Cuban cigars are extremely coveted, renowned around the world for their vibrant flavors and smoothness. In fact, Cuban cigars are so prized, that many unaware people have fell victim to obtaining fake Cubans, so how do you tell the real from the imitation? First off, make sure that you purchase your cigars from a sanctioned dealer so purchasing from your local tobacconist shop or a trustworthy mail order business can protect you from giving your money over for a box of imposters.
If you ever have the opportunity to buy a box of supposed Cubans, and have your doubts, take your time to examine the box before purchasing it. To discriminate between the real and fake, here are a few tips to help you spot the genuine product.
The most important thing to notice is if the box has a green and white warranty seal on the left front side, if so, then it is authentic. The seal will have an insignia with a picture of a shield and hat. You should find a white sticker placed diagonally on the upper right hand corner of the box that says ‘Habanos’. If the box appears damaged, smudged, frayed, or marked, then avoid it, as the overall appearance of the box should be neat and clean. If the color of the box is dull, don’t buy it and even if the cigars are the real things, their quality may have suffered in transport. Know that if you happen to be in the market for Cohibi, Q’dorsay, or Trinidad brand cigars, be informed that all authentic Cohiba’s will contain the green and white warranty seal on the right hand side of the box.
On the the box you should find a heat stamp with the words ‘Habanos’ and this this should be impressed onto the bottom as people who trade in fake Cuban cigar boxes often find other ways to imprint this label, such as using rubber stamps or paper labels. In authentic Cuban cigar boxes, you will also find a factory coded stamp on the bottom that is stamped in blue, green, or black ink that will tell you exactly when and where the cigars were rolled.
If you are able to open the box, be sure to take the time to smell the tobacco as genuine Cuban cigars have a rich and deep aroma which is unmistakable to the dedicated cigar aficianado. Chances are that you do not have an genuine box of Cubans if the smell is weak, and just doesn’t smell right. The cigars should be facing the same way, and the top row may appear slightly flattened. The caps on the cigars should all appear identical, and the foot of each cigar should be cleanly cut. The bands on the cigars should all be identical and arranged in such a fashion that they facei n the same direction. If given permission, feel free to test the cigars out by pressing down on them. Feel along the length of the cigar, and be sure to check for hard or soft spots. The cigars should feel firm yet pliable.