Quai d Orsay No.52

The Quai d’Orsay No. 52 is a refined Cuban cigar that captures the harmony of French elegance and Cuban craftsmanship. Introduced in 2022, it uses the “Lanzas” vitola, measuring 6⅛" × 52, hand-rolled with premium Vuelta Abajo tobaccos. Renowned for its balanced, light-to-medium strength and approachable, nuanced profile, the No. 52 offers a smooth draw and even burn — ideal for newcomers and seasoned aficionados alike who appreciate a sophisticated, mellow smoke. A distinctive size within the Habanos portfolio, it shares its ring gauge with the celebrated Pirámides (the Montecristo No. 2 and Partagás Serie P No. 2), though in a straight rather than tapered format.

Related reading: how premium cigars are crafted, from seed to box

About Quai d’Orsay

Quai d’Orsay is a unique Cuban brand, established in 1973 at the request of the French government to create a luxury cigar embodying French refinement and prestige. Its name comes from the iconic avenue along the Seine in Paris — home to both the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the headquarters of SEITA, France’s former state tobacco monopoly. Originally intended exclusively for the French market, Quai d’Orsay cigars are known for elegant presentation, lighter wrappers (Claro and Colorado Claro) and approachable, nuanced flavours. The brand has since expanded internationally and is appreciated worldwide for its subtlety, sophistication and connection to French luxury culture.

Tasting Notes of the Quai d’Orsay No. 52

An elegant, light-to-medium, creamy Havana.

- Initial Third: Opens with mild spice, cedar and a creamy texture; a subtle sweetness emerges with hints of honey and floral notes for an elegant, approachable start.

- Middle Third: Develops nuts, coffee and a slight touch of cocoa; balanced throughout, with wood and leather adding depth.

- Final Third: Richer and more complex, with deeper wood, leather and gentle earthiness; occasional dried fruit and nougat give a pleasant, lingering finish.

- Aroma: A bouquet of toasted tobacco, wood and a mellow sweetness, with herbal and floral undertones.

Pairs beautifully with champagne, fine French wines or a rich espresso.

English Market Selection — sourced through Hunters & Frankau, the sole official UK distributor of Cuban cigars, confirming these Havanas reached the UK through the authorised channel and passed additional authenticity and condition checks.

Free UK delivery for purchases over £50.

Explore more Quai d’Orsay: No. 54 | Quai d’Orsay Collection

Sharing its 52 ring gauge, compare it with the classic Pirámide torpedoes — the Partagás Serie P No. 2 and Diplomáticos No. 2 — or browse our Cuban cigars collection.

Fun Facts About the Quai d’Orsay No. 52

Quai d’Orsay was created in 1973 at the request of the French government — a Cuban cigar designed specifically to embody French refinement, originally for the French market alone.

The brand is named after the avenue along the Seine that houses France’s Foreign Ministry and, historically, its state tobacco monopoly SEITA — making it one of the most overtly “diplomatic” cigar brands in existence.

The No. 52’s “Lanzas” vitola, introduced in 2022, is a relatively new size — part of the brand’s modern expansion beyond its classic French-market origins.

FAQ About the Quai d’Orsay No. 52

Is the No. 52 good for beginners?
Yes — its light-to-medium body, creamy texture and elegant, nuanced profile make it one of the more approachable Cubans, while still offering complexity for seasoned smokers.

Why is a Cuban cigar named after a Paris avenue?
Quai d’Orsay was created for the French government in 1973 to embody French luxury, and named after the Parisian avenue home to the Foreign Ministry and France’s state tobacco body — a genuine Franco-Cuban collaboration.

What should I pair it with?
Champagne, a fine French white or a rich espresso all complement its subtle, creamy character.

Where are your Cuban cigars sourced from?
Through Hunters & Frankau, the sole official UK distributor of Cuban cigars.