14th HABANOS FESTIVAL – February 27th to March 2nd, 2012-

HAVANA, Cuba, Feb 27.- The 14th edition of the traditional gathering in Havana (Cuba) of lovers of the best tobacco in the world began on Monday, 27 of February: the Habanos Festival. It attracts 1500 participants from more than 70 countries. Among them are numerous personalities from around the world, including American actor and Habanos enthusiast Jim Belushi, who tasted the first product launch at the event: the Cohiba Pirámides Extra, exclusively presented at the Welcoming Night.Another significant combination of Habanos with the world´s best gastronomy occurred yesterday. The event celebrated the 520th Anniversary of the Discovery of tobacco in Cuba by Europeans. Montecristo 520 Edición Limitada 2012 was the most exclusive Habanos presentation of the night.Ahead of the Gala Dinner event on Friday 2nd March which will mark the closure of the XIV Habanos Festival, documentary Cigars: the heart and soul of Cuba, produced by James Suckling and directed by James Orr (recognized film director of films such as Three Men and a Baby, Mr. Destiny and Father of the bride) will be shown.The Gala Dinner will be dedicated to Romeo y Julieta and will include the launch of two new products – Romeo y Julieta Churchills Reserva 2008, first reserve from the brand, and Romeo y Julieta Petit Churchills, a new vitola will delight (thanks to its format) the characteristic aromatic and balanced flavor offered by the brand on any occasion. The Festival will conclude with the traditional Auction of Humidors which represent the most prestigious Habanos brands Cohiba, Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, Partagás, Hoyo de Monterrey and H. Upmann. The money raised will be donated to the Cuban Public Health System which over the past 11 years has received over $9 million as a result of the auction