H.Upmann Connoisseur A (25-count) — The LCDH Exclusive in Its Full Glory
There is something special about acquiring a full cabinet of 25 of an LCDH-exclusive cigar. The H.Upmann Connoisseur A in its 25-count presentation is exactly that — a generous supply of a vitola that most smokers will never encounter, produced solely for the La Casa del Habano network operated by Habanos S.A. Each cigar measures 150mm by 52 ring gauge, delivering medium-full strength in a format designed for the enthusiast who wants both exclusivity and quantity. The 25-count cabinet is the definitive way to acquire and age this limited release.
Tasting Notes
The Connoisseur A opens with a dry, woody character that carries an almost immediate depth. Cedar is the primary note, but it arrives with a toasted quality — as if the wood has been warmed over a low flame. Behind the cedar, a nutty sweetness develops, almond and a hint of pecan, and the retrohale delivers a measured white pepper that provides structure without aggression. The 52 ring gauge produces a dense, satisfying smoke that coats the palate evenly.
The second third introduces darker, richer elements. Espresso bitterness enters, not sharp but firm, and it draws with it a dark cocoa note that builds through the middle of the cigar. The cedar persists as a backbone, but the blend's centre of gravity shifts from bright and woody to dark and roasted. A subtle leather quality appears midway, adding a savoury layer that gives the smoke real substance. The transition is seamless — the Connoisseur A moves between phases without any awkward jumps.
The final third is where this cigar justifies its exclusive status. The cocoa intensifies, the espresso turns darker and more concentrated, and the leather deepens into something approaching rich earth. A mineral note enters the finish — chalky, dry, and very satisfying. The strength builds toward the top of medium-full, delivering a robust, savoury close that lingers on the palate. This is a cigar that finishes with conviction.
Construction
Built in the Hermosos No.2 vitola with long filler from Vuelta Abajo, the Connoisseur A demonstrates the build quality expected of LCDH exclusives. The draw offers ideal resistance — not tight, not loose — and the burn line holds remarkably straight through each third. The wrapper is a smooth Colorado shade with fine veining and a healthy oil sheen. Ash stacks in firm, light-grey bands that hold for over an inch. Smoke volume is generous and consistent. In the 25-count cabinet presentation, construction consistency across the box is notably high — a benefit of the smaller batch production that LCDH exclusives receive.
Pairing Suggestions
The Connoisseur A's dark, rich, medium-full profile pairs beautifully with an aged dark rum, particularly one with 15 or more years in cask. A sherry-finished single malt whisky also complements the cocoa and espresso notes. For non-alcoholic pairings, a strong espresso or a dark hot chocolate enhances the cigar's final third without competing with its inherent complexity.
Value
The 25-count cabinet represents the most economical way to acquire the Connoisseur A over time, offering better per-cigar value than smaller presentations. For the enthusiast who wants to establish a rotation of an LCDH-exclusive blend and age a portion for future enjoyment, the full cabinet is the intelligent acquisition strategy. The cigar's limited production and exclusive retail channel ensure long-term collectible interest.
Brand Background
Founded in 1844, H Upmann is one of Cuba's most historic cigar brands. The Connoisseur line represents the brand's venture into the exclusive LCDH tier — limited production vitolas made for the most discerning customers of the Habanos premium retail network.
Storage
Store at 65–70% relative humidity and 18–20°C. If purchasing the 25-count cabinet, consider smoking a third immediately, resting a third for six months, and aging the remainder for a year or more. LCDH exclusives benefit significantly from additional aging, which integrates the blend and softens the tannic edge. Keep the cabinet in a well-seasoned humidor with adequate airflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Connoisseur A and other H Upmann cigars?
The Connoisseur A is an LCDH-exclusive vitola not available through standard distribution. It uses the Hermosos No.2 format (150mm x 52) and is produced in limited quantities specifically for La Casa del Habano shops.
Why buy a 25-count cabinet instead of smaller boxes?
The 25-count cabinet offers better per-cigar value and allows for a structured aging strategy — smoking some immediately while resting others for months or years to develop the blend further.
Are all H Upmann Connoisseur A cigars the same blend?
Yes. The Connoisseur A is a single consistent blend produced exclusively for the LCDH network. The 25-count presentation contains the same cigar as smaller presentations.
Related Cigars
