The J.C. Newman Sarzedas cigar.

History of Sarzedas Cigars

Sarzedas is a historic cigar brand that dates back to 1900, when it was first produced by J.C. Newman Cigar Co. in Cleveland, Ohio. Early U.S. Patent Office records show Sarzedas was one of the company’s original house brands during the early years of American cigar manufacturing.

In the early 1900s, the cigar earned the nickname “The Aromatic Cigar,” reflecting the smoother, more fragrant style that was popular at the time. Rather than focusing on heavy strength, Sarzedas was known for its pleasant aroma and refined smoking character.

Like many early American cigar brands, Sarzedas eventually disappeared as the industry evolved through the mid-20th century. The name remained dormant for decades until J.C. Newman revived the brand in 2025, reintroducing it at the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) trade show with a modern blend inspired by the original concept.

WHAT DID WE THINK?

Blending a flavored cigar that can satisfy both fans of infused cigars and traditional premium smokers is no easy task, yet the Sarzedas makes a respectable effort at striking that balance. Early in the experience, the cigar leans heavily into its flavored character. A sugary sweetness on the cap and an artificial sweetness on the palate and retrohale dominate the first half, which may feel a bit intense for some smokers.

Around the midpoint, however, the profile begins to evolve. The sweetness recedes and more classic cigar flavors step forward, revealing notes of cedar, leather, and roasted peanuts. At this stage, the flavored elements shift into the background, acting more as subtle accents than the centerpiece of the blend.

Construction across multiple samples proved impressive, with clean burn lines standing out as a particular strength. While the Sarzedas remains firmly in the flavored cigar category, its strong construction, approachable price point, and the emergence of more traditional cigar flavors in the latter half help set the Sarzedas Corona apart from many others in the flavored cigar market.

Sarzedas cigars are rolled in four sizes:

Toro 6” x 50

Robusto 4 3/4” x 52

Churchill 7” x 48

Corona 5 1/2” x 43

They feature a silky smooth Ecuadorian Shade wrapper, and binder and filler tobaccos from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. Try one at Anthony’s!