About the Cuaba Tradicionales
The Cuaba Tradicionales sits at the heart of one of the most romantic stories in modern Havana cigar making. Habanos S.A. launched the Cuaba marca in London in November 1996 with a single purpose, to bring back the elegant double figurado that had all but vanished from commercial production for roughly four decades. The Tradicionales is the cigar most people picture when they think of the brand, a slender perfecto tapered at both ends that recalls the silhouette of the Havanas smoked through the second half of the nineteenth century. Rolled in the classic favorito-perfecto format, it measures 4.8 inches (120 mm) with a 42 ring gauge, a compact stick whose double-pointed shape demands real skill at the rolling table.
Flavor profile by thirds
The opening third leans toward a gentle earthiness, with toasted cedar and a touch of bread leading the way, lifted by a hint of citrus that keeps the early draws bright. Through the middle the cedar firms up and gives the smoke a sturdier backbone, with coffee and a soft cocoa sweetness joining the mix while a whisper of white pepper adds definition. The final third settles into a rounded, smooth finish where the wood and earth carry through, leaving a medium to full body that feels generous without ever turning harsh.
Pairings
- An aged Cuban rum, whose caramel and oak echo the cigar’s cedar and cocoa notes.
- A cup of dark, freshly pulled espresso to mirror the coffee tones in the second third.
- A lightly peated single malt whisky for those who want a touch of contrast against the citrus lift.
Aging and storage
The Tradicionales responds well to patience. Kept at a steady 65 to 70 percent relative humidity and around 18 degrees Celsius, the cigar grows rounder over time as the cedar mellows and the earthier notes settle into harmony. Because of the tapered double figurado shape, proper humidity is especially important, since a cigar that dries out can draw unevenly and burn fast. A well seasoned humidor and a little time will reward you with a smoother, more integrated smoke.
Who it is for
This is a cigar for smokers who appreciate craft as much as flavor. The figurado shape calls for a clean cut at the tapered head and a careful light, which makes it a satisfying ritual for the enthusiast who enjoys taking their time. Its medium to full body suits those with some experience under their belt, yet the balance and approachable size mean it never feels overwhelming. If you love the heritage of Havana and want a cigar that wears its history on its sleeve, the Tradicionales belongs in your rotation.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the Cuaba Tradicionales?
It measures 4.8 inches (120 mm) with a 42 ring gauge and is rolled as a double figurado, or perfecto, tapered at both the head and the foot.
How strong is the Cuaba Tradicionales?
It sits in the medium to full range, offering enough depth for experienced smokers while staying balanced and smooth enough to remain enjoyable rather than overpowering.
What does the Cuaba Tradicionales taste like?
Expect earthy tobacco, toasted cedar, and coffee, with a soft cocoa sweetness and a bright citrus undertone that runs through the smoke.
Explore more
Browse all Cuaba cigars, or try the Cuaba Salomon Box of 10s and Cuaba Piramides Edicion Limitada 2008. Store yours in a seasoned humidor and see our guide on how long cigars last. Learn more from the official Habanos S.A. site.