Madrid, Spain – Five years ago, Nelson Alfonso envisioned a new home for Selected Tobacco. On October 10 and 11, 2026, that vision became reality as guests from across the premium cigar industry gathered in Madrid to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s new five-story facility.
The two-day celebration began on October 10 with an exclusive tour of the 3,000-square-meter facility. Guests experienced firsthand the vision behind Selected Tobacco, exploring its tobacco processing, germination laboratory, production areas, design studios, and 24-room aging complex. The facility brings production, aging, and hospitality together under one roof, reflecting Alfonso’s commitment to redefining what is possible in the premium cigar industry.
The celebration continued October 11 with an elegant gala evening honoring the achievement and the people who have helped shape the industry. Live music, led by an incredible vocalist, set the tone for the evening. An intimate flamenco dance performance brought a distinctly Spanish touch to the celebration, honoring the country’s cultural heritage.
A highlight of the evening was an awards ceremony recognizing four distinguished recipients for their contributions to the premium cigar community:
• The Byron Cigar Lounge — Illinois
• Corona Cigar Co. — Florida
• Two Guys Cigars — New Hampshire
• Halfwheel (Rueda Media) — Texas
For Alfonso and his family, the opening represented far more than the completion of a building. It marked the realization of five years of dedication, a belief brought together under one roof.
“This is something we envisioned five years ago, and seeing it become a reality is incredibly meaningful,” said Nelson Alfonso, founder of Selected Tobacco. “This facility represents our commitment to the future of premium cigars. It is a place where we can continue to learn, improve, and build something that will last beyond me.”
The Madrid facility establishes a new chapter for Selected Tobacco and sets a new standard for the premium cigar industry. The grand opening was not the conclusion of a journey, but the beginning of a lasting legacy.
