Nicarao – Cigars

Nicarao Cigars: Origin, Founder and Vision

Nicarao is regarded as a down-to-earth and renowned company in the cigar industry whose products are a must-have for any retailer. Behind the brand stands a man who made history: Didier Houvenaghel. The Belgian agricultural economist wrote his master’s thesis at the University of Pinar del Rio, one of the most prestigious universities in Cuba. During this time, the idea and dream of creating his own cigar line began to take shape. The Belgian had a fondness for Cuban culture and was fascinated by the demanding craftsmanship and rich tradition of cigar making. What started as a vague dream developed into a solid business plan that later brought Houvenaghel great success with the Nicarao brand. However, the road to that point was long and challenging.

Founding of Nicarao in Nicaragua: Choice of Location and Brand Name

The unstable political situation at the time prevented the future founder of Nicarao from settling in Cuba and realizing his dream there. He was forced to travel extensively—always searching for the perfect place for himself and his plans. From the outset, the agricultural economist set high standards for himself and his business model. For example, it was very important to him to find ideal soil conditions and the right microclimate. He eventually found what he was looking for in Nicaragua, where he founded his first company under the name Nicarao.

According to legend, the name refers to a chief of an indigenous people who lived in the 16th century and led his own tribe at Lake Nicaragua. The chief was known for his intelligence and virtue and, according to tradition, discovered the effects of tobacco leaves. The country of Nicaragua is also said to be named after him.

Tobacco Quality at Nicarao: Criollo 98, Corojo 99

The relatively young Nicarao brand is distinguished by its high quality standards. From the very beginning, Houvenaghel placed great importance on ensuring that his products met the strictest controls. A meticulous selection of tobacco leaves according to color, texture and quality is crucial to the cigars’ excellence. Connoisseurs speak of an “unfiltered taste” and a “lively temperament.” The typical “Nicarao” “aroma” is especially noticeable in the Nicarao Especial Edition and is thanks to the use of Criollo 98 seed. This is combined with the Corojo 99 variety, resulting in bold yet smooth flavors.

Value for Money and Series Diversity of Nicarao Cigars

The flavor of the Nicarao Puro is pleasantly mild with a hint of distinctive Central American spice. The smoking experience is rounded off by a fine, oily wrapper, which delivers an intense flavor profile. Prices range between four and eight euros per cigar—making them ideal for cigar enthusiasts who value both taste and a fair price-performance ratio. With the three series Classico, Especial and Exclusivo, there is a suitable cigar for every budget. Occasional special editions and Limitadas make Didier’s products even more appealing.

Nicarao Clasico Anno VI & Especiales: Cigars Compared

The cigar brand is now firmly established in the German market and is distributed by the renowned cigar importer Wolfertz from Solingen, whose portfolio includes well-known brands such as NUB, Oliva, CAIN, Alec Bradley and, since early 2016, AJ Fernandez.

The Clasico Anno VI series, featuring a blend of Criollo 98 and Corojo 99, promises rich aromas. The same blend is also found in the Especiales—with the difference that it was aged longer here. The tobaccos were processed only after aging for 2½ to 5½ years.

La Ley and Furia: Creamy Elegance and Powerful Intensity

The La Ley series is particularly creamy, and its surprisingly light wrapper is already a visual delight. The significantly stronger Furia is likewise a masterpiece. Certainly not a cigar for casual smoking, but harmonious from start to finish.

Puros Exclusivos: Long Aging and Natural Color Development

The select tobaccos used for the Puros Exclusivos are aged for an exceptionally long time. Their dark color develops entirely through a natural process, without any artificial enhancement. This premium series, positioned at the top of the Nicarao range, rewards aficionados with an outstanding smoke.

Nicarao Preferida and Sampler: Ideal Introduction to the Range

If you prefer to ease into the experience, try the short formats of the Preferida or take a look at the various Sampler options.