Plasencia

Plasencia represents the pinnacle of tobacco cultivation and cigar manufacturing, standing as the world's largest grower of premium tobacco with operations spanning five generations since 1865. This distinguished family-owned company commands unparalleled respect in the industry, not only producing their own acclaimed cigars but also supplying premium tobacco to approximately 70% of the global premium cigar market. Plasencia's vertical integration—controlling every aspect from seed to smoke—ensures exceptional quality and consistency that has earned them recognition as both master growers and world-class cigar producers. Their transition from behind-the-scenes tobacco suppliers to premium brand owners has solidified their position as one of today's most respected boutique cigar manufacturers.

Background

The Plasencia legacy began in 1865 when Don Eduardo Plasencia emigrated from the Canary Islands to Cuba's renowned Vuelta Abajo region to cultivate tobacco. Through successive generations, the family built a formidable reputation under the leadership of Sixto Plasencia Juarez and his son Sixto Plasencia Pérez, becoming major tobacco exporters in Cuba. Political upheaval forced the family to flee Cuba in 1963, initially relocating to Mexico before establishing operations in Nicaragua in 1965, and later expanding to Honduras during Nicaragua's civil unrest in the 1980s. Under Nestor Plasencia Sr.'s leadership since 1986, the company evolved into the world's largest premium tobacco grower, operating multiple factories and plantations across Central America. In 2017, the fifth generation—led by Nestor Jr., Gustavo, and José Luis Plasencia—launched their own premium cigar brand, stepping into the spotlight after decades of producing cigars for industry giants.

History

From humble beginnings in Cuba's Vuelta Abajo in 1865, the Plasencia family weathered political upheavals, forced relocations, and industry challenges to build the world's most extensive premium tobacco operation. The family's resilience shone through multiple setbacks including the Cuban Revolution, Nicaraguan civil war, and crop disasters, each time rebuilding stronger than before. By the 1990s, Nestor Plasencia Sr. had established the company as the industry's premier tobacco supplier, producing over 30 million cigars annually for major brands while maintaining the largest tobacco farming operation in Central America. The launch of their own branded cigars in 2017 marked their evolution from master growers to acclaimed cigar producers, with their Alma series and Cosecha lines earning critical acclaim and industry recognition.

Reputation

Plasencia enjoys an unrivaled reputation as the tobacco industry's most trusted and respected family operation, universally regarded as the gold standard for premium tobacco cultivation and cigar manufacturing. Industry experts consider Nestor Plasencia Sr. 'one of the foremost tobacco experts in the world,' while critics consistently rate Plasencia-branded cigars in the 90+ point range, with multiple appearances on Cigar Aficionado's Top 25 lists. Their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and traditional craftsmanship has earned numerous prestigious awards, including the 2025 Best Brand Honduras at the Cigar Trophy Awards. The brand commands deep respect from both industry professionals and discerning aficionados who recognize Plasencia's uncompromising dedication to quality and their pivotal role in elevating Central American tobacco to rival Cuban standards.