Cuban cigars are extremely preferred, renowned around the world for their rich flavors and smoothness. Cuban cigars are so prized, in fact, that many illegal traders have sold fake cubans to unsuspecting cigar smokers, so how do you tell the false from the genuine article? First, make certain that you obtain your cigars from a established dealer so purchasing from your local tobacconist or a respectable mail order concern can protect you from giving your cash over for a box of imposters.
If you have an opportunity to purchase a box of purported Cuban cigars, but have your doubts, take the time to examine the box before purchasing it. Here are a few tips to help you spot the fakes from the real thing.
Authentic Cuban cigars will contain a green and white warranty seal on the left front side of the box. The seal will have an insignia with a picture of a shield and hat. You should find a white sticker placed diagonally on the upper right hand corner of the box that says ‘Habanos’. Avoid boxes that are not neat and clean, and show signs of damage, smudging, fraying, or markings. Don’t buy cigars if the box is dull, even if they appear to be the real thing, as their quality may have suffered during transport. Know that if you happen to be in the market for Cohibi, Q’dorsay, or Trinidad brand cigars, be informed that all authentic Cohiba’s will contain the green and white warranty seal on the right hand side of the box.
Be sure to make sure that a heat stamp with the word ‘Habanos’ is found impressed onto the bottom of the cigar box, and that it is not imprinted with a rubber stamp or paper label, as this is a sure sign of fake Cuban cigars. On the bottom of an authentic Cuban cigar box, you should also find a factory coded stamp in black, green, or blue that will tell you when and where the cigars were rolled.
If you can open the box, take the time to smell the tobacco as Cuban cigars have a deep, rich aroma, unmistakable to a dedicated cigar aficionado. Chances are that you do not have an genuine box of Cubans if the smell is weak, and just doesn’t smell right. The cigars should be facing the same way, and the top row may appear slightly flattened. The foot of each cigar should be cleanly cut, and the caps on all the cigars should be identical. The bands on all the cigars should also be identical, and should be arranged so that they face the same direction. If you’re allowed, test the cigars out by pressing down on them. Check for hard or soft spots by feeling along the entire length of each cigar. The cigars should feel somewhat firm, yet pliable.