For the discerning aficionado, few things hold as much allure as a release reserved exclusively for the upper echelon of tobacconists. The H. Upmann Connossieur A stands as a testament to this exclusivity, having been crafted specifically for the Habanos Specialist and La Casa del Habano retail networks. Debuting in 2013, this distinguished cigar offered enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore the heritage of H. Upmann through a lens of premium retail partnership, ensuring that only the most knowledgeable merchants were entrusted with guiding smokers through this experience.
A Toast to Retail Excellence: Exclusivity and Design
The creation of the Connossieur A was not merely about blending tobacco; it was a strategic move to honor the dedicated network of Especialista en Habanos and La Casa del Habano locations. By restricting distribution to these premium channels, Habanos S.A. ensured that the cigar would land in the hands of experts capable of preserving its integrity and presenting it to the public with the reverence it deserves. This distribution model serves as a badge of quality, signaling to the consumer that the vitola within is something truly apart from the standard catalog releases.
Visually, the cigar immediately sets itself apart. It features a distinct, secondary band that marks it as a Connossieur A release, differentiating it clearly from the standard H. Upmann lineup. The presentation is completed with elegant slide-lid boxes, each containing 25 cigars. This classic packaging style not only ensures protection during aging but also makes the purchase feel like a significant addition to any connoisseur’s humidor.
The Genios Vitola: Specifications and Construction
At the heart of this offering lies the Genios vitola, a format that has gained popularity for its generous proportions and comfortable hand feel. Measuring 140 mm (5½ inches) in length with a substantial 52 ring gauge, the Connossieur A offers a smoking duration that allows for a full development of flavor profiles without requiring a marathon session. Each unit is handmade, weighing in at an official 13.69 grams, ensuring a dense pack that promises an even burn and a consistent draw throughout the experience.
The choice of the Genios name—translating roughly to "geniuses"—implies a certain mastery in construction. Smokers will find the physical build to be robust, typical of the high standards expected from Cuban craftsmanship. The dimensions strike a perfect balance, thick enough to cool the smoke effectively while remaining manageable for a leisurely afternoon or evening indulgence.
A Symphony of Cream and Spice: Tasting Notes
Upon lighting, the Connossieur A reveals itself as a medium-bodied affair, favoring elegance and smoothness over brute strength. The flavor profile is immediately defined by a creamy core, interwoven with distinct notes of baked goods. Reviewers have frequently highlighted a prominent shortbread or buttery biscuit character, which pairs beautifully with the underlying sweetness of vanilla and caramel. This pastry-like quality is one of the cigar's most endearing traits, offering a comforting, savory richness from the first puff.
As the smoke progresses, the complexity begins to unfold. The initial creaminess is supported by a woody backbone, specifically notes of cedar and dry wood. Savory elements enter the fray, ranging from roasted coffee beans to distinct nuttiness. The finish often carries hints of leather, hay, and earth, grounding the lighter flavors and providing a classic Cuban "twang" that seasoned palates will recognize and appreciate. Subtle spices—white pepper and baking spices—dance on the retrohale, adding a layer of sophistication without overwhelming the primary flavor arc.
Performance and Final Verdict
While individual technical scores for attributes like strength, complexity, and aftertaste have historically hovered around the middle of the scale—often rated as a 3 out of 5—the overall reception tells a different story. The Connossieur A boasts an impressive aggregate score of 4.04 out of 5 based on enthusiast reviews. This discrepancy suggests that while the cigar may not be the most powerful or complex offering on the market, its true value lies in its harmony. The "whole" of the experience is far greater than the sum of its parts.
The H. Upmann Connossieur A succeeds by delivering exactly what it promises: a refined, balanced, and approachable smoke that rewards the smoker with consistency. It is a cigar defined by its equilibrium, where the interplay of cream, coffee, and wood creates a session that is both relaxing and engaging. For those able to secure a box from a specialist retailer, this 2013 release remains a worthy addition to any collection, representing the best of what exclusive distribution channels have to offer.
