The Heritage Behind the Brand
To appreciate the Petit Upmann, one must first understand the storied history of the brand itself. Founded in 1844 by German banker Hermann Upmann, the brand is one of the oldest cigar manufacturers in Cuba. Originally, Hermann traveled to Havana to open a branch of the bank, but he was so captivated by the local tobacco that he decided to invest in a cigar factory. He even had the foresight to market his cigars in distinctive cedar boxes, a novelty at the time that set a standard for the industry.
While the bank closed its doors in the early 1920s, the cigar brand flourished, eventually being acquired by the Menendez y Garcia family before the Revolution. Today, H. Upmann is produced by Habanos S.A. at the revered La Corona factory in Havana. The brand is renowned for its medium-bodied flavor profile, characterized by a signature grassy and creamy notes that appeal to both novice smokers and seasoned connoisseurs. The Petit Upmann carries this torch proudly, offering a concentrated dose of the brand’s heritage in a compact format.
Vitola Specifications and Construction
The Petit Upmann is classified under the vitola name Señoritas. It measures approximately 5 1/8 inches (130mm) in length with a ring gauge of 30. This thin, elegant format is a nod to the classic cigar styles of the mid-20th century, before the trend toward thick "robusto" and "gordo" sizes took hold. Its slender build ensures a focused draw, concentrating the smoke on the palate for a refined tasting experience.
Construction Quality
As with all cuban cigars, construction quality is paramount. The Petit Upmann typically features a beautiful Colorado wrapper, often silky to the touch with minimal veins. Being a machine-bunched and hand-finished cigar (often referred to as machine-made or semi-handmade depending on the specific release and era), it offers excellent value while maintaining high standards. The draw should offer just the right amount of resistance, and the burn line is generally consistent, thanks to the expert selection of binder and filler leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region.
- Length: 130mm (5 1/8 inches)
- Ring Gauge: 30
- Format: Señoritas
- Origin: Cuba (Vuelta Abajo tobacco)
Tasting Notes: A Refined Flavor Profile
Do not let the slender profile fool you; the Petit Upmann packs a surprising amount of flavor. It is widely considered an ideal morning cigar, pairing exceptionally well with a light espresso or cappuccino. The smoking duration typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, making it perfect for a brief respite from a busy day.
Upon lighting, the Petit Upmann immediately introduces the smoker to the classic H. Upmann profile. The first third is dominated by creamy notes of cedar and dried hay. There is a distinct grassiness on the retrohale, a hallmark of Cuban tobacco, which is balanced by a subtle sweetness.
As the cigar settles into the second third, the flavor profile deepens slightly. Hints of roasted nuts and a very mild white pepper spice emerge. The smoke remains cool due to the thin ring gauge, allowing the smoker to appreciate the nuances of the filler blend without overheating the cigar. The finish is clean and crisp, leaving a pleasant aftertaste of leather and toasted bread. It is a medium-strength smoke, meaning it won't overwhelm the palate but offers enough complexity to remain interesting until the final puff.
Buying Advice and Storage
When purchasing Petit Upmann - A Closer Look at This Classic Cuban Cigar, buyers will find it is often sold in distinctive yellow boxes, reminiscent of the brand's traditional presentation. Because this is a thinner vitola, it is essential to handle the cigars with care to avoid cracking the delicate wrapper.
Aging Potential
While many smokers enjoy the fresh, grassy notes of a young Petit Upmann, these cigars possess surprising aging potential. The thin ring gauge means the tobacco matures differently than in larger cigars. A few years in a properly maintained humidor—set at 65-70% humidity and 18-20°C—will mellow any youthful harshness and allow the creamy, leathery notes to marry beautifully. However, due to the gauge, they can dry out faster than thicker cigars, so monitoring humidity is crucial.
If you are looking to expand your collection with a cigar that offers history, flavor, and convenience, you can purchase Petit Upmann boxes here. They represent an affordable luxury and a fantastic way to sample the elegance of the H. Upmann marque.
Conclusion
The Petit Upmann is more than just a "quick smoke"; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Cuban cigar craftsmanship. It serves as a reminder that size does not always equate to quality. For the aficionado on the go, or the beginner wishing to understand the classic flavor profile of habanos without committing to a lengthy Churchill, the Petit Upmann is an impeccable choice. Its combination of cedar, cream, and subtle spice ensures it will remain a classic favorite for years to come.