Romeo y Julieta: 150th Anniversary of Passion, Craft, and Smoke

Welcome to the Rebel Spotlight, where we delve into the stories of brands that defy convention and ignite our senses. Today, we celebrate the sesquicentennial journey of a legend in the cigar world—Romeo y Julieta. A brand that has intertwined romance, rebellion, and rich flavours, and Romeo y Julieta Cigars 150th Anniversary.

A Tale of Love and Leaf: The Origins

In the vibrant tapestry of 19th-century Cuba, amidst the rhythmic dance of salsa and the intoxicating aroma of rich tobacco, two visionaries, Inocencio Alvarez and Manin Garcia, embarked on a venture that would become legendary. 

The brand's name, inspired by Shakespeare's tragic lovers, symbolised a passion that transcended time and borders. Yet, it was under the stewardship of José "Pepin" Rodriguez Fernandez that Romeo y Julieta truly flourished. A man of charisma and ambition, Rodriguez was not just a cigar maker but a storyteller, weaving narratives that captivated the elite and the masses alike.

Rodriguez's Romantic Obsession

Rodriguez's infatuation with the tale of Romeo and Juliet was more than a branding strategy; it was a personal quest. His travels led him to Verona, Italy—the setting of Shakespeare's play—where he attempted to purchase the famed Palazzo Capuleti, Juliet's ancestral home. When local authorities rebuffed his offer, Rodriguez replicated the palazzo in Havana, complete with Juliet's iconic balcony. This audacious move wasn't just about architecture; it was a statement—a blend of romance and rebellion that defined the brand's ethos. 

The Churchill Connection

The mid-20th century saw Romeo y Julieta ascend to iconic status, thanks in part to a infamous British statesman with a penchant for fine cigars. Sir Winston Churchill's admiration for the brand led to the creation of the "Churchill" vitola—a majestic 7-inch cigar with a 47-ring gauge. This association not only honoured a loyal patron but also cemented the brand's place in cigar history. 

Navigating Turbulent Times

The Cuban Revolution of 1959 brought seismic shifts to the island's cigar industry. Amidst nationalisation and embargoes, Romeo y Julieta showcased resilience by establishing production in the Dominican Republic. This move ensured that aficionados worldwide could continue to savour the brand's signature blends, a testament to its enduring spirit and adaptability.

A Sesquicentennial Celebration: 150 Years of Excellence

In 2025, Romeo y Julieta commemorates a monumental milestone—150 years of crafting cigars that embody passion and precision. The XXV Festival del Habano served as the grand stage for this celebration, where the brand unveiled the Romeo y Julieta Amantes vitola. This exclusive release, with its 53-ring gauge and 153 mm length, encapsulates the brand's legacy, offering a medium-strength blend that appeals to both seasoned aficionados and newcomers. 

Spotlight on Four Exemplary Cigars

let's dive into the world of Romeo y Julieta cigars and spotlight three standout selections from the Robert Graham 1874 lineup. These cigars are not just smokes; they're stories wrapped in tobacco leaves, each offering a unique experience for the discerning aficionado.​

1. Romeo y Julieta Mille Fleurs

Translating to "thousand flowers," the Mille Fleurs is a testament to its name, delivering a floral bouquet that's both inviting and complex. Sharing its dimensions with the Petit Corona, this cigar measures 5 1/8 inches in length with a 42 ring gauge. Its medium strength makes it a versatile choice, suitable for various occasions. Crafted from premium Vuelta Abajo tobacco, the Mille Fleurs offers a harmonious blend of floral notes, making it a staple in Cuban cigar production for over half a century.

2. Romeo y Julieta Cupidos

A nod to the romantic city of Verona, the backdrop of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," the Cupidos is a unique tribute with its Veronas vitola (55 ring gauge x 148mm). This exclusive cigar boasts a thick ring gauge and a distinctive figurado shape, encapsulating the legendary aroma, balance, and complexity that Romeo y Julieta is renowned for. Released in the last quarter of 2023, the Cupidos is distributed worldwide through Casa del Habano and Habano Specialist stores, presented in elegant 20-count boxes.

3. Romeo y Julieta No. 2 Tubed

Perhaps the most popular size in the Romeo y Julieta lineup, the No. 2 Tubed cigar is a round Petit Corona, measuring 5 1/8 inches with a 42 ring gauge. Encased in a cedar-lined tube, it's designed for portability without compromising on quality. This medium-flavored cigar offers a complex profile with floral aromas complemented by hints of nuttiness, garden herbs, and smoked wood. It's the epitome of medium-bodied elegance, ready to accompany you wherever you go. 

Each of these cigars embodies the rich heritage and meticulous craftsmanship of the Romeo y Julieta brand, offering unique experiences that cater to both seasoned smokers and newcomers alike

Join the Romeo y Julieta Cigars 150th Anniversary Celebration at Robert Graham 1874

As we celebrate this remarkable journey, we invite you to experience the legacy of Romeo y Julieta at our Robert Graham 1874 stores in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Cambridge, as well as through our online store. Indulge in the rich history and exquisite flavours that have defined this iconic brand for a century and a half.

Here's to 150 years of passion, craftsmanship, and the timeless pleasure of a fine cigar.

Note: This article is part of the Rebel Spotlight series, celebrating brands that defy convention and inspire with their rich histories and exceptional products.