The American — Heritage & History

The American is a premium cigar brand rooted in the legacy of American tobacco craftsmanship. Its production is shared between two historic factories: J.C. Newman's El Reloj factory in Tampa, Florida—the last remaining cigar factory in Ybor City—and the TABSA factory (Drew Estate) in Estelí, Nicaragua. The brand draws on Tampa’s cigar-making heritage, which dates to the late 19th century, while incorporating Nicaraguan leaf for complexity. A limited number of vitolas are also rolled at the Joya de Nicaragua factory in Estelí. The American was developed to honor classic American cigar profiles, using predominantly Connecticut and Pennsylvania Broadleaf wrappers. While the exact year of the brand’s founding is not publicly confirmed with certainty, its production across these storied facilities positions it as a bridge between Old World Tampa tradition and modern Nicaraguan blending expertise.

Blending Philosophy

The American’s blending philosophy centers on balancing bold, earthy Broadleaf tobacco with refined wrapper leaf to create approachable yet complex cigars. The brand prioritizes consistency and structure, using a core of Nicaraguan filler and binder from Estelí alongside American-grown wrappers—particularly Connecticut Broadleaf in Maduro and Natural finishes. Each vitola is crafted to offer a distinct smoking experience within a unified flavor framework, from mild Coronas to full-bodied Belicosos. The American avoids over-engineering blends, letting the tobacco’s character lead. This restraint, combined with production at both Tampa and Estelí factories, gives the brand a dual identity: artisanal American tradition meeting Nicaraguan depth.

Flavor Profile

Signature flavor notes across The American range include rich earth, cocoa, cedar, and subtle spice, with variations by wrapper. Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro-wrapped cigars deliver dark chocolate, espresso, and black pepper, while Natural wrappers present creamier, nutty, and mildly sweet profiles. The Lancero and Churchill offer greater complexity with layered baking spice and leather, while the Corona and Natural Toro lean milder, highlighting floral and hay notes. A consistent thread is a smooth, sweet finish attributed to the Broadleaf leaf. Full-strength vitolas like the Belicoso introduce leather and charred oak. The brand’s medium-to-medium-full core strength ensures accessibility without sacrificing depth.

Best for Beginners

The Natural Toro is an excellent entry point for newcomers. At medium strength and $12–$16, it offers a balanced profile of cedar, cream, and mild sweetness from the Connecticut Broadleaf Natural wrapper. The smooth draw and forgiving body allow beginners to appreciate nuanced flavor without overwhelming strength.

The American Cigar Lineup

Explore 12 The American cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

  • Belicoso — Belicoso, Full · $18–$22 per cigar
  • Churchill — Churchill, Medium-Full · $18–$22 per cigar
  • Corona — Corona, Mild-Medium · $10–$14 per cigar
  • Gran Toro — Toro, Medium-Full · $14–$18 per cigar
  • Lancero — Lancero, Medium-Full · $18–$24 per cigar
  • Lonsdale — Lonsdale, Medium-Full · $12–$16 per cigar
  • Maduro Robusto — Robusto, Medium-Full · $12–$16 per cigar
  • Natural Toro — Toro, Medium · $12–$16 per cigar
  • Petit Corona — Petit Corona, Medium-Full · $9–$12 per cigar
  • Robusto — Robusto, Medium-Full · $12–$16 per cigar
  • Toro — Toro, Medium-Full · $12–$16 per cigar
  • Torpedo — Torpedo, Medium-Full · $12–$16 per cigar

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are The American cigars made?

The American cigars are primarily rolled at two locations: J.C. Newman's El Reloj factory in Tampa, Florida (the last remaining cigar factory in Ybor City), and the TABSA factory (Drew Estate) in Estelí, Nicaragua. A limited number of vitolas are also produced at the Joya de Nicaragua factory in Estelí, Nicaragua.

What is The American known for?

The American is known for blending traditional American Broadleaf wrappers—especially Connecticut and Pennsylvania Broadleaf—with Nicaraguan filler tobacco to produce balanced, medium-to-full-bodied cigars. It is celebrated for its connection to Tampa’s historic cigar-making heritage and its dual production in Florida and Nicaragua.

Are The American cigars strong?

Strength varies across the range. Most vitolas, including the Churchill, Gran Toro, Robusto, and Toro, are Medium-Full. The Belicoso is Full strength, while the Corona is Mild-Medium. The Natural Toro is Medium. The brand overall leans toward medium-to-medium-full, with no ligero-heavy blends.

What is the best The American cigar for beginners?

The Natural Toro (Toro, Medium, $12–$16) is ideal for beginners. Its Connecticut Broadleaf Natural wrapper delivers mild cream, cedar, and subtle sweetness, with a smooth draw and moderate strength that eases newcomers into premium cigar smoking.

How much do The American cigars cost?

Pricing varies by vitola. Coronas and Petit Coronas range from $9–$14. Lonsdale, Maduro Robusto, Natural Toro, Robusto, Toro, and Torpedo are $12–$16. Gran Toro is $14–$18. Belicoso and Churchill are $18–$22. The Lancero is the most expensive at $18–$24 per cigar.

What wrapper does The American use?

The American uses primarily Connecticut Broadleaf wrappers in Maduro and Natural finishes, as well as Pennsylvania Broadleaf Maduro. Some vitolas also employ Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade and standard Maduro wrappers. The exact wrapper for each vitola can vary; the Natural Toro, for example, uses Connecticut Broadleaf Natural.

Are The American cigars Cuban?

No, The American cigars are not Cuban. They are produced in Nicaragua (Estelí) and the United States (Tampa, Florida). The brand uses Nicaraguan filler and binder with American-grown Broadleaf wrappers. They have no connection to Cuban tobacco or Cuban cigar manufacturing.

Where can I buy The American cigars?

The American cigars are available at select premium cigar retailers, both brick-and-mortar and online. Due to their limited production across two factories, availability may vary. We recommend checking with authorized retailers or the brand’s official distribution channels for current stock.