At Vitola Fine Cigars, we recently had the incredible opportunity to sit down with two key figures from Espinosa Cigars, Jack Torano and Hector Alfonso. These passionate individuals shared their journey, insights, and the story behind Espinosa Cigars, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of premium cigars.

Jack Torano, the National Sales Director at Espinosa Cigars, kicked off our interview with enthusiasm. He’s been an integral part of the Espinosa team for almost five years and couldn’t be more proud of the journey they’ve embarked on. From their core line to exciting collaborations, Espinosa Cigars has been moving in the right direction.

Hector Alfonso is the Master Blender and Operations Guy. His journey with Espinosa Cigars has been even longer, spanning an impressive 12 years since the company’s inception. His dedication and expertise as a blender have helped shape the brand’s unique flavor profiles. Hector’s background may surprise you, as he initially came from law enforcement. However, his love for cigars and natural talent led him to where he is today.

A Humble Beginning and Organic Growth

Espinosa Cigars had modest beginnings, starting with just three individuals in an 800-square-foot warehouse. The company’s growth was fueled by owner Eric’s fantastic relationships in the cigar industry. We learned the importance of these connections, as they attracted previous partners to support the brand.

What sets Espinosa Cigars apart is their engagement in the online cigar community. As social media and cigar media grew, so did their loyal fan base. Hector told us about the organic nature of their growth, attributing their success to their fans and the industry’s support.

Espinosa Cigars Today

Espinosa Cigars is currently in a fantastic position. Despite being in the industry for only 12 years, they’ve achieved remarkable growth and recognition. Their warehouse is located in Hialeah Gardens, while their factory is in Nicaragua, a hotspot for quality cigar production.

One of the most exciting developments for Espinosa Cigars has been their collaboration with celebrity chef and TV personality Guy Fieri. This partnership began when Guy decided to venture into the cigar industry. He was drawn to Espinosa Cigars due to their family-oriented business and cigar manufacturing expertise.

Guy’s involvement has been a game-changer, introducing Espinosa Cigars to a broader audience. His genuine passion for cigars and active participation in blending, branding, and events have benefited the company and contributed to the industry’s growth.

Espinosa Cigars’ Top Picks

Jack and Hector each have their preferences when it comes to their favorite Espinosa cigars. Hector raved about the Laranja Escuro, a medium to full-bodied cigar featuring a Brazilian wrapper. It’s a blend that hits all the right notes for him. He also enjoys exploring other brands to stay in tune with industry trends.

On the other hand, Jack initially favored Connecticut cigars but soon fell in love with the Crema by Espinosa Cigars. He enjoys switching between different cigars within the brand and occasionally indulging in the pricier Knuckle Sandwich Connecticut.

A Bright Future for Espinosa Cigars

We’re excited about the upcoming top 25 list from Cigar Aficionado, and it’s evident that Espinosa Cigars has a promising future. Their commitment to quality, natural growth, and exciting partnerships keeps them at the forefront of the cigar industry. At Vitola Fine Cigars, we’re happy to be part of their journey and look forward to what lies ahead for this outstanding brand. Espinosa Cigars has something unique to offer whether you’re an experienced cigar enthusiast or new to cigars.