Charatan Cigars: From London to Nicaragua
There are not many brands that successfully fulfill a dual role. Charatan belongs to this small group, as the name today stands for both Nicaraguan cigars and pipes and pipe tobaccos. Charatan Pipes are intentionally listed separately in the shop, as they have their own history and a distinct product range. Here, the focus is on the company's cigars, which carry the renowned Charatan name in a different direction.
British Tobacco Tradition Since 1863
The roots of Charatan lie in London. Frederick Charatan, a Russian-Jewish immigrant, opened a workshop for tobacco enthusiasts in 1863 on Mansell Street, not far from the Tower of London. Initially, Charatan became known for its handcrafted meerschaum pipes, and later especially for its briar pipes. Under Frederick's son Reuben Charatan, the brand gained further prestige at the beginning of the 20th century and became a well-known name among pipe smokers in both Great Britain and the United States.
New Charatan Cigar Line Introduced in 2025
Over the course of the company's history, ownership changed several times. Particularly influential was the connection with Dunhill, followed later by additional brand owners. In the 1990s, the portfolio was expanded to include cigars. These earlier Charatan cigars, recognizable by their white-and-gold band, eventually disappeared from the range; the last vitolas of this previous generation reached us in 2020. A completely redesigned Charatan cigar line was launched on the German market in late summer 2025 and can be identified by its distinctive blue band.
Charatan Claro Cigars from Nicaragua
The Charatan Claro is the first current Charatan cigar line available in Germany. The cigars are produced under British supervision and are rolled in Nicaragua. The revival of the cigar line was initiated by the British distributor TOR Imports, while German distribution is handled by Kopp Tobacco. In Great Britain, Charatan offers several cigar lines; for the German market, the initial choice was the light Claro version.
For the Charatan Claro, a fine, light-colored Connecticut wrapper from Ecuador is used. The binder and filler come entirely from Nicaragua. Despite its origin, the Claro is not particularly strong, but rather creamy, smooth, and balanced. Instead of heavy spice or pronounced pepper notes, it focuses on an approachable flavor profile that showcases Nicaraguan tobacco from its milder side.
Conclusion: Who Is the Charatan Claro For?
The Charatan Claro is particularly suitable for smokers who would like to explore Nicaraguan cigars but are not looking for an overly strong smoke. Its gentle character pairs well with café au lait or cappuccino, but it also works perfectly as an uncomplicated cigar for relaxed occasions. Anyone seeking a mild Nicaraguan cigar with a Connecticut wrapper, creamy smoke, and a pleasantly balanced flavor profile will find a fitting alternative in Charatan.
