Meerapfel Meir Robusto

The Meerapfel Behind the Scenes No. 1 is the Robusto in the range and the ideal introduction to the world of the Meerapfel family. In its box-pressed 5 x 50 format, it demonstrates in just under an hour what the range stands for: an accessible, sweet and creamy cigar with elegant restraint. The band bears the Roman numeral I; the brand name has been deliberately omitted.

A cigar for Melissa

There is a personal story behind ‘Behind the Scenes’. When Melissa Meerapfel, the younger sister of Jeremiah and Joshua Meerapfel, joined the family business, Jeremiah created this blend especially for her: accessible, sweet and creamy. Melissa now represents the eleventh generation of a tobacco-growing family whose roots, according to tradition, date back to the 16th century. In 1876, the family opened their first cigar factory in Baden. The range was launched in 2025 as part of the Family Reserve Blends, and Compañia de Tabacos has been distributing it in Switzerland since 2026.

Blend and Format

The light Connecticut Shade wrapper plays a key role: sand-coloured, with a very fine vein pattern, slightly oily and with a velvety surface. The filler consists of 100 per cent Dominican tobaccos. The cigar is hand-rolled in the Dominican Republic. Like all formats in the range, the No. 1 is rectangular in shape – a nod to the square courtyard of a Roman house, which characterises the line’s design. The compact Robusto format concentrates the flavours and is perfect for a leisurely break.

Flavour and character

When cold, the No. 1 smells of cedarwood, leather, earth and a floral hint. Once lit, it reveals itself to be mild and aromatic: toasted bread and cedarwood form the base, complemented by cashew nuts, salted caramel and a gentle note of baking spices. A subtle creaminess accompanies the smoke, and towards the end, a hint of white pepper adds a delicate touch. The burn is harmonious and even, with no rough edges. The ash is grey and firm.

Who is the No. 1 suitable for?

The No. 1 is a cigar for beginners and for anyone who appreciates a mild, elegant cigar to enjoy now and then. It pairs perfectly with morning coffee, a cappuccino or a glass of champagne in the early evening. If you’d like to get to know the range, this is the best place to start, before discovering the other five sizes.

Tasting notes

Cigar exterior: sand-coloured, finely veined, velvety, box-pressed
Cigar interior: Neatly rolled, precise construction
Smoke: Mild, creamy, medium smoke volume
Flavour: Toasted bread, cedar wood, cashew nuts, salted caramel, baking spices, cream, white pepper on the finish
Burn: Even, grey and firm ash