When a legendary marque teams up with a regional powerhouse for a milestone anniversary, the result is often a cigar that feels both timeless and fresh. The Por Larrañaga Fénix 109 is exactly that—an exclusive Regional Edition created to honor fifteen years of collaboration between Habanos S.A. and Phoenicia TAA. Unveiled in late 2023 after a delayed rollout, this vitola brings a new size to the Por Larrañaga family and a splash of symbolic fire to the premium cigar world.
The Partnership and the Phoenix Theme
In 2021, Habanos S.A. and Phoenicia TAA marked fifteen years of joint efforts in the premium cigar trade. To celebrate, they commissioned a special release that would embody renewal and persistence—qualities captured in the name “Fénix,” the Spanish word for phoenix. The phoenix, a mythic bird that rises from its own ashes, perfectly reflects the endurance of the partnership and the resilience of the Por Larrañaga brand, which has survived centuries of turbulent tobacco history.
Anniversary Significance
Unlike ordinary production runs, this edition carries a dual‑band design. The classic Por Larrañaga band B appears alongside a bespoke commemorative strip that highlights the 15‑year partnership. The combination of bands signals both heritage and contemporary celebration, making the cigar a collector’s tribute to a relationship that has shaped distribution across the Middle East and surrounding territories.
Vitola and Smoking Characteristics
The 109 format introduced by the Fénix is a notable addition to the brand’s portfolio. Measuring 184 mm (approximately 7¼ inches) with a 50‑ring gauge, the cigar sits comfortably in the “large corona” category. Its substantial length promises an unhurried smoking session, ideal for moments of reflection or conversation.
Construction and Blend
As a handmade premium stick, the Fénix is built with the same meticulous attention that defines Por Larrañaga. The filler, binder, and wrapper are selected to deliver a balanced profile that evolves over the burn. Early notes often reveal a subtle earthiness, followed by a gentle spice that develops into a smooth, creamy finish as the cigar progresses.
- Length: 184 mm (7¼″)
- Ring Gauge: 50
- Weight: 17.30 g
- Format: 109 (new vitola)
- Release Year: 2021 (official)
- Market Debut: December 2023
- Production Quantity: 6,666 cigars
- Packaging: Slide‑lid boxes of 15
Packaging and Presentation Details
The Fénix arrives in sleek, numbered slide‑lid boxes that house fifteen cigars each. The limited run of 6,666 sticks ensures scarcity, while the individually numbered boxes add a layer of provenance for enthusiasts who appreciate traceability.
Design Elements
The presentation reflects the exclusive nature of the release. Each cigar bears the standard Por Larrañaga band, complemented by a commemorative band that features the partnership’s anniversary emblem. The dual‑band treatment not only distinguishes the Fénix from regular production but also serves as a visual reminder of its celebratory purpose.
Collectibility and Verdict
For serious collectors, the Por Larrañaga Fénix 109 checks several boxes: a limited production run, an anniversary narrative, and a fresh vitola that expands the brand’s range. Its combination of heritage and exclusivity makes it a standout piece in any humidor, whether displayed as a trophy or smoked on a special occasion.
While the cigar’s delayed market release may have added a sense of anticipation, the final product rewards patience. The Fénix offers a refined, medium‑to‑full experience that evolves gracefully, echoing the phoenix’s rise from the ashes. Those seeking a distinctive Regional Edition with a story will find the Por Larrañaga Fénix 109 to be a worthy addition to their collection.
