Quai d’Orsay Especial d’Orsay Arrives in Switzerland
The anniversary Quai d’Orsay Especial d’Orsay is finally reaching retailers, nearly two years after its debut in Cuba. Switzerland becomes one of the first markets to receive the long-delayed release.
A Delayed Anniversary Release
During the 2024 Habanos Festival in Cuba, Habanos S.A. unveiled the Quai d’Orsay Especial d’Orsay. The cigar marked 50 years of the Quai d’Orsay name. Although introduced with ceremony, the cigar did not reach retailers at the time.
Nearly two years later, the rollout has begun. From January 20, Swiss La Casa del Habano locations will start selling the cigar. One week later, availability will expand to Habanos Specialist shops across the country.
Size, Packaging, and Pricing
The Especial d’Orsay uses a Sobresalientes format. It measures 6 inches by a 53 ring gauge. This vitola reflects modern preferences without abandoning elegance.
Swiss retailers will initially receive only gift packaging. Five-count presentation boxes will retail at 275 Swiss francs. That equates to roughly 55 Swiss francs per cigar. Standard 20-count boxes will follow later. Habanos has not confirmed a release date yet. That equals to €59 or $68 USD approximately.
A Brand Born for France
Quai d’Orsay launched in 1974. The brand was created specifically for the French market. Its identity mirrored French taste, refinement, and luxury. The name comes from a Parisian street along the Seine.
At the time, French distributor SEITA operated from that same avenue. Today, Cuban cigars in France fall under Coprova.
Early Quai d’Orsay cigars leaned light in body. France and Switzerland formed the core markets. Strength never defined the brand.
From Near Extinction to Global Revival
Over the years, most original sizes disappeared. Eventually, only the Corona Claro remained in regular production. Aside from occasional regional editions, the brand faded.
That changed in 2017. Habanos revived Quai d’Orsay with thicker formats. Packaging received a complete redesign. Most importantly, distribution went global. The brand now appears in markets far beyond France.
Suave Character Remains Intact
Despite the changes, one element stayed constant. Habanos still describes the blend as suave, or light. Elegance remains the priority.
The Especial d’Orsay fits that philosophy. It offers an option for smokers who prefer balance over power. In today’s market, that distinction still matters.
