In this latest Rebel Spotlight we enter the ever-evolving world of premium cigars, where trends oscillate between extremes of size and strength, Warped Cigars stands as a beacon of defiance, seamlessly blending time-honoured traditions with modern innovation. Founded by the audacious Kyle Gellis, Warped Cigars has carved a niche that resonates with both seasoned aficionados and curious newcomers.

The Genesis of Warped Cigars

The inception of Warped Cigars is a tale of passion ignited at a young age. Kyle Gellis, the mastermind behind the brand, was introduced to the world of cigars through his father, an avid cigar enthusiast. As a child, Kyle would assist his father by selecting, cutting, and lighting his cigars, absorbing the nuances of flavors and aromas. This early exposure laid the foundation for a deep-seated passion that would later manifest as Warped Cigars. 

At 16, Kyle experienced his first cigar—a Montecristo No. 2 Habano—gifted by his father. This pivotal moment further fueled his fascination. By 18, while attending the University of Central Florida, Kyle embarked on weekly pilgrimages to Little Havana in Miami. There, he immersed himself in the art of cigar manufacturing and blending, learning from seasoned artisans and absorbing the rich Cuban heritage that permeates the neighborhood. 

In 2009, while still in college, Kyle officially launched Warped Cigars. His vision was clear: to create cigars that honour traditional Cuban craftsmanship while infusing a modern flair. This commitment to authenticity and innovation has been the cornerstone of Warped's identity. 

Craftsmanship Rooted in Tradition

Warped Cigars prides itself on adhering to traditional Cuban cigar-making techniques, particularly the "entubado" method. This intricate process involves rolling each tobacco leaf into individual tubes, promoting optimal airflow and resulting in a more complex flavour profile. Such meticulous craftsmanship ensures a consistent and enriching smoking experience, setting Warped apart in a crowded market. 

The brand collaborates with esteemed factories like El Titan de Bronze in Miami and Casa Fernandez in Nicaragua. These partnerships ensure that each cigar reflects the dedication to quality and the rich heritage of cigar-making. By working closely with these factories, Warped maintains a hands-on approach, overseeing every aspect of production to uphold their exacting standards. 

Signature Offerings at by Warped Cigars

1. La Colmena: Handcrafted at El Titan de Bronze, this cigar showcases an Ecuadorian Desflorado wrapper, enveloping a blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers. The result is a medium-bodied smoke with notes of honey, floral undertones, and a subtle spice, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.
   
2. Flor del Valle: Meaning "Flower of the Valley," this cigar is a modern revival of a classic Cuban brand. Made entirely of Nicaraguan tobacco, it offers a rich, earthy profile with hints of dried fruit and cocoa, reflecting Warped's dedication to traditional Cuban styles.
   
3. Corto: True to its name, which means "short" in Spanish, the Corto delivers a full-bodied experience in a compact size. With a Nicaraguan Corojo wrapper and robust fillers, it presents bold flavors of dark chocolate, espresso, and pepper, catering to those seeking a rich and intense smoke.
   
4. La Hacienda: Translating to "The Estate," this Nicaraguan puro is a tribute to vintage flavours. Smokers can expect a medium-bodied experience with notes of cedar, citrus, and a creamy finish, embodying the essence of old-world cigar-making traditions.
   

At Robert Graham 1874, we are proud to feature a curated selection of Warped Cigars that exemplify the brand's commitment to excellence:

Particular favourites include: 

Warped Cocodrilo Corona Gorda – A Tribute to Cuban Heritage

There’s something unapologetically old-school about the Warped Cocodrilo Corona Gorda – like finding your grandfather’s Havana stash and realising he had better taste than you ever gave him credit for.

Crafted at the storied Aganorsa Leaf factory in Nicaragua, the Cocodrilo (Spanish for “crocodile”) isn't just a name – it’s a nod to the island of Cuba itself, often referred to as “El Cocodrilo” due to its gator-like shape when seen from above. Fitting then, that this cigar is all about capturing the Cuban soul – but with a modern, boutique edge.

Wrapped in a velvety Nicaraguan Corojo '99 leaf, with a Nicaraguan binder and fillers grown from Cuban seed, this Corona Gorda delivers that classic, warm Cubanesque profile – earthy, sweet, with a touch of pepper and floral honey notes sliding through like a bolero rhythm. It’s medium-bodied but refuses to be boring – there’s complexity here, layers that unfold like the pages of an old Cohiba diary.

Warped’s founder, Kyle Gellis, has always been about authenticity without compromise. He’s not chasing trends – he’s reviving tradition through a next-gen lens. And the Cocodrilo? That’s his love letter to Cuba, minus the clichés and gimmicks.

Expect a cigar that burns razor sharp, pulls smooth as silk, and leaves a finish as clean as a Havana sunset. Whether you're a heritage hunter or just want a taste of what Cuban cigars used to be before politics got in the way, this stick hits the sweet spot.

Warped Gellis Saunter Robusto – A Refined Stroll Through Flavour

They didn’t name it “Saunter” for nothing. This isn’t a sprint. This isn’t a flex. This is a slow, confident strut through a world of flavour – where every step matters and every puff has purpose.

The Gellis Saunter Robusto is Kyle Gellis doing what he does best: pulling from Cuban inspiration, but refusing to be stuck in the past. Rolled at the TABSA factory in Nicaragua using Aganorsa Leaf tobacco (the stuff of legend), this Robusto is a masterclass in balance, poise, and style – like a jazz solo in cigar form.

You’re looking at a full Nicaraguan puro, cloaked in a Corojo '99 wrapper that shines like polished leather. From the first light, it’s clear you’re in good company. Notes of roasted nuts, cedar, and sweet spice glide across the palate like velvet on mahogany. There’s a hint of citrus zest and a soft pepper tingle on the retrohale – subtle, not showy. Think more Sinatra than stadium rock.

Medium-bodied and immaculately constructed, the Saunter lives up to its name – no rush, no fuss, just a well-paced exploration of flavour with that signature Warped refinement.

It’s a cigar for those who know that presence doesn’t mean volume. That sometimes the most interesting conversations happen in a whisper. The Gellis Saunter Robusto doesn’t scream – it simply invites you to walk with it for a while.

Anticipating the Horizon: What's Next for Warped Cigars

Warped Cigars continues to push boundaries while honoring its roots. One of the most anticipated releases is the Absolutos from Gellis Family Cigars, a subsidiary of Warped. Scheduled for release next month, Absolutos is the first all-Nicaraguan cigar under the Gellis Family label, promising a rich and immersive smoking experience that reflects the brand's innovative spirit. 

Additionally, the recent launch of the New Day project exemplifies Warped's collaborative approach. This exclusive cigar was developed with input from 12 select retailer partners across the United States. Retailers were presented with three distinct blends and voted on their preferred profile, resulting in a unique creation that resonates with both retailers and consumers. The New Day features an Ecuadorian Sumatra Rosado wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers, offering a balanced and flavourful smoke. 

A Legacy of Defiance and Dedication

Warped Cigars embodies a rebellious spirit, challenging conventions while remaining deeply rooted in tradition. Kyle Gellis's journey from a curious youth to a visionary entrepreneur is reflected in every cigar bearing the Warped name. By embracing meticulous craftsmanship and fostering innovative collaborations, Warped Cigars offers a smoking experience that is both timeless and contemporary.

At Robert Graham 1874, we celebrate this fusion of past and present, inviting our patrons to indulge in the rich narratives and exquisite flavours that Warped Cigars has to offer.