Amphora is one of the oldest and most renowned pipe tobacco brands on the German market. Originally developed in the Netherlands by the esteemed company Douwe Egberts, the brand boasts an unparalleled success story.
Amphora: A Brand of History and Tradition
Many associate Douwe Egberts primarily with coffee. This is no coincidence, as the company, founded by Egbert Douwes in 1753 in Joure, Friesland, initially dealt in tobacco, tea, and coffee. Early on, Douwe Egberts established its own tobacco production facility, laying the foundation for its later success.
Early International Recognition
Through targeted marketing, Frisian tobacco gained popularity abroad. As early as 1956, Amphora experimented with different cuts like Flake and Rubbed Cut Flake, which sparked lively discussions among Dutch pipe smokers. Today, similar blends are available under the names Amphora Burley and Amphora Virginia.
In 1953, during its 200th anniversary, Douwe Egberts was honored with the title “koninklijke” (royal). Alongside Amphora, other well-known brands like Van Nelle and Drum were part of its portfolio. While the European market remained strong, the U.S. soon became the primary sales region, as export documents from the 1960s reveal.
The Diversity of Tobacco Blends
In the 1980s, Douwe Egberts expanded the Amphora range to include mild and sweet blends, catering to the preferences of pipe smokers at the time. The term “Cavendish” was also heavily promoted, emphasizing the differences between Dutch and American Cavendish, particularly regarding maturation time.
Amphora in Japan
In the 1970s, Amphora ventured into the pipe segment, offering models with a regulatable airflow system that were even exported to Japan. However, these exports were routed through the U.S., as historical export lists indicate.
Restructuring Under Imperial Tobacco
After achieving significant success in the U.S., Douwe Egberts decided to exit the tobacco business in 1998. The brand rights and production facilities were sold to Imperial Tobacco, temporarily refocusing efforts on the European market.
Mac Baren Takes Over Amphora
In 2006, Mac Baren began producing Amphora as a contract manufacturer for Imperial Tobacco. By 2015, Mac Baren acquired the brand outright and reintroduced it to the American market. Using techniques such as heat pressing, known from St. Bruno Flake, Amphora regained its foothold.
With new blends such as Amphora Virginia and Amphora Kentucky, the brand has gained renewed appreciation among discerning smokers.
Amphora on the German Market
Although certain blends like Rich Aroma, Mellow Blend, and Black Cavendish are not yet available in Germany, the brand remains highly popular. The future of the brand in Europe remains exciting, particularly following Mac Baren’s acquisition by the Scandinavian Tobacco Group.
Combining Enjoyment and Tradition
Amphora invites pipe smokers to explore its rich tradition and distinctive blends. Enjoying Amphora tobacco is more than just smoking – it is an experience of craftsmanship and history.
