Matilde’s story is one of family, heritage, and new beginnings. One of the first tobacco companies in the Dominican Republic, they began in Santiago de los Caballeros in 1876. Unfortunately, this initial iteration was brief, closing their doors in the early 1900’s. Though Matilde was no more, the legacy endured.
To tell the story of Matilde’s rebirth, we need to know the story of José Seijas that led to a reemergence of his own.
Seijas began his venture into the cigar industry in 1974 with Consolidated Cigar Corporation. This introduction into the intricacies of cigar production lit a flame that would endure even after his retirement in 2011. Throughout his career, Seijas held several high-ranking positions in the field, facilitating the massive production of cigars for many revered brands.
Not long after his retirement, Seijas resolved to return to the industry, but things would be different. In contrast to the large-scale undertakings of his earlier roles, he longed for something more personal.
With steadfast pride in his Dominican roots, Seijas revived Matilde with his two sons Enrique and Ricardo.
“Making the best cigar in the world is what drives me,” says Seijas.”Matilde is how I pay homage to my country.”
The aptly named Matilde Renacer (rebirth) was the first blend to hit the shelves. After roughly a century-long lacuna, Matildes were back with a fantastic blend, scoring a 92 and receiving accolades from Cigar Aficionados as one of the best cigars of 2014.
Although Matildes are popular with cigar smokers worldwide, the production volume is far more modest than what Seijas oversaw before his retirement. This has granted him the intimacy with the work that he craved—allowing the utmost attention to the finer details in cigar manufacturing, assuring that Matilde Cigars are made by the most talented artisans with the highest quality ingredients.
“Our tabaqueros are cigar smokers, this way they have knowledge of use of the product,” says Seijas. “The knowledge is an important part of quality control.”
Matilde’s values haven’t changed since their reconception, but the number of options sure have. Check out our selection of top quality Matilde Cigars and find the one that’s right for you.