Reflecting on cigars from yesteryear, I often find myself nostalgic about discontinued Cuban cigars. Yet, when reviewing my cigar consumption, it becomes evident that New World cigars dominate my humidor. Among these, many discontinued gems still hold a special place in my heart. Here are five non-Cuban cigars that I would love to see return.

Warlock Cigars

A few years back, “edgy lifestyle” cigar brands were thriving. Among them, Altadis USA’s Warlock stood out with its bold branding and exceptional quality. The robusto size (4 ¾ x 54) earned a stellar 92 rating, securing a spot in Cigar Aficionado’s Top 25 in 2011. Created by Omar Ortez at the Agros Tobacos Industriales factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, Warlock embodied the robust flavours and construction cigar aficionados crave.

While I still have a few tucked away in my humidor, each smoke serves as a bittersweet reminder of what’s been lost. If Altadis ever considered a revival, I’d be among the first in line.

Tatuaje Belle Encre Reserva

To commemorate Tatuaje’s 10th anniversary, Pete Johnson introduced the Belle Encre and Bon Chasseur sizes of the Brown Label. A year later, the Belle Encre Reserva was released, featuring a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper instead of the Ecuadorian Habano.

This wrapper transformation elevated the blend, making the Reserva a standout. Although Tatuaje offers a new version with a Mexican wrapper, I still yearn for the original Reserva’s nuanced richness. Its absence from the market is keenly felt by those who appreciated its distinctive character.

Nosotros

When Drew Estate and Illusione joined forces in 2009 to create Nosotros, it was a dream collaboration for cigar enthusiasts. Translating to “us,” Nosotros was marketed with a rebellious and pioneering spirit that reflected its creators.

Despite the hype, the project lasted only 14 months, with both parties parting ways under vague circumstances. Jonathan Drew called it an “interesting experience,” leaving many, including myself, wishing for a continuation. Smoking my last Nosotros recently, I was reminded of its unique allure and the lost potential of this partnership.

Cornelius & Anthony Senor Esugars

Cornelius & Anthony made waves during their brief stint in the premium cigar market. Founded by the Bailey family—tobacco veterans from Virginia—the brand’s cigars were crafted at Erik Espinosa’s La Zona factory in Estelí. Among their creations, Senor Esugars, named after the family dog, stood out with its playful branding and exceptional blend.

The Baileys eventually exited the industry, leaving Cornelius & Anthony to fade away. While other Espinosa blends remain, none have filled the void left by Senor Esugars. Its absence underscores the fleeting nature of the industry, but the brand’s logo still hangs proudly in my home office as a tribute.

CyB

When José Blanco joined Joya de Nicaragua, he collaborated with the factory’s blending team to create Cuenca y Blanco. Soon after, it was renamed CyB due to a copyright dispute. Featuring Peruvian tobacco as its secret ingredient, the blend showcased a complexity that captivated enthusiasts.

After Blanco stepped down to return to the Dominican Republic, CyB’s production ceased not long after. Although I occasionally ask José for cigars from his personal stash, they’re understandably scarce. Its unique profile and historical significance make it irreplaceable.

While the cigar industry constantly evolves, certain discontinued blends remain irreplaceable in the hearts of aficionados. These five New World cigars represent innovation, craftsmanship, and passion. Their absence is a reminder to savour each cigar as if it might be the last of its kind. Which discontinued cigars do you miss? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Header photo by Valiant Made on Unsplash