The Barrio Viejo has made waves among cigar aficionados — and with good reason. Behind the brand stands Thorsten Wolfertz, a name well known among industry professionals. As an experienced cigar importer based in Solingen, he has shaped the German market with premium lines for many years.
Barrio Viejo Cigars – When a Connoisseur Becomes a Producer
Brands like Alec Bradley, Nicarao, A.J. Fernandez, Oliva, Condega, and Plasencia owe their presence in Germany to him. With the Barrio Viejo line, Wolfertz opened a new chapter — shifting from distributor to producer. Thanks to his excellent network, a new series was created in Honduras that excites aficionados.
Exactly where the cigars are produced remains his well-kept secret. What is known is that production takes place in a handpicked factory in Danlí. The focus, however, is on the tobacco blend: filler and binder come from Honduras, while the refined wrapper adds Nicaraguan richness and character.
Barrio Viejo: Premium Cigars in Bundle Format
The result is convincing: a well-balanced smoke with a medium-bodied profile and subtle aromas. What’s truly impressive, though, is the price point — hard to believe these are hand-rolled longfillers. In terms of value for money, the bundled cigars from Barrio Viejo are setting new standards.

A promise that’s often made — but here, it’s reality: premium Robusto formats like the Barrio Viejo Robusto are available for under five euros — an impressive statement in terms of quality and accessibility.
New Direction: From Wolfertz to Vandermarliere
At the beginning of 2023, Thorsten Wolfertz handed over his company to the Vandermarliere Cigar Family (VCF). The Barrio Viejo brand was part of the acquisition and remains present on the market. Thorsten Wolfertz himself is still active in the industry — now working as sales director at VCF, where he continues to contribute his expertise.
