Quai d'Orsay No. 50 Cuban Cigar Review: France's Finest Habano Deserves Your Attention
Overview
The Quai d'Orsay No. 50 is one of Cuba's most intriguing and underappreciated cigars. Originally created exclusively for the French market in 1973 — named after the famous Parisian boulevard that houses the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs — the Quai d'Orsay range was relaunched globally in 2012 and has since earned a devoted following among aficionados who prize elegance over brute strength. The No. 50 is the flagship of the line: a Robusto-format cigar that delivers a masterclass in restrained, sophisticated Cuban smoking.
Cigar Profile
- Origin: Cuba (Havana)
- Factory: El Rey del Mundo
- Format: Robusto (50 ring gauge × 5" length)
- Wrapper: Cuban Claro (light, silky)
- Strength: Mild to Medium
- Smoking Time: 50–70 minutes
Tasting Notes
First Third
The No. 50 opens with a cold draw of dried apricot and light cream — immediately distinctive. Once lit, the first third delivers a beautifully smooth profile: fresh hay, toasted brioche, and a delicate floral note that sets this cigar apart from the typical Cuban character. The draw is open and effortless, the smoke production generous and cool.
Second Third
The mid-section is where the No. 50 truly shines. Complexity unfolds gracefully with notes of white pepper, vanilla cream, light cedar, and a subtle mineral quality that adds intrigue. There's a refined sweetness throughout — never cloying, always balanced. The burn is laser-straight and the ash holds in long, firm columns.
Final Third
The finish brings a gentle warming of the profile: roasted nuts, light cocoa, and a whisper of dried citrus peel emerge as the cigar approaches its conclusion. Strength remains mild to medium throughout — this is a cigar that never raises its voice, yet commands complete attention.
Scores
| Category | Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| 🌿 Construction & Draw | 9.5/10 |
| 🔥 Burn & Ash | 9.5/10 |
| 👃 Aroma | 9/10 |
| 👅 Flavour Complexity | 8.5/10 |
| 💷 Value for Money | 8.5/10 |
| ⭐ Overall | 90/100 |
Recommended Pairings
🥃 Bourbon Pairing
The Quai d'Orsay No. 50's light, elegant, and floral character calls for a bourbon that matches its refinement without overpowering it. Our top pick is Blanton's Original Single Barrel — its signature notes of orange blossom, vanilla, caramel, and gentle oak are a near-perfect mirror of the cigar's own flavour profile. The single barrel character adds a complexity that rewards slow, contemplative sipping alongside this equally thoughtful smoke.
Alternative bourbon picks: Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select, Angel's Envy, or Buffalo Trace.
🍷 Wine Pairing (Bonus)
Given its French heritage, the No. 50 also pairs exquisitely with a glass of aged Sauternes or a dry Champagne — the cigar's floral and brioche notes find a natural home alongside both.
☕ Non-Alcoholic Pairing
A lightly roasted Ethiopian single-origin filter coffee — served black — echoes the cigar's floral and citrus notes beautifully. Alternatively, a fine Earl Grey tea (bergamot and all) is a surprisingly elegant match for this Parisian-inspired Habano.
🧀 Snack Pairing
A small selection of mild French cheeses — Brie, Camembert, or a young Chèvre — alongside a few water crackers and a drizzle of acacia honey will complement the cigar's creamy, floral character without competing with it.
Suggested Occasion
The Quai d'Orsay No. 50 is the definitive special occasion cigar for the discerning smoker. Its French heritage, elegant presentation, and refined flavour profile make it the natural choice for a celebratory dinner, an anniversary evening, or a post-theatre nightcap on a warm summer's night.
It's also an outstanding choice for a long, unhurried Sunday afternoon — the kind where time slows down and the only agenda is enjoyment. Pair it with Blanton's, a good book, and a comfortable chair, and you have one of life's finer pleasures.
For weddings and milestone celebrations, the No. 50 is a premium gifting option that will impress even the most seasoned cigar connoisseur. Its distinctive pale claro wrapper and elegant Quai d'Orsay band make it visually striking as part of a luxury gift set. Pair with a miniature of Blanton's Single Barrel for an unforgettable presentation.
Final Verdict
The Quai d'Orsay No. 50 is a cigar of rare elegance — one that rewards patience, attention, and a quality pairing. It won't appeal to those who seek power and intensity, but for the smoker who values finesse, balance, and a truly distinctive Cuban character, it is close to flawless. One of the most underrated Habanos on the market, and one that absolutely deserves a place in your humidor.
Rated 90/100 — Outstanding. Highly Recommended.
Random information: Our team happens to love this cigar and this is our staff pick for a mild cigar!