General Cigar Company is one of the largest and most influential cigar manufacturers in the world — a powerhouse that produces, distributes, and markets some of the most recognizable cigar brands in the industry. From heritage Cuban-legacy names to modern boutique-style releases, General Cigar's portfolio spans the full spectrum of premium cigars.
This guide covers the General Cigar Company story, highlights their major brands, and helps you navigate their extensive portfolio.
The General Cigar Story
General Cigar Company has roots stretching back to the late 19th century, evolving through decades of American cigar manufacturing history. The company grew through a series of acquisitions and partnerships, eventually assembling a portfolio of cigar brands that includes some of the most famous names in the industry.
In 2010, General Cigar was acquired by Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG), a Danish-based global tobacco company. Under STG's ownership, General Cigar has continued to invest in its brands, factories, and tobacco supply chain while maintaining the individual character and heritage of each brand in its portfolio.
General Cigar operates manufacturing facilities in the Dominican Republic and Honduras, and sources tobaccos from growing regions across Central America, Ecuador, and beyond. The company's scale gives it access to exceptional tobaccos and manufacturing resources, while individual brand teams maintain the distinct identities of each cigar line.
General Cigar's Major Brands
Macanudo — The Iconic Mild
Macanudo is one of the best-selling cigar brands in America and General Cigar's most recognizable name. Known for its mild, smooth Café line and the bolder Inspirado series, Macanudo appeals to both beginners and experienced smokers. The Inspirado Black and White lines have earned strong ratings in recent years.
CAO — Creative and Bold
CAO is General Cigar's most creatively diverse brand — known for innovative flavor-infused cigars, the rugged Flathead series, and globally inspired blends like Brazilia and Italia. CAO appeals to adventurous smokers who enjoy variety and bold flavors.
La Gloria Cubana — Cuban Heritage
La Gloria Cubana is a Cuban-heritage brand known for full-bodied, complex cigars. The Serie R line is one of the most acclaimed Nicaraguan cigars in the General portfolio, delivering rich earth, pepper, and dark chocolate flavors.
Partagas — Bold Tradition
Partagas is one of the oldest cigar brand names in existence, dating back to 1845 in Cuba. The non-Cuban Partagas line delivers medium-to-full body with classic flavors of earth, leather, and spice. The Partagas Serie lines are critically acclaimed.
Cohiba (Non-Cuban) — Premium Position
The non-Cuban Cohiba brand is General Cigar's ultra-premium offering. Using select Dominican tobaccos, Cohiba delivers refined, medium-to-full flavors in elegant presentations. The Cohiba Blue and Cohiba Royale are popular expressions.
Punch — Value and History
Punch dates back to 1840 and offers one of the broadest ranges in the portfolio — from the mild Deluxe to the full-bodied Diablo. The Punch London Club is one of the most iconic small-format cigars in the world. A great value brand.
Hoyo de Monterrey — Honduran Classic
Hoyo de Monterrey is a Cuban-legacy brand produced in Honduras. Known for smooth, medium-bodied flavors with earth, cedar, and sweet spice. The Excalibur line is Hoyo's most popular expression.
Foundry — Creative Laboratory
Foundry is General Cigar's experimental brand — steampunk-themed cigars including the wildly popular Chillin' Moose, one of the best value cigars on the market.
Other Notable Brands
Toraño — A family-owned brand acquired by General Cigar. Known for the Vault and Exodus lines.
Bolivar — A Cuban-heritage brand with full-bodied, bold flavors. Earth, pepper, and leather.
Where to Buy General Cigar Brands
General Cigar brands are widely available through cigar retailers. Browse and compare pricing for all General Cigar brands at Cigar Finder:
For the full catalog with real-time pricing, visit CigarFinder's premium cigars page and filter by brand.
New to buying online? Read our guide on how to buy cigars online safely. Looking for deals? Check our coupon codes page and best cigar deals guide.
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Explore More: Browse all premium cigars. See our best cigars for the money guide for top picks across the General Cigar portfolio.
