What are the Quai d'Orsay Imperiales dimensions and ring gauge?

The Quai d'Orsay Imperiales measured 184mm (7.2 inches) in length with a 47 ring gauge, classifying it as a Prominente vitola. This substantial format contributed to its 90-120 minute smoking duration. The cigar featured a light-to-medium bodied profile characteristic of the Quai d'Orsay marca, which was originally created in 1973 specifically for the French market through SEITA (French tobacco monopoly). The Imperiales remained in production from 1974 until its discontinuation in 2014, making it one of the longer-running formats in the brand's portfolio.

Why was the Quai d'Orsay Imperiales discontinued in 2014?

Habanos S.A. discontinued the Imperiales in 2014 as part of a broader rationalization of the Quai d'Orsay portfolio, which saw the marca reduced to just two regular production vitolas: the Coronas Claro and the No. 50. The decision reflected shifting market preferences toward shorter, thicker formats and declining demand for lengthy cigars like the Imperiales. Additionally, the French market—Quai d'Orsay's traditional stronghold—experienced changing consumption patterns. The Imperiales' 47 ring gauge and extended length had become increasingly niche compared to the robusto and petit robusto formats dominating global sales.

What does the Quai d'Orsay Imperiales taste like compared to other Cuban cigars?

The Imperiales delivered a distinctly elegant, light-to-medium bodied experience with pronounced floral and grassy notes, subtle honey sweetness, and toasted bread characteristics—markedly milder than Cohiba or Partagas offerings. Its Connecticut-seed wrapper, grown in Cuba's Vuelta Abajo region, provided the signature Quai d'Orsay creaminess without the pepper or earth common in fuller-bodied Habanos. Aficionados often compared its refined profile to the Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona, though the Imperiales exhibited more delicate, tea-like nuances. The extended format allowed these subtle flavors to evolve gradually, with the final third developing light cedar and almond notes.

Cigar Information

Quai d'Orsay Imperiales

Mateo AlcántaraStaff Writer

First rolled as a handmade vitola, the Quai d'Orsay Imperiales served discerning smokers for over four decades before its eventual discontinuation. Released in 1974, this cigar represented the elegance and tradition associated with the Quai d'Orsay brand, which was named after the famous Parisian quay housing the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Specifications

Cigar Name	Imperiales
Factory Name	Julieta No.2
Ring Gauge	47
Length	178 mm (7 inches)
Official Weight	15.07 g
Construction	Handmade
Band	Standard band A
Packaging	Semi boîte nature box of 25 cigars
Status	Discontinued (2015)

History and Production

The Imperiales entered the Cuban cigar market in 1974 as part of the regular production lineup. For more than forty years, this vitola maintained its presence in humidors worldwide, offering enthusiasts a classic smoking experience rooted in traditional Cuban craftsmanship.

In 2015, Habanos S.A. made the decision to discontinue the Imperiales, marking the end of an era for this long-standing release. The discontinuation came as part of broader portfolio adjustments within the Quai d'Orsay brand.

Construction and Presentation

As a handmade cigar, the Imperiales embodied the skilled artistry of Cuban torcedores. The vitola featured the standard band A design associated with Quai d'Orsay, presented in semi boîte nature boxes containing 25 cigars—a packaging style that allowed for proper aging while showcasing the cigars' natural beauty.

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Quai d'Orsay Imperiales Travel Humidor

The Imperiales remains a sought-after find among collectors and connoisseurs who appreciate the historical significance of this discontinued Cuban cigar.

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