As cigar enthusiasts, we are always on the lookout for the best cigars on the market. Romeo y Julieta cigars stand out as one of the most iconic brands in the cigar industry, with a rich history dating back to 1875.
In this article, we will review the best Romeo y Julieta cigars you can buy in 2024 that are available to United States customers, along with the extraordinary history and evolution of the brand.
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Key Takeaways:
- Romeo y Julieta cigars have a rich history dating back to 1875 in Cuba and are named after Shakespeare's famous play, Romeo and Juliet
- The brand has evolved over the years and is now handmade in three countries: the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Honduras
- The best Romeo y Julieta cigars of 2024 are a must-try for any cigar lover, with their unique flavors and high-quality craftsmanship
Contrary to the fate of the star-crossed lovers in the Romeo and Juliet play, the brand is still one of the most popular in the world.
Whether you are a seasoned cigar smoker or a beginner to the world of cigars, if you're wondering whether the Romeo y Julieta brand is worth your time, this article is for you.
History of the Romeo y Julieta Cigar Brand
Romeo y Julieta, a name steeped in history and culture, originates in the vibrant cigar world of 19th century Cuba.
Inception and Inspiration
Founded by visionary entrepreneurs Inocencio Alvarez and Manin Garcia, this legendary brand emerged in 1875.
The two business partners wanted to create a cigar that embodied the passion and romance of William Shakespeare's famous Romeo and Juliet play.
Rapid Rise to Prominence
Romeo y Julieta quickly gained popularity in its early years and became highly respected in the cigar industry.
The brand's remarkable journey was accentuated by a series of accolades showcased on its enduring logo – a testament to the numerous tasting medals earned at prestigious contests and exhibitions.
Enter a New Guardian
As the 1900s dawned, a new steward of the brand's legacy emerged: Jose "Pepin" Rodriguez Fernandez.
Pepin had previously been the driving force behind the Cabañas factory in Havana, Cuba. In 1903 Pepin and his company Rodriguez, Arguelles y Cia, acquired the Romeo y Julieta brand.
Under his visionary leadership, Romeo y Julieta not only continued its ascent but expanded its horizons.
Pepin was an avid traveler, extensively journeying through Europe and the Americas. During his expeditions, he actively championed his cigars. He went as far as naming his racehorse "Julieta," an active contender in races spanning the globe.
This pivotal era marked the brand's expansion and deepened its global impact as cigar connoisseurs worldwide embraced its offerings.
Unforeseen Disruptions and Global Resilience
Pepin passed away in 1954 at age 88. The 1959 Cuban Revolution reshaped the landscape of cigar production, resulting in the nationalization of Cuba's cigar industry.
Romeo y Julieta, like many other brands during that period, faced an uncertain fate.
The disruption prompted the exodus of skilled cigar artisans from Cuba, birthing new chapters for the brand in countries like the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Honduras.
Evolution Beyond Borders
After Pepin's passing and the Cuban Government's takeover of tobacco, the production of Romeo y Julieta cigars underwent a significant shift.
It found a new home within a tobacco company located in La Romana, situated in the Dominican Republic.
The transition occurred under the guiding hand of Altadis U.S.A., and are still produced by Altadis to this day.
Today, Romeo y Julieta's influence extends beyond its Cuban roots, spanning continents and blending traditions. While maintaining its artisanal craftsmanship in Cuba, the brand has embraced its new homes in the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Honduras.
The Cuban Government maintains control of the Cuban-produced brand, and it is still one of its most highly sought-after creations.
This global evolution has allowed the Romeo y Julieta brand to weave diverse tobacco profiles into its repertoire and appeal to a broader spectrum of enthusiasts.
Range of Flavors and Collaborations
The modern Romeo y Julieta portfolio showcases an array of flavors, offering raving fans an array of experiences.
Ranging from mild to full-bodied, the brand's cigars are well-known for their nuanced and captivating profiles.
Collaborations with esteemed figures in the industry, such as the partnership with AJ Fernandez and Rafael Nodal yielding the Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Nicaragua in 2018, highlight the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries.
Living Testament to Tradition and Innovation
Romeo y Julieta's journey across time encapsulates a century-old heritage and an unceasing quest for excellence.
The brand's enduring legacy is defined by a fusion of tradition and innovation, a commitment to quality that has transcended borders, and a dedication to crafting experiences that resonate with cigar enthusiasts worldwide.
In an ever-evolving industry, Romeo y Julieta stands as an icon of unwavering dedication to the artistry of cigars.
Our Recommendations for the Top 5 Best Romeo y Julieta Cigars in 2024
1. Romeo y Julieta Reserve Titan Tubos
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Shape: Toro
Size: 6 x 54
Strength: Medium - Full
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado
Binder / Filler: Nicaragua / Honduras, Nicaragua
Wrapper Type: Nicaragua Habano
Starting with the best-selling Romeo y Julieta cigar at Atlantic Cigar Co in 2022, the Reserve Titan Tubos.
While Romeo y Julieta's beginnings might have been on the milder side, this cigar is here to redefine that narrative.
Encased in an elegant tube, the Romeo y Julieta Reserve Titan Tubos ensures pristine preservation and offers a touch of sophistication.
This line employs a blend of robust filler tobaccos sourced from Nicaragua and Honduras, elevating the cigar's intensity.
It's then enveloped in a dark and oily Nicaraguan wrapper, adding depth and complexity to the smoke.
Upon lighting, you'll find earthy nuances that intertwine seamlessly with a velvety finish, complemented by hints of pepper and natural sweetness.
In essence, the Romeo y Julieta Reserve emerges as a flawlessly crafted, medium to full-bodied gem showcasing the brand's dedication to diversity and quality.
2. Romeo y Julieta 1875 Mini Blue Mild Tins
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Shape: Cigarillo
Size: 2 7/8 x 20
Strength: Medium
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado
Binder / Filler: Dominican Republic / Dominican Republic
Wrapper Type: Indonesian Sumatra
The Romeo y Julieta 1875 Mini Blue Mild Tins redefine the notion that grand experiences must come in large packages.
These cigars are an excellent option when there isn't enough time to indulge in a full-sized smoke.
They opted for a lovely Indonesian Shade-Grown wrapper that envelops a classic Dominican binder and a mix of Dominican long-fillers.
Despite their small size, these cigars deliver an abundance of taste. A gentle and inviting mellowness introduces the palate, featuring creamy notes that gently intertwine with a subtle nuttiness.
One of the best-selling cigars globally, the Romeo y Julieta 1875 won't be the strongest cigar in your humidor. However, for those moments when you're on the go, you'll find the perfect choice of a masterfully crafted smoke bursting with flavor.
3. Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Nicaragua Toro
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Shape: Toro
Size: 6 x 54
Strength: Medium - Full
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado
Binder / Filler: Nicaragua / Nicaragua
Wrapper Type: Nicaraguan Habano
Securing the 22nd spot in Cigar Aficionado's 2020 ranking, the Romeo y Julieta Real Nicaragua Toro emerges as a testament to the artistry of a collaboration between two renowned cigar craftsmen, A.J. Fernandez, and Rafael Nodal.
The Reserve Real Nicaragua is a product of 100% Nicaraguan tobaccos expertly cultivated on A.J. Ferndandez's farms and hand-rolled at Tabacalera A.J. Fernandez Estelí, Nicaragua.
Compared to its Dominican counterpart, this cigar offers a heightened richness and complexity yet maintains an artful equilibrium between strength and flavor.
The strength of the Reserva Real Nicaragua is manageable, striking a harmonious medium - full-bodied balance that's bound to impress.
For taste, you'll be greeted with a succession of flavors, including leather and sweet nuts, culminating in a cedar-like finish.
If you're after a celebrated Nicaraguan puro, the Reserve Real Nicaragua Toro is a treat - just be lucky enough to find them in stock.
4. Romeo by Romeo y Julieta Piramides
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Shape: Torpedo
Size: 6 1/8 x 52
Strength: Full
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado Maduro
Binder / Filler: Dominican Republic / Dominican Republic
Wrapper Type: Ecuadorian Habano
Ranking 3rd in Cigar Aficionado's Top 25 rankings in 2012, the Romeo by Romeo y Julieta Piramides emerges as a worthy contender for the strongest and most intricate Romeo y Julieta creations from the Dominican Republic.
This cigar embodies the brand's timeless essence, combining a modern presentation and flavor with the classic Romeo Y Julieta legacy.
Notably, the brand takes a daring departure when it comes to the wrapper. While traditional non-Cuban Romeos typically sport Indonesian wrappers for their milder flavor profile, Romeo by Romeo y Julieta uses a dark, rich Ecuadorian Habano-seed wrapper.
The lustrous wrapper surrounds a Dominican blend of robust binder and filler tobaccos within.
This marriage of elements yields a cigar of profound complexity and balance, offering a strong body with an infusion of spice and a hint of sweetness that captivates the senses.
Give the Romeo by Romeo y Julieta Piramides a try if you're feeling adventurous and want to try a bold, complex masterpiece.
5. Romeo y Julieta Vintage No. III
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Shape: Robusto
Size: 5 x 50
Strength: Mild - Medium
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado Claro
Binder / Filler: Mexico / Dominican Republic
Wrapper Type: Ecuadorian Connecticut
The Romeo y Julieta Vintage No. III pays homage to the legacy of Romeo y Julieta, offering an experience that resonates with aficionados seeking timeless elegance.
Packaged in a classic cedar box and bearing a vintage band, this cigar takes you on a mellow yet flavorful journey of tradition.
Crafted from premium tobacco, including Dominican fillers and a Mexican binder, these cigars are adorned with a classic Ecuadorian Shade Connecticut wrapper. The ideal combination for a cigar with unrivaled smoothness and exceptional flavor.
Expect notes of cedar and leather merging with hints of toasted nuts. You'll also find a touch of sweetness that's reminiscent of dried fruit, culminating in a pleasantly smooth finish.
Looking for a true classic flavor profile? You can't go wrong with the Romeo y Julieta Vintage No. III.
