La Aurora Celebrates 120 Years of Excellence
The 120th year of the Dominican Republic’s original and oldest cigar will see, what they are calling, a “new dawn.” After being distributed by Miami Cigar & Co. for more than three decades, La Aurora, for the first time in the company’s lengthy history, will now be self-distributing its own cigar brands within the United States.
This exciting new chapter in La Aurora’s history will also come with new retailer relationships, special releases, and high-profile events. The company believes this will create a resurgence for the brand in more and more American aficionados’ humidors.
Founded by Eduardo León Jimenes in 1903, and family operated ever since, La Aurora is owned today by Jimenes’ grandson Guillermo León. He assumed control of the company when he purchased the Dominican factory from his family in 2011. Starting in April, the company will spawn La Aurora USA LLC in order to handle all U.S. distribution.
Ed McKenna, formerly of Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG) and Bacardi, has been appointed chief executive officer of this new entity, while John Ferrigan, formerly of Breakthru Beverage Group and STG, has been named the company’s national sales director.
“We would like to thank Guillermo, Michelle and the entire La Aurora Team for over 30 years of amazing memories. What began as a business relationship, has evolved into family, and for that we are grateful,” said Jason Wood, vice president of sales and marketing for Miami Cigar & Co. “We look forward to the continued success of the La Aurora brand and are excited to see what the future has in store for them.”
Known for their masterful use of tobaccos both local and from around the world, La Aurora produces such storied brands as the La Aurora 100 Años and La Aurora Preferidos, their extensive line of perfectos offered in different wrapper types and blends. There are also special Anniversary, Family, and Time Capsule blends. La Aurora has long been a favorite of cigar critics and connoisseurs alike for their impressive blends, impeccable construction, and meticulous attention to detail.
