Cigar Review: Bella Dama Cigars King Toro – Rated 96
Sometimes, premium cigar brands move manufacturing from one factory to another for a variety of reasons. But in most all cases the move is one that makes sense for the brand owner. So is the case for Bella Dama Cigars, a small woman-owned premium cigar that I have talked about for a couple of years. In 2024, Bella Dama Cigars owner – Chantel Leavitt – wanted more input and a better price point to head into wholesale.
Chantel Explained:
“I switched factories in 2024. When I first started I didn’t have any direct factory connects. Two years in, factories were approaching me. I sampled with several factories before making a decision. I wanted to keep my initial 6 blends as close as possible, but elevate them. Tobacalera Aragon was the only one that smoked, dissected each cigar and really took their time blending. They sent me back sample blends and they hit the mark!”
With respect to the Bella Dama King blend, which is the subject of this review, Chantel rolled up her sleeves and went back to the drawing board twice with the King and then a 3rd time. The King was her first release and in homage to her father it needed to be on point in what she would want the King to represent—bold, unapologetic, and a winner.
Before diving into the review, I can say the revamped Bella Dama King is an excellent redo of the original.
Blend Information
Wrapper: Habano
Binder: Condega
Filler: Ometepe
The Bella Dama Cigars King is offered in a single 6 x 54 Toro vitola and comes packaged in 20-count boxes with an MSRP of $15.00 per cigar.
I revisited the original 2023 review and noted a lighter Habano wrapper in this release. The closed foot and pigtail cap have been eliminated. Ultimately, what matters most is flavor and burn performance.
Pre-Light Examination
The Bella Dama Cigars King is wrapped in a smooth reddish-brown leaf with a light sheen and minimal veins. The cigar feels well-packed with just the right amount of give along the barrel. Construction is completed with a well-applied cap.
Unlike the original version, the company now uses a single band of higher-quality paper. The logo is centered, with the word “King” printed in red at the bottom.
Running the cigar along the nose reveals notes of butter and cocoa from the foot and curing barn leaf from the barrel.
A straight cut across the shoulder opens a cold draw offering buttered popcorn notes, with a mild pepper tingle developing the more you puff.
After toasting the foot with a dual-flame torch, the first puffs are smooth and approachable.
Cigar Review Notes
-
Initial puffs are smooth and easy, especially on the first retrohale
-
Mild fruity tang notes quickly join the profile
-
A pleasant natural sweetness emerges
-
Bright white ash forms over a thick char line
-
Cream notes pair with the persistent fruit essence
-
Moving into the second third, café mocha notes develop
-
A touch of cedar appears around the midway point
-
Increased sweetness and mild spice build deeper into the second third
-
Strength gradually rises to medium-full
-
Spice intensifies through the final third
-
Total Smoking Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Final Analysis
The Bella Dama Cigars King revamp is a significantly improved offering over the original. It presents an elegant, steadily evolving profile—starting with smooth, clean puffs and a refined retrohale before introducing fruity tang, natural sweetness, cream, café mocha, cedar, and a progressively rising spice.
Transitions are deliberate and seamless, giving the cigar a cohesive rhythm from first light to final ash. The measured progression from mild-medium to medium-full is well executed and enhances complexity without sacrificing balance.
Construction is a notable strength: bright white ash, consistent burn, and steady smoke output signal strong craftsmanship. The flavor balance, interplay of sweetness and spice, and overall smoothness make this an excellent premium option—especially for those who appreciate finesse over brute strength. This cigar is absolutely a box-worthy purchase.
Point Deductions:
(-1) Mild off-burn (no touch-up required)
Bonus Points:
(+1) Box Buy
(+1) Long Ash
(+1) Well Balanced & Rounded Profile
Bella Dama Cigars Announces Exciting Collaboration with Tabacalera Aragon and a New Line Launch
Bella Dama Cigars, the boutique cigar company renowned for its premium offerings from St. Petersburg, Florida, is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with Tabacalera Aragon from Esteli, Nicaragua. This partnership marks a new chapter in our journey, as Tabacalera Aragon becomes the sole producer of all Bella Dama’s premium cigars.
A New Era of Cigar Excellence
Our collaboration with Tabacalera Aragon promises an elevated experience for cigar enthusiasts. With this partnership, we are excited to continue offering our current lineup of six premium cigars, now enhanced with upgraded wrappers, binders, and fillers. This upgrade is designed to bring you even more refined flavors and superior smoking experiences.
Introducing ‘Dealers Select’: A Budget-Friendly Line with No Compromises
In addition to the enhanced premium line, Bella Dama Cigars is proud to introduce a new budget-friendly range called ‘Dealers Select.’ This line features three new cigar offerings that deliver exceptional quality and flavor at an accessible price point. Despite the more affordable price, there is no compromise in the tobacco or flavor profile—each cigar in the Dealers Select line is hand-rolled to perfection and exclusive to Bella Dama Cigars.
Brand Evolution and Retail Expansion
As part of our re-launch, Bella Dama Cigars will unveil a refreshed trademarked logo that reflects the elevated quality of our products. We are also expanding our presence in the brick-and-mortar arena. Keep an eye on our website for updates on new retail locations where you can experience our cigars firsthand.
The re-launch is set for September 1, 2024, and we can’t wait for you to experience the new and improved Bella Dama Cigars.
Stay Connected
For the latest updates on our re-launch, new product offerings, and retail locations, be sure to visit our website and follow us on social media. We are excited to embark on this new journey with you and look forward to sharing our enhanced cigars and new line with our valued customers.
Join Us in Celebrating This New Chapter
Mark your calendars for September 1, 2024, and experience the elevated quality of Bella Dama Cigars, now crafted with expertise by Tabacalera Aragon. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to sharing this exciting evolution with you!
Introducing Bella Dama Cigars' Exclusive Loyalty Program: The Players Club
Bella Dama Cigars, a distinguished boutique cigar company based in St. Petersburg, Florida, is excited to unveil its newest innovation in customer appreciation—The Players Club. Inspired by the thrilling world of high-stakes poker, this unique loyalty program offers an unparalleled experience for our dedicated cigar aficionados.
A New Era of Loyalty: The Players Club
The Players Club is not just another loyalty program; it’s an immersive journey into the realm of poker-themed rewards and exclusive benefits. Designed for our most passionate customers, this members-only program promises to elevate your Bella Dama Cigars experience with exciting perks and incentives.
What Makes The Players Club Unique?
High-Stakes Poker Theme: Embrace the thrill of poker with a loyalty program that mirrors the excitement of high-stakes games. Each element of The Players Club is crafted to reflect the strategy, anticipation, and rewards of poker.
Exclusive Discounts: Members will gain access to special discounts on a wide range of Bella Dama Cigars products. It’s our way of showing appreciation for your loyalty and ensuring you enjoy our premium cigars at exceptional prices.
Merchandise Rewards: Collect exclusive Bella Dama Cigars merchandise, available only to Players Club members. From stylish apparel to unique accessories, these items are designed to enhance your cigar lifestyle.
Bella Dama Cash Credits: Accumulate Bella Dama cash credits that can be redeemed on future purchases. It’s our way of giving back and providing extra value for every cigar you enjoy.
How to Join
Joining The Players Club is easy! Simply visit our website at belladamacigars.com and click on the ‘Players Club’ tab. There, you’ll find all the information you need about the program and a straightforward registration process. Once you’re a member, you’ll start enjoying the many benefits that come with it.
Why Join The Players Club?
The Players Club is more than just a rewards program; it’s a community of like-minded cigar enthusiasts who appreciate the finer things in life. By joining, you’re not only gaining access to exclusive rewards but also becoming part of a unique experience that blends the elegance of cigars with the excitement of poker.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned for updates and special announcements related to The Players Club. Follow us on social media and keep an eye on our website for the latest news and exclusive offers.
Ready to Raise the Stakes?
Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this innovative loyalty program. Sign up for The Players Club today and start reaping the rewards of your passion for Bella Dama Cigars.
For more details and to register, visit belladamacigars.com and click on the ‘Players Club’ tab. We look forward to welcoming you to a new level of cigar enjoyment!
Thank you for being a valued part of the Bella Dama Cigars family. Here’s to many more rewarding experiences ahead with The Players Club!