Aging Room Cigars: The Origins of a Brand
The brand Aging Room has successfully established itself in Germany since its introduction. Like many other renowned cigar companies, it originated in Miami, where “Boutique Blends Cigars” is based. The current line was originally launched in 1996 under the name “Habana Cuba Cigar Company.” In 2002, ownership passed to Rafael Nodal and two other partners. It wasn’t until 2012 that the name was changed to Aging Room to emphasize a realignment toward premium cigars in small batches—known as small batches.
Rafael Nodal: The Visionary Behind Aging Room
The acquisition of Habana Cuba Cigar Company marked a turning point. Following the cigar boom of the 1990s, there was an oversupply, forcing many manufacturers to stockpile their products. The company at the time successfully sold its cigars online, which provided access to buyers like Rafael Nodal and Hank Bischoff—its future owners. They quickly specialized in selling small-batch cigars in the Miami area. Initial attempts to produce premium cigars in Nicaragua under the expertise of Nestor Plasencia and Nick Perdomo garnered early attention. However, despite innovations like the “XL for Men,” featuring an exceptional 60 ring gauge at the time, major success remained elusive initially.
Strategic Partnership: Aging Room and A.J. Fernandez
The breakthrough came with the SWAG brand, crafted in the Dominican Republic by Tabacalera La Palma under the leadership of Jose Blanco. SWAG quickly gained popularity and provided Aging Room with a clearer direction: an even stronger focus on exclusive, limited lines. In 2011, this philosophy was further developed with the launch of the highly limited Aging Room line.
A decisive milestone was reached in 2019 through collaboration with the renowned A.J. Fernandez. Together, they launched the Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua. This cigar was named Cigar of the Year 2019 by *Cigar Aficionado* and is currently the only Aging Room series imported to Germany.
