Alec Bradley Tempus — Heritage & History

Alec Bradley Tempus was introduced in 2009 as a flagship line from the Honduran-based brand, which had already gained attention with its Prensado and Family Blend series. The Tempus name, Latin for 'time,' reflects the blend's intended evolution over years of aging. The line was created under the direction of Alan Rubin, Alec Bradley's founder, and was initially produced at the Raíces Cubanas factory in Danlí, Honduras, a facility known for its work with multiple boutique brands. Tempus was notable for its use of a Honduran Habano wrapper from the Trojes region, a high-altitude area that imparts distinct character. The line expanded to include multiple vitolas, including the Tempus Toro and Tempus Lancero, and became a benchmark for medium-full Honduran blends. Its release marked a period when Alec Bradley sought to position itself among premium cigar makers, and Tempus has remained a staple in the brand's portfolio, often cited for its balance of strength and nuance.

Blending Philosophy

Tempus is built on a philosophy of time and terroir. The blend centers on Honduran tobaccos, with wrappers sourced from specific regions—Trojes for its high-altitude Habano, and the Jamastran Valley for Connecticut Shade-grown leaves. The filler and binder are also Honduran, creating a cohesive national profile. The aging process is key: Tempus cigars are aged for an extended period, allowing the tobaccos to marry and mellow. The construction is precise, with a focus on even burn and draw, which is evident in the Tempus Churchill and Tempus Torpedo. This approach differs from blends that rely on multi-country components; Tempus is a study in Honduran tobacco's range, from the earthy, spicy notes of the Habano to the creamier, sun-grown Connecticut variant.

Flavor Profile

Smokers of Tempus consistently encounter a core of earth and leather, underscored by white pepper on the retrohale. The Honduran Habano wrapper contributes a distinct cedar and dried fruit sweetness, while the filler adds dark cocoa and a subtle nuttiness. The Maduro Robusto variant deepens the profile with molasses and espresso, while the Natural Toro, with its Connecticut Shade wrapper, offers a milder entry with cream and toasted bread. Across the range, strength is medium-full, but the expression varies: the Lancero and Lonsdale emphasize spice and cedar, while the Gran Toro and Churchill provide a fuller, more robust experience. The finish is typically long, with lingering pepper and a touch of leather.

Best for Beginners

For those new to Tempus, the Tempus Petit Corona is the ideal starting point. At $8–$12, it offers a manageable investment, and its shorter length (around 4.5 inches) means a 45-minute smoke. Expect a balanced introduction to the line's signature earth and leather, with a gentle white pepper note that won't overwhelm. The medium-full strength is present but not punishing, making it a gateway to the bolder vitolas.

Alec Bradley Tempus Cigar Lineup

Explore 12 Alec Bradley Tempus cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Alec Bradley Tempus cigars made?

Tempus cigars are produced in Danlí, Honduras, at the Raíces Cubanas factory, which is known for crafting cigars for several boutique brands. Some sources also mention the HATSA and Toraño factories in Danlí as production sites for certain vitolas, but Raíces Cubanas is the primary facility associated with the line.

What is Alec Bradley Tempus known for?

Tempus is known for its use of Honduran tobaccos, particularly the Habano wrapper from the Trojes region, and for its balanced medium-full strength. It has been a consistent top-seller for Alec Bradley and is often praised for its aging potential, with many aficionados noting that the blend improves with time in the humidor.

Are Alec Bradley Tempus cigars strong?

Tempus cigars are rated as medium-full strength. They offer a noticeable nicotine kick and a robust flavor profile, but they are not overpowering. The strength is balanced by the blend's natural sweetness and earthiness, making them suitable for experienced smokers who enjoy a full-bodied experience without extreme intensity.

What is the best Alec Bradley Tempus cigar for beginners?

The Tempus Petit Corona is the best choice for beginners. Its smaller size and lower price point make it less intimidating, and its flavor profile—earth, leather, and a touch of white pepper—is a gentle introduction to the Tempus line. It smokes in about 45 minutes, allowing novices to gauge their tolerance without a long commitment.

How much do Alec Bradley Tempus cigars cost?

Tempus cigars range from $8 to $18 per cigar, depending on the vitola. The Petit Corona and Lonsdale are at the lower end ($8–$13), while the Churchill, Gran Toro, Lancero, and Toro are priced higher ($14–$18). The Robusto and Natural Toro fall in the middle ($10–$14).

What wrapper does Alec Bradley Tempus use?

Tempus uses a variety of Honduran wrappers, including Habano from the Trojes region, Habano Rosado, Connecticut Shade-grown (Sun Grown variant) from the Jamastran Valley, Maduro (HLVA), Corojo, Criollo 98, and Habano Natural. The specific wrapper varies by vitola, with the core line featuring the Trojes Habano.

Are Alec Bradley Tempus cigars Cuban?

No, Tempus cigars are not Cuban. They are made in Honduras, specifically in Danlí, at factories like Raíces Cubanas, HATSA, and Toraño. While the name 'Alec Bradley' may sound Cuban, the brand is Honduran, and Tempus is a testament to Honduran tobacco craftsmanship.

Where can I buy Alec Bradley Tempus cigars?

Tempus cigars are widely available at premium cigar retailers, both brick-and-mortar and online. Look for authorized dealers that carry Alec Bradley products. Online retailers often offer singles or boxes, and you can also find them at cigar events or through the brand's official website for store locator tools.