For the discerning aficionado, few retail experiences rival a visit to a La Casa del Habano (LCDH) boutique. These prestigious shops are renowned not just for their immaculate storage conditions, but for access to exclusive cigars that never reach the broader global market. Among these sought-after exclusives is the H. Upmann Royal Robusto, a release that debuted in 2011. This cigar offers a unique interpretation of one of Cuba's most historic brands, presented in a vitola that has become a favorite among modern enthusiasts.
A Unique Vitola and Visual Presentation
The Royal Robusto is immediately identifiable as a boutique special release. While it wears the traditional H. Upmann band, it also features the secondary LCDH ribbon, a mark of distinction that signifies its limited availability. The wrapper is a rich, inviting brown, characteristic of the brand's aesthetic, and is finished with a classic cap. Housed in dress boxes of ten cigars, the presentation feels upscale and intimate, reflecting the premium nature of the product.
What makes this cigar particularly interesting from a size perspective is its factory name: Edmundo. This specific format measures 135 mm (5⅜ inches) in length with a 52 ring gauge. While robust in circumference, the added length provides a slightly longer smoking duration than a standard Robusto, striking a balance between heft and manageability. With a total production run limited to just 5,000 boxes, finding these on shelves today is a challenge, making them a prize for hunters of rare Cuban tobacco.
Construction and Technical Merit
H. Upmann is one of the oldest names in the Cuban cigar industry, and the construction of the Royal Robusto reflects that heritage. Weighing in at 13.20 grams, the cigar feels dense and well-packed in the hand. The draw resistance is often cited as a highlight, providing just enough pull to encourage a slow, even burn without requiring effort from the smoker.
The 52 ring gauge allows for a generous amount of filler tobacco, creating a complex amalgamation of flavors as the cigar burns. Unlike some narrower vitolas where wrapper flavor dominates, the Royal Robusto benefits from the "Edmundo" thickness, allowing the ligero leaves to contribute significantly to the profile. The burn line is typically sharp, producing ample smoke and a solid ash that holds firm throughout the session.
Tasting Notes and Sensory Experience
Upon lighting, the Royal Robusto establishes itself as a medium-bodied smoke, rooted deeply in woody and earthy foundations. It is a sophisticated blend that evolves gradually, avoiding harsh peaks while maintaining a consistent core profile. Reviewers have noted that the cigar scores high marks for elegance and balance, offering a refined experience rather than a blunt force of strength.
Primary and Secondary Flavor Profiles
The flavor journey is complex, weaving through several distinct layers:
- Core Profile: The dominant notes are a mix of leather, cedar, and roasted coffee, providing a savory, leathery base that is classic H. Upmann.
- Creamy Nuances: As the cigar settles, softer notes of cream, shortbread, and vanilla emerge, smoothing out the earthiness.
- Spice and Undertones: A gentle pepper spice runs through the retrohale, accompanied by subtle hints of almond, bitter chocolate, and cinnamon.
- Complexity: Keen palates may detect fleeting notes of baking spices, cocoa, and even floral or honeyed sweetness in the final third.
Collectibility and Final Thoughts
As a 2011 release, the H. Upmann Royal Robusto holds a specific place in the timeline of LCDH exclusives. It was part of an early wave of special vitolas designed to drive traffic to the official franchise stores. For collectors, the limited run of 5,000 boxes means that inventory is finite. A box from this release is not just a collection of cigars; it is a snapshot of H. Upmann's blending philosophy at the start of the decade.
With an average rating hovering around 3.8 out of 5, this cigar is widely respected for its consistency. It delivers exactly what it promises: a well-constructed, medium-strength smoke that showcases the woody, herbal DNA of the brand. For those lucky enough to find a box or a single stick, the Royal Robusto offers a definitive look at what an LCDH exclusive should be—distinct, high-quality, and memorable.
