The year 1874 saw the establishment of what would become one of the world’s largest cigar manufacturers, the 7-20-4 Cigar Company. Founder R. G. Sullivan built his company’s reputation on his motto: “Quality Still Impels Its Growth.” The Manchester, New Hampshire, company was flourished until the Cuban Embargo closed it and many other world-renowned premium cigar labels.

Founder and company president of the newly-reborn company, Kurt A. Kendall, is a successful New Hampshire cigar retailer, with three stores in the state. He became intrigued with the historic brand, and acquired the defunct trademark in 2009, determined to return the brand to prominence. When asked the origin of the company’s name, he explained, “It was the original factory showroom’s address at 724 Elm Street.” All 7-20-4 boutique premium cigars are now hand made from 100% long-filler tobaccos, in Danli, Honduras and Esteli, Nicaragua.

The 1874 Series is Kendall’s second introduction, following the 7-20-4 brand’s 2009 debut. The first cigar was noted for its deeply complex six-nation blend, which has now grown to eight shapes. The premiere 7-20-4 boutique cigar received wide acclaim for its performance, and the 1874 Series has followed, receiving kudos in the cigar media.

Three 1874 Series shapes are offered: a 6″ x 46 Corona Especial, a 5-1/4″ x 52 Robusto Especial, and a 6″ x 54 Torpedo Especial. The complex blend consists of a filler from Nicaragua’s Jalapa Valley and the nearby cigar-making capital of Esteli, an Indonesian binder, and a Jalapa-grown Habano wrapper.