In 1999, while the cigar world obsessed over vintage releases and historic brands, Habanos S.A. did something unexpected: they launched an entirely new marca. San Cristóbal de la Habana—named after Havana's original Spanish colonial designation—became the first new global Cuban cigar brand in decades. This wasn't a resurrection or a rebranding. This was something genuinely new.
What makes San Cristóbal fascinating is that it had no baggage, no legacy expectations. The blenders could create whatever they wanted. And what they created was a medium-bodied, beautifully balanced cigar that sits comfortably between the lighter brands and the powerhouses. Each vitola is named after one of Havana's colonial fortifications—El Morro, La Fuerza, La Punta—and there's something fitting about that: these cigars are like well-built fortresses of flavor, solid and reliable.
Complete Guide to San Cristóbal Product Lines
The Fortification Series
Each vitola named after Havana's historic colonial fortresses:
- San Cristóbal El Morro - 7" x 49. Named after the famous Morro Castle lighthouse fortress. Grand churchill format.
- El Morro Tubes - Protected in aluminum tubes.
- San Cristóbal La Fuerza - 5.7" x 50. Named for the oldest stone fortress in the Americas. Robusto extra format.
- San Cristóbal La Punta - 5.2" x 52. Named for La Punta fortress. Thick ring gauge with character.
Casa del Habano Exclusives
- Mercaderes Casa del Habano - LCDH exclusive, named after Havana's merchant street.
- Oficios Casa del Habano - LCDH exclusive, named after the Street of Trades.
- La Muralla Casa del Habano - LCDH exclusive, named for the city walls.
Special Editions
- San Cristóbal 20 Aniversario - Celebrating 20 years of the brand (1999-2019).
- Torreón de La Habana Ceramic Jar Humidor - Collector's presentation in ceramic.
San Cristóbal Size and Strength Comparison
| Vitola | Fortress | Size | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Punta | Fortress | 5.2" x 52 | Medium |
| La Fuerza | Fortress | 5.7" x 50 | Medium |
| El Morro | Lighthouse | 7" x 49 | Medium |
| Mercaderes | LCDH | Various | Medium-Full |
San Cristóbal Flavor Profile
San Cristóbal delivers balanced, medium-bodied flavor with complexity that punches above its weight class.
Primary Flavor Notes
- Cedar and aromatic wood - Clean, pleasant backbone.
- Cream and butter - Silky, smooth mouthfeel.
- Coffee - Medium roast, approachable intensity.
- Light spice - Pepper that builds gradually.
- Nuts - Almonds and hazelnuts in the finish.
- Floral hints - Subtle aromatic character.
How to Identify Authentic San Cristóbal
The Band
- Compass rose design - Nautical motif reflecting Havana's harbor heritage
- Blue and gold coloring - Distinctive coastal tones
- "Habana" text - Clearly legible
Best Drink Pairings
- Cuban rum (5-7 years) - Natural pairing, medium intensity.
- Cognac VS/VSOP - Grape-based elegance complements the balance.
- Champagne - Effervescence works beautifully.
- Coffee with milk - Café con leche for a Cuban experience.
San Cristóbal Storage and Aging
- Humidity - 65-70% RH.
- Temperature - 65-70°F (18-21°C).
- Aging potential - El Morro develops nicely at 2-4 years.
- Resting period - 2-3 weeks minimum after shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was San Cristóbal created?
Habanos S.A. wanted a modern brand without historical baggage. San Cristóbal, launched in 1999, was the first new global Cuban cigar brand in decades and allowed blenders creative freedom.
What does "San Cristóbal de la Habana" mean?
It's Havana's original Spanish colonial name, given by the conquistadors. Each vitola is named after one of the city's historic fortifications—El Morro, La Fuerza, La Punta—linking the brand to colonial Cuban history.
Is San Cristóbal good for beginners?
Excellent. The medium body and balanced profile make San Cristóbal accessible while still offering genuine Cuban complexity. The La Punta is an ideal entry point.
How does San Cristóbal compare to older brands?
San Cristóbal doesn't carry the prestige pricing of Cohiba or the fame of Montecristo, which makes it excellent value. The quality is comparable to medium-tier offerings from major houses at lower prices.