H Upmann The Banker by Altadis USA

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Binder: Nicaraguan (Jalapa)
Filler: Nicaraguan, Dominican
Annuity: 6 x 52
Price: $7.75

This cigar was reviewed in depth on Cigar Coop.

The Banker pays homage to the original brand founder Herman Upmann. Upmann was a German banker who in 1844 went to Havana Cuba and invested in a cigar factory – which became the H. Upmann brand. Around the time the company was founded, Upmann created a Cuban tobacco blend for his best customers, friends, and family. This H. Upmann Banker blend is meant to try to replicate a similar styled smoke to that personal blend of Upmann’s.

This was a good cigar when it came out, but it seems to be getting better over time. Any signs of Paul syndrome I had 6 months ago are going away as now the burn and draw are performing flawlessly. This cigar delivers a nice natural tobacco sweetness and just the right amount of spice. There are hints of chocolate from time to time as well. This is a medium strength, medium-bodied smoke and nice smoke any time of the day.

I have no way of knowing if this is like the original Upmann Cuban, but this cigar really didn’t seem Cuban to me. It’s still a very good cigar – and worth a fiver.