What are the dimensions and smoking time of the San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes La Casa del Habano Exclusivo?

The Mercaderes measures 6 1/3 inches (160mm) in length with a 48 ring gauge, classifying it as a Prominente vitola. This substantial format typically delivers a smoking duration of 90 to 120 minutes, depending on your draw pace. The extended length allows the blend to develop considerable complexity through its three defined smoking phases, with the final third often revealing the most pronounced San Cristóbal character.

When was the San Cristóbal Mercaderes La Casa del Habano Exclusivo released and what makes it exclusive?

The Mercaderes debuted in 2004 as part of the initial wave of La Casa del Habano Exclusivo releases, a program established in 2003 to create unique vitolas sold solely through Habanos S.A.'s official flagship retail network. Unlike regular production cigars, this exclusivity means the Mercaderes cannot be purchased through standard tobacconists, duty-free shops, or online retailers—only at licensed La Casa del Habano locations worldwide, with production quantities strictly controlled.

What flavor profile distinguishes the San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes from other Cuban cigars?

The Mercaderes delivers a medium-bodied profile characteristic of the San Cristóbal marca, featuring pronounced cedar and cocoa notes with underlying earth and subtle spice. Compared to heavier Bolívar or Partagás offerings, it presents a more refined, approachable complexity. The 48 ring gauge provides balanced heat management, while the length permits gradual transitions from initial toasted almond and hay through mid-section coffee bean to a finish of leather and sweet wood—distinctly less intense than its El Príncipe sibling but more layered than the standard Officios.

What are the dimensions and smoking time of the San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes La Casa del Habano Exclusivo?

The Mercaderes measures 6 1/3 inches (160mm) in length with a 48 ring gauge, classifying it as a Prominente vitola. This substantial format typically delivers a smoking duration of 90 to 120 minutes, depending on your draw pace. The extended length allows the blend to develop considerable complexity through its three defined smoking phases, with the final third often revealing the most pronounced San Cristóbal character.

When was the San Cristóbal Mercaderes La Casa del Habano Exclusivo released and what makes it exclusive?

The Mercaderes debuted in 2004 as part of the initial wave of La Casa del Habano Exclusivo releases, a program established in 2003 to create unique vitolas sold solely through Habanos S.A.'s official flagship retail network. Unlike regular production cigars, this exclusivity means the Mercaderes cannot be purchased through standard tobacconists, duty-free shops, or online retailers—only at licensed La Casa del Habano locations worldwide, with production quantities strictly controlled.

What flavor profile distinguishes the San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes from other Cuban cigars?

The Mercaderes delivers a medium-bodied profile characteristic of the San Cristóbal marca, featuring pronounced cedar and cocoa notes with underlying earth and subtle spice. Compared to heavier Bolívar or Partagás offerings, it presents a more refined, approachable complexity. The 48 ring gauge provides balanced heat management, while the length permits gradual transitions from initial toasted almond and hay through mid-section coffee bean to a finish of leather and sweet wood—distinctly less intense than its El Príncipe sibling but more layered than the standard Officios.

Cigar Information

San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes La Casa del Habano Exclusivo

San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes (La Casa del Habano Exclusivo)

The Mercaderes stands as one of the distinguished offerings within the San Cristóbal de la Habana portfolio, released exclusively through La Casa del Habano retail locations. This particular vitola holds historical significance within the brand's timeline, representing the prestigious LCDH exclusive program that delivers unique smoking experiences to discerning aficionados worldwide.

Historical Background

The Mercaderes made its initial appearance in 2004 as part of the celebrated 5 Aniversario Humidor collection. This special presentation established the cigar's foundation before it received a broader release as a standalone La Casa del Habano exclusive in 2006. The production run continued until 2011, making this a limited-availability cigar that has since been discontinued, adding to its collectible appeal among enthusiasts.

Specifications

Cigar Name	Mercaderes
Factory Name	Hermosos No.1
Ring Gauge	48
Length	167 mm (6⅝″)
Official Weight	14.28 g
Construction	Handmade
Status	Released 2006, Discontinued 2011

Presentation and Packaging

The Mercaderes was presented in elegant varnished boîte nature boxes containing 25 cigars each. Each cigar features the standard San Cristóbal de la Habana band (Band A) accompanied by a distinctive "La Casa del Habano" secondary band, signifying its exclusive retail channel designation.

Related Releases

San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes X Edición Festival del Habano
San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes 5 Aniversario Humidor

Questions & Answers

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Cigar Information

San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes La Casa del Habano Exclusivo

San Cristóbal de la Habana Mercaderes (La Casa del Habano Exclusivo)

Historical Background

Specifications

Cigar Name	Mercaderes
Factory Name	Hermosos No.1
Ring Gauge	48
Length	167 mm (6⅝″)
Official Weight	14.28 g
Construction	Handmade
Status	Released 2006, Discontinued 2011