Storing Cigars in a Cigar Box

A cigar box is, of course, primarily a sales and transport container for the small masterpieces that aficionados worldwide treasure. Usually crafted from cedar wood due to its visually appealing qualities and unique properties, it’s ideal for storing cigars. Cedarwood absorbs moisture, prevents cigars from drying out, protects against pests, and its natural aroma subtly enhances the tobacco's flavors without overpowering them. This is why humidors are also typically made from cedar. But cigar boxes aren’t just practical and attractive: Few products offer such a wide range of designs on lids and labels. They reflect a love of cigars and capture the spirit of the early days of many brands. Today, cigar boxes are more than mere packaging—they are increasingly regarded as collectibles. Additionally, they provide valuable information, as each cigar box offers insights into what matters most: the cigars stored within.

Origin and History

Like many things in the cigar world, the story of the cigar box as we know it today begins in Cuba. German bankers August and Hermann Upmann once settled in Havana to open a branch of their bank, initially offering cigars as “promotional gifts” for clients. To elevate their value, they presented these cigars in decorated boxes—and thus, the cigar box was born. Later, the Upmanns fully entered the cigar business, and the H. Upmann brand, known for high-quality Cuban cigars, was established. Similarly, Ramon Allones, founder of one of Cuba’s oldest cigar companies, was an early adopter of branded boxes. However, some boxes remain free of images; these “Boite Nature” (French for “natural box”) are rare in comparison.

The Cigar Box as a Work of Art

Traditional brands often use the artistic design of cigar boxes to reflect the brand’s identity. For example, boxes from the Romeo y Julieta brand depict the famous literary lovers. The decoration and construction of a cigar box, especially with Cuban brands, follow specific regulations, with each detail having its designated name and place.

The “Cubierta” (Spanish for “lid”) is the first visual element, usually centered on the outer lid, often showcasing the brand’s trademark. Inside the lid, another design called the “Vista” (view) is visible, usually an artistic lithograph created with great detail. The view upon opening the box is intended to provide aficionados with an extraordinary sight and heighten anticipation for the cigars within, which it does wonderfully. Take a closer look at the vistas on your Cuban cigar boxes at home; they often feature true miniature artworks that express the passion and love of the makers for their product.

The outer edges of the box often feature lithographically decorated strips known as “Filetes,” which add visual appeal and serve to seal the box, ensuring its integrity. The cigars are wrapped in a leaf connected to the bottom paper of the box. This “Boféton” primarily protects the cigars and is often decorated to match the Vista. Interestingly, “Boféton” translates to “slap in the face.” Above the box’s closure is the “Tapaclavo” (Spanish for nail cover). Like the Filetes, it’s decorated and helps seal the box.

Outside of Cuba, cigar box design is much more flexible. Creativity knows no bounds: Alec Bradley’s line recalls old ammunition boxes, while Gurkha surprises with unique packaging designs for each line. The cigar box by musician Avo Uvezian, styled like a piano, is also worth checking out. There are also distinctions between classic boxes with hinged lids and cabinet boxes with sliding lids.

Information on the Cigar Box

Cigar boxes also provide a wealth of information about the cigars inside. Besides the manufacturer, the box often lists the format, production method, origin, length, and ring gauge of the cigars. Since 1989, Cuban cigar boxes display the phrase Totalmente a mano (entirely handmade), and since 1961, every box has read “Hecho en Cuba.” Experts can identify the factory where the cigars were made by examining the factory code printed on the box.

Together with the “Boxing Date,” this information is particularly valuable to collectors. However, there are sometimes counterfeit certifications used to sell inferior cigars to unsuspecting tourists. For authentic Habanos, always purchase from specialized retailers who can guarantee the authenticity of these small treasures in their artistic packaging.