Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/1544874
42 tobaccoasia Issue 3, 2026 May / June Condega: tribute to a valley Condega celebrates the famed Nicaraguan valley of the same name, producing cigars that combine quality with affordability. Their principle of ex- cellent price-quality ratio has made Condega the bestselling Nicaraguan brand in Spain and a range of other markets. For Asia and the Middle East, Condega offers accessible premium cigars that in- troduce smokers to Nicaraguan excellence without prohibitive costs. The brand's success lies in its ability to de- liver consistent flavor and craftsmanship while remaining affordable, a rare combination in the premium cigar world. With blends ranging from smooth Connecticut-wrapped cigars to richer Ha- bano and Maduro options, Condega caters to a wide range of palates. Their philosophy of hon- oring the valley's heritage while making cigars approachable has resonated with smokers world- wide. In regions where affordability is increasingly important, Condega's balance of quality and value makes it a brand poised for growth. More info at: condegacigar.com El Viejo Continente: European boutique with Nicaraguan roots El Viejo Continente blends Nicaraguan tobaccos for a European-focused audience, yet remains un- der the radar in APAC and MENA. Their port- folio includes Connecticut, Maduro, and special editions, each crafted to deliver nuanced flavors. Rooted in history and tradition, El Viejo Conti- nente represents a hidden gem that deserves dis- covery in new regions. The brand's philosophy is to combine European sophistication with Ni- caraguan authenticity, creating cigars that appeal to discerning smokers seeking elegance and depth. Their limited editions and small-batch releases highlight the artisanal nature of their production, ensuring exclusivity and quality. While their pres- ence in Europe is strong, their absence in wider Asia and the Middle East presents an opportunity for aficionados to explore something compellingly new, refined and thoroughly exciting. More info at: lkviejocontinente.com Nicaragua to the world Manufacturers like Aganorsa Leaf and Dominium present the amazing richness and aroma versatility of Nicaraguan tobacco. Meanwhile, brands such as Oliva, Black Works Studio, Condega, and El Viejo Continente add their very own depths and variety to this art gallery of tobacco masterpieces. For Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern aficionados, enjoying these cigars opens new horizons beyond the Cuban and Dominican staples. And still, be- side the six brands highlighted here, Nicaragua hosts many more excellent boutique producers whose names remain relatively little known out- side the United States and Europe. For adventur- ous smokers, this represents an enticing opportu- nity to explore a world of undiscovered excellence waiting to be relished… nay, celebrated. Credit: Aganorsa Leaf Female toqueador demonstrating her skills. Credit: Thomas Schmid