Davidoff Escurio — Heritage & History

Davidoff Escurio was introduced in 2016 as the second installment in the brand's 'World Blends' trilogy, following the 2014 release of Davidoff Nicaragua and preceding the 2017 Yamasa. The line was created to showcase Brazilian tobacco, a bold departure from the Dominican-centric blends that had defined Davidoff for decades. The blend was developed under the guidance of Hendrik 'Henk' Kelner, the legendary master blender at Davidoff's Oettinger-Imex factory in Santiago, Dominican Republic. Kelner selected Brazilian Mata Fina and Arapiraca wrappers—tobaccos traditionally used in Brazilian cigars but rarely seen in premium non-Cuban blends—and married them with Dominican binders and fillers. The result was a medium-full cigar that retained Davidoff's signature balance while introducing a distinctly Brazilian sweetness and earthiness. Escurio quickly became a staple in the Davidoff portfolio, praised for its innovation and consistency. The line now includes a wide range of vitolas, from the Petit Corona to the Churchill, each showcasing the blend's versatility.

Blending Philosophy

Davidoff Escurio's blending approach is defined by its use of Brazilian tobaccos as the lead character, rather than a supporting note. The Mata Fina wrapper, grown in the Bahia region, is known for its dark, oily appearance and its ability to impart a natural sweetness and a subtle, earthy depth. The Arapiraca wrapper, also from Brazil, adds a different dimension—more robust and slightly spicier. Kelner's philosophy was to let these Brazilian leaves dictate the profile, using Dominican fillers to provide structure and balance rather than to dominate. The blend is aged for a minimum of six years, a practice that smooths the tobaccos' edges and integrates the flavors. Construction follows Davidoff's exacting standards, with each cigar rolled to a precise draw and burn. The result is a range that maintains a consistent medium-full strength across all vitolas, from the Lancero to the Gran Toro, while allowing the wrapper's character to shine through.

Flavor Profile

Across the Escurio range, smokers consistently encounter a profile that opens with a distinct sweetness—reminiscent of dried fruit and brown sugar—courtesy of the Brazilian wrappers. This is soon joined by notes of cedar and leather, with a grounding earthiness that deepens as the cigar progresses. White pepper provides a gentle tingle on the retrohale, while dark cocoa emerges in the final third. The strength is firmly medium-full, but the blend's balance prevents it from becoming harsh. The Lancero and Lonsdale vitolas tend to emphasize the wrapper's sweetness and spice, while the Churchill and Gran Toro offer a more rounded, fuller-bodied experience with a longer finish. The Petit Corona and Short Robusto are quicker smokes but retain the same core flavors, making them ideal for those who want the Escurio character in a shorter session.

Best for Beginners

For a newcomer to the Escurio line, the Petit Corona is the ideal starting point. At $18–$22, it's the most accessible price point, and its smaller format (approximately 4.5 inches, 40 ring gauge) means a shorter smoking time of around 45 minutes. Expect the signature Brazilian sweetness—dried fruit and brown sugar—with a gentle cedar note and a hint of white pepper. The medium-full strength is present but not overwhelming, making it a manageable introduction to the blend's character.

Davidoff Escurio Cigar Lineup

Explore 12 Davidoff Escurio cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Davidoff Escurio cigars made?

Davidoff Escurio cigars are handcrafted in Santiago, Dominican Republic, at Davidoff's Oettinger-Imex factory (also known as the Oettinger Davidoff factory). This is the same facility where other Davidoff blends are produced, under the supervision of master blender Henk Kelner.

What is Davidoff Escurio known for?

Escurio is known for being the first Davidoff blend to prominently feature Brazilian wrapper tobaccos—specifically Mata Fina and Arapiraca. It is part of the 'World Blends' trilogy, which also includes Nicaragua and Yamasa, and it has been praised for its unique sweetness and balance, a departure from traditional Dominican profiles.

Are Davidoff Escurio cigars strong?

Yes, they are medium-full strength. All vitolas in the Escurio line—from the Petit Corona to the Churchill—are rated medium-full, providing a noticeable but not overpowering nicotine kick. The strength is well-integrated with the flavors, so it never feels harsh.

What is the best Davidoff Escurio cigar for beginners?

The Petit Corona is the best choice for beginners due to its lower price point ($18–$22) and shorter smoking time (about 45 minutes). It delivers the full Escurio flavor profile—sweet Brazilian notes, cedar, and white pepper—in a more approachable format than larger vitolas like the Churchill or Toro.

How much do Davidoff Escurio cigars cost?

Prices vary by vitola. The Petit Corona, Corona, Gran Corona, and Short Robusto are the most affordable at $18–$22 per cigar. The Robusto, Toro, Belicoso, Gran Toro, and Torpedo range from $22–$28, while the Churchill and Toro are at the top end at $28–$35. The Lancero and Lonsdale are priced between $24–$30.

What wrapper does Davidoff Escurio use?

Davidoff Escurio uses Brazilian wrapper tobaccos: Mata Fina, Mata Fina from Bahia, and Arapiraca. These wrappers are grown in Brazil and are responsible for the blend's signature sweetness and earthy depth.

Are Davidoff Escurio cigars Cuban?

No, they are not Cuban. Davidoff Escurio cigars are made in the Dominican Republic, specifically in Santiago, at the Oettinger Davidoff factory. They are part of Davidoff's non-Cuban portfolio, which has been produced in the Dominican Republic since the early 1990s after the company severed ties with Cuba.

Where can I buy Davidoff Escurio cigars?

Davidoff Escurio cigars are available at authorized Davidoff retailers, including Davidoff flagship stores and their online shop. They can also be found at premium cigar shops and select online retailers that carry Davidoff products. Due to their price point, they are typically not sold at discount outlets or mass-market stores.