If you have followed Cigar Coop, you know that I have been a big fan of La Palina Cigars. In fact I ranked two La Palina Cigars in my Top 10 for 2010 (#5 and #7). One thing that these cigars carry is a higher price tag as these cigars are priced in the $20.00 SRP price range. Despite the higher price point, I would stand up any of the La Palina Cigars with established super premiums such as Davidoff and Padron. In my opinion, you cannot put a price on quality and La Palina’s got it. Earlier this year, La Palina chief Bill Paley mentioned on Fox News of a lower-priced cigar joining his line of cigars. Today, Cigar Aficionado reported some details of this new line.
The new La Palina blend is being called “El Diario” – meaning “everyday smoke”. Paley is intending this to be a cigar that one can reach for as a quality everyday cigar. Unlike the current Family Series and 1896 lines which are produced in the Bahamas by Graycliff, these cigars will come out of Fabrica de Tabacos Raices Cubanas S. de R.L. in Honduras.
Like his Family Series and 1896 line, Paley will continue to emphasize quality. Paley reaffirms that he is not replacing the existing super-premium lines with the “El Diario”, but complementing them (and this is great news). I personally think this will be a great way to introduce folks to the brand, and then possibly graduate them up to the Family Series and 1896.
There were no details of the blend. Currently, Paley is looking at 6 possible sizes, but no word on what will make the final cut. Word is some of the pre-release cigars will appear late spring with a planned launch at IPCPR 2011 in July. The price point is expected to be $9.00-$10.00 SRP. While this might be above the value price range, I still contend you cannot put a price on quality.
Stay tuned for more details as they become available.
