Altadis U.S.A. is once again partnering with the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs to release the Romeo y Julieta Run for the Roses cigar. While Altadis is celebrating Romeo y Julieta’s roots dating back to 1875 with the 150th anniversary, the 2025 edition of the Run for the Roses commemorates 151 years of the Kentucky Derby. The cigar was offered to retailers at the recent 2025 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is a sequel to a limited Run for the Roses cigar done by Romeo y Julieta for the 150th Kentucky Derby in 2024.
The cigar is produced in the Dominican Republic at Tabacalera de Garcia. The Romeo y Julieta Run for the Roses has been aging in the factory’s cedar room for five years. The 50 x 6 Toro cigar is made with all Nicaraguan tobaccos and is available in two packaging formats. The first is a single in commemorative coffins. The second format is a 20-count collector’s edition box. The 20-count boxes will be sold at retailers nationwide. Meanwhile, the single cigar coffin will be sold at kiosks around Churchill Downs during Derby Week only.
“We are honored to continue our partnership with Romeo y Julieta for the 2025 Kentucky Derby,” said Casey Ramage, Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at Churchill Downs, in a press release. “As we celebrate the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby, this collaboration reflects our shared commitment to excellence and the enduring spirit of this iconic event.”
“Building on our successful partnership from last year, we’ve expanded our relationship with Churchill Downs to make this product available nationwide,” said Oliver Hyams, VP of Marketing at Altadis U.S.A. “This unique blend reaffirms our commitment to tradition, excellence, and innovation, making this release a landmark moment for both the Kentucky Derby and Romeo y Julieta.”
A total of 1,350 boxes have begun shipping nationwide. Pricing is $25 per coffin or $400 for the commemorative box.
“We’re excited to welcome both premium cigar and Derby enthusiasts to experience this special release at our dedicated race day booth at Churchill Downs during Derby Week, added Olivia Saad, Brand Manager for Romeo y Julieta. “Additionally, we’re offering an immersive experience at the Louisville Thoroughbred Society, a downtown private cigar lounge, giving members and guests a deeper connection to this milestone release.”
At a glance, here is a look at the Romeo y Julieta Run for the Roses 2025 edition:
Blend and Origin
- Wrapper: Nicaraguan
- Binder: Nicaraguan
- Filler: Nicaraguan
- Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
- Factory: Tabacalera de Garcia
Vitolas Offered
- Toro: 50 x 6
Photo Credits: Altadis U.S.A.
April 26, 2025 @ 11:13 pm
A beautiful tribute to both tradition and innovation.
As someone who has been in the premium cigar business for years with Chơi Xì Gà, I truly appreciate how this release captures the enduring spirit of the Kentucky Derby while honoring Romeo y Julieta’s remarkable legacy.
A five-year aged, Nicaraguan puro crafted at Tabacalera de Garcia sounds like a perfect celebration stick.
Looking forward to seeing how cigar and Derby enthusiasts alike will embrace this special edition.