About the Quai D’Orsay Imperiales
Quai D’Orsay sits among the quieter jewels of the Habanos portfolio, a marca born in 1973 when Cubatabaco crafted it for the French market at the request of Seita, France’s old tobacco monopoly. The name borrows from the celebrated Parisian avenue along the Seine where Seita kept its offices, and that bit of diplomatic pedigree still clings to the brand. The Imperiales carries the line’s signature restraint into a full Churchill, a totally handmade long filler smoke that favours finesse over force.
Flavor profile by thirds
The opening third is soft and inviting, leading with sweet cedar and a clean creaminess that coats the palate without weight. Through the middle the cigar gathers a touch of toasted nut and a whisper of vanilla, while a gentle baking spice begins to peek through the smoke. The final third leans slightly warmer, adding hints of creamy coffee and faint cocoa, yet the whole experience stays smooth and measured from light to nub.
Pairings
- A lightly aged white rum or a soft añejo, which echoes the cigar’s cream and cedar without crowding it.
- A cup of café con leche or a mild espresso to lift the toasted nut and coffee notes.
- A glass of Champagne or a dry sparkling wine for a classic French-inspired match.
Aging and storage
Keep the Imperiales in a well seasoned humidor held around 65 to 70 percent relative humidity and roughly 18 degrees Celsius. Because this is a mild, delicately balanced Habano, a few months of rest helps the cedar and cream marry, though it will not dramatically change strength the way a fuller cigar might. Stored patiently in stable conditions, the wrapper oils settle and the draw stays consistent, rewarding smokers who give it a little time.
Who it is for
This is an excellent Churchill for anyone stepping up to a longer format without wanting heavy intensity, and it makes a forgiving introduction to the larger ring gauges. Seasoned aficionados who appreciate subtlety and a long, unhurried smoke will find plenty to enjoy here too. If your taste runs toward bold, peppery Cubans, this gentler stick may read as too quiet, but as a relaxed afternoon companion it is hard to fault.
Frequently asked questions
How strong is the Quai D’Orsay Imperiales?
It is a mild to medium cigar, widely regarded as one of the gentler Cuban Churchills, which makes it approachable for newer smokers while still pleasing experienced palates.
What size is the Imperiales?
It is a Churchill (Julieta No. 2) measuring 7.0 inches, about 178 mm, with a 47 ring gauge, offering a smoke time of well over an hour.
What does the Quai D’Orsay Imperiales taste like?
Expect a smooth, creamy profile led by sweet cedar, with toasted nuts, light vanilla, gentle spice, and a touch of creamy coffee toward the finish.
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.
