Alec Bradley Safe Keepings

The cigar brand Alec Bradley was named after the two sons of founder and former owner Alan Rubin. In the early 2000s, he launched the label together with Ralph Montero (who has been back on the market since 2025 with Raices Zigarren). The 2010s were a decade of rapid growth and creative energy for the two. Apparently, this success was so great that Alec Bradley Zigarren was acquired in early 2023 by the Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG) for a hefty sum of around 72.5 million US dollars. In addition to the cigars already on the market, the large stock of unreleased brands and lines likely played a key role in the purchase. In the U.S., February 15, 2007, is seen as a regulatory cutoff—cigars released after this date may face marketing restrictions or be subject to FDA regulation. The term "grandfathered" is used in the U.S. in this context.

STG Acquires Alec Bradley: Million-Dollar Deal With Historical Value

Alan and Ralph had produced and distributed around 100 lines or brands in small quantities before that cutoff date, which allowed them to be considered "grandfathered" and later brought to market with fewer restrictions. This is a small "treasure" that STG has now acquired. I clearly remember discussing this very topic with Alan at an IPCPR in the U.S. I'm truly happy for the two of them that they were able to sell their life's work generously and successfully. Alan’s two sons—namesakes of the brand, Alec and Bradley—are still working for STG. One is in marketing, while the other is more active on the road, hosting events. STG owns and distributes, among others, Don Tomas Zigarren, the entire CAO Zigarren brand, and last but not least, the world-renowned Macanudo Zigarren.

Safe Keepings Cigars: Nicaraguan Power From TABOLISA

The cigars presented here were first introduced in 2024 and made it to Germany in the summer of 2025. The Safe Keepings Cigars are officially described as medium-bodied to full-flavored. The blend is 100% Nicaraguan, featuring filler tobaccos from Jalapa, Condega, and Estelí, all Criollo 98. All vitolas are produced at Tabacalera Oliva de Nicaragua S.A. in Estelí, better known as TABOLISA. I just lit up a Toro as a sample and am curious to see what's in store! The first impression is woody, with a slight bitterness. This flavor profile continues into the second third, where the strength really starts to kick in. In the final third, it became a bit harsher for me—it dried out my mouth slightly. Not unpleasant, but definitely noticeable.