When Habanos S.A. opened the doors of its Edición Regional program to select distributors, one of the first markets to receive a bespoke size was Italy. In 2005 the Ramón Allones brand unveiled the Selección Suprema, a vitola that was conceived exclusively for Italian aficionados and quickly earned a reputation as a rare treat among connoisseurs worldwide.
A Regional Collaboration with Global Appeal
The Edición Regional initiative allows authorized partners to commission a non‑standard parejo from an established Cuban marque, giving each market a unique expression of the brand’s house style. For Italy, the decision fell on Ramón Allones, a house celebrated for its bold, full‑bodied character. The resulting blend showcases the brand’s signature depth while offering a smoke that feels tailor‑made for the Italian palate.
- Release Year: 2005
- Distributor: Italy’s exclusive importer
- Program: Habanos S.A. Edición Regional
Vitola and Construction Details
The Selección Suprema is built on the Coronas Gordas format, a size that strikes a balance between a generous ring gauge and a manageable length. This combination provides ample room for the filler leaves to develop a layered profile, while the 46‑ring construction ensures a steady, cool burn.
Key Specifications
- Vitola: Coronas Gordas
- Ring Gauge: 46
- Length: 143 mm (approximately 5 ⅝ inches)
- Weight: 11.41 grams
- Construction: Handmade
The cigar is finished with the classic Ramón Allones band (often referred to as band C) and a secondary strip that denotes its regional status. The dual‑band treatment makes it instantly recognizable on both retail shelves and in collector displays.
Presentation and Packaging
To emphasize exclusivity, the Selección Suprema was shipped in numbered slide‑lid boxes, each holding 25 perfect cigars. Only 500 of these boxes were produced, translating into a total run of roughly 12,500 individual cigars—a figure that places the release among the scarcer editions of its era.
- Box Type: Numbered slide‑lid
- Cigars per Box: 25
- Total Boxes Released: 500
- Labeling: Dual band: Ramón Allones (band C) + Edición Regional
The numbered presentation not only adds a collectible aspect but also offers a traceable provenance for enthusiasts who appreciate knowing the exact origin of each smoke.
Collectibility and Flavor Profile
Since its launch on January 1 2005, the Selección Suprema has attracted a dedicated following. Its limited availability, combined with the reputation of Ramón Allones for delivering robust, complex flavors, has turned the cigar into a sought‑after piece in auction houses and private humidors alike.
On the palate, the smoke unfolds with a rich tapestry of earth, dark chocolate, and subtle spice, lingering into a smooth finish that showcases the craftsmanship of Cuban rollers. The 46‑ring gauge allows the flavors to open up gradually, giving the smoker a long, satisfying journey that remains approachable despite its intensity.
Why it stands out:
- First regional edition produced for Italy under the Edición Regional program
- Exclusive Coronas Gordas size not found in the standard Ramón Allones portfolio
- Handmade construction ensures consistent quality across the limited run
- Dual‑band branding clearly identifies it as a collector’s item
In the broader story of Cuban cigar heritage, the Ramón Allones Selección Suprema represents a pivotal moment where a historic brand embraced market‑specific preferences while maintaining its timeless character. For those fortunate enough to secure one, the cigar offers a taste of Italy’s passion for premium tobacco, wrapped in the legacy of one of Cuba’s oldest houses.
