How to choose genuine Cuban cigars in the UK

In almost every country around the world, you’ll find cigars for sale. However, finding genuine Cuban cigars isn’t always as straightforward.

Fortunately, the UK is one of the safest markets in which to buy authentic Cuban cigars. Thanks to its tightly controlled distribution network and authorised retailers, consumers are far less likely to encounter counterfeit products than in markets where Cuban cigars have historically been restricted or sourced through unofficial channels, such as the United States.

Here are three key reasons why the UK is considered one of the most reliable places to buy genuine Cuban cigars:

1. Cigar tobacco is not typically grown in the UK, making fake Cuban cigars less common

The UK’s climate is unsuitable for growing premium cigar tobacco on a commercial scale. Unlike countries such as Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Honduras, the UK does not have a domestic cigar manufacturing industry producing “Cuban-style” cigars. As a result, virtually all premium cigars sold in the UK are imported through established distribution channels.

Because there is no significant local production, counterfeit Cuban cigars are less common in reputable UK retailers than in countries where fake cigars are more easily introduced into informal markets. While counterfeit Cuban cigars do exist, they are most often encountered through unofficial sellers, online marketplaces, social media, or purchases made abroad rather than from authorised UK tobacconists.

2. The United States has a long-standing embargo on Cuban tobacco

The United States has maintained an embargo on Cuban goods since the early 1960s. As part of this embargo, the importation and commercial sale of Cuban cigars and other Cuban tobacco products have been heavily restricted for decades.

Although regulations have changed at various times, current U.S. law generally prohibits the commercial importation of Cuban cigars into the United States. This has created a market where genuine Cuban cigars are relatively scarce, increasing the risk of counterfeit products being sold through unofficial channels.

By contrast, the UK has no such embargo on Cuban tobacco. Cuban cigars are legally imported, distributed, and sold through authorised retailers, making it much easier for consumers to purchase authentic products.

3. Hunters & Frankau is the exclusive UK importer of Cuban cigars

In the United Kingdom, Hunters & Frankau is the exclusive official importer and distributor of Habanos S.A. Cuban cigars. This means that every genuine Cuban cigar intended for the UK retail market passes through Hunters & Frankau before reaching authorised tobacconists.

The company supplies recognised retailers such as La Casa del Habano, Habanos Specialists, and other authorised cigar merchants throughout the UK, including C.Gars Ltd. Many boxes also carry the EMS (English Market Selection) designation, indicating they have been selected and quality-checked specifically for the UK market.

This controlled supply chain significantly reduces the likelihood of counterfeit Cuban cigars appearing in reputable UK cigar shops, giving consumers greater confidence that the products they purchase are authentic.

Cuban cigars are legally imported, distributed, and sold through authorised retailers, making it much easier for consumers to purchase authentic products.

How to check if a Cuban cigar is genuine

Buy only from authorised retailers

The safest option is to purchase from shops listed by Habanos, the Cuban cigar company. Look for retailers designated as:

La Casa del Habano
Habanos Specialist
Habanos Point

Check for the EMS stamp

For cigars intended for the UK market, boxes should have an English Market Selection (EMS) sticker.

The EMS stamp indicates that:

• The cigars were imported directly from Cuba by Hunters & Frankau
• The box passed an additional UK quality inspection
• UK duties have been paid
• Correct UK health warnings are present

This is one of the strongest indicators that you’re buying authentic UK-market Cuban cigars.

Inspect the box

A genuine box should have:

• A Cuban warranty seal with hologram
• An individual barcode 
• A serial number 
• Clean printing and sharp labels 
• Factory/date markings on the underside 

Habanos also provides an authenticity verification system for boxes using the warranty seal information.

Be wary of prices that are “too good”

Authentic Cuban cigars in the UK are expensive due to tobacco duty and VAT.

For example:

• Cohiba 
• Montecristo 
• Partagás 
• Romeo y Julieta 

are rarely discounted significantly by reputable retailers. A box advertised at 40–60% below the normal UK retail price is a major warning sign.

Examine the cigars

Good-quality Cuban cigars should have:

• An even, silky wrapper 
• No cracks or large veins 
• Consistent colour within the box 
• A firm but slightly springy feel 
• Neatly applied bands with crisp printing 

Small variations are normal because they are handmade.

Avoid common counterfeit sources

Counterfeits are most often found through:

• social media sellers 
• online marketplaces 
• overseas websites with unusually low prices 
• holiday markets claiming to sell “factory overruns” 

Even convincing-looking boxes can contain fake cigars.

If you’re new to Cuban cigars

If you’re just beginning your journey into Cuban cigars, it can be beneficial to start with a selection of well-established vitolas that showcase the different flavour profiles Cuba has to offer. While Cohiba is Cuba’s flagship brand and an excellent choice for those seeking a luxurious smoking experience, many enthusiasts also recommend exploring other iconic brands to discover your personal preferences.

Some excellent options include:

• Montecristo No. 4 – A balanced, medium-bodied cigar with notes of cedar, coffee and subtle spice. 
• Romeo y Julieta Short Churchill – Smooth and approachable, offering creamy flavours with hints of wood and sweetness. 
• Partagás Serie D No. 4 – A full-bodied classic, renowned for its rich earthy character and signature Cuban spice. 
• Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 – A lighter-bodied smoke with creamy, floral and cedar notes. 

These cigars are among Cuba’s most popular and consistently produced vitolas, making them excellent choices for both newcomers and experienced smokers alike. Exploring a variety of brands and strengths is one of the best ways to discover the Cuban cigar that best suits your palate.