Cigars come in a wide range of prices, but what sets premium cigars apart from their cheaper counterparts? While taxes can inflate costs, true premium cigars justify their price through their rarity, aged tobaccos, skilled craftsmanship, and high-quality packaging. Here’s what makes them worth it.
5 reasons why premium cigars are worth the price
From rare tobaccos to expert craftsmanship, here are five key factors that contribute to the value of premium cigars.
Taxes
One of the most significant factors that influence the price of a premium cigar is taxes. While these don’t affect the taste or quality, tobacco taxes can significantly raise the retail price. In states with steep tobacco taxes, such as New York, the base price of a cigar can increase by as much as 60%. This can make cigars in high-demand regions far more expensive, though the taxes themselves don’t impact the quality of the product.
Rarity
Premium cigars, like limited-edition luxury items, are often rare and produced in small quantities. High-end brands like Montecristo, Cohiba, and Romeo y Julieta are not mass-produced. These cigars are sought after for their rarity, and collectors often buy them as soon as they become available. The exclusivity of these blends and the prestige associated with them make them more valuable.. Additionally, the cost of packaging and the unique bands also contribute to their higher price tag.
Premium aged tobaccos
The tobacco used in premium cigars is often aged for years to develop the rich and complex flavours that cigar aficionados love. Cigar-makers like Carlito Fuente, Pepin Garcia, and Jorge Padron invest in the careful aging process, which can take years. The best tobacco leaves are sourced from select farms and fermented for months, if not years, before they are used in the rolling process. Storing and rotating these leaves during fermentation and aging adds to the cost of production. The result is a smoother, more refined cigar that has had the time it needs to reach its full potential.
Quality control
Crafting a perfect cigar requires skill, precision, and years of experience. The best cigar-makers invest in their rolling galleries, hiring talented rollers and ensuring they are trained to meet exacting standards. The facilities are well-equipped, with proper ventilation and air conditioning to ensure consistency. Premium cigar brands like Fuente Fuente Opus X even train new rollers from scratch to ensure the cigars are made to their high standards. Better working conditions, advanced training, and attention to detail come at a cost, but it’s a cost that ensures the finished product is flawless in both burn and flavour.
Packaging
While you don’t smoke the box, packaging plays a significant role in the price of a premium cigar. The finest cigars come in elegant, carefully crafted boxes that highlight the care and attention put into the product inside. High-quality bands are often printed by specialty companies that have been in the business for over a century. Some premium cigars also come in intricate boxes with detailed embossing, which adds to their cost. This premium packaging not only reflects the quality of the cigar but also serves as a visual statement of luxury.
While these cigars may cost more than your average smoke, their exceptional quality, unique flavours, and attention to detail make them worth the investment for the discerning smoker.
