In the exclusive world of premium Cuban tobacco, few releases generate as much fervor among collectors as the Edición Regional program. Among these sought-after vitolas, the Ramón Allones Phoenicio 35 emerges as a standout creation, meticulously designed for the discerning palates of Lebanese aficionados. This cigar is not merely a smoking accessory; it is a commemorative artifact, launched to mark a remarkable thirty-five years of partnership between the global Habanos S.A. and Phoenicia Trading, the entity responsible for distributing Cuban cigars throughout Lebanon. While officially bearing the vintage of 2015, the cigar made its grand entrance into the market during the early months of 2016, offering a unique blend that honors both history and modern craftsmanship.
A Name Rooted in Ancient History
The identity of this special release draws deep inspiration from the cultural heritage of its target audience. By choosing the name "Phoenicio," the creators paid direct homage to the ancient Phoenician civilization, which laid the historical foundations of modern-day Lebanon. This connection serves to bridge the gap between the country's storied past and its contemporary status as a vibrant market for luxury tobacco. The release was conceived as a tangible celebration of the enduring relationship between the Cuban cigar industry and the Lebanese distributor, Phoenicia Trading, which has faithfully served the region for over three decades. This makes the cigar a symbol of loyalty and longevity in a market that deeply values tradition.
Format and Smoking Experience
For enthusiasts who appreciate a substantial smoke, the technical specifications of this cigar offer much to admire. The Phoenicio 35 is crafted in the Montesco vitola, a format that has gained popularity for providing a Robusto Extra style experience. This shape strikes a desirable balance, offering a generous ring gauge that allows for a cool burn and a complex flavor profile, while the length ensures the smoking session can be savored over a satisfying duration. It is a format that commands attention, providing enough tobacco for the smoker to fully appreciate the nuances of the Ramón Allones blend, a brand renowned for its full-bodied strength and aromatic complexity.
- Vitola: Montesco (Robusto Extra)
- Dimensions: 130 mm (5 1/8 inches) in length
- Ring Gauge: 55
- Official Weight: 16.00 grams per cigar
Presentation and Exclusivity
The visual presentation of the Ramón Allones Phoenicio 35 adheres to the high standards expected of limited Cuban releases. Each cigar is dressed with the brand's classic Band D, identifying it immediately as a Ramón Allones product. However, to signify its special status, it also features a secondary band marked specifically for the Edición Regional program, denoting "Líbano" to certify its exclusive origin. The cigars are housed in varnished semi boîte nature boxes, each containing 25 units. These boxes are individually numbered, adding a layer of collectibility to the product.
Scarcity is a defining characteristic of this release. The production run was strictly limited to just 10,000 boxes worldwide. This finite number ensures that the Phoenicio 35 remains a rare find, highly prized by collectors who manage to acquire a box. For those within Lebanon, the release serves as a point of pride, representing a local piece of the global Habanos legacy. For the international collector, it stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of the Edición Regional program, where specific markets are honored with bespoke tobacco creations that might otherwise never exist.
