In the cigar smoking world, Cuban cigars are the best among the rest, for many reasons. It could be because of the distinct taste and flavour of the tobacco which is grown in an ideal climate, or maybe because of the way Cuban workers make the cigars. Whatever the reason is, Cuban cigars are popular all over the world. Because of this popularity, many bad companies take advantage of the people's fondness for these cigars. They try to imitate these cigars and fool other people who don't know any better into buying them. Do not be fooled by these companies and their fake cigars and spend your hard earned cash buying poor quality cigars. Arm yourself with knowledge about Cuban cigars. Here are things that you should know to determine the authenticity of a Cuban cigar.
  • Unfortunately for American cigar smokers, Cuban cigars cannot be purchased in the United States due to its trade embargo with Cuba. American citizens who purchase Cuban cigars in another country that does have trade relations can bring Cuban cigars back with them on their return, providing that it is for their personal use and their value does not exceed US$100. Be wary of unscrupulous people or companies trying to sell you smuggled cigars.
  • Each and every Cuban cigar has a seal of warranty that guarantees authenticity. This has been the practice since 1912. Any cigar without this seal is not an authentic Cuban cigar.
  • You should also check for another seal - the Habanos Chevron. You will find this seal on the right or left corners of dress boxes and cabinets. This is as big and tall as a 12 inch ruler. The label will have a shadow of one tobacco leaf with the word "Habanos" written in bold and red letters. The letters' borders are edged with the color orange or yellow.
  • There will also be Hallmarks at the lower part of the cigar box. They are as follows: Habanos s.a., Hecho en Cuba, and Totalmente a mano. You will know that the cigars are authentic if you can feel the raised letters using your fingers.
  • A stamp should also be found in the same area as the hallmarks. You will see the manufactured date of the cigars in the stamps.
  • You probably noticed this, but all major brands of cigars or cigarettes have government warning about the cigars' hazards to the user's health. All countries have this law, even the cigar smoking and producing countries like some Latin American countries.
  • The condition of the cigar box should be an obvious indication of authenticity. An authentic box is in a very good condition. But for those imitation products, they use poor quality products and materials, which results in low quality cigars and presentation.
  • Inside the box, you will also know if the cigar is authentic if you can see a small piece of paper which states advice on how to fully enjoy and store tobacco. This message is written in four different foreign languages.
  • Contrary to what other people think, Cuban cigars do not have any smell when still unlit, unlike most cigars. You will only experience its flavour once you light it.