For decades, Cuban cigars were the undisputed kings of the cigar world — synonymous with luxury, heritage, and craftsmanship. Their reputation was earned through centuries of cultivation in Cuba’s rich soils and meticulous hand-rolling traditions. But in recent years, a new challenger has risen through the ranks.

Today, many cigar aficionados across Australia — and globally — are reaching for Dominican cigars instead. And it’s not just hype. From flavour to construction to consistency, Dominican cigars are fast becoming the preferred choice for cigar lovers everywhere.

So why are Dominican cigars overtaking Cubans? Let’s explore the shift. 

Cuba’s Legacy: The Classic Benchmark

There’s no denying the cultural cachet of a Cuban cigar. Brands like Cohiba, Montecristo, and Partagás were once considered untouchable — the benchmark for cigar quality.

Cuba’s tobacco-growing regions, especially Vuelta Abajo, are rich in minerals and famed for producing full-bodied, spicy, and earthy tobaccos. Generations of torcedores (cigar rollers) have hand-crafted blends steeped in history.

But in today’s world, reputation alone isn’t enough. Increasingly, long-time smokers and curious newcomers alike are choosing cigars that offer more than tradition — they want consistency, complexity, and accessible luxury.

Why Dominican Cigars Are Taking Over

The rise of Dominican cigars isn’t by accident. Here's what’s driving the global shift — including here in Australia:

1. Better Consistency and Quality Control

Unlike Cuba, where cigars are produced in state-run factories, the Dominican Republic’s cigar industry is driven by private, family-owned companies. These companies — including Arturo Fuente and Davidoff — have invested heavily in innovation, blending mastery, and strict quality control.

The result? Dominican cigars are remarkably consistent from stick to stick, box to box.

2. Greater Flavour Complexity

Dominican cigars tend to be medium to full-bodied, offering a smoother draw and more layered flavours than most Cuban sticks. Think: cedar, roasted nuts, cream, coffee, spice — depending on the blend.

Cuban cigars, while bold and earthy, can sometimes come across as one-note in comparison.

Dominican blends often use multi-national wrappers and binders (Ecuadorian, Nicaraguan, Cameroon), which allow for richer and more dynamic flavour profiles.

3. More Accessible and Available

Cuban cigars are still limited in global markets due to geopolitical and supply issues. Availability can be sporadic, and pricing is high due to taxes and scarcity — especially in countries like Australia.

Dominican cigars, on the other hand, are widely distributed, easier to source, and often deliver more value per dollar. They’re readily available from trusted online cigar shops in Australia, with fast delivery and fresh stock.

What Smokers in Australia Are Saying

Across Australia, cigar lovers are discovering the difference. Many now keep Dominican cigars as their go-to for everyday smoking and reserve Cubans for special occasions (if at all).

Dominican cigars deliver complexity without harshness, quality without guesswork, and availability without inflated prices.

🛒 View Top Rated Dominican Cigars from trusted brands like Arturo Fuente — shipped Australia-wide.

Read more about the Godfather of Dominican Cigars - Arturo Fuente

FAQ: Dominican vs Cuban Cigars in Australia

Q: Are Dominican cigars better than Cubans?
A: Many smokers believe so. Dominican cigars offer more consistent quality, smoother flavours, and better value — especially in the Australian market.

Q: Why are Cuban cigars so expensive in Australia?
A: Import taxes, limited supply, and global demand drive Cuban cigar prices up — often over $100 per stick for premium labels.

Q: What are good Dominican cigars to try first?
A: Try Arturo Fuente Hemingway, Davidoff Signature, or La Flor Dominicana for smooth, flavour-rich introductions to Dominican craftsmanship.

Final Thoughts

Cuban cigars may always hold a place in the history books, but Dominican cigars are writing the future.

With their masterful blending, superior consistency, and evolving flavour profiles, they’ve quietly taken the lead as the cigars of choice for discerning smokers in Australia and beyond.

If you haven’t yet tried one, now’s the time.

👉 View Top Rated Dominican Cigars

Best,

Joe Box - Your Brother of the Leaf