Description
The Quai d’Orsay No. 50 represents a masterclass in understated luxury, offering a sophisticated departure from the heavy, earthy profiles typically associated with the Habanos portfolio. As a Petit Robusto that balances modern preferences for a larger ring gauge with a shorter, more manageable length, this cigar is the embodiment of Gallic charm and Cuban craftsmanship. Since its global relaunch in 2017, the No. 50 has become a cornerstone for aficionados who demand complexity without overwhelming strength. Its light to mild-medium profile is characterized by an elegant bouquet of aromatic cedar, bright citrus zest, and creamy vanilla, underscored by a delicate floral sweetness. Whether you are an experienced collector seeking a refined morning smoke or a newcomer looking for an accessible entry into the world of premium Cuban tobacco, the Quai d’Orsay No. 50 delivers a 60-minute journey of pure epicurean bliss.
Box Features and Packaging Options
The Quai d’Orsay No. 50 is presented with the brand’s updated visual identity, featuring vibrant gold-accented bands that reflect its premium status. The packaging is designed to maintain the integrity of the Vuelta Abajo tobacco while providing a luxurious unboxing experience.
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Habanos | 10 Habanos |
| Packaging Type | SBN (Semi Boite Nature) Cedar Box | SBN (Semi Boite Nature) Cedar Box |
| Ideal For | Long-term aging and daily rotation | Gifting or sampling the vitola |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar-lined for natural respiration | Compact storage with cedar aroma retention |
Cigar Specifications
Precision in construction is the hallmark of the Quai d’Orsay line. Every No. 50 is Totalmente a Mano (totally handmade) using long filler leaves selected from the finest plantations in the Pinar del Río province.
| Vitola | Petit Robusto (Factory Name: D No. 5) |
| Length | 110 mm (4 3/8 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 50 |
| Wrapper | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) – Smooth Colorado |
| Binder | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Strength | Light to Mild-Medium |
| Body | Medium |
| Smoking Time | Approximately 60 Minutes |
| Factory | Hand-rolled in Cuba by Habanos S.A. |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
The history of Quai d’Orsay is as unique as its flavor profile. Founded in 1973, the brand was created at the specific request of the French Minister of Finance, who sought a cigar that would pair perfectly with French lifestyle and gastronomy—specifically foie gras and champagne. Named after the famous wharf along the Seine in Paris where the French tobacco monopoly (SEITA) was located, Quai d’Orsay remained a largely French regional secret for decades. It was known for its “Claro” (light) wrappers and a profile that favored subtlety over power.
In 2017, Habanos S.A. fundamentally transformed the brand during the Festival del Habano. Recognizing a global shift toward thicker ring gauges and a desire for more aromatic complexity, they introduced the No. 50 and No. 54. This relaunch updated the brand’s aesthetics with ornate, gold-embossed bands and refined the blend to appeal to a modern international palate. Today, Quai d’Orsay stands alongside legendary names like Montecristo and Romeo y Julieta, yet it retains an air of sophisticated exclusivity and “Gallic flair” that sets it apart from more traditional Cuban marques.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The initial light-up of the Quai d’Orsay No. 50 is remarkably clean and inviting. The palate is immediately greeted by intoxicating freshness, led by bright notes of lemon and orange zest. These citrus elements are beautifully balanced by a creamy cedar foundation and a distinct spring floral aroma that fills the room. Unlike many Cubans that start with a spice blast, the No. 50 opens with a gentle, honeyed sweetness, making it an exceptionally accessible start to the smoking experience.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses into the middle third, the body settles into a solid medium. The citrus notes begin to mellow, allowing deeper, warmer flavors to emerge. You will notice a transition toward toasted hazelnut, fresh bread, and vanilla bean. A subtle sprinkling of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a layer of “baking spice” complexity. The retrohale is particularly rewarding here, offering a very faint white pepper tingle that enhances the sweetness without adding harshness. The construction remains impeccable, with a razor-straight burn and a firm, light-grey ash.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final stages, the Quai d’Orsay No. 50 reaches its most cohesive state. The vanilla sweetness intensifies, acting as a bridge between the lingering citrus zest and the dominant woody notes. The flavor profile becomes denser and more “chewy,” with the cedar taking on a richer, more resinous quality. Despite the build-up of oils, the cigar never becomes bitter or overly hot, maintaining its mild-medium elegance until the very last puff. It is a finish that leaves the palate feeling refreshed rather than fatigued.
Finish
The aftertaste is remarkably clean, characterized by a lingering sweet vanilla and a touch of woody spice. It is a relaxing, nuanced finish that invites another smoke, making it the perfect companion for a long, leisurely afternoon.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Aromatic Cedar, Citrus Zest, Creamy Vanilla |
| Secondary Notes | Toasted Hazelnut, Spring Florals, Warm Bread |
| Tertiary Notes | Cinnamon, Nutmeg, White Pepper, Honey |
| Finish | Clean, Sweet, Woody, Refreshing |
| Aroma | Sweet Herbal, Baking Spices, Natural Tobacco |
Aging and Collector Value
The Quai d’Orsay No. 50 is a fascinating candidate for the humidor. While many light-bodied cigars are intended for immediate consumption, the high-quality Vuelta Abajo tobacco used in this blend possesses significant aging potential. Over time, the bright citrus notes tend to settle, evolving into a more complex savory-sweet profile reminiscent of salted caramel or praline.
For the optimal experience, we recommend aging these cigars for 1 to 3 years. This duration allows the oils in the Colorado wrapper to marry with the filler, smoothing out any youthful edges and enhancing the floral delicacy. Collectors often value the No. 50 for its consistency and its role as a “palate cleanser” between heavier smokes. To preserve its delicate aromatic oils, store these at a steady 65-70% RH. If you possess the tubed versions (Tubos), they are excellent for even slower, more controlled long-term maturation.
Perfect Pairings
Because the Quai d’Orsay No. 50 is defined by its subtlety and citrus-vanilla elegance, it pairs best with beverages that complement rather than overwhelm its delicate profile.
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Vintage Champagne | The effervescence and brioche notes of a fine Champagne mirror the cigar’s “Gallic charm” and bready undertones. |
| Light Highland Scotch | A honey-forward, unpeated whisky enhances the cedar and floral notes without crowding the palate. |
| Aged Agricole Rum | The grassy, cane-sugar sweetness of French Caribbean rum synergizes perfectly with the citrus zest. |
| Cappuccino | The frothed milk amplifies the cigar’s creamy vanilla and hazelnut characteristics for a perfect morning pairing. |
| Cognac (VSOP) | The fruit-forward nature of a good Cognac highlights the baking spices and cinnamon in the middle third. |
| White Tea (Silver Needle) | A non-alcoholic option that respects the cigar’s light body while drawing out its hidden floral nuances. |
Authenticity Verification
We understand that purchasing luxury Cuban cigars requires absolute confidence in the product’s origin. Every box of Quai d’Orsay No. 50 we provide undergoes a rigorous inspection process to ensure it meets the standards of Habanos S.A.
- Habanos Holographic Seal: Every box features the official green and white warranty seal with a unique barcode and a holographic image that reacts to light.
- Box Code Verification: The underside of each box is hot-stamped with the factory code and the date of packaging (e.g., BRE MAY 23), allowing for full traceability.
- Factory Stamp: Look for the “Hecho en Cuba” and “Totalmente a Mano” stamps, which are applied with heat and ink to ensure permanence and authenticity.
- Triple Cap: Each No. 50 is finished with a traditional Cuban triple cap, a mark of expert torcedor skill that provides a clean cut and smooth draw.
Our Guarantee: Every cigar in our collection is sourced through official channels. If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors and connoisseurs since 2015.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Quai d’Orsay No. 50 suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. In fact, it is often cited as one of the best “entry-level” luxury Cuban cigars. Its light to mild-medium strength ensures that a beginner won’t be overwhelmed by nicotine, while its high complexity provides a clear example of what makes Cuban tobacco so world-renowned. It is smooth, aromatic, and very forgiving.
How does the No. 50 compare to the Partagas Serie D No. 5?
While both cigars share the same Petit Robusto dimensions (110mm x 50 ring gauge), they are polar opposites in terms of flavor. The Partagas is bold, earthy, and spicy—a “powerhouse” smoke. The Quai d’Orsay No. 50 is its elegant, lighter alternative, focusing on citrus, cream, and floral notes. They are perfect counterparts for different times of the day.
What is the estimated smoking time for this vitola?
Despite its shorter length, the 50 ring gauge allows for a slow, cool burn. Most smokers will find the Quai d’Orsay No. 50 lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes. It is the ideal size for a business lunch, a morning coffee break, or a pre-dinner aperitif.
Why did the brand change its look in 2017?
The 2017 relaunch was designed to elevate Quai d’Orsay from a “niche regional brand” to a “global premium brand.” Habanos S.A. updated the blend to be slightly more flavorful (moving from light to mild-medium) and introduced modern sizes like the No. 50 and No. 54 to meet the global demand for thicker cigars. The new gold-embossed bands were also introduced to reflect the brand’s luxury positioning.
