The H. Upmann Vintage Cameroon. This is a cigar that uses a Cameroon wrapper, which is the most underappreciated wrapper in the business. Cameroon tobacco is grown in West Africa, and it has a distinctive sweetness and a thinner texture that makes for a unique smoking experience. Most brands don’t use it because it’s harder to source and harder to work with. H. Upmann went for it anyway. Respect.
First Third
The Vintage Cameroon opens with a distinctive sweetness that’s immediately recognizable — caramel, cedar, and a gentle toastiness that’s like the smell of fresh bread. The Cameroon wrapper gives it a texture that’s silkier than most cigars, with a thinner, more delicate feel on the lips. The draw is perfect, the burn is even, and the ash is light gray. There’s a light pepper on the retrohale that’s warm rather than sharp.
Second Third
The profile evolves nicely. The caramel sweetness deepens, the cedar becomes more pronounced, and a nutty quality joins the mix — specifically cashew, which is more interesting than the usual almond. The pepper builds slightly. The balance here is excellent — the Cameroon wrapper’s natural sweetness is the star, and everything else is supporting it. The construction remains solid.
Final Third
The flavors concentrate. The caramel and cedar hold steady, the pepper builds to a warm spice, and there’s a coffee note that wasn’t there before. The strength builds to medium-bodied, which is where this cigar is most comfortable. The finish is medium-length and sweet, with the caramel lingering pleasantly.
The Verdict
The H. Upmann Vintage Cameroon is a genuinely delightful cigar that deserves more attention than it gets. The Cameroon wrapper gives it a character that stands out in a market full of Nicaraguan and Dominican blends. It’s affordable, well-constructed, and delivers a unique smoking experience. If you haven’t tried a Cameroon-wrapped cigar, this is an excellent place to start.
Rating: 4 / 5
