had non-Cuban cigars in cellophane (and have seen cheap machine-made Cubans too) but never the premium handmade Cuban ones. Got to say, I think you’re giving those fake cigars a lot of credit though, saying they’ve ever been near a real cigar factory! ?
I suppose it really boils down to the fact that if you want to be absolutely certain you’re getting the real thing, you’re going to have to pay a bit more for it or wear the cost. Mate of mine bought a whole load of dodgy Cohibas when he went to Cuba. Brought them back and put them in his humidor without quarantining them – tobacco mites chewed through everything, including his stash of real Cohibas. Gutted.

It’s a real catch 22, isn’t it Randy. On one hand, you have some well-rolled cigars that look the part and probably smoke just as well as the real branded ones – and most importantly the money doesn’t go straight to the Cuban government, but on the other hand, if you’re paying a premium for a cigar that’s pretending to be the product, the expectation is it’ll be the real deal.
The funny thing is some of my most memorable cigars have been farmer-rolled (so completely unbranded and to be honest quite badly made) but smoking them on the back of a horse exploring the countryside and tobacco fields of western Cuba. Goes to show it’s not always about the quality or the price, but more about the context. If you’re happy with what you’re smoking and the price you’re paying, those are two important boxes ticked. Anyway, thanks for your comment. Have a good one. ?

Definitely worth going to Cuba anyway, Pete. And if you can enjoy a cigar or two while you’re there, even better. Just watch how many cigars you’re allowed to bring back through customs of the next country you fly into from Cuba. Australia especially has a very small amount of tobacco they allow in before you have to pay duty – much less than a box. You might be able to sneak the cigars back through in your luggage… but of course we would never condone that! Good luck and have fun.

Been debating a little solo trip to Cuba just to partake (and bring back a box perhaps? If I can). I appreciate the thought here!

Cheers,