Blog & Cigar News | Mardo Cigars

Introduction

There are releases that make noise in the cigar world, and then there are those that make history. This year, Tatuaje's long-awaited 50th Anniversary cigars are finally gracing shelves, and we at Mardo Cigars couldn't be more excited to see them land. These aren’t just cigars—they're a tribute to time, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of perfection that Pete Johnson has brought to the industry over the last two decades.

The Legacy of Tatuaje: A Milestone in the Making

While the name might say “50th,” this special release is actually a few years in the making. Originally crafted to honor Pete Johnson’s 50th birthday, these cigars are now arriving as Pete approaches 55. But don’t let the delay fool you—the wait only amplifies the excitement.

At its core, this release is about more than age; it’s about journey. Pete Johnson’s role in shaping boutique cigar culture cannot be overstated. From the early days of working alongside Don Pepín García to launching the Tatuaje brand into cult status, Johnson has earned a reputation for quality, consistency, and a distinct flavor profile that resonates with seasoned aficionados and newcomers alike.

It’s no surprise, then, that this anniversary cigar would emerge from El Rey de los Habanos—the Miami-based factory that helped launch his career. This isn’t just a cigar—it’s a personal and professional full-circle moment, wrapped and rolled into one.

The Blend, the Bands & the Box

The Blend, The Craft & The Presentation

The excitement around the Tatuaje 50th Anniversary release is more than justified, and it all starts with the vitolas. This commemorative line comes in two expertly constructed sizes: the Robusto Especial (5 1/2 x 52) and the Toro Especial (6 1/2 x 52). Production is limited to just 5,000 cigars per vitola, and they arrive in sleek 10-count boxes that reflect both elegance and scarcity.

One of the visual signatures is the use of the Tatuaje Escasos secondary band, a mark that these cigars were handcrafted at the renowned El Rey de los Habanos factory in Doral, Florida—where Pete Johnson’s vision first took root. The attention to detail in this small-batch project speaks volumes to collectors and purists alike.

The outer leaf is a shade-grown Nicaraguan Corojo 99 wrapper, rich in color and beautifully oily. Beneath that, the binder and filler are composed of 100% Nicaraguan tobaccos. What truly elevates this blend is the age of the tobaccos—every leaf had between three to five years of age before rolling began in late 2019 and early 2020. In other words, by the time these cigars ship, they’ve been resting for nearly five years, resulting in extraordinary depth and balance.

As for packaging, each Robusto Especial box carries a unique backstory. Originally, the cigars were packed in 50-count cabinets back in December 2020. But the presentation evolved—by September 2023, they were reboxed into 10-count boxes, complete with dual date stamps that trace their journey from aging room to retail shelf. It's a touch that showcases not just transparency, but also the evolution of the project over time.

The pricing is reflective of its premium nature—$53 for the Robusto Especial and $55 for the Toro Especial. While these are certainly ultra-premium numbers, the quality, aging, and limited production justify the investment. These aren’t just cigars; they’re future classics built to be smoked, savored, or cellared.

Tatuaje 50th Cigar Specs

Mardo Comments

At Mardo Cigars, we don’t just review cigars—we live them. When we sat down with the Tatuaje 50th Robusto Especial, we weren’t just smoking a limited edition release—we were connecting with a piece of cigar heritage. Right from the cold draw, there’s a story waiting to unfold: balanced pepper, sweet earth, and a dried fruit undertone that hints at the kind of complexity only time and care can create.

Once lit, the experience deepens. That shade-grown corojo 99 wrapper opens up with subtle spice and creamy cedar, while the Nicaraguan fillers—aged to near perfection—bring notes of cocoa, leather, and roasted nuts. What’s remarkable is how smooth the transitions are from one third to the next. There’s boldness, sure, but it’s controlled. It’s elegance with power, a combination that only the best cigars manage to strike.

Construction is flawless. Razor-sharp burn, no relights, and a perfect draw from start to finish. The ash holds firm, reflecting the expert craftsmanship behind each vitola. Whether you’re smoking the Robusto or the Toro, the story remains the same: this cigar was made with intention.

If you’re a collector, this is one you’ll want in your humidor. If you’re a connoisseur, this is one you’ll want in your rotation. The Tatuaje 50th isn’t just a celebration—it’s a reminder of what happens when tradition meets uncompromising quality.

We’re proud to offer at an excellent price. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of modern cigar history.

Order Now Tatuaje 50th

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