Davidoff – Cigars, Cigarillos, and Cigar Accessories

Davidoff Cigars: Over a Century of Lived Excellence

The name Zino Davidoff stands like no other for uncompromising quality in the cigar world. From a young age, he dedicated himself passionately to the world of tobacco—an inheritance he developed with innovation and entrepreneurial flair. Born in 1906 into a family with deep tobacco roots, Zino was forced to flee Eastern Europe at the age of five due to anti-Semitic violence. After arriving in Geneva, his father Henri continued the family tradition by opening a specialty shop that quickly became a hub for the Russian community. This early experience shaped Zino, and tobacco became his life’s mission.

Early on, Zino mastered the art of blending cigarettes and pipe tobacco. But his curiosity extended far beyond the family shop: a journey to Central America and Cuba gave him deep insights into the cultivation and processing of fine tobaccos—laying the foundation for his life’s work.

Zino Davidoff: Visionary With a Global Outlook

During his travels, Zino worked on plantations, learned the cigar-making process firsthand, and built lasting relationships with growers. Back in Switzerland, he used this knowledge to set new standards in the family business—among them the world’s first climate-controlled cigar storage room. Inspired by the humid tropical air, Zino developed the concept of the modern humidor as we know it today.

His innovative spirit paid off: Davidoff became Geneva’s top address for premium cigars—even during World War II, when the company was able to supply Havanas from its large inventory. In 1946, the first proprietary cigar line was launched, named after prestigious wine estates—a tribute to quality, origin, and craftsmanship.

Davidoff and Cuba: The End of an Era

A milestone was the agreement with Cuban tobacco organization Cubatabaco. However, the partnership ended abruptly in 1989: Zino Davidoff publicly burned cigars worth three million US dollars—a strong statement against declining quality. Nonetheless, success continued. Since the 1970s, Davidoff had been closely collaborating with the Basel-based Oettinger Group, which led the international expansion of the brand. This alliance significantly contributed to Davidoff’s global reputation as a synonym for premium cigars.

A New Chapter Begins

After the break with Cuba, Davidoff moved its production to the Dominican Republic—and launched into a new era. Within a short period, seven new series were introduced, gaining international recognition. Other traditional brands like Dunhill followed suit.

Zino Davidoff passed away in Geneva in 1994—knowing he had left behind a legacy of global significance. At age 74, he also founded a lifestyle brand that today offers luxurious accessories like watches, leather goods, and perfumes under the Davidoff name.

The Davidoff Cigar Portfolio at a Glance

Davidoff’s cigar lines are known for their clear flavor profiles, excellent craftsmanship, and stylish presentation. Classics such as Signature, Grand Cru, Aniversario, and Millennium form the brand’s core. Recognizable by their elegant white bands, Signature and Grand Cru stand for refined, balanced flavors, while Aniversario and Millennium offer more body and depth.

The Black Band Collection

With Davidoff Nicaragua, Escurio, and Yamasa, Davidoff ventured into new aromatic territories. Introduced in 2013, this collection features distinctive tobaccos from unconventional regions—and is marked by its elegant black bands.

This line is ideal for aficionados looking to explore beyond classic Davidoff flavors.

Winston Churchill Collection

Created in close collaboration with descendants of the legendary Prime Minister, the Winston Churchill series pays tribute to the passionate cigar smoker. While the main series offers a refined smoke for any occasion, The Late Hour is best enjoyed after an extended dinner.

Oro Blanco: The Pinnacle of Davidoff Artistry

With the Oro Blanco, the brand reaches its most luxurious peak. This exceptional cigar is made from the finest tobaccos of the 2002 harvest, aged for over a decade. Each one is a masterpiece for connoisseurs with the highest standards.

The portfolio is rounded out by exclusive Limited Editions, premium cigarillos, and finely balanced pipe tobaccos. At Zigarrenwelt, you’ll find the full range of this exceptional collection.