Diplomáticos Genios Regional Edition Debuts in Cuba

The newest Regional Edition Cuban cigar from Phoenicia Trading A.A., the Diplomáticos Genios Exclusivo Phoenicia, was unveiled at a private event in Cuba. This premium cigar, measuring 5 1/2 inches long by 52 ring gauge, is set to go on sale from March 1, retailing at $29 per cigar.

As with all Regional Editions, the Diplomáticos Genios Exclusivo Phoenicia is a limited release. These cigars come in 50-count cabinets, a rarity in today’s market, with only 4,000 cabinets available—totalling 200,000 cigars. Each box will be individually numbered, marking a first for the Diplomáticos brand in this particular packaging format.

Mohamed Zeidan, chairman of Phoenicia, prefers the 50-count cabinet format due to its ageing benefits. He explained, “They age better, and it’s better for the cigar; that’s why I prefer to go to 50.” This particular vitola, known as Genios (Spanish for geniuses), was first introduced with the Cohiba Maduro 5 Genios in 2007 and is also found in the H. Upmann Connoisseur A.

This release commemorates the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cyprus, where Phoenicia is headquartered, and Cuba. As one of the world’s most influential Cuban cigar distributors, Phoenicia is responsible for the sale of Cuban cigars across 60 countries, including the Middle East, parts of Europe (Greece, Malta, Cyprus, and Ukraine), and most of Africa.

Phoenicia has a history of producing standout Regional Editions. Last year, it launched the Por Larrañaga Fénix, which earned an impressive 94-point rating. In 2022, it introduced the Juan Lopez Hat Trick, released in honour of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, one of Phoenicia’s key territories.

With its limited availability, premium craftsmanship, and historical significance, the Diplomáticos Genios Exclusivo Phoenicia is expected to be a coveted addition for collectors and aficionados alike.