1502 Cigars
Global Premium Cigars.
Nicaragua
Founded in 2011 by Enrique Sánchez Icaza under Global Premium Cigars, 1502 is a boutique brand crafted in Estelí, Nicaragua. The name pays homage to the year Christopher Columbus arrived in the region. Known for artisanal, flavour-rich blends, 1502 produces celebrated lines such as Emerald, Ruby, Black Gold and Blue Sapphire, reflecting Nicaragua’s heritage and premium tobacco tradition.
Origins and Name
1502 Cigar Co was founded in 2011 by Enrique Sánchez Icaza, owner of Global Premium Cigars. The name “1502” commemorates the year Christopher Columbus arrived in present-day Nicaragua, a country renowned for its rich soils and exceptional tobacco.
Heritage and Philosophy
Global Premium Cigars oversees the full production cycle, from seed to finished cigar, a process that takes around five years. The 1502 brand reflects tradition, patience and craft, with each line designed to capture unique flavour profiles and the essence of Nicaraguan terroir.
Core Lines and Signature Blends
1502 Emerald, medium-bodied, creamy with citrus and nutty notes
1502 Ruby, balanced medium strength, with earthy undertones, cedar and hints of macadamia
1502 Black Gold, full-bodied, bold, with earthy, woody, pepper and chocolate tones
1502 Nicaragua, a Nicaraguan puro with earthy, fruity and honeyed flavours
1502 Blue Sapphire, a full-strength maduro, rich in spice and cedar, featuring an open foot format
1502 Aniversario 10, released in 2022, blending Ecuadorian habano, Mexican San Andrés binder and Nicaraguan fillers to celebrate a decade of the brand
Production and Craftsmanship
1502 cigars are handmade in Estelí, Nicaragua, at respected factories including Plasencia and AJ Fernández. Each cigar is crafted with precision, offering smooth draws, even burns and consistent quality. The brand is recognised for its boutique approach and small-batch production.
Reputation
1502 has received strong reviews from cigar enthusiasts and industry publications. The brand is praised for its versatility, balance and value, with the Nicaragua blend noted for offering depth at an accessible price, and the Aniversario 10 earning recognition for its craftsmanship and celebratory character.
Summary Profile
AttributeDetailsFounderEnrique Sánchez Icaza, Global Premium CigarsFounded2011Name MeaningYear Columbus arrived in NicaraguaOriginEstelí, NicaraguaProductionHand-rolled at Plasencia and AJ FernándezBlend LinesEmerald, Ruby, Black Gold, Nicaragua, Blue Sapphire, Aniversario 10Ageing CycleAbout five years from seed to finished cigarReputationHighly regarded for flavour, craftsmanship and boutique characterTarget AudienceAficionados seeking artisanal Nicaraguan cigars.blendswhole