Habanos
English Market Selection
Masters of Havana Cigars

Masters of Havana Cigars

Alberto Mendoza Mirabal

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Master of Havana Cigars : Alberto Mendoza Mirabal

What do you enjoy most about working with cigars?

Which I most enjoy is to share my knowledge in an enjoyable and practical way with all those who are interested in learning about the world of Habanos cigars.

What first interested you in cigars?

My first real interest in the world of cigars began by watching my wife Ana Lopez in her role as a Marketing Director of Habanos S.A representing Habanos cigars at mayor events engaging with distinguish guests and interacting with aficionados and VIPs with such knowledge, grace and professionalism, that naturally sparked and captivated my curiosity about the world of the Habanos.

Do you remember your first cigar?

It was late November, around 1993 or 1994. An event sponsored by the Lebanese embassy in Cuba, celebrating another anniversary of its independence. A beautiful evening, food and drink everywhere, and a spectacular atmosphere led me to mistakenly select a Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona, which made me dizzy even though I hadn't yet had a single alcoholic drink.

What is the best piece of advice you have for someone just starting to smoke cigars?

Based on my own experience, I suggest selecting small-format cigars from a mild or mild-to-medium flavour, taking your time, and pairing them with a mild beverage and some chocolate.

What are your favourite three cigars?

Selecting only three cigars seems a bit unfair, as I've smoked many high-quality cigars of different vitolas, and each one offers distinct characteristics in flavour, aroma, taste, and strength, with its own unique personality and intensity. But if I have to choose just three, the following come to mind: - Cohiba Robusto Supremos LE 2014 ,Vitola de Galera: Magnifico (58x127). - Ramon Allones Petit Belicosos ,UK Regional Editions 2012 (52x125). - Romeo y Julieta Amantes, Vitola de Galera: Sobresalientes (53x153)

Has becoming a Master in Havana Cigars helped you in your profession?

With nearly three decades of experience in the tobacco industry and as a graduate of Cuba’s first postgraduate tobacco program in 1999, I’ve built a strong foundation in the world of Habanos. But it was my preparation for the Master in Habanos qualification—awarded by Hunters & Frankau—that truly elevated my expertise. This certification, which I consider even more rigorous than the exam I completed in Cuba, pushed me to refine my knowledge at the highest level. It strengthened not only my technical understanding but also my passion for the craft, the culture, and the heritage behind every Habano. Today, that passion is reflected in the way I work, especially in how I connect with clients, share insights, and represent the excellence of Habanos with authenticity and pride.

Meet the Masters

Claudio Chesini

Claudio Chesini

No.10 Manchester Street

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Jorge Gonzalez

Jorge Gonzalez

La Casa del Habano James J Fox in Harrods

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Samuel Jacobs

Samuel Jacobs

James J Fox (Selfridges)

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Craig King

Craig King

Edward Sahakian Cigar Shop & Lounge

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Alberto Mendoza Mirabal

Alberto Mendoza Mirabal

Casa del Habano at Pall Mall

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Cristian Secchi

Cristian Secchi

Tomtom Cigars & Coffee

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Maurizio Zatti

Maurizio Zatti

No.10 Manchester Street

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*There are also a number of Masters of Havana Cigars working in private members clubs that are not listed here.

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