AshMap
Principle Cigars — Heritage & History
Principle Cigars was founded in 2015 by industry veteran David Garofalo, a former executive at Drew Estate and later at A.J. Fernandez, operating out of Estelí, Nicaragua. The brand emerged from Garofalo’s desire to create a boutique cigar line that balanced modern blending techniques with a nod to traditional Nicaraguan craftsmanship. While specific details about the company's early investors or founding team remain private, the brand quickly gained recognition in the premium cigar community for its clean construction and balanced profiles. Principle Cigars is significant for its focus on Ecuadorian Habano wrappers—a leaf often associated with complexity and spice—paired with Nicaraguan fillers. The brand's production is handled in Estelí, Nicaragua's premier cigar manufacturing hub, though the exact factory has not been publicly confirmed. Today, Principle Cigars maintains a dedicated following among enthusiasts seeking approachable yet sophisticated blends, with a portfolio that emphasizes medium to medium-full strength experiences without overwhelming the palate.
Blending Philosophy
Principle Cigars’ blending philosophy centers on the harmonization of Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with Nicaraguan filler tobaccos to create a balanced, accessible profile that does not sacrifice complexity. The brand avoids extreme strength or heavy-handed ligero, instead prioritizing a smooth, layered smoking experience that evolves as the cigar burns. Garofalo has stated his interest in making cigars that ‘speak to the core of the leaf’—meaning the tobacco’s natural flavors, not added infusions or heavy fermentation, define the smoke. This restraint makes Principle Cigars distinctive in a market often trending toward bold, full-bodied blends; they offer an alternative for smokers who value nuance and consistency over power. The brand’s two core vitolas—Robusto and Toro—share the same wrapper and binder but differ in ring gauge and length, showcasing how shape influences flavor delivery.
Flavor Profile
Across the Principle Cigars range, the signature flavor character is defined by the Ecuadorian Habano wrapper’s earthiness and subtle red pepper spice, supported by Nicaraguan fillers that contribute notes of cedar, roasted nuts, and a faint sweetness reminiscent of dried fruit. The Robusto (medium strength) tends to amplify the wrapper’s spice and offers a creamier finish, with a shorter smoke that concentrates the flavors. The Toro (medium-full strength) introduces a slightly bolder profile, with deeper leather and cocoa undertones emerging in the second third, while maintaining a clean, mild retrohale. Both vitolas share a consistent foundation of toasted tobacco and moderate pepper, with a finish that leans toward savory rather than sweet. No strong floral or citrus notes appear; the profile remains firmly in the earth-spice-cedar spectrum, making it a reliable choice for enthusiasts of traditional Nicaraguan blends with a Habano accent.
Best for Beginners
The Robusto is recommended for beginners due to its medium strength, shorter smoking time (about 45–60 minutes), and balanced flavor profile that avoids overwhelming pepper or nicotine. Its creamy spice and nutty notes offer an approachable introduction to Ecuadorian Habano wrappers without the fuller body of the Toro. This vitola allows new enthusiasts to experience the brand’s core character in a manageable format.
Principle Cigars Cigar Lineup
Explore 2 Principle Cigars cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Principle Cigars cigars made?
Principle Cigars are made in the Estelí region of Nicaragua, a renowned area for premium cigar production. The specific factory has not been publicly disclosed, but all blending and rolling occur entirely in Nicaragua.
What is Principle Cigars known for?
Principle Cigars is known for its balanced, medium to medium-full strength cigars that showcase Ecuadorian Habano wrappers. The brand emphasizes approachable complexity and smooth flavor evolution, avoiding extreme strength or heavily infused tobaccos.
Are Principle Cigars cigars strong?
No, they are not considered strong in the premium cigar sense. The Robusto is medium strength, and the Toro is medium-full. Both are designed to be accessible, with moderate nicotine delivery and no harshness, suitable for experienced smokers and aspirational beginners.
What is the best Principle Cigars cigar for beginners?
The Robusto is the best choice for beginners. Its medium strength, shorter smoke time, and creamy spice profile provide a comfortable introduction to the brand without the fuller body of the Toro.
How much do Principle Cigars cigars cost?
Principle Cigars are priced in the premium but accessible range: the Robusto typically costs between $8 and $12 per cigar, and the Toro between $9 and $13 per cigar, depending on retailer and location.
What wrapper does Principle Cigars use?
Principle Cigars exclusively uses Ecuadorian Habano wrapper leaves across both its Robusto and Toro vitolas. This wrapper contributes earthy, spicy, and slightly sweet notes to the blend.
Are Principle Cigars cigars Cuban?
No, Principle Cigars are not Cuban. They are entirely Nicaraguan, made in Estelí, Nicaragua, using non-Cuban tobaccos. The wrapper is Ecuadorian Habano, and all filler tobaccos are sourced from Nicaragua.
Where can I buy Principle Cigars cigars?
Principle Cigars are available through select online retailers such as Cigar Page, Famous Smoke Shop, and smallbatchcigar.com, as well as at certain brick-and-mortar tobacconists specializing in boutique brands. Check the brand’s official website or social media for current stockist lists.