A Bell Rings in Germany: The Saint Luis Rey Belicoso ER 2022

In the world of cigars, some releases are more memorable than others. Releases that arouse curiosity as much as they fill humidors. One such occasion is the new Saint Luis Rey Belicoso Edición Regional Alemania 2022. The legendary Saint Luis Rey brand has been selected by 5THAvenue Products to represent the German regional edition for the first time in its 35-year history as the official exclusive importer of Habanos for Germany, Austria, and Poland. A silent landmark, yet with a strong voice.

It comes in a format that speaks for itself: The Campana. One of the biggest symbols of Cuban vitolas, the sensuous Figurado shape translates to "bell." With a ring gauge of 52 and a length of 140 mm, the Campana is a sophisticated and potent instrument, perfect for expressing flavour. The silhouette will be familiar to fans of Romeo y Julieta Belicosos or Bolívar Belicosos Finos. Now, Saint Luis Rey takes centre stage in this legendary composition.

As is typical of the Edición Regional program, just 6,000 boxes of this Belicoso, each containing 25 cigars, have been made. Unmistakably Cuban, the presentation features two-layered boxes lavishly decorated with habilitaciones. The lithographic flair has come to be associated with Havana's illustrious history. This offering, priced at €500, is limited in both quantity and audience. It is intended for those who truly appreciate what they are holding.

The Saint Luis Rey brand is a silent legend in and of itself. It was founded shortly before World War II, though its origins remain debated. Some associate the name with Thornton Wilder's 1930s novel The Bridge of San Luis Rey, which explores fate and connection. Others more convincingly link it to the Cuban town of San Luis in the Vuelta Abajo region, home to some of the world's finest wrapper leaves. Both are deeply rooted in tradition, one literary and the other agrarian.

Experienced smokers now recognize Saint Luis Rey for its depth and complexity. The Regios is the only format available in the current standard manufacture. Therefore, this new Campana is more than just a continuation of the brand. It is a celebration, a rebirth, and a call for collectors.

The content inside the cover is just as captivating. The Saint Luis Rey Belicoso ER 2022 is a mano, tripa larga. Hand-rolled, long-filler cigars crafted with tobaccos from Vuelta Abajo, like all other Habanos under this program. This cigar is well-made and not rushed. A cigar that demands patience and rewards it.

This release echoes something deeper, regardless of whether you interpret the literary allusion, the municipality of San Luis, or the bell-shaped silhouette as significant. The reason we smoke is just as important as what we smoke. And this cigar, which is limited in quantity but has an endless tale, is authentic in every sense.