E.P. Carrillo is thrilled to announce its double recognition at the 2024 Cigar Trophy Awards, winning both “Best Brand Dominican Republic” for its renowned Encore cigar and the “Charity & Community” award for its impactful Carrillo Cares initiative.

The Cigar Trophy Awards presented by Cigar Journal, established in 1998, are one of the most respected honors in the cigar industry, celebrating excellence in various categories. What makes these awards particularly special is that they are voted on by you the consumer, showcasing the loyalty and appreciation of cigar enthusiasts worldwide.

Encore has long been a standout in E.P. Carrillo’s lineup and received Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Cigar of the Year in 2018. It is renowned for its complexity, balance, and exceptional craftsmanship. Winning “Best Brand Dominican Republic” further cements its reputation as one of the finest cigars available.

In addition to this recognition, E.P. Carrillo was honored for our Carrillo Cares initiative, winning the “Charity & Community” award. In the spirit of the Pledge Prequel, which earned a 98 rating and was selected as Cigar of the Year in 2020, E.P. Carrillo committed to donating $9.80 for every box of Pledge Prequel sold between April 1 and April 30, 2024. This campaign was part of our ongoing Pledge98 efforts to support the Els for Autism Foundation. Over the course of two Pledge98 campaigns and through in-kind sponsorship of the foundation’s golf challenges, E.P. Carrillo has donated more then $130,000 over the last two years.

Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, founder and master blender, shared his gratitude:

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized for both our cigars and our charitable efforts. The Encore represents our passion for craftsmanship, while Carrillo Cares is our way of giving back to the community that supports us. Every box of Pledge Prequel helps make a real impact, and we’re deeply thankful to all who contributed, including Maya Selva Cigars for their generous $2,500 donation at the awards ceremony.”

The Cigar Trophy Awards recognize excellence in several categories, such as Best Brand, Best Cigar, Best Boutique Brand, Best Value, Best Accessory, and Best Lounge, along with special recognition for charitable initiatives within the cigar community. Winners were announced at the 2024 InterTabac trade fair in Dortmund, Germany.