Romeo y Julieta is a Cuban cigar brand founded in 1875 by Inocencio Alvarez and Manin Garcia. The brand name comes from Shakespeare's famous play. It became popular under owner Jose "Pepin" Rodriguez Fernandez, who expanded the business internationally. The brand is known for its connection to Winston Churchill, who inspired the Churchill vitola size (47 ring gauge x 178mm).
After Cuba's 1959 revolution, production split between Cuban-made cigars by Habanos S.A. and non-Cuban versions made in the Dominican Republic by Altadis U.S.A. Cuban versions use tobacco from Vuelta Abajo region, while Dominican versions blend Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers with Ecuadorian wrappers.
Popular product lines include:
- Romeo y Julieta 1875: Uses Indonesian wrapper with Dominican filler, medium-bodied with cedar and spice notes.
- Reserva Real: Features Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper with Dominican-Nicaraguan filler, offering leather and vanilla flavors.
- Churchill Series: The classic 47x178mm Cuban version has medium-full body with cedar and cream notes.
- Mini Puritos: Machine-made small cigars (109mmx27 ring gauge) for quick smoking.
The brand produces cigars in strengths ranging from mild to full-bodied. Cuban versions typically show earthy, woody flavors, while non-Cuban versions are often smoother and more consistent. The company has made over 20,000 different custom cigar bands throughout its history.