Quai D’Orsay No. 52

Description

Quai D’Orsay No. 52

It is a premium Cuban cigar crafted by Habanos, S.A. for the distinguished ­Quai D’Orsay brand. Launched in 2022 at a high-profile event in Paris, this vitola combines classic Cuban cigar artistry with the refined taste profile that has long defined the Quai D’Orsay line.
For aficionados seeking a cigar with a mild-to-medium body, elegant flavour progression, and French-inspired heritage, the No. 52 stands out as both accessible and sophisticated.

Brand Heritage & Background

A Franco-Cuban Story

• The Quai D’Orsay brand was originally developed in the early 1970s to appeal specifically to the French market, emphasising a lighter style of Cuban cigar. 
• The name “Quai D’Orsay” correlates with the famed Parisian avenue along the Seine, tying the Cuban cigar to French elegance and taste. 
• The No. 52 vitola represents a modern evolution of the brand, introduced to reflect refined complexity while staying true to the brand’s origins. 

Official Debut

The world premiere of the Quai D’Orsay No. 52 took place in Paris, at the historic Hôtel de La Marine (Place de la Concorde) in October 2022, in a gala celebrating French‐Cuban collaboration and cigar craftsmanship.
During the presentation, Habanos, S.A. emphasized the importance of the French market and the elegance embodied in the new vitola. 

Specifications & Format

• Vitola: 156 mm length (approximately 6⅛″) × 52 ring gauge. 
• Wrapper/Binder/Filler: 100% Cuban tobacco (long‐filler from the renowned Vuelta Abajo region) with a smooth, semi-oily wrapper indicative of premium Cuban craftsmanship. 
• Strength: Light to medium body — designed for those who appreciate subtlety and refinement rather than full‐on power.

Tasting Profile & Experience

First Third

• Opens with delicate, balanced aromas. Reviewers report subtle expressions of vanilla cream, almonds, and hints of light oak. 
• The construction shows excellent workmanship, a hallmark of the brand: smooth draw, even burn. 

Mid‐Session

• As the cigar develops, floral undertones and gentle spice (e.g., white pepper or cinnamon) may emerge — adding complexity while still maintaining the refined character of the brand. 
• Nuttiness, mild caramel or honey sweetness also make subtle appearances.

Final Third

• The strength remains well moderated, but flavour depth increases. Expect gentle hints of roasted coffee, leather, and more pronounced wood notes — still elegant, not heavy.
• Overall, the smoking experience is smooth, balanced, and well‐paced — ideal for a relaxed but refined session.

Who It’s For & When to Smoke

• Ideal for: smokers who enjoy Cuban premium cigars with a lighter body; those who value sophistication, craftsmanship, flavour nuance over brute strength.
• Occasions: late afternoon or early evening; paired with a refined drink (champagne, light rum, cognac), or enjoyed after a gourmet meal. The presentation event also suggests a cigar that suits special gatherings.
• Pairings:
  • Champagne or sparkling wine to match the light‐to‐medium strength and complement subtle flavours. 
  • A lightly fermented coffee or quality tea for a mellow but flavourful accompaniment.

Packaging & Presentation

• Typically offered in boxes of 10 or 25 cigars.
• The wrapper is described as smooth and semi-oily, giving it a premium visual and tactile appeal. 
• As part of the 2022 launch, the packaging and branding emphasised elegance, tying French and Cuban aesthetics together. 

Value Proposition & Market Position

• Positioned as a premium Cuban cigar that bridges tradition and elegance, rather than maximum strength.
• While many Cuban cigars emphasise boldness, the Quai D’Orsay No. 52 sets itself apart by offering a more refined palate — a smoke that can be savoured, not raced through.
• Given its launch through a global brand like Habanos, and the careful format and profile, it holds appeal for collectors and regular aficionados alike.
• Potential downside: For smokers looking for high strength or heavy flavours, this may feel lighter; it’s a different smoking experience niche.