The H. Upmann Connoisseur No.1 stands as one of the most enduring offerings in the brand's portfolio, with roots stretching back to before 1960. This regular production cigar has remained a staple for enthusiasts seeking classic Cuban character in a well-proportioned format. As of 1960, it has maintained its place in the ongoing catalog of H. Upmann vitolas, demonstrating remarkable staying power in an ever-evolving market.
Specifications
| Cigar Name | Connoisseur No.1 |
| Factory Name | Hermosos No.4 |
| Ring Gauge | 48 |
| Length | 127 mm (5") |
| Official Weight | 10.86 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Status | Current Regular Production |
Packaging
The Connoisseur No.1 is primarily available in slide lid boxes containing 25 cigars. A limited run of varnished semi boîte nature boxes holding 10 cigars was produced in 2014, though this packaging format was discontinued the same year.
Bands and Presentation
The banding of this cigar has evolved considerably over the decades. Early examples produced before approximately 2005 carried no bands at all. Subsequently, the cigar received the standard H. Upmann B band, followed by the C band. In 2021, a special "Connossieur No.1" band was introduced, giving the cigar its own distinctive visual identity.
The Spelling Anomaly
An interesting quirk surrounds the nomenclature of this vitola. Since its original launch, the name was consistently spelled "Connoisseur" — the standard English spelling. However, following the 2013 introduction of the Connossieur A, some boxes began appearing with the "Connossieur" spelling variant. The 2021 special bands and the gold ribbon found inside boxes both use "Connossieur," yet as of 2022, the exterior labeling on boxes continues to display the traditional "Connoisseur" spelling. Collectors and enthusiasts have noted this inconsistency, which adds a layer of intrigue for those tracking packaging variations.
2014 Habanos Festival Release
A special production run occurred during the 2014 Habanos Festival in Havana. A single batch of cigars in 10-count boxes was created specifically for this event, each bearing a Festival XIII band alongside the standard B-style band. Following the festival, additional boxes from this same production batch reached the global market, though reports indicate these lacked the special festival bands.
Flavor Profile
Based on 75 enthusiast reviews, the Connoisseur No.1 earns an overall rating of 3.84 out of 5, with consistent scores across elegance, balance, strength, complexity, and aftertaste — all registering as moderate (3 out of 5). This suggests a cigar that delivers a well-rounded, middle-of-the-road experience without extreme characteristics in any direction.
The dominant tasting notes paint a picture of a comforting, bakery-adjacent profile. Shortbread leads the charge with 35 mentions, closely followed by coffee at 34 and cedar at 30. Creamier elements appear in 18 reviews, while pepper adds a subtle kick in 13 instances. Supporting notes include leather, nut, and straight tobacco, each appearing in 9 reviews. Hay, licorice, and general spice round out the middle tier with 6 mentions each.
More nuanced characteristics appear less frequently but contribute to the cigar's complexity: the distinctive Cuban twang, vanilla, various wood notes, toast, white pepper, baking spices, caramel, and floral elements. Adventurous palates may also detect hints of almond, chocolate, citrus, cocoa, earth, lemon, oak, salt, sourdough, and even thyme in select smoking sessions.
Related Special Releases
- H. Upmann Connoisseur No.1 Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor
- H. Upmann Connoisseur No.1 160 Aniversario Humidor