Few cigars capture the storied history of Cuban-made Davidoff quite like the Château Lafite (Rothschild), an enduringly intriguing and prestigious entry. Produced during the brand's legendary partnership with Cubatabaco, this vitola was part of the prestigious Château series that paid homage to some of France's most celebrated wine estates. The cigar was crafted for discerning enthusiasts who appreciated the intersection of fine wine culture and premium tobacco craftsmanship.
History and Background
Released in 1969, the Château Lafite (Rothschild) entered the market during what many consider the golden age of Cuban cigar production. The cigar remained in production for two decades before being discontinued in 1989, coinciding with the broader transition of Davidoff production from Cuba to the Dominican Republic.
In 1983, the cigar underwent a subtle branding adjustment, with its name officially changed to "Château Lafite Rothschild." This refinement brought the nomenclature in line with the full name of the legendary Bordeaux wine estate that inspired it.
Specifications
| Factory Name | Franciscanos |
| Ring Gauge | 40 |
| Length | 116 mm (4⅝″) |
| Official Weight | 6.72 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
Bands and Presentation
Early production of the Château Lafite (Rothschild) featured no bands whatsoever, a characteristic shared by several Davidoff releases from this era. Around 1980, the cigar adopted Davidoff's standard band A, bringing visual consistency to the brand's expanding portfolio.
Packaging Options
The Château Lafite (Rothschild) was offered in multiple presentation formats to suit different purchasing preferences:
- Cardboard pack of 5 cigars
- Slide lid box of 25 cigars
- Slide lid box of 50 cigars
Collectibility and Legacy
As a Cuban-made Davidoff from the Château series, the Château Lafite (Rothschild) has become a highly sought-after collector's item. With production spanning from 1969 to 1989, surviving examples represent a tangible connection to one of the most celebrated eras in luxury cigar history. The Château series itself remains emblematic of Zino Davidoff's vision of positioning cigars alongside the world's finest wines and luxury goods.