Habanos S.A., Cubas cigar monopole, recently took the decision to discontinue the production of the Trinidad cigar line. But, it will not be the end!
When these high priced cigars were launched for public sale back in 1997 the brand consisted of only one cigar - the famous Fundadores ( 40 by 192mm). Shortly after these were available Cubas "dark years" in cigar production began and specifically almost 75% of the thin ring gauged cigars were plugged. Demand on these 38-40 ring cigars dropped to almost zero - just an understandable market reaction. Without causing too much noise back then the Fundadores was taken off production. Stocks sitting at importers warehouses did last until the line was re-launched in the early 2000's. Some new sizes (Vitolas) were added, the entire line then made at Francisco Donatien cigar factory in Pinar del Rio, a new design, more new Vitolas, extensive quality control and finest tobacco blends then became corner stones of the legendary brand besides Cohiba - but sales were never up to par.
Now, considering the blend of any of the Trinidad cigars is excellent, the draw without equal and the presentation outstanding there is only one reason why the market never really accepted the brand as such - the nasty price tag. Consumers around the globe bought Cohibas instead and left these Trinidads sitting on the shelf.
The decision subsequently taken by Habanos S.A. is good. Let the "old Trinidad" cigar line rest in peace. In a distant future we will most likely see a second re-launch of this famous brand which then might follow the corner stones of the old line combined with new Vitolas and hopefully a very moderate price tag. Those loving the current Trindads shall stock up quickly - stocks will not last forever.
Happy smoking from Hamburg
Christoph Wolters
La Casa del Habano Hamburg 
