Esteban Carreras stands for exclusive boutique cigars from Nicaragua, crafted with passion, care, and traditional values. Each longfiller cigar from Esteban Carreras promises an exceptional smoking experience—defined by depth, character, and a distinct signature. These cigars unite classic craftsmanship with contemporary elegance, showcasing the full aromatic potential of Central American tobaccos.
Esteban Carreras Cigars – Rooted in the Cuban Tradition
The story of Esteban Carreras dates back to the 1980s, when a young cigar maker in Cuba learned the art of tobacco processing. Under the guidance of experienced Maestro Torcedores, he refined his skills before setting off on his own path. The Esteban Carreras brand was founded in 1996—originally in the Dominican Republic—as an expression of craftsmanship, passion, and a drive to create a unique style.

From the beginning, Esteban Carreras stood for uncompromising quality, artisanal precision, and aromatic depth. The fusion of Cuban roots and Nicaraguan terroir laid the foundation for a boutique brand that brings together the best of both worlds. With a deep passion for premium tobacco, Esteban Carreras quickly gained recognition among connoisseurs—once a well-kept secret, now firmly established in the world of premium cigars.
Craig Cunningham – The Architect of Success
Craig Cunningham, the brand’s current owner, is the driving force behind Esteban Carreras’ international breakthrough. Under his leadership, the company moved its entire production to Estelí, Nicaragua, where it built its own factory: Tabacalera Carreras S.A.. This vertical integration—from tobacco cultivation to distribution—ensures consistently high quality and a signature character. Today, Esteban Carreras cigars are a staple in the humidors of many North American aficionados—a mark of reliable excellence and refined craftsmanship.
A Global Stage for Esteban Carreras
In 2024, Esteban Carreras officially launched in the European market. The brand made its debut at InterTabac in Dortmund—supported by experienced importer Kopp Cigars. What began as an insider’s tip is now evolving into a globally respected name. Cigar lovers around the world are discovering the sophisticated blends from Estelí, known for their character, structure, and meticulous craftsmanship.
Tabacalera Carreras – Craft With Conviction
The brand’s philosophy is simple: Quality Over Quantity. Every cigar is handcrafted and aged for an extended period before reaching the market. With its own factory, Esteban Carreras retains full control over all processes—from tobacco selection to final production. New lines are only released when they meet the highest standards. This uncompromising approach stands for consistency, depth, and a clearly defined style.
Explore the Diversity of Esteban Carreras Cigars
The Esteban Carreras portfolio features medium to full-bodied blends with a distinctive Nicaraguan character. Spicy, earthy, and often peppery notes meet a balanced aroma profile. A wide variety of wrappers and formats—from Lancero to Gordo—offers something for every preference. All cigars share a strong character and complex flavor profile.
Esteban Carreras Chupa Cabra Hellcat
The Chupa Cabra Hellcat is one of the brand’s boldest lines. Named after a mythical creature from Latin American folklore, it delivers intense spice, depth, and structure from the first draw. The tobaccos used are all from Nicaragua—so-called Puros—and wrapped in an oily Oscuro wrapper.

The flavor is rich in nuance: earth, spices, dark chocolate, coffee, and a distinctive pepper note shape the smoking experience. Despite its intensity, the Hellcat is surprisingly creamy. It features a closed foot and an elegant pigtail cap—hallmarks of top-tier craftsmanship. A cigar for aficionados who appreciate both power and elegance.
Esteban Carreras Mr. Brownstone
The Mr. Brownstone line uses a dark Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper. Flavor-wise, it offers a complex blend of espresso, dark chocolate, leather, and black pepper. Despite its bold spice, the overall flavor remains balanced—a successful fusion of classic Maduro strength and modern appeal. As the brand’s first line with a Broadleaf wrapper, Mr. Brownstone introduced a new signature style.
Esteban Carreras Cashmere
The Cashmere line offers a more refined, yet never dull take on cigar enjoyment. A premium Ecuador Connecticut wrapper is paired with medium-bodied Nicaraguan filler tobaccos. The flavor profile features wood, hazelnut, coffee, and white chocolate. In 2020, the line was named one of the Top 10 Cigars of the Year by *Cigar Dojo*—a clear quality mark for lovers of subtle, refined flavors. Try it for yourself—a smoke with depth and style.
