Quai d’Orsay Especial Cigar d’Orsay – 50th Anniversary Cuban Release

The Quai d’Orsay Especial d’Orsay Cigar celebrates 50 years of the brand with a distinctive Cuban format and limited-edition presentation. Launched in 2024, this commemorative release offers collectors an alternative to regular Quai d’Orsay cigars, including the No. 54. Its elegant proportions and light-bodied character suit enthusiasts who appreciate a refined, unhurried smoke.

Quai d’Orsay originated in 1973 for the French market. This anniversary cigar honours that heritage with a unique vitola and commemorative bands. Habanos S.A. presents it in special boxes of 20 cigars and gift boxes of five, making it suitable for collectors and milestone occasions.


Construction and Appearance

Visually, the cigar looks absolutely stunning. The Cuban wrapper leaf is well-stretched, remarkably flexible, and wears a beautiful, oily sheen. The construction feels dense and uniform from head to foot, demonstrating the work of master rollers.
Habanos, S.A. dresses this release with two gorgeous bands. A bright golden "50 Años" primary band sits proudly above a dedicated 1974–2024 commemorative foot band. The brand distributes these across global networks through authorized regional entities like the Quai d'Orsay Cuban cigars distributor Asia-Pacific. They come packaged in luxury 20-count boîtes nature wooden boxes as well as highly collectible 5-count gift boxes.

Aroma, Draw, and Burn

Pre-light aromas from the wrapper and filler release inviting notes of soft cedar, sweet honey, and mild barnyard earth. Testing the draw reveals an excellent, unrestricted airflow right out of the box.
Once lit, the combustion remains perfect, burning in a straight line and producing a crisp, light-gray ash. The smoke texture is remarkably silky and round, coating the palate without biting. Overall, the smoking time lasts approximately 55 to 65 minutes of pure relaxation.


Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile

The tasting notes and flavor profile show an incredible evolution during the smoking experience.
• First Third: The cigar opens with a delicate, soft strength. The palate encounters rich waves of creamy cappuccino, roasted hazelnuts, and warm honey.
• Second Third: The wood notes deepen. Meanwhile, a subtle citrus nuance appears, balancing the persistent creaminess.
• Final Third: In the final stretch, the blend unveils its complexity. The natural oils inside the fermenting tobacco push a sharper, evolving black pepper to the forefront, finishing with a satisfying medium-bodied structure.

Ideal Pairings and Storage

To complement its refined European roots, you can pair this cigar with a crisp white wine or a dry Vintage Champagne. If you prefer spirits, a silky Tawny Port or a non-complex, round whisky works beautifully. It also pairs naturally with an aromatic afternoon cappuccino.

Because of the high oil levels in these wrapper leaves, we highly recommend resting these sticks in a stable, well-maintained humidor at 65% to 69% humidity. Giving them 2 to 5 years of aging will allow the youthful black pepper to round out, creating total balance in the mouth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does it compare with the Quai d’Orsay No. 54? The Especial d’Orsay is longer and slightly slimmer, measuring 153 x 53 mm versus the No. 54’s 135 x 54 mm.

Does it benefit from ageing?
Mellows the Pepper: Resting the cigar for 2 to 5 years breaks down aggressive tobacco oils, turning the sharp black pepper note in the final third into a soft, warm baking spice.
Enhances Creaminess: Over time, signature notes of cappuccino, roasted hazelnut, and honey deepen, while the smoke texture becomes significantly more velvety and round on the palate.
Maximises Balance: The complex filler leaves of this large 53-ring gauge vitola slowly marry, redistributing essential oils to ensure smooth flavor transitions without bitter spots.
Storage Recommendation: To preserve delicate citrus and honey nuances, age them in their original boxes at a slightly lower, rock-solid humidity level of 62% to 65% RH.


Where can you buy the Quai d’Orsay 50th anniversary cigar? Check in-store for availability. US buyers should verify applicable import restrictions before ordering. International shipping availability varies by destination and circumstances.

origin

Cuba

wrapper

Vuelta Abajo

ring gauge

53

length

6 1/35

vitola

Sobresalientes (Toro)

pack count

Box of 5

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