Casa Havaneza: 162 Years of Excellence
The legendary Casa Havaneza, considered the oldest cigar shop in Portugal and an undisputed benchmark on the international stage, celebrated its 162nd anniversary with a gala evening that blended tradition, culture, and the pleasure of what is regarded as the finest tobacco in the world: the Habano. The event took place on April 16, 2026, at the exclusive venue “Estufa – Tazte Secret Spot,” located in Monsanto, Lisbon.
Organized by Empor S.A., the Exclusive Distributor of Habanos in Portugal, the celebration brought together more than 120 guests, clients, aficionados, and Habano lovers. It reinforced Casa Havaneza’s presence in the premium market through its four stores (three in Lisbon and one in Porto), making it an ideal destination for enthusiasts of fine smoking, luxury accessories, and premium spirits.
The evening featured high-level speeches by Pedro Rocha and Luis Javier Bosch, CEO and Commercial Director of Empor S.A.; His Excellency José Ramón Saborido Loidi, Ambassador of Cuba to Portugal; as well as Maritza Carrillo, Co-President of Habanos, S.A., and Rodrigo González, Strategic Marketing Director of Habanos. They highlighted the historical importance of Casa Havaneza and expressed gratitude for the continued loyalty of its customers and collaborators at Empor S.A., as well as the enduring bond between Cuban tobacco and Portuguese society.
The sensory centerpiece of the night was a masterfully curated selection of Habanos designed to delight a range of palates:
- Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 3: (54 x 125 mm in length): the fourth vitola of the Línea Epicure, notable for being the largest ring gauge and the first figurado format in the line. A beautifully crafted Habano offering the brand’s characteristic mild strength.
- Partagás Lusitanias: a “Prominentes” format (49 x 194 mm in length), aimed at more experienced smokers seeking intensity and aromatic richness.
- Quai D’Orsay No. 52: mild in strength, with a “Lanzas” vitola (52 x 156 mm in length), ideal for those who prefer a refined and smooth smoking experience.
The gastronomic experience was elevated by a curated selection of wines from Portfolio Vinhos, featuring Graham’s Blend No. 5 and No. 12, Graham’s 10-Year-Old and 20-Year-Old, Comboio Branco, Pombal do Vesúvio, and Quinta do Vesúvio Tinto. Spirits were provided by Casa Redondo (Rum Abuelo Añejo, Añejo 12 Years, and Finish Collection Tawny 15 Years) and Ximénez-Spínola (Delicado Branco and the exclusive Cigar Club brandy line No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3).
The most surprising moment of the evening was a theatrical performance that brought historical figures such as Fernando Pessoa, Henry Burnay, Bordalo Pinheiro, and Ramalho Ortigão into the present. Through their dialogue, these characters connected the history of Casa Havaneza with contemporary Portugal.
The sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere was further enhanced by a performance by the string quartet ADLIB Strings, whose interpretation added a sensory and cultural dimension that was fully aligned with the tradition of the Habano.
Following the award ceremony for the winners of the photography contest and recognition of sponsors—Portfolio Vinhos, Ximénez-Spínola, Casa Redondo, SEL–Salsicharia Estremocense, and ST Dupont—the traditional anniversary cake-cutting took place. A toast with Vértice sparkling wine brought the evening to a close, celebrating more than a century and a half of success and projecting Casa Havaneza as a mythical space that, 162 years later, remains a benchmark of excellence.
