Women in the Cigar Industry
Though the cigar industry has been traditionally dominated my men, in recent years it has witnessed a remarkable evolution. Influential women have emerged from the families and companies to reshape the landscape of the entire industry. From master blenders to brand owners, they have not only broken barriers but left a permanent mark on the world of cigars with their expertise, passion, and creativity.
Litto and Ines Gomez - La Flor Dominicana
Ines Lorenzo-Gomez founded La Flor Dominicana with her husband Litto Gomez. LFD is a renowned cigar brand known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Ines, who serves as the President of La Flor Dominicana, has played a pivotal role in the brand's success, contributing her expertise in blending and production. Together, the Gomez duo has garnered widespread acclaim for their innovative blends and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Shop: La Flor Dominicana Cigars
Cynthia Fuente - Arturo Fuente Cigars
Cynthia Fuente, the matriarch of the Fuente family, has been instrumental in steering Arturo Fuente Cigars to global prominence. Following the tragic loss of her husband, Carlos Fuente Sr., Cynthia assumed leadership roles within the company, ensuring the preservation of its rich legacy and uncompromising standards. Under her stewardship, Arturo Fuente Cigars has maintained its reputation for producing some of the world's most sought-after cigars.
Shop: Arturo Fuente Cigars
Janny Garcia - My Father Cigars
Janny Garcia, daughter of legendary cigar maker Don Pepin Garcia, is the driving force behind My Father Cigars, a brand renowned for its innovation and craftsmanship. As the Vice President of Operations, Janny oversees every aspect of production, from tobacco cultivation to cigar blending. Her unwavering dedication to quality and authenticity has solidified My Father Cigars' position as a respected name in the industry, earning numerous accolades and awards along the way.
Shop: My Father Cigars
Maria Sierra - Joya de Nicaragua
Maria Sierra, the General Manager of Joya de Nicaragua, exemplifies resilience and determination in a traditionally male-dominated industry. With her astute business acumen and unwavering commitment to excellence, Maria has been instrumental in steering Joya de Nicaragua towards global recognition. Under her leadership, the company has expanded its portfolio, introducing innovative blends that resonate with cigar enthusiasts worldwide.
Shop: Joya de Nicaragua Cigars
Patricia Quesada - Quesada Cigars
Patricia Quesada, daughter of cigar icon Manuel Quesada, has made significant strides in shaping the legacy of Quesada Cigars. As the Vice President of the company, Patricia has infused her creative vision and passion for cigars into every aspect of the business, from product development to brand strategy. Her innovative approach has propelled Quesada Cigars to new heights, earning widespread acclaim for its distinctive blends and unwavering commitment to quality.
Shop: Quesada Cigars
Karen Berger- Karen Berger Cigars
Karen Berger is the 2019 Tobacco Businesswoman of the year, the owner of Don Kiki Cigars, and the wife of the late eponymous Don Kiki himself. Within her area of the cigar industry she has become a force of nature with her experience in retail, brand ownership, and the cultivation of her own tobacco. Beyond her flagship expansion of the Don Kiki line, she has brought about her very own line of tobacco in K by Karen Berger, a partnership with AJ Fernandez.
Shop: Karen Berger Cigars