The story of Dutch Masters dates back to 1912, when it was first introduced by the GH Johnson Cigar Company. Just a few years later, in 1918, GH Johnson merged with several other cigar manufacturers to form the Consolidated Cigar Corporation—an enterprise that would eventually produce iconic premium brands like Montecristo and Romeo y Julieta.
To craft what would become the famed Dutch Masters brand, GH Johnson drew inspiration from the artistry of the Dutch Renaissance. The brand takes its name from these celebrated painters, with particular homage paid to Rembrandt. His masterpiece, The Syndics of the Drapers’ Guild, adorns every Dutch Masters cigar box. The painting, which features five men examining cloth for quality, symbolizes the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Though Dutch Masters was established in the early 20th century, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the brand truly became a household name. The rise of television advertising provided a powerful platform, and Dutch Masters capitalized on this with the help of legendary comedian and talk show host Ernie Kovacs. A devoted cigar enthusiast, Kovacs was the perfect ambassador for the brand.
For nearly four years, he created monthly hour-long TV specials sponsored by Dutch Masters, blending humor, creativity, and product promotion in a way that was ahead of its time. These commercials not only entertained but helped redefine how advertising could intersect with art and entertainment.
However, the following decades brought challenges. The untimely death of Kovacs, growing awareness of the health risks of tobacco, and a federal ban on TV ads for tobacco products contributed to a decline in Dutch Masters’ visibility and sales.
That changed in the 1990s with the resurgence of cigar culture. The cigar boom reignited interest in the brand, and Dutch Masters re-emerged as a leading name in the market.
Today, Dutch Masters cigars are meticulously machine-made by Altadis U.S.A. in Puerto Rico, renowned for their consistent quality and construction. They are available in a range of sizes and blends, including the original President size that won over smokers more than a century ago.
Setting itself apart from other machine-made cigars, Dutch Masters uses genuine whole-leaf wrappers—premium varieties such as Connecticut Shade and Candela. You can explore more about the unique flavor profile of the Candela wrapper in our Blending Room.
Dutch Masters is also a top producer of cigarillos—smaller, quicker-to-enjoy versions of traditional cigars. These come in a wide selection of both classic and flavored varieties, including Gold Fusion, Ripe Berry, and the beloved Palma. Whether you prefer rich traditional flavors or something more adventurous, there’s a Dutch Masters cigar to suit every palate.
Add comment