When did Quintero Brevas (1) cigars stop being made and why were they discontinued?

Production of the Quintero Brevas (1) ceased in the early 1980s, approximately two decades after the Cuban Revolution nationalized the tobacco industry. The discontinuation aligned with broader streamlining efforts at the time, as Cuba consolidated its cigar portfolio and eliminated numerous regional and lesser-known formats. As a pre-1960 handmade release, the Brevas (1) represented an older tradition that did not survive the era's production rationalization. Surviving examples are now genuine collector's items.

What size and shape was the Quintero Brevas (1) cigar?

The Quintero Brevas (1) followed the classic Brevas vitola, measuring approximately 5.5 inches (140mm) in length with a ring gauge of 42. This slender corona format was standard for entry-level Cuban cigars of the mid-20th century, offering a 30-45 minute smoking duration. The modest dimensions reflected Quintero's positioning as an affordable, accessible brand during the pre-Revolutionary and early post-Revolutionary periods, distinct from the heavier ring gauges that later dominated the market.

How does Quintero Brevas (1) compare to modern Quintero cigars?

Unlike contemporary Quintero offerings—which are machine-made or hand-finished with mixed filler—the Brevas (1) was fully handmade with tripa larga (long filler) prior to 1960. Modern Quintero Favoritos and Petit Quinteros bear little resemblance in construction quality or tobacco sourcing. The original Brevas (1) utilized Vuelta Abajo and Semi Vuelta leaf, delivering earthier, more pronounced Cuban terroir than current iterations. Collectors note the pre-1980s examples exhibit superior aging potential due to traditional craftsmanship.

Quintero Brevas (1)

The Quintero Brevas (1) stands as a notable entry in the brand's historical catalog, representing an early handmade offering that debuted before 1960. This cigar has since been discontinued, with production ceasing in the early 1980s, making it a release that collectors and enthusiasts of vintage Cuban cigars may encounter in their search for classic Habanos.

Specifications

Name	Brevas (1)
Factory Name	Unknown
Ring Gauge	42
Length	138 mm (5⅜″)
Official Weight	8.72 g
Construction	Handmade

Packaging and Presentation

The Brevas (1) was presented in a dress box containing 25 cigars, which were bundled together in aluminium foil. This packaging approach was typical of the era and helped preserve the cigars' condition during storage and transport. The cigars featured an early Type A custom band, distinguishing them as part of Quintero's initial band design lineage.

Historical Context

As a pre-1960 release, the Brevas (1) emerged during a significant period in Cuban cigar history. The cigar remained in production for approximately two decades before being discontinued in the early 1980s. This timeline places it firmly within the golden age of Cuban cigar production, when many classic vitolas were being refined and standardized.

Related Releases

Collectors should note that the Brevas name has been applied to multiple Quintero releases over the years. A machine-made version, designated Brevas (2), was also produced but has since been discontinued. Additionally, a current short-filler handmade version known as Brevas (3) remains available, offering enthusiasts a modern interpretation of this historic vitola name.

The Brevas (1) represents an important chapter in the Quintero brand story, exemplifying the handmade craftsmanship that characterized pre-revolutionary and early post-revolutionary Cuban cigar production.

Quintero Brevas (1)