About the Quai d’Orsay Coronas Claras
Few Cuban marcas carry as distinctly Parisian a pedigree as Quai d’Orsay. The brand was created by Cubatabaco in 1973 specifically for SEITA, the French state tobacco monopoly, and it takes its name from a famous avenue on the Left Bank of the Seine. That French connection shaped its character from the start, favoring elegance and restraint over raw power. The Coronas Claras sits at the heart of this philosophy, a classic corona blended from light, carefully selected leaves grown in the Vuelta Abajo region. It is a cigar built for the smoker who prizes subtlety and a clean, polished smoking experience.
Flavor profile by thirds
The opening third is gentle and inviting, leading with light cedar, a soft creaminess, and a faint bronzed sweetness that recalls honey. Through the middle, the smoke gathers a touch more nuance, layering in roasted nuts and a quiet thread of light spice without ever raising its voice. The final third stays smooth and composed, with cedar and cream carrying through to a clean finish that lingers softly rather than building toward intensity. Throughout, the body remains firmly on the mild side, which is exactly what this vitola promises.
Pairings
- A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a mild espresso, which echoes the cigar’s gentle roasted notes.
- A lighter aged rum or a glass of cognac, complementing the soft sweetness without overwhelming it.
- Sparkling water or a crisp white wine for those who want the tobacco’s delicacy to stay front and center.
Aging and storage
Like all hand-rolled Havanas, the Coronas Claras rewards patient, stable storage. Keep your cigars in a seasoned humidor held at roughly 65 to 70 percent relative humidity and around 65 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Because this is a milder blend, its delicate cedar and cream notes can soften and marry beautifully with a year or two of rest, though it is perfectly enjoyable fresh. Avoid storing it alongside fuller, more aromatic cigars that might overpower its quieter character.
Who it is for
This corona is a natural choice for smokers who prefer a light, refined cigar over a bold one. It suits newcomers easing into Cuban tobacco, morning smokers who want flavor without weight, and seasoned aficionados looking for an unhurried, low-intensity break. If your taste runs toward power and spice, you may find it too gentle, but for lovers of elegance it is a genuine pleasure.
Frequently asked questions
How strong is the Quai d’Orsay Coronas Claras?
It is a mild cigar, one of the lighter-bodied options in the Cuban range, making it approachable and easy to enjoy at any time of day.
What size is this cigar?
It is a Corona measuring 5.6 inches (143 mm) with a 42 ring gauge, a classic and balanced format.
What is the history behind the Quai d’Orsay brand?
Quai d’Orsay was created by Cubatabaco in 1973 for the French state tobacco monopoly SEITA, and it is named after a well-known Parisian avenue.
Explore more
Browse all Quai D'Orsay cigars, or try the Quai D’orsay No. 50 and Quai d’Orsay Senadores. Store yours in a seasoned humidor and see our guide on how long cigars last. Learn more from the official Habanos S.A. site.
Jean Stone –
Exceptional cigar from Cuban Cigar. The Quai D’orsay Coronas Claras delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of nuts and earth throughout the 76 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Jack Peterson –
Very pleased with this Quai D’orsay Coronas Claras. Cuban Cigar quality shines through with leather and wood flavors and solid construction. A touch expensive but worth it for special occasions. Good smoke!
Richard Howard –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Quai D’orsay Coronas Claras is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 46 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – leather and wood. Will definitely order more!
Brandon Wright –
Absolutely outstanding corona! The Cuban Cigar Quai D’orsay Coronas Claras delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of honey and tobacco. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Brenda Gibson –
Top-tier quality from Cuban Cigar. The Quai D’orsay Coronas Claras showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of coffee and cream. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!