Punch doesn't just have a name—it has an attitude. Founded in 1840 by a German named Manuel López for the British market, the brand was named after the satirical magazine "Mr. Punch," a sharp-tongued character from the London scene. That irreverent British spirit still runs through every cigar: Punch delivers exactly what the name promises. No apologies. No subtlety. Just robust Cuban tobacco that makes its presence known.
What I find fascinating about Punch is how it carves out space between the polite medium-bodied brands and the face-melting intensity of Bolivar. It's full-bodied but not brutal, powerful but still refined. The British loved it because it went perfectly with their after-dinner ports and aged whiskies. Today, Punch remains the go-to brand for smokers who want a cigar with character—something that fights back a little bit without knocking you out.
Complete Guide to Punch Product Lines
Punch Punch - The Flagship
The Punch Punch is the cigar that built the brand's reputation—a bold Churchill-format smoke that delivers exactly what the name promises.
- Punch Punch - 5.6" x 46. The iconic vitola that defines the brand.
Double Coronas and Large Formats
- Punch Double Corona - 7.6" x 49. Extended power for serious sessions.
- Punch Double Coronas - Alternative presentation of the large format.
- Punch Churchills - 7" x 47. Classic churchill vitola.
- Punch Presidentes - Presidential format for distinguished occasions.
Coronas and Classic Formats
- Petit Coronas del Punch - 5.1" x 42. Compact but characterful.
- Punch Nacionales - Traditional national format.
- Punch Royal Selection No. 11 - Royal series with refined character.
Tubes Presentations
- Punch Monarch Tubos - Premium format in protective tubes.
- Punch Coronations Tubos - Coronation format in tubes.
Serie D'Oro (Golden Series)
Premium line with enhanced complexity.
- Punch Serie D'Oro No. 1 - Golden series flagship.
- Serie D'Oro No. 2 Edición Limitada 2013 - Limited edition golden series.
Punch Size and Strength Comparison
| Vitola | Line | Size | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Coronas | Classic | 5.1" x 42 | Medium-Full |
| Punch Punch | Flagship | 5.6" x 46 | Full |
| Churchills | Classic | 7" x 47 | Full |
| Double Corona | Premium | 7.6" x 49 | Full |
| Serie D'Oro No. 1 | Premium | Various | Full |
Punch Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
Punch delivers robust, full-bodied flavor with a distinctly British sensibility—bold but never crude, powerful but still refined.
Primary Flavor Notes
- Dark earth - Rich, mineral-laden soil character.
- Black pepper - Prominent spice throughout.
- Leather - Aged, well-worn leather notes.
- Coffee - Dark roast, bold intensity.
- Oak and wood - Charred, smoky wood character.
- Cocoa - Bittersweet chocolate undertones.
How to Identify Authentic Punch Cigars
The Punch Band
- Mr. Punch illustration - The satirical character should be clearly visible
- Orange and gold coloring - Distinctive warm tones
- "Habana" text - Clearly legible
- Embossed elements - Raised texture
Best Drink Pairings for Punch Cigars
Punch's British heritage suggests traditional pairings:
- Aged port - Vintage or Late Bottled Vintage complement the power.
- Peated Scotch - Islay malts stand up to Punch's intensity.
- Full-bodied red wine - Amarone or bold Rioja.
- Aged rum - 12+ years with depth to match.
- Espresso - Strong coffee for strong cigars.
Punch Storage and Aging Recommendations
- Humidity - 65-68% RH. These smoke better slightly dry.
- Temperature - 65-70°F (18-21°C).
- Aging potential - Punch Punch improves notably at 3-5 years.
- Resting period - 3-4 weeks minimum after shipping.
Punch Limited Editions
- Serie D'Oro No. 2 Edición Limitada 2013 - Golden series limited release.
- Punch Robusto Suisse Edition - Swiss regional edition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Punch
Why is Punch called Punch?
Named after "Mr. Punch," a satirical British character from the humor magazine Punch. The German founder, Manuel López, created the brand in 1840 specifically for the British market and used British cultural references in the branding.
Is Punch too strong for beginners?
Probably. Punch is a full-bodied brand that rewards experienced palates. Start with milder brands like H. Upmann or Hoyo de Monterrey before graduating to Punch. The Petit Coronas del Punch is the most approachable if you want to try.
How does Punch compare to Partagas?
Both are full-bodied, but they have different personalities. Partagas is earthier with more complexity; Punch is more straightforward with bold, direct power. Partagas is Cuban old-school; Punch has British refinement despite the strength.