LA GLORIA CUBANA

La Gloria Cubana :: A Brief History

La Gloria Cubana stands as arguably the rarest and most sought after of the Cuban cigar brands amongst aficionados and collectors. This reputation is well merited by virtue of its very low market share amongst Habanos S.A exports and its quality, worthy of its rightfully boastful name.
            La Gloria Cubana is amongst the oldest brands, established in 1885 by the Sociedad Cabanos y Castro. From early days, this brand distinguished itself by its ornate and elaborate presentation. The legendary “papeletas” or dressings on the boxes comprised of 100% gold foil that would adorn the stunning rococo inspired lithography.
            1954 was a fateful year for the brand, after being purchased by the prominent Cifuentes family (along with Bolivar) production was moved from 364 Miguel street to the Partagas factory. It is here that La Gloria established its niche as the “fruitier, less earthy” alternative to Partagas, taking on some of the vitolas, naming scheme and flavours of the larger brand.
            Briefly following the acquisition of the Partagas factory by the revolutionary government, production was briefly halted until 1965, resuming a small but consistent output. In the case of La Gloria, demand never matches supply its scarcity corresponds with an unprecedented consistency of quality among Cubans.
            While sharing some characteristics with Partagas, La Gloria Cubana’s hallmark is its medium, well-elaborated profile, revealing floral and fruity notes that take on a subtle salty tinge following aging.
            The vast majority of the brands’ predominantly thin-gauge vitolas have been discontinued, such as the legendary Medaille d’or No.1 and No.2. La Gloria’s current production takes the form of regionals, limited editions, and casa exclusives, confirming it’s well established legacy as a luxury brand.

1885

La Gloria Cubana is established by Sociedad Cabanas y Castro at 53 Corrales street

1905

Brand is acquired by Jose F Rocha, production moves to 364 Miguel street

1954

Cifuentes family acquires La Gloria Cubana alongside Bolivar, production is moved to the Partagas Factory

1961

Production is seized by the revolutionary government, La Gloria Cubana production undergoes a hiatus

1965

Production resumes

2000

La Gloria export share stands at 0.2% of all Habanos

2008

Release of first La Gloria Regional edition, the UK exclusive “Gloriosos”, marking the first time the brand was made available in the nation.