What is the ring gauge and length of H. Upmann Culebras cigars?

Each individual cigar in the H. Upmann Culebras measures 5 5/8 inches (146mm) in length with a 39 ring gauge. When braided together, the three cigars form the distinctive serpentine shape that defines the Culebras format. This size places it in the slender corona category, though the unusual presentation makes it smoke differently than a standard parejo of equivalent dimensions. The format was originally developed to prevent theft among factory workers, as the twisted shape made individual cigars difficult to conceal or sell separately.

How long does an H. Upmann Culebras cigar take to smoke?

A single cigar from the H. Upmann Culebras typically delivers a 35-45 minute smoking experience. The 39 ring gauge and 5 5/8" length create a relatively quick burn compared to thicker formats, though the braided storage method can affect draw resistance initially. Smokers often report that separating the three cigars and allowing brief resting time improves airflow. The machine-made construction contributes to consistent burn rates across examples, though Cuban tobacco aging variables still apply.

What does H. Upmann Culebras taste like compared to other H. Upmann cigars?

The H. Upmann Culebras presents a milder, more linear flavor profile than the brand's hand-rolled offerings like the Magnum 46 or Sir Winston. Expect dominant cedar and hay notes with subtle nuttiness and restrained spice—characteristic of machine-made Cuban production using short filler tobacco. It lacks the complexity and evolution of H. Upmann's premium lines, offering instead a straightforward, consistent smoke. The format appeals to those seeking the brand's historical identity without the investment or time commitment of larger vitolas, though seasoned smokers typically regard it as an occasional novelty rather than a representative H. Upmann experience.

What is the ring gauge and length of H. Upmann Culebras cigars?

Each individual cigar in the H. Upmann Culebras measures 5 5/8 inches (146mm) in length with a 39 ring gauge. When braided together, the three cigars form the distinctive serpentine shape that defines the Culebras format. This size places it in the slender corona category, though the unusual presentation makes it smoke differently than a standard parejo of equivalent dimensions. The format was originally developed to prevent theft among factory workers, as the twisted shape made individual cigars difficult to conceal or sell separately.

How long does an H. Upmann Culebras cigar take to smoke?

A single cigar from the H. Upmann Culebras typically delivers a 35-45 minute smoking experience. The 39 ring gauge and 5 5/8" length create a relatively quick burn compared to thicker formats, though the braided storage method can affect draw resistance initially. Smokers often report that separating the three cigars and allowing brief resting time improves airflow. The machine-made construction contributes to consistent burn rates across examples, though Cuban tobacco aging variables still apply.

What does H. Upmann Culebras taste like compared to other H. Upmann cigars?

The H. Upmann Culebras presents a milder, more linear flavor profile than the brand's hand-rolled offerings like the Magnum 46 or Sir Winston. Expect dominant cedar and hay notes with subtle nuttiness and restrained spice—characteristic of machine-made Cuban production using short filler tobacco. It lacks the complexity and evolution of H. Upmann's premium lines, offering instead a straightforward, consistent smoke. The format appeals to those seeking the brand's historical identity without the investment or time commitment of larger vitolas, though seasoned smokers typically regard it as an occasional novelty rather than a representative H. Upmann experience.

Cigar Information

H. Upmann Culebras

The H. Upmann Culebras stands as one of the most distinctive and unusual formats ever produced under the historic H. Upmann brand. This machine-made cigar features the iconic Culebras shape—three individual cigars braided together in a serpent-like twist that immediately catches the eye of any cigar enthusiast.

Specifications

Name	Culebras
Factory Name	Culebras
Ring Gauge	39
Length	146 mm (5¾″)
Official Weight	6.67 g
Construction	Machine-made

Construction and Presentation

As a machine-rolled cigar, the H. Upmann Culebras was produced with consistent efficiency. The cigar features a special large band design derived from the Type B band style, giving it a distinctive visual identity that set it apart from other offerings in the H. Upmann portfolio.

The Culebras format is unique in the cigar world. Each presentation consists of three separate cigars twisted together in a braided formation, mimicking the appearance of a snake—hence the name "Culebras," which translates from Spanish as "snakes." This format was traditionally created so that workers in cigar factories could take home three cigars without raising suspicion, as the twisted appearance made them appear as a single unit.

Packaging

The H. Upmann Culebras was presented in dress boxes containing 25 cigars, each wrapped in aluminium foil for protection. The box composition was particularly noteworthy: it contained eight complete sets of three braided cigars, plus one additional single cigar, totaling 25 individual cigars per box.

History and Status

The H. Upmann Culebras traces its origins to a pre-1960 release date, making it a historic vitola within the brand's catalog. Production continued until the early 1980s, when the cigar was officially discontinued. Today, this release is considered very rare and highly sought after by collectors, with surviving examples commanding significant interest in the secondary market.

Related Releases

For enthusiasts interested in exploring more from this storied Cuban brand, see the complete catalog of H. Upmann cigars.

Questions & Answers

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