Viva La Vida Connecticut Churchill and Lancero Set for PCA 2026

Artesano Del Tobacco has revealed the next additions to its Viva La Vida Connecticut line. Following a consumer survey, the company will release a Churchill and a Lancero at the 2026 PCA Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans.

Consumer Survey Shapes Line Expansion

Last month, Artesano Del Tobacco asked its email subscribers which new vitolas should join the Viva La Vida Connecticut. Nearly 700 cigar enthusiasts responded, giving clear direction for the brand’s next steps.

The voting results were as follows:

• Churchill — 43%

• Lancero — 21%

• Corona Gorda — 9%

• Salomon — 8%

• Corona — 6%

• Culebra — 6%

• 6 x 60 — 3%

• 3 1/2 x 54 (Nub) — 2%

• 7 x 70 — 1%

• Torpedo — 1%

The Churchill topped the poll with a commanding lead, followed by the Lancero. These two formats will now move into production.

Launch Planned for PCA 2026

Artesano Del Tobacco confirmed that both new vitolas are scheduled to debut at the 2026 PCA Convention & Trade Show. The event will take place from 18–20 April in New Orleans, a city already linked with the line’s launch earlier this year.

Current Viva La Vida Connecticut Range

The Viva La Vida Connecticut made its debut at the 2025 PCA Convention. It currently features two sizes: a Robusto (5 x 54) and a Toro (6 x 54). Both use an Ecuadorian Connecticut-seed wrapper, a Nicaraguan binder, and Nicaraguan fillers. AJ Fernandez produces the line in Nicaragua, continuing his close collaboration with Artesano Del Tobacco.

Strong Collaboration with AJ Fernandez

In announcing the results, Artesano Del Tobacco highlighted its ongoing partnership with AJ Fernandez. The company expressed excitement about developing the Churchill and Lancero formats with Fernandez’s factory in Nicaragua, ensuring consistency with the existing blends and craftsmanship.