PART 1: "1969-1998: The Origins of an Icon"
In the inaugural episode of our "The Legacy of Trinidad" series, we trace the prestigious lineage of Trinidad cigars, an emblem of Cuba’s rich tobacco tradition, national history, and cultural heritage. Viewers will discover why the historic City of Trinidad was chosen as the namesake for Cuba’s diplomatic cigar, signifying not only its historic importance but also the city’s global cultural impact.
The episode opens with the unveiling of Trinidad to the wider world: the discovery by Marvin Shanken and its inclusion at the famed 1994 Dinner of the Century. The piece then explores the historical importance and significance of Trinidad city to Cuba and the world.
We'll travel back in history to the earliest days of the El Laguito factory, where Trinidad was rolled alongside the Cohiba at El Laguito, the country’s most important and exclusive factory. From the onset, Trinidad was designated as a national treasure reserved exclusively for diplomatic gifts rather than public sale.
And, and, ultimately, the piece climaxes with interviews with Raul Valladares, the Master Blender who was tasked with creating the 1998 blend of the Trinidad Fundadores, with Ana Lopez, the Marketing Director of Habanos from 1994 to 2003. We learn first-hand about the incredible events leading up to the 1998 public release of the Trinidad Fundadores, an event that transformed Trinidad from a diplomatic emblem into an icon among cigar connoisseurs.
ABOUT THE LEGACY OF TRINIDAD
Step into a world of unparalleled craftsmanship and timeless tradition with 'The Legacy of Trinidad', a captivating two-part documentary series which sets out to explore the rich history of Trinidad Habanos in celebration of the brand’s 55th anniversary. Join Kirby Allison, renowned for his dedication to Quality, Craftsmanship, and Tradition, as he takes you on an exclusive journey that delves deeply into the fascinating stories surrounding one of Cuba’s most revered cigar brands.
In this series, Kirby uncovers many of the legends associated with the elusive brand of Trinidad, and he further examines the distinctive characteristics that have made it so universally respected and loved amongst collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Through intimate interviews with industry giants, and personal conversations with many of the individuals directly involved in the original creation of Trinidad, viewers will gain unprecedented insight into the secrets - and the mystique - of this incredible Habano. The series also includes an exclusive visit to the actual factory where most of Trinidad Habanos are rolled, providing a firsthand look at the passion and dedication of the elite, highly-dedicated team of artisans who famously roll each Habano "totalmente a mano with long filler."
From field to factory, every step of this journey is a testament to the much-feted excellence of Trinidad. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, 'The Legacy of Trinidad' offers a rare glimpse into a world where the art of cigar making is not just a skill but a way of life.
Join us as we celebrate the art of the well-dressed gentleman and the nostalgia of a bygone era, where things are done properly and with unparalleled dedication.
🎬 WATCH ALL THE EPISODES:
1️⃣ 1969-1998 - The Origins of an Icon https://youtu.be/6dlRGQGMoBc
2️⃣ 2003: Redesigned for a Global Market https://youtu.be/FQ2k7FRtVaQ
Special thanks to everyone who participated in the filming of this documentary, including:
HUNTERS & FRANKAU
Jemma Freeman
Ana Lopez
HABANOS S.A.
Daymi Difurniao
And to our dedicated editing team for their tireless effort to edit together such a brilliant documentary.
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🎬 The Legacy of Trinidad: The Origins of an Icon | Trinidad Cigar Documentary
00:00 Series Introduction
03:21 The Discovery of Trinidad
04:27 Interview with David Savona of Cigar Afficionado
08:55 A Visit to Trinidad, Cuba
10:15 Interview with Barbara Venegas, Trinidad City Historian
15:36 The Early Days of Trinidad at El Laguito
16:28 Interview with Juana Ramos Guerra
24:48 The Dinner of the Century
29:06 Ajay Patel and the Dinner of the Century Auction Cabinet
33:58 The 1998 Commercial Release of the Trinidad Fundadores
35:00 Interview with Raul Valladares, Master Blender of Trinidad
39:10 Interview with Ana Lopez, 1998 Marketing Director of Habanos
54:56 Looking forward to 2003 Expansion of Trinidad
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