Among the notable entries in the annals of Cuban cigar craftsmanship stands the H. Upmann Aromaticos (1), a machine-produced smoke that carved out a significant place in tobacco culture for more than forty years. This unassuming vitola represented much more than its modest size suggested—serving as a gateway for countless enthusiasts entering the world of authentic Cuban cigars while embodying the reliability and tradition that the H. Upmann name has always commanded.
A Journey Through Time
The roots of the Aromaticos (1) extend deep into the pre-revolutionary era, with its debut occurring prior to 1960. This places the cigar among the venerable machine-made selections that H. Upmann offered during a transformative period in Cuban history. The brand, long recognized for its handcrafted premium offerings, understood that not every smoker sought the elaborate ritual of a handmade puro—some desired quality Cuban tobacco in a more accessible format.
For over four decades, this particular vitola remained a steady presence in Habanos' production schedules, finally receiving its retirement notice in 2002. Such an extended production run speaks volumes about the cigar's enduring appeal. Unlike limited-edition releases that capture fleeting attention, the Aromaticos (1) maintained consistent demand from a loyal base of consumers who appreciated its dependable character and straightforward smoking experience.
Technical Details and Construction
Measuring in at 117 millimeters with a 40-ring gauge, the Aromaticos (1) carried the factory designation of "Coronitas"—a name that reflected its Corona-style proportions scaled down for machine production. These dimensions positioned it squarely within the traditional small Corona category, making it comfortable for smokers seeking a moderate smoking duration without committing to the extended session that larger formats demand.
The official weight of 6.78 grams made it a lightweight contender in the Cuban portfolio, yet the construction quality lived up to H. Upmann's reputation. As a machine-made offering, the cigar relied on mechanized rolling techniques rather than the labor-intensive hand-rolling that defines premium Cuban cigars, but quality control measures ensured each specimen delivered a respectable smoking experience.
Branding and Packaging Options
The Aromaticos (1) featured the classic H. Upmann band, identified in factory records as Band B. This distinctive marking served multiple purposes—it authenticated the cigar's Cuban origins while maintaining visual continuity with the brand's broader range of products. Smokers familiar with H. Upmann's portfolio could instantly recognize the connection to higher-end siblings, lending the machine-made offering an air of legitimacy.
Understanding that consumers have varied purchasing preferences, Habanos released the Aromaticos (1) in several presentation formats. The smallest option consisted of a cardboard pack holding five individual cigars, each protected by cellophane wrapping—ideal for those wishing to sample the smoke without committing to larger quantities. For the more devoted enthusiast, dress boxes containing twenty-five cigars provided better value, available both with and without the individual cellophane covering.
Where It Fits in Cigar History
Since 2002, the Aromaticos (1) has transitioned from practical smoking commodity to collectible artifact. The cigar now occupies a different role—not as an everyday smoke readily available at tobacconists, but as a historical reference point for understanding how Cuban cigar manufacturers balanced accessibility with authenticity.
The Aromaticos (1) serves as evidence of H. Upmann's willingness to serve diverse market segments. While the brand's handcrafted releases garnered international acclaim and collector interest, this machine-made option ensured that premium Cuban tobacco remained within reach of budget-conscious smokers. In examining the brand's complete history, one cannot overlook the importance of such democratizing offerings that broadened the appeal of Cuban cigars beyond elite circles.
