The Devaluation of the Word “Vintage” in the Cigar Industry

The term “vintage” holds a certain allure, evoking thoughts of timeless quality and rich history. But in the cigar industry, its meaning has become muddled, with many using it interchangeably with “aged.” With no universal definition, the term is increasingly losing its true significance.

What Does “Vintage” Truly Mean?

A Definition Rooted in History

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “vintage” refers to “something from the past of high quality, especially something representing the best of its kind.” While this captures the essence of the word, it leaves the critical question of age unanswered.

Flea market expert Nicolas Martin, as cited by Martha Stewart, offers a clearer framework: vintage items are at least 20 years old but less than 100. By this definition, cigars aged less than two decades cannot be considered vintage, regardless of their quality or uniqueness.

Aged vs. Vintage: Drawing the Line

Understanding “Aged”

In cigar terminology, “aged” refers to cigars that have undergone a period of rest to develop their flavours and complexity. While these cigars might be remarkable, they don’t meet the threshold of “vintage” unless they exceed 20 years.

When Labels Collide

Traditionally, manufacturers adhered to this distinction, reserving the term “vintage” for cigars that met higher age criteria. Even Habanos S.A., known for its marketing acumen, labelled its older cigars as Añejados (aged) rather than vintage. However, this clear boundary is now being blurred.

Habanos’ New Vintage Programme

Redefining “Vintage”

In a recent move, Habanos has introduced a new programme that categorises cigars as “vintage” after as little as five years of ageing. Their system breaks down as follows:

• Vintage 5: Aged for more than 5 but less than 10 years.
• Vintage 10: Aged for more than 10 but less than 15 years.
• Vintage 15: Aged for more than 15 but less than 20 years.
• Grand Vintage: Aged for more than 20 years.

The Problem with the New Standards

Only the Grand Vintage category aligns with traditional definitions of vintage. Labelling five-year-old cigars as vintage dilutes the term’s meaning, creating confusion among enthusiasts. Storage rules introduced by Habanos as part of their vintage criteria further complicate matters, as storage quality, while important, doesn’t define a cigar’s age.

Why This Matters

The Risk of Over-Marketisation

By applying “vintage” to younger cigars, manufacturers risk cheapening the term’s value. Imagine calling a 2018 Toyota Camry a “vintage car”—it simply doesn’t hold up. This overuse of “vintage” can mislead consumers, undermining the authenticity of truly vintage cigars.

Preserving the Integrity of “Vintage”

For cigar enthusiasts, the distinction between aged and vintage cigars is more than semantics—it reflects a respect for the craft and history of cigar-making. As the industry evolves, it’s crucial to preserve the integrity of terms like “vintage” to ensure they remain meaningful markers of quality and heritage.

Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or new to cigars, understanding these distinctions can enhance your appreciation and guide your choices. Let’s hold the industry accountable to keep “vintage” truly timeless.