
Few words in the cigar world spark as much fascination as Cuban cigar brands. From Cohiba to Montecristo, these names carry a rich legacy tied to Cuba’s long history of cigar craftsmanship. For decades, cigar aficionados have considered Cuban cigars the pinnacle of the smoking experience—famous for their balance, complexity, and tradition.
But there’s one problem: Americans are still unable to legally buy Cuban cigars due to the long-standing trade embargo. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you can’t have Cuban cigars shipped to your door, no matter the price or packaging. That doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t enjoy the legacy of the finest cigar brands in the world. Thanks to international manufacturers, clever distribution agreements, and a commitment to maintaining quality, many of the most iconic Cuban cigar brands are available in U.S.-made versions.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most famous Cuban cigar brands, their legendary roots, and their American counterparts that deliver a smooth draw, rich flavor, and authentic smoking experience.
Why Cuban Cigar Brands Are So Famous
The art of cigar manufacture in Cuba dates back centuries. The island’s climate, soil, and expertise combined to produce what many call the best Cuban cigars in the world. Each brand carries not just tobacco, but a story—a piece of Cuban history wrapped in a cedar-lined box, often bearing gold-embossed packaging that signals prestige.
The phrase “Cuban cigars” has become shorthand for luxury. Whether enjoyed with a morning cup of coffee or as an after-dinner indulgence, Cuban cigars have come to symbolize refinement, relaxation, and tradition. Even their distribution and production are carefully controlled, making them feel rare and exclusive.
For a first-time smoker, simply holding a Cuban cigar feels like holding a piece of history. But for U.S. customers, that sense of authenticity has been complicated by politics and law.
Cuban Cigars vs. American Versions
When the embargo went into effect, Cuban cigar trademarks were split. Cuban manufacturers continued making cigars in Cuba for international markets, while U.S. companies acquired the rights to these brands outside Cuba. That’s why you’ll see famous names like Cohiba, Montecristo, and Romeo y Julieta in U.S. humidors—but they’re produced in the Dominican Republic, Honduras, or Nicaragua instead of Cuba.
The good news is that these non-Cuban versions are still made by respected companies with deep expertise, ensuring the integrity of the brand. By using premium tobaccos and careful craftsmanship, they deliver the essence of the brand in a way that’s approachable, consistent, and legal for American citizens.
So while you can’t buy Cuban cigars from Cuba directly, you can still enjoy a smooth smoke from the same legendary brands—crafted in new countries but maintaining their global popularity.
Top Cuban Cigar Brands and Their American Versions
Cohiba

- Cuban Classic: Cohiba Robusto
- U.S. Version: Cohiba Red Dot Robusto
Few names in the cigar world carry the weight of Cohiba. Born in Cuba and once reserved for diplomats, Cohiba symbolizes exclusivity and excellence. The Cuban Robusto is legendary for its smooth draw, rich notes, and impeccable burn.
In the U.S., the Cohiba Red Dot Robusto carries on that tradition. Manufactured in the Dominican Republic, it’s beloved by cigar aficionados for its medium body, creamy flavor, and hints of coffee and spice. Its packaging mirrors the prestige of its Cuban ancestor, and for many smokers, it delivers the same feeling of refinement. Whether you’re a first-time cigar smoker or a seasoned collector, Cohiba’s U.S. version provides a truly premium smoking experience.
Montecristo

- Cuban Classic: Montecristo No. 2 (torpedo shape)
- U.S. Version: Montecristo Classic No. 2
Ask any cigar aficionado to name the best Cuban cigars, and Montecristo No. 2 will almost always make the list. Its iconic torpedo shape not only looks elegant but enhances the draw, concentrating the flavor for a more refined smoke.
The U.S. version, Montecristo Classic No. 2, upholds this reputation. With Dominican fillers and Connecticut Shade wrappers, it offers a mild-to-medium profile, delivering a smooth smoke with creamy vanilla, subtle cedar, and nutty undertones. For many smokers, this cigar represents the epitome of quality and art, maintaining the brand’s integrity across borders.
Romeo y Julieta
- Cuban Classic: Romeo y Julieta Churchill
- U.S. Version: Romeo y Julieta 1875 Churchill
From its origin in Cuba to its enduring global popularity, Romeo y Julieta has long been a brand of romance, elegance, and tradition. The Cuban Churchill is celebrated for its balanced profile and ability to provide hours of refined smoking.
The Romeo y Julieta 1875 Churchill, produced for the U.S. market, is equally iconic. It offers a smooth draw with flavors of roasted nuts, leather, and a touch of sweetness. Wrapped in Indonesian leaf and aged to perfection, it’s designed for those who want the finest smoking experience without leaving American soil.
This cigar has become a staple for weddings, celebrations, and those first-time smokers who want to connect with history. Its cedar-wrapped box and elegant packaging make it one of the most gifted cigars in the world.
H. Upmann

- Cuban Classic: H. Upmann Magnum 54
- U.S. Version: H. Upmann by AJ Fernandez Robusto
H. Upmann is one of the oldest Cuban cigar brands, founded in the 1840s. Known for refined flavor and impeccable production, the Cuban Magnum 54 is beloved for its balance and medium strength.
In the U.S., H. Upmann cigars thrive under the direction of master blender AJ Fernandez. His Robusto offers bold notes of cocoa, leather, and spice while maintaining a smooth smoke that never overwhelms. The AJ Fernandez collaboration is proof that Cuban heritage can evolve—bringing in modern craftsmanship while protecting the brand’s authenticity.
Punch

- Cuban Classic: Punch Short de Punch
- U.S. Version: Punch Rothschild
Punch has always been about boldness. Known for delivering strong flavors at a fair price, it’s a brand that resonates with smokers who appreciate value without compromising quality.
The Cuban Short de Punch offers a short but powerful smoking experience. Its U.S. counterpart, the Punch Rothschild, delivers the same punchy personality—earthy, spicy, and robust. For smokers who want something rich and satisfying, this cigar is a top contender. Its widespread distribution and approachable sale point make it one of the most popular non-Cuban options.
Choosing the Right Cigar for You
When exploring Cuban cigar brands in their U.S. versions, consider what kind of smoking experience you want:
- Smooth smoke: Try Montecristo Classic or Romeo y Julieta 1875.
- Rich flavor: Cohiba Red Dot or H. Upmann by AJ Fernandez.
- Bold and robust: Punch Rothschild.
Think about the setting too. Are you enjoying a cigar with your morning coffee? Celebrating a wedding? Or just relaxing after a long day? The right cigar depends on the moment, and these legendary brands offer something for every occasion.
Where to Buy Authentic U.S. Versions of Cuban Cigar Brands
One of the biggest challenges in the cigar world is authenticity. With so many counterfeit products on the world market, it’s essential to purchase from trusted websites and retailers that maintain communication, uphold integrity, and protect customers.
At LM Cigars, we specialize in offering genuine, U.S.-made versions of legendary Cuban cigar brands. Our website provides detailed product pages, clear information about manufacturers and distribution, and cigars that are carefully packaged, shipped, and stored with care. Whether you’re submitting your order for the first time or returning to restock, you can count on our company to deliver the real thing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Cigar Brands
Can you buy Cuban cigars in the United States?
No. Due to the embargo, Cuban cigars cannot be legally sold, shipped, or distributed to U.S. citizens. However, American versions of these famous brands are widely available.
Are American versions of Cuban cigar brands authentic?
Yes. While they are not made in Cuba, they are produced by licensed companies using premium tobaccos from countries like the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Honduras. These cigars maintain the legacy and integrity of the original brand.
What makes Cuban cigar brands so popular?
Their reputation comes from Cuba’s ideal growing conditions, historic craftsmanship, and the mystique created by limited availability. Even when produced outside of Cuba, these brands remain popular for their quality and prestige.
Which Cuban cigar brand is best for a first-time smoker?
Montecristo Classic No. 2 and Romeo y Julieta 1875 Churchill are excellent choices. Both offer a smooth smoke, approachable flavor, and a gentle introduction to the art of cigar smoking.
Why are Cuban cigar brands split between Cuba and the U.S.?
When the embargo was introduced, trademark rights were divided. Cuban manufacturers continued production in Cuba, while U.S. companies gained rights to produce and distribute cigars under the same brand names for the American market.
Conclusion
The world of Cuban cigars is filled with myth, legend, and allure. While U.S. citizens are still unable to purchase the original Cuban versions, the American-market cigars bearing these iconic names keep the heritage alive. From the gold-embossed packaging to the smooth draw and complex notes, these cigars offer a piece of history—crafted in new countries but maintaining their timeless quality.
So the next time you’re searching for the best Cuban cigars, remember: you don’t need to leave the U.S. or compromise on authenticity. Explore LM Cigars’ collection of legendary brands like Cohiba, Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, H. Upmann, and Punch. Each cigar is more than tobacco—it’s a story, a tradition, and an invitation to enjoy one of life’s finest arts in several ways.