Kafie 1901 Cigars partners with Don Stefano Zigarrenmanufaktur GmbH to launch European expansion
Kafie 1901 Cigars, a boutique premium cigar company founded in 2013, is proud to announce a strategic distribution partnership with Don Stefano Zigarrenmanufaktur GmbH, one of Europe’s most historic and respected cigar manufacturers, based in Heuchelheim, Germany.
Founded by Dr. Gaby Kafie, a former physician turned artisan cigar maker, Kafie 1901 Cigars was born out of a desire to honor his family’s legacy in Central America, a tradition of entrepreneurship, agriculture, and commerce that dates back to 1901.
After a retinal disease brought his medical career to an end, Dr. Kafie dedicated himself fully to his lifelong passion: tobacco. With deep respect for the craft and a heightened sense of taste and smell, he set out to create cigars defined by quality, depth, and authenticity. Today, Kafie 1901 cigars are hand-rolled at the historic La Aurora factory in the Dominican Republic in collaboration with Master Blender Manuel Inoa, using rare and carefully aged tobaccos.
The new alliance with Don Stefano Zigarrenmanufaktur GmbH, headquartered in Heuchelheim, marks a major milestone in Kafie 1901 Cigars’ international journey. As one of the oldest cigar manufacturers in Germany, Don Stefano offers decades of expertise, a strong reputation, and unparalleled knowledge of the European premium cigar landscape. Initial distribution will begin in Germany, with plans to expand organically into several other European markets over the next 12 months. True to its boutique ethos, Kafie 1901 will maintain a limited production philosophy, ensuring consistency and excellence across all products.
“We do not mass-produce cigars. Therefore, when they are available, make sure you enjoy them. It will be an honor,” says Dr. Kafie.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to tradition, precision, and excellence, and brings the spirit of Kafie 1901 to a broader audience of discerning cigar lovers across Europe. The Kafie family expresses their sincere gratitude to Managing Directors Matthias Rinn & Thomas Sonnenberg for their trust and vision. “We are truly blessed for what is to come.”
For media inquiries:
📧 vivian@kafiecigars.com
For reseller and distribution contacts in Europe:
📧 info@donstefano.com
