Trinidad Fundadores 24's — The Original Vitola in Generous Presentation
The Trinidad Fundadores, presented in a box of 24, is the original vitola of the Trinidad marca — the format that was first produced as a diplomatic gift cigar before the brand entered commercial release. At 192mm by 40 ring gauge, this Medium-strength Laguito No.1 vitola is an elongated, slender cigar that exudes elegance and aristocratic proportion. The 24-count presentation makes it an ideal choice for collectors and connoisseurs who appreciate the ceremony of the Trinidad tradition and wish to maintain a ready supply of the marca's foundational expression.
The Fundadores opens with a refined, aromatic beginning — cedar, dried hay, and a delicate floral lift that is quintessentially Trinidad. The slender 40 ring gauge places the wrapper at the centre of the flavour delivery, and the extended 192mm length allows the blend to unfold gradually across a long, contemplative smoke. Through the first third, cream, toasted almond, and a gentle honey sweetness build warmth, while a mild baking spice adds aromatic complexity without weight.
The middle and final thirds deepen with cocoa, toasted hazelnut, and a mild leathery quality that grounds the sweeter opening notes. A gentle pepper warmth emerges on the retrohale, providing structure that never disrupts the cigar's poised demeanour. The finish is clean and medium-long, leaving impressions of cedar, dried fruit, and a lingering creaminess. The Fundadores is a cigar that epitomises the Trinidad philosophy of measured refinement — a long, elegant smoke that rewards patience with layered, nuanced flavour delivered through one of the most graceful vitolas in the Cuban repertoire.
Construction & Draw
As the original Trinidad vitola, the Fundadores has been produced to exacting standards since the marca's inception. Rolled from Vuelta Abajo tobacco, the 192mm length and 40 gauge demand masterful bunching to maintain draw consistency along the extended body. The wrapper is smooth and Colorado in colour, applied with the precision that defines the Trinidad marca. A well-constructed example delivers a slow, even burn with a firm, grey ash.
Pairing Suggestions
A fine vintage champagne complements the Fundadores' florality and creamy elegance, while a mature white Burgundy offers subtle oak and citrus that track the cigar's toasted almond and hay notes. An oolong tea also pairs effectively, its light roast character harmonising with the cedar and floral elements.
Value & Collectibility
The 24-count box presentation offers excellent value for the dedicated Trinidad enthusiast, providing a generous supply of the marca's foundational vitola. The Fundadores holds particular significance as the original Trinidad format, making it an essential component of any comprehensive Cuban cigar collection.
Brand Background
Named after the UNESCO World Heritage city of Trinidad on Cuba's south coast, the brand originated as a diplomatic gift cigar in the 1960s before entering commercial production in 1998. The Fundadores remains the marca's iconic vitola. Visit Wikipedia and Habanos S.A. for more.
Storage
Store at 65–70% relative humidity in a humidor with sufficient depth for the 192mm length. The slender 40 gauge is highly sensitive to over-humidification; maintain conditions toward the lower end of the range. Ageing the Fundadores for two to five years enhances the creamy integration and develops tertiary dried fruit notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Laguito No.1 vitola?
The Laguito No.1 is a long, slender parejo measuring 192mm x 40, traditionally associated with the Cohiba Lancero and the Trinidad Fundadores. Its extended length and narrow gauge emphasise the wrapper leaf and produce an elegant, linear smoking experience.
Why is the Fundadores considered the original Trinidad?
When Trinidad was created as a diplomatic gift cigar, the Fundadores (Laguito No.1) was the sole vitola produced. It remained the only Trinidad format until the brand expanded its range upon entering commercial production in 1998.
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