Cuba Comes Closer: La Casa Del Habano Opens in Tashkent
“Cuba, my love, island of crimson dawn. A song soars over the planet, ringing — Cuba, my love” Muslim Magomayev
In 1963, Fidel Castro visited Tashkent — a man who became the embodiment of freedom, revolution, and, of course, cigars. That moment marked Uzbekistan’s first brush with Cuban culture. Today, the Island of Freedom feels closer than ever. Beneath the golden light of the setting sun at the Akay City complex, connoisseurs gathered — for whom cigar smoking is not a habit, but a refined ritual. On June 3, Tashkent welcomed the grand opening of Uzbekistan’s first boutique and lounge of the world-renowned franchise La Casa Del Habano. This landmark event set a new benchmark for cigar culture in the country, bringing together over 60 aficionados who cherish a fine cigar as one might a vintage wine or a timeless piece of art — a true celebration for the close-knit Cigar Academy Uz.
The grand opening ceremony was hosted by Ali Albetkov — founder of Cult of Cigars, La Casa Del Habano Tashkent, and the private cigar club Cigar Academy Uz; Mikhail Smirnov — CEO of Top Cigars Corporation; and Lourdes de la Noval — representative of La Casa Del Habano under the Habanos S.A. group. After the symbolic cutting of the red ribbon, guests were instantly transported into the ambiance of a true Havana club. In the dimly lit lounge, the evening began with a refined pairing — cigars accompanied by sparkling Moët & Chandon. As the night unfolded, the celebration moved onto the spacious veranda of the InterContinental Tashkent. Cuban singer Lia carried the audience to what felt like a carefree Havana bar. Nearby, devoted aficionados exchanged passionate debates over vitolas, their conversations charged with expertise and delight. Listening in, one could almost imagine reaching for a gleaming Krugerrand of 999 fineness before joining the circle with a commanding cigar drawn from an equally commanding humidor.
In the refined summer setting, the desire to heighten sensations becomes palpable — to pair the taste of cigars and wine with the sounds of music and something more. Evening partners ensured no guest left empty-handed. A luxurious bottle of Hennessy was presented to one attendee by Alisher Jabarov from Legion. Viktor Amankwa, head of Porsche Uzbekistan, raffled off an unforgettable trip to the Porsche racetrack. And HILL magazine, the evening’s media partner, announced the launch of its exclusive HILL Club — a community for those who value intellectual leisure, sophisticated style, and memorable encounters. HILL also hosted a prize draw: the first VIP memberships to the club and a luxury shopping certificate from the Cashmere & Silk boutique network, home to Italy’s most prestigious fashion houses.
“A cigar is not a bad habit but a rare pleasure and a reward”: a conversation with Ali Albietkov
Ali Albietkov, founder of the Cult of Cigars brand and a Habanos Master, shared his vision of cigar culture and what the opening of La Casa Del Habano in Tashkent means to him.
What are cigars to you: a passion, a business, or a philosophy?
A symbiosis. Until 2010, cigars were more of a hobby gradually turning into a passion. That year, I opened a small cigar shop in Moscow City — now celebrating its 15th anniversary. Several ventures followed, including Russia’s only professional cigar depository, Cult of Cigars, and since 2021, oversight of Cuban cigar distribution in Uzbekistan. The philosophical aspect emerged when I achieved the rank of Habanos Master and realized I could share this knowledge. Yet I continue to learn — every day.
Why Tashkent for La Casa Del Habano?
The idea was natural, driven by a growing community of cigar enthusiasts in Uzbekistan and their desire to delve deeper into history, culture, and the personalities who shaped this industry.
What do you aim to bring to Uzbekistan’s cigar culture with this project?
The core idea is to explain why Cuban cigars hold such prestige and allure. To offer the broadest selection possible — for locals and guests, novices and seasoned tasters, those with significant means and those with modest budgets. I firmly believe that any working adult can occasionally allow themselves a cigar. Especially those who already smoke cigarettes or e-cigarettes — cigars are a far more natural, rewarding ritual. They are not an addiction, but a celebration of authentic flavor — a rare pleasure one can patiently anticipate.
Which cigars would you recommend for a first Habanos experience?
My answer may be unexpected. If you’ve never smoked, don’t start. But if it’s already a part of your life, try easing away from cigarettes with one or two mild, small-format cigars a month — ideally with guidance from experienced aficionados. That way, your first encounter becomes an experience to remember.
What makes LCDH unique as a franchise?
Habanos S.A. selects partners they deem worthy to carry its culture, granting access to exclusive releases available only at LCDH. The crown jewels are collectible humidors — often produced in runs as limited as 300–700 worldwide. Securing the franchise is difficult, but losing it is far easier — there are strict rules. Rights are not inherited or sold.
HILL: Tell us about the Cigar Academy.
A. A.: Founded in December 2021 by graduates of the Habanos Junior seminar, it began as a Telegram chat and held its first meeting in February 2022. It remains invitation-only, with no membership fees — only event contributions. Members enjoy discounts at LCDH and partner venues, and access to events like the Habanos Festival in Havana. But at its heart, it’s about dialogue and camaraderie. Nearly 300 members today — not just enthusiasts, but genuine friends.
How does your boutique differ from other cigar retailers?
Both boutiques within the group — La Casa Del Habano and Cult of Cigars — are, for now, the leading specialized cigar boutiques in the country. Each specializes exclusively in the broadest selection of cigars, cigarillos, and accessories, housed in professional walk-in humidors. Cult of Cigars distributes 99% of cigars in Uzbekistan, enabling fair pricing and ensuring consistent quality. Above all, our team makes the difference — the best consultants in the country.
How do you see the community evolving?
Steady, organic growth. Not just in numbers, but in depth — knowledge, refinement of taste, collection-building, and international participation. Uzbekistan’s cigar society is reaching a new level of maturity.
What horizons lie ahead?
Tashkent is rapidly evolving. By year’s end, a Davidoff lounge will open, Novikoff Café will feature a cigar room, and at least two more projects will launch in new hotels. The next step is expanding to major Uzbek cities — Fergana, Samarkand, Bukhara, Namangan, Andijan.
This article is not intended to advertise or promote tobacco products or alcohol products. HILL UZBEKISTAN magazine opposes smoking and alcohol consumption.
