Today we’d like to introduce you to Isidoro “Izzy” Martinez
Izzy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My family in Cuba was involved in creating blends and manufacturing cigars. After retiring from the Miami Dade Police Department, I decided to create my own line of cigars; “TUX Cigars” in honor of the “Martinez” family. On November 17, 2023, I launched the first two cigars, a Maduro and a Sumatra. On April 6, 2024, I launched the 3rd cigar of my collection; an Habano. I am currently working on the 4th and 5th cigars to be launched very soon. The sixth and possibly final cigar of my collection will probably be released some time in early 2025. As of this date, the TUX Cigars Family, by Curro y Martinez has sold approximately 4,000 cigars at retail stores as well as online. www.tuxcigars.com
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The cigar industry is extremely competitive, but having the family background experience and many contacts has helped. First, I came up with a coffee pairing concept, then I began to develop the TUX brand. The cigars are made in Esteli, Nicaragua by an extremely talented young man, with plenty of experience, named Raul Lanuza. The Lanuza Cigars Factory, is recognized for their attention to detail and quality control, even though it is considered a small factory.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The first two TUX cigars paved the way for the rest of the collection. With the first two cigars I separated myself from the rest of the market. The size, form, taste and color are extremely unique. Affordable Perfection is definitely our motto. At TUX, quality and affordability is our goal. Our cigars are packaged in colorful and elegant boxes. But our main objective is the quality of the product, rather than illustrious packaging.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Customers always ask, what is the secret to the amazing taste? There are several family secrets that compose the great taste dating back to Cuba in the early 1900’s . The one secret I will share is our cigars are placed in empty rum barrels for a few days.
Customers also ask about the rich dark color of the Maduro. It’s a well known process sometimes called “cooking the leaves”. Even though, some paint their product to even the color, at TUX we do not use any paint.
Pricing:
- $9.50 to $11.00, depending on the cigar
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tuxcigars.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/isidoro.martinez.984349
Image Credits
TUX Cigars, by Curro y Martinez family
Raúl Lanuza, Lanuza Cigars Factory, Estelí, Nicaragua
Juan R. Prieto, JR Cigars Broker
