Among the distinguished lineup of discontinued Cuban smokes, the H. Upmann Noellas stands as a remarkable testament to an era when Cuban cigar makers perfected the art of producing refined, medium-bodied smokes that captivated smokers worldwide. This particular vitola carved out its own niche during a transformative period in Havana's legendary tobacco industry, becoming a sought-after piece for those who managed to experience its nuanced profile before production ceased in the early 1980s.
Origins and Historical Significance
The Noellas emerged onto the Cuban cigar scene well before the significant political changes of 1960, establishing itself as one of the venerable sizes within the H. Upmann portfolio. The brand itself, founded by Hermann Upmann in 1844, had built a reputation for consistency and quality that the Noellas ably upheld throughout its approximately twenty-year production run. This timeframe positioned the smoke squarely within what collectors often refer to as the golden era of Cuban cigar manufacturing, when traditional techniques reached their zenith and brands competed fiercely on craftsmanship. The discontinuation in the early 1980s marked the end of an era, leaving a void in the lineup that enthusiasts still discuss decades later.
Physical Specifications and Construction
Measuring precisely 135 millimeters, which translates to approximately five and three-eighths inches, the Noellas presented smokers with a corona-style format that balanced accessibility with substance. The 42-ring gauge provided a comfortable draw and allowed the tobacco blend to express its flavors progressively throughout the smoking session. Each stick weighed in at 8.84 grams, reflecting the substantial yet reasonable proportions that made this size practical for both casual enjoyment and contemplative moments. The vitola was produced entirely by hand, adhering to the rigorous standards that defined premium Cuban cigar production during this period. The factory designation for this size was Cosacos, an internal nomenclature that cigar historians recognize when researching production records from the era.
Presentation and Packaging
One distinctive characteristic of the Noellas was its packaging format: twenty-five cigars nestled within glass jars. This approach combined practicality with visual appeal, as the transparent containers allowed potential purchasers to examine the cigars while simultaneously providing an effective seal that helped maintain humidity levels and freshness. The glass jar presentation proved particularly popular among retailers, who could display them prominently on counters while knowing the contents remained protected. The standard band A adorned each vitola, marking it unmistakably as part of the H. Upmann regular production family and distinguishing it from limited editions or regional releases that might feature different identification systems.
Legacy and Modern Homage
While original Noellas have become increasingly scarce and valuable among collectors, the spirit of this beloved vitola lives on through special releases that pay tribute to its memory. The H. Upmann Noellas La Casa del Habano Exclusivo represents a contemporary interpretation that channels the essence of the discontinued classic through the prestigious La Casa del Habano program. These modern renditions attempt to capture the character that made the original so cherished, offering new generations of enthusiasts a glimpse into the flavor profile that defined an era of Cuban cigar excellence. For those fortunate enough to have smoked the original, or fortunate enough to acquire aged specimens today, the Noellas remains a cherished reminder of when traditional Cuban cigar making reached its peak of artistry and consistency.
