Interview with Didier Houvenaghel from Nicarao

Guided by Martin Geisler of StarkeZigarren, in the store on Pariser Straße, Berlin

Cigar maker Didier Houvenaghel visited StarkeZigarren on September 3, 2025, at their store at Pariser Straße 54, Berlin Wilmersdorf. Martin took the opportunity to interview the tobacco and cigar expert.

First Impressions from Cuba

Martin: How was your time in Cuba? What memories do you have of that time?

Didier: It was a fantastic experience – truly something completely different from life in Belgium, where I was born and raised. I wasn't just there as a tourist; I also studied in Pinar del Río. This allowed me to delve deeper into the culture, politics, and society. I met great people, learned a lot, and of course, discovered rum, salsa, Cuban cigars, and the Cuban joie de vivre. Cuba has given me countless wonderful memories.

Martin: Did your time in Cuba change your life?

Didier: Absolutely. Who I am today is the result of a journey, and Cuba was a crucial step. On the one hand, I discovered my passion for cigars – grounded in a scientific approach at university. On the other hand, my perspective on politics and society has greatly broadened.

Studies and Knowledge

Martin: What exactly did you learn in Cuba?

Didier: Three things: cultivating black tobacco for cigars, working with sugarcane, and biotechnological processes. Then there was student life with all its cultural and social aspects.

Martin: How was Cuba back then compared to today?

Didier: I only experienced a small part of it, but I traveled a lot. A lot has changed since my last stay in 2019, and I hear from friends that the situation is more difficult today.

Looking to the Future

Martin: How do you see Cuba's future?

Didier: I'm an optimist. Cuba has great resources, especially its people: educated, culturally rich, and with a great sense of humor. The current structures are difficult, but with positive leadership, the country could have a bright future.

Meeting with AJ Fernandez

Martin: Your cigars are made in Nicaragua. How did the collaboration with AJ Fernandez come about?

Didier: We met by chance in a restaurant in 2004. A friendship developed, and shortly thereafter, a partnership. We've been working closely together since 2005/2006. AJ has developed enormously – today he is one of the most important producers worldwide. Our strength is synergy: blends are always created as a team, never alone.

Growth in Nicaragua

Martin: Cigars from Nicaragua have developed significantly in recent decades. How do you see this?

Didier: When I arrived in 2001, perhaps 200–300 million cigars were produced. Today, Nicaragua is the world market leader. The growth is impressive, but it also brings challenges. For me, sustainability means not only environmental protection, but also the sustainability of the industry.

Brands and Philosophy

Martin: What's important to you in your brands?

Didier: Two things: personality and balance. Personality, because life is too short for boring cigars. Balance, because good cigars without harmony are worthless. My four brands – Nicarao Cigars, La Ley, La Preferida, and La Furia – are all different but authentic. I don't like over-the-top marketing hype. What matters to me is genuine energy and authenticity.

Favorite Cigars and Markets

Martin: Do you have a favorite cigar?

Didier: Not really. Enjoyment depends on three factors: the cigar itself, the environment, and your own mood. Some cigars have only taken me to heaven once. But if I had to choose one last one, it would be the black Inanna, whose second series will be released soon.

Martin: Which markets are most important to you?

Didier: Every market is important – from the smallest to the largest. I focus on organic growth and genuine relationships, not just volume.

Collaboration and the Future

Martin: You now have a partner at your side. Why?

Didier: After twelve years at Moët Hennessy, most recently as Business Development Director for Europe, my business partner, Into, wanted to passionately create something of his own. He brings experience from the spirits world, shares my vision, and complements me perfectly. Together, we have the opportunity to sustainably develop our brands worldwide.

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