Alec Bradley Project 40 — Heritage & History

Alec Bradley Project 40 represents a significant entry in the Alec Bradley portfolio, a brand founded by Alan Rubin in the mid-1990s that quickly became known for innovative blends and accessible premium cigars. Project 40 was introduced as a value-oriented line without compromising on quality, honoring the legacy of the 40 years that Rubin’s grandfather spent in the tobacco industry. Rolled at Fabrica de Tabacos RAICES Cubanas S. de R.L. in Danlí, Honduras, Project 40 leverages the region’s renowned tobacco-growing conditions. The line has garnered a loyal following among enthusiasts seeking a balanced, daily-smoke option from a trusted maker. While precise launch details remain limited, its place in the market as a bridge between affordability and craftsmanship is well established. Project 40 solidified Alec Bradley’s reputation for producing consistent, flavorful cigars that appeal to both novice and experienced smokers alike.

Blending Philosophy

The Alec Bradley Project 40 philosophy centers on delivering a premium smoking experience at an accessible price point—an ethos of ‘quality without pretension.’ The brand achieves this through selective sourcing of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos, blended to create harmonious, approachable profiles. Distinguishing itself with multiple wrapper options—Honduran Habano, Connecticut Shade, Nicaraguan Habano, and Honduran Maduro (NHDM)—Project 40 offers a range of expressions from mild to medium-full, each designed for balance and consistency. The blend is built to be smooth and flavorful rather than overpowering, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. This commitment to value and reliability has made Project 40 a staple in humidors worldwide.

Flavor Profile

Across its range, Alec Bradley Project 40 presents a flavor profile defined by balance and subtle complexity. The Honduran Habano wrapper brings notes of cedar, earth, and a touch of white pepper, while the Connecticut Shade version offers cream, toast, and mild nuts. The Nicaraguan Habano adds a slightly bolder character with hints of cocoa and spice. The Honduran Maduro (NHDM) delivers deeper, richer notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and dried fruit. Core to the brand’s character is a smooth, medium-bodied core with a consistent finish, avoiding harshness or overwhelming strength. Whether in a mild-med Cruchill or a medium-full Gran Toro, the signature is a clean, satisfying smoke that highlights the quality of Honduran and Nicaraguan leaf.

Best for Beginners

For beginners, the Alec Bradley Project 40 Natural Toro is an excellent choice. Its medium strength and smooth, creamy flavor profile—with notes of cedar, nuts, and a hint of sweetness—offer a gentle introduction to premium cigars. The Toro vitola provides a forgiving, even burn and a moderate smoking time, making it approachable without being intimidating.

Alec Bradley Project 40 Cigar Lineup

Explore 12 Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

  • Belicoso — Belicoso, Medium-Full · $10–$14 per cigar
  • Churchill — Churchill, Mild-Medium · $8–$12 per cigar
  • Corona — Corona, Medium · $8–$12 per cigar
  • Gran Toro — Gran Toro, Medium-Full · $10–$14 per cigar
  • Lancero — Lancero, Medium-Full · $10–$14 per cigar
  • Lonsdale — Lonsdale, Medium · $8–$12 per cigar
  • Maduro Robusto — Robusto, Medium-Full · $10–$14 per cigar
  • Natural Toro — Toro, Medium · $8–$12 per cigar
  • Petit Corona — Petit Corona, Medium · $8–$12 per cigar
  • Robusto — Robusto, Medium-Full · $10–$14 per cigar
  • Toro — Toro, Medium-Full · $10–$14 per cigar
  • Torpedo — Torpedo, Medium-Full · $10–$14 per cigar

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars made?

Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars are made in Danlí, Honduras, at the Fabrica de Tabacos RAICES Cubanas S. de R.L. facility, also known as Raices Cubanas.

What is Alec Bradley Project 40 known for?

Alec Bradley Project 40 is known for offering a premium, well-balanced smoking experience at an accessible price point, with a range of wrapper options and strengths that appeal to both new and seasoned enthusiasts.

Are Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars strong?

Strength varies by vitola and wrapper. The range includes Mild-Medium (Churchill), Medium (Corona, Natural Toro, etc.), and Medium-Full (Belicoso, Robusto, Maduro Robusto, etc.). Most are medium-bodied, making them approachable for a wide audience.

What is the best Alec Bradley Project 40 cigar for beginners?

The Natural Toro—medium strength, smooth, with creamy notes of cedar and nuts—is widely recommended for beginners due to its forgiving profile and consistent burn.

How much do Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars cost?

Pricing ranges from approximately $8 to $14 per cigar, depending on the vitola. Smaller formats like Corona and Petit Corona fall in the $8–$12 range, while larger or specialized shapes like Belicoso and Gran Toro are $10–$14.

What wrapper does Alec Bradley Project 40 use?

Project 40 uses four wrapper varieties: Honduran Habano, Honduran Connecticut Shade, Nicaraguan Habano, and Honduran Maduro (NHDM—Natural Honduras Dark Maduro). The specific wrapper depends on the vitola.

Are Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars Cuban?

No. Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars are not Cuban. They are made in Honduras using tobaccos from Honduras and Nicaragua.

Where can I buy Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars?

Alec Bradley Project 40 cigars are widely available at authorized cigar retailers, both brick-and-mortar and online. Reputable online vendors and local tobacconists typically stock the full range of vitolas.