The name "Habano" is an official Denominacion de Origen Protegida (DOP) or Protected Designation of Origin and is used only to describe Cuban cigars of the highest quality. To qualify as Habano cigars, they must be handcrafted in Cuba to the strictest standards set by the Regulatory Council and use only tobacco grown in specific regions of the island. These regions are also protected as designations of origin.

No. While the wrapper colors vary from box to box, from Claro (light brown) to Maduro (dark brown), the blend of filling leaves dictates the intensity of flavor and aroma. If anything, the wrapper leaf provides a slight 'top flavor,' with the dark wrapper adding a hint of sweetness and the light wrapper providing a hint of dryness.

Havanas should be stored at a temperature between 16-18°C and 65-70% relative humidity. Relative humidity is the most important factor. If a Havana becomes too humid, it will be difficult to keep it lit, and excess moisture will inhibit and dilute the natural oils that are released when you light the cigar. Conversely, if you allow the cigar to dry out, these oils will disperse and can result in an unsatisfactory smoking experience.

It is important to always store cigars properly. Unprotected cigars can dry out quickly, become brittle and risk damage. If cigars have lost moisture in a short period of time and are a little hard to the touch, they are easy to revive. Simply return them to a well-maintained humidor and allow them to re-acclimatize. This can take a few days. Cigars that have been drying out for a longer period of time are more problematic. If kept too dry for too long, cigars will permanently lose their natural oils and flavor. It is always worth trying to revive cigars from this condition as the alternative is to throw them away, but success is far from guaranteed and in this case it may be best to consult a local Havana Cigar expert.

Yes. First, tap the ashtray lightly to remove any excess ash, then blow gently through it to remove any stale, residual smoke that may have been trapped in the filler. Now apply the flame again to burn the edge of the wrapper, then light it as if it were a new cigar. This is only recommended if the cigar has been extinguished for less than an hour. Any longer than that may cause the cigar to have a bitter or charred taste.