Kristoff Cigars founder Glen Case created the Tres Compadres line as a deeply personal tribute. This release honors the profound friendship between three men—Case himself, Rolando Villamil (factory manager at Tabacalera von Eicken), and Chuck Finch (Case's best friend of 42 years). What makes this release particularly poignant is its creation following the sudden passing of both Finch and Villamil within months of each other—transforming this cigar from simply a product to a heartfelt memorial, with each band bearing the initials of these three lifelong compadres.
The Kristoff Tres Compadres cigar represents a unique approach to Nicaraguan tobacco, crafted at the Tabacalera von Eicken factory in Santiago, Dominican Republic. This Nicaraguan puro features a Habano wrapper, Condega (Nicaragua) binder, and fillers from Nicaragua's three primary growing regions: Condega, Estelí, and Jalapa. Available in three formats, the line offers accessibility across preferences while maintaining its distinctive character.
What does the Kristoff Tres Compadres cigar taste like?
Unlike many Nicaraguan puros that emphasize strength and pepper, the Tres Compadres cigar delivers what Case describes as the "opposite" experience—a medium-bodied smoke (rated just 3-out-of-5 on Kristoff's strength scale). This approachable blend opens with surprising sweetness and creaminess, featuring prominent notes of sweet cedar and toasted almond. The Nicaraguan terroir makes its presence known through gentle waves of spice that complement rather than overwhelm, creating a nuanced complexity that belies its modest strength. The consistently creamy, inviting finish perhaps reflects the enduring friendships that inspired this genuinely enjoyable tribute cigar.