Aladino: A Family Story Shaped by Tobacco Culture
The name Aladino might quickly evoke thoughts of the famous Oriental tale. However, the choice of this name is no coincidence but rather a homage from the company JRE, the brand’s creator. Tobacco here is a heartfelt passion, deeply rooted in family tradition. As a family business ourselves, we find this connection particularly remarkable. It’s all the more intriguing to discover the story of the family that has shaped this brand.
The Eiroa Family and the Creation of Aladino
The abbreviation JRE stands for Julio R. Eiroa, a name that enjoys an excellent reputation in the cigar world. As an exiled Cuban, Julio left his homeland after the revolution. His journey led him through Florida to Honduras, where he passionately built an impressive tobacco empire.
In 1995, Julio took a decisive step into the world of premium cigars alongside his son Christian by acquiring the brand Camacho. Within a short time, they transformed the previously lesser-known brand into one of the leading names for medium- to full-bodied cigars.
The Success Story of Aladino Cigars
The success of the Aladino brand is based on the tireless dedication and unparalleled instinct of the Eiroa family. Fortunate circumstances, such as the cigar boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s, further propelled their rise. The exceptional quality of their products quickly gained recognition in industry circles. In 2008, Camacho was acquired by Oettinger/Davidoff.
The financial dimensions of this deal also drew attention. While no official figures were confirmed, rumors suggest a sum exceeding $30 million. Christian Eiroa seized the opportunity to indulge in a few luxuries but remained with Davidoff as an employee before moving on to new projects. With brands like Eiroa and CLE, he remains a driving force in the cigar world.
The Rebirth with Aladino
Julio Eiroa stepped back for a while but remained an active and sought-after tobacco farmer. With his share of the Camacho sale, his future was secured. However, for Julio, cigars are not just a business but a cultural expression he wanted to continue even in his later years. In 2016, together with his eldest son Justo, he founded the Aladino brand. The tobacco for these cigars comes exclusively from the family’s own plantations and represents quality and authenticity. Since 2023, these cigars have also been available in Germany.
Although Julio’s life story might seem like a fairy tale, Aladino has little in common with the tales from 1001 Nights. The name is derived from the family-owned Tabacalera El Aladino, located in southern Honduras in Danlí. This modern production facility replaced the former Rancho Jamastran, which was transferred with the sale of Camacho to Oettinger/Davidoff. El Aladino was named after a former cinema at the site, which is now closed.
