Continuing a Legacy: Klaas Kelner Opens New Cigar Factory in the Dominican Republic
Klaas Kelner, a third-generation member of the Kelner family, has opened the doors of a new venture, Kelner Cigars, S.A.S., situated in the heart of the Dominican Republic. Situated in the Víctor Manuel Espaillat Mera industrial park, the company aims to uphold the family’s long-standing tradition of blending premium cigars with meticulous attention to detail.
“It is with great excitement that we bring this new project to life. I was born and raised in the industry, surrounded by tobacco experts, retailers, and cigar aficionados; and it is through their teachings that I came to love every facet of cigar making,” Klaas Kelner stated. “It has always been a dream to blend beautiful cigars bearing the Kelner name for my family and friends, and now I get to do just that with some of the best tobaccos in the world.”
The newly established factory will initially concentrate on producing small-batch private labels, utilizing the expertise of artisans who align with the Kelner philosophy. These craftspeople will operate in a supportive environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.
Kelner shared his vision, saying, “It is my vision to grow organically, creating a close-knit team that believes in the Kelner Family’s passion and commitment to quality control. Maintaining a process where I can personally inspect the tobacco that we use, sort, and roll into well balanced blends. I invite you all to enjoy our cigars made with our signature family craftmanship.”
The Kelner family’s legacy in the tobacco industry traces back to the 1920s when Klaas Pieter Kelner Sr. and his siblings relocated from the Netherlands to the Dominican Republic and Brazil to engage in raw leaf tobacco cultivation. Their efforts resulted in independent companies that continue to supply many global cigar factories today.
Under the guidance of Hendrik Kelner Sr., the second generation enhanced the family’s craftsmanship by specializing in the production of handmade premium cigars and leading the charge in seed hybridization and organoleptic mapping of cultivation zones in the Dominican Republic.
The third generation, represented by Klaas Kelner, continues this tradition by growing rare tobaccos and crafting refined cigars to satisfy the taste buds of cigar aficionados worldwide.
In his concluding remarks, Kelner expressed gratitude to everyone who played a role in launching this new venture: “I would like to thank everyone that has helped us in this new adventure. Our suppliers, for allowing me to examine and taste each tobacco. Our clients, for believing in our blends and starting this journey together. And my family and friends for all the emotional support and love. Without you, this wouldn’t be possible!”