Quintero is one of the few Habanos brands not born in Havana. It was founded in 1924 by Agustín Quintero and his brothers in the coastal city of Cienfuegos, also known as the "Pearl of the South." This makes it unique among Cuban cigar brands, most of which originate from Havana or the Vuelta Abajo region.
Initially named Quintero y Hermanos (Quintero & Brothers), the brand quickly gained popularity for offering a flavorful smoke at an affordable price. While Cienfuegos lies near the Vuelta Arriba region, Quintero cigars have historically been rolled using tobacco from the premium Vuelta Abajo and Semi Vuelta regions, ensuring quality and flavor consistency.
By the 1940s, the Quintero family had expanded production into Havana, where they began rolling cigars with Vuelta Abajo tobacco and introduced a wider range of sizes. The brand became especially successful in Spain, one of its most loyal markets.
Following the nationalization of the Cuban cigar industry in the 1960s, Quintero was repositioned as a machine-made brand—the only such line exported worldwide by Habanos S.A. These cigars were often short-filler blends, packaged in aluminum tubes and known for their herbal flavor and sweet aftertaste. Quintero also had the advantage of being aged longer before reaching the market, enhancing its profile.
In 2002, machine production was discontinued, and Quintero returned to its roots with an all handmade line. Today, all vitolas are crafted Totalmente a Mano con Tripa Corta (entirely by hand with short filler), using carefully selected tobaccos from Vuelta Abajo and Semi Vuelta.
Quintero cigars are ideal for smokers seeking a medium-bodied experience at an accessible price point. Though classified as a value brand within the Habanos portfolio, its legacy, craftsmanship, and rich flavor profile make it a compelling choice for both newcomers and seasoned smokers alike.
Sabor: Medio
