Kelner Cigars, S.A.S. has announced it has opened its doors in the heart of the Dominican Republic. Located in the industrial park Víctor Manuel Espaillat Mera, it is dedicated on maintaining the tradition of meticulous tobacco blending into fine quality, handmade premium cigars. The company was founded by Klaas Kelner, 3rd generation of the Kelner Family, who is at the head of its operations.
“It is with great excitement that we bring this new project to life. I was born and raised in the industry, surrounded by tobacco experts, retailers, and cigar aficionados; and it is through their teachings that I came to love every facet of cigar making. It has always been a dream to blend beautiful cigars bearing the Kelner name for my family and friends, and now I get to do just that with some of the best tobaccos in the world.” -Klaas Kelner
The new factory is initially focused on creating small batch private labels rolled by hand-picked skilled artisans that believe in the Kelner philosophy. The torcedores are supervised and groomed in an environment that promotes personal and professional growth.
“It is my vision to grow organically, creating a close-knit team that believes in the Kelner Family’s passion and commitment to quality control. Maintaining a process where I can personally inspect the tobacco that we use, sort, and roll into well balanced blends. I invite you all to enjoy our cigars made with our signature family craftmanship.” -Klaas Kelner
The Kelner Family Biography
The Kelner Family tobacco tradition began in the 1920s when Klaas Pieter Kelner Sr. and his three brothers moved from the Netherlands to Dominican Republic and Brazil to work in raw leaf tobacco. The four brothers created independent companies that are still active today and supply many cigar factories around the world.
The 2nd generation, led by cigar and tobacco guru Hendrik Kelner Sr., perfected the crafting of handmade premium cigars. He pioneered the development of seed hybridization and organoleptic mapping of the different cultivation zones of the Dominican Republic.
Today, the 3rd generation continues the Kelner family’s tradition and passion by blending exquisite cigars and the meticulous growing of rare tobaccos. Creating only the finest cigars to suit the discerning palates of aficionados across the world.
“I would like to thank everyone that has helped us in this new adventure. Our suppliers, for allowing me to examine and taste each tobacco. Our clients, for believing in our blends and starting this journey together. And my family and friends for all the emotional support and love. Without you, this wouldn’t be possible!” -Klaas Kelner
