Abraham "Abe" Flores, a U.S. citizen with family roots in the Dominican Republic, came into contact with tobacco at an early age. Though raised amid the traditions of his grandparents’ tobacco-growing region, it was initially the demanding physical labor in the fields that kept him from pursuing that path. It wasn’t until later that fate led him back into the world of premium cigars – as the creative mind and visionary behind the Flores y Rodriguez brand.
Abraham Flores – The Journey to Flores y Rodriguez
Flores’ roots lie in the Bonao region, located in the heart of the Dominican Republic, where cattle farming, coffee, and tobacco cultivation were part of the family legacy. At just seven years old, he was already helping out – and by the age of eight, his grandfather introduced him to the art of cigar smoking. The first experience was less about enjoyment and more about education. Perhaps it was this very moment that led him down a different path for a time: in the U.S., Flores initially worked in the IT sector before making his first professional connection to the cigar world in 2002 at the online retailer Tinder Box. What began as website development soon evolved into his very own cigar line.
From Pinar del Rio to PDR: A Rise With Finesse
His first major project in the industry was “Pinar del Rio,” developed under the experienced guidance of the three Rodriguez brothers. Despite a promising start, the big breakthrough took a while. That changed with the launch of PDR and the legendary PDR 1878 cigar, which sold over one million units. That success turned Flores from a talented developer into an independent master blender and brand owner. He bought out his former business partners and turned PDR Cigars into a key player in the premium segment.
PDR cigars are known not only for their exceptional tobacco quality but also for their traditional entubado rolling technique. This demanding method, which dates back to 17th-century Seville, allows for a particularly even draw and optimal burn. Abe Flores insists on using this technique – even for his production runs for renowned brands like Gurkha and Dictador.
Flores y Rodriguez: Dominican Boutique Cigars at the Highest Level
The Flores y Rodriguez cigars are an independent line produced by PDR, falling under the exclusive category of boutique cigars. They are entirely handmade in Tamboril – with meticulous precision and great attention to detail. Every component – from tobacco sourcing and fermentation to rolling and aging – is subject to strict quality control. The longfiller series is available in various formats, including Maduro versions with dark, oily wrappers.
The Maduro Cabinet Seleccion is a prime example of this uncompromising commitment to quality. Featuring a rich Maduro wrapper and filler made from Cuban seed tobacco grown in the Dominican Republic, these longfillers deliver an intense, balanced flavor experience all the way to the final draw.
Claro and Maduro: Discovering the Range of Flores y Rodriguez
The Claro Cabinet Seleccion series is made entirely from Dominican longfiller tobaccos and comes with either a Colorado Claro or Maduro wrapper. The vitolas are inspired by Cuban classics – such as the Magicos format – creating a link to traditional styles without imitating their flavor. In terms of taste, Flores y Rodriguez cigars carve out a distinctive profile of their own and stand apart from established brands like Leon Jimenes, Leonel, or Vegafina Dominican.
With the Connecticut Valley Reserve, Abe Flores created a true highlight in the line: a blend featuring sun-grown Broadleaf wrapper that was aged for seven years. Beneath the dark, oily wrapper lie two binders – one Ecuadorian Corojo and one Nicaraguan Jalapa Habano. The result is a cigar of remarkable depth and character, presented in artfully crafted wooden boxes with red foot bands and double bands – a stylish total package.
Collector’s Piece and Flavor Experience in One
The follow-up series Connecticut Valley Reserve Broadleaf Azul is available exclusively in artistically designed ceramic jars. Each format is limited to just 950 units and is aimed at discerning aficionados looking for something special – both in flavor and presentation.
