A distinctive nine-cigar collection commemorating the courage, sacrifice, and brotherhood of the American warriors who fought in Mogadishu, Somalia, in October 1993.
Jacksonville Beach, FL — October 15, 2026 — Hooten & Young, the veteran-founded premium cigar and American whiskey company dedicated to honoring military heritage, proudly announces the release of the Gothic Serpent Culebra, a unique handcrafted cigar collection introduced during Gothic Serpent Month, commemorating the historic 1993 military operation in Somalia.
Operation Gothic Serpent, conducted by elite American military forces in Mogadishu, Somalia, in 1993, remains one of the most recognized operations in modern U.S. military history. The Battle of Mogadishu, fought October 3–4, demonstrated extraordinary courage, resilience, and brotherhood in the face of overwhelming adversity. The events would later become widely known through the book and film Black Hawk Down.
For Hooten & Young, whose heritage is deeply connected to the men who served during that operation, the Gothic Serpent collection represents more than a premium cigar. It is an enduring tribute to those who answered the call, those who sacrificed, and the bonds of brotherhood that remain long after the battle.
An Historic Cigar Tradition Reimagined
The Gothic Serpent Culebra draws inspiration from one of the cigar industry’s most unusual and storied traditions.
The word Culebra, Spanish for “snake,” describes a distinctive cigar presentation in which three individual cigars are braided or twisted together while the tobacco remains pliable. Dating back to at least the 19th century, the Culebra has become a celebrated example of traditional cigar craftsmanship.
One longstanding account suggests the format originated as a way for cigar factories to distinguish cigars provided to workers from those intended for commercial sale. Although its precise origins remain the subject of debate among cigar historians, the Culebra has endured as a symbol of tradition, artistry, and camaraderie.
Hooten & Young’s interpretation takes this historic format in a bold new direction.
Three Serpents. One Brotherhood.
Each Gothic Serpent Culebra collection contains nine premium handmade cigars, presented as three individual Culebra bundles. Every bundle consists of two intricately rolled barber-pole cigars alongside one serpent cigar, showcasing a distinctive combination of natural, dark, and green tobacco wrappers.
Hand-rolled in Nicaragua, the medium-to-full-bodied cigars bring together traditional cigar craftsmanship and an unmistakable visual presentation.
The intertwined construction serves as a fitting tribute to the brotherhood forged among those who served during Operation Gothic Serpent: distinct individuals, united by mission, strengthened by adversity, and forever bound by shared experience.
Designed to be carefully separated and enjoyed individually, the three-cigar format also honors the longstanding tradition of sharing a Culebra among friends.
Product Specifications
- Product: Gothic Serpent Culebra
- Manufacturer: Cordoba & Morales | Hooten & Young
- Country of Origin: Nicaragua
- Strength: Medium to Full
- Configuration: 3 Culebra bundles, 9 individual cigars
- Composition: 2 Barber-Pole Cigars and 1 Serpent Cigar per bundle
- Candella, Habano, San Andres & Connecticut Shade
- Retail Price: $75.00 per three-Culebra collection
Made to Remember
The release continues Hooten & Young’s commitment to producing premium cigars that tell meaningful stories, commemorate American military heritage, and preserve the memories of those who have served.
As Gothic Serpent Month commemorates the events of October 1993, the Gothic Serpent Culebra offers enthusiasts an opportunity to experience exceptional craftsmanship while reflecting on the extraordinary men whose service inspired its creation.
Three Serpents. One Brotherhood. A Legacy Never Forgotten.
HOOTEN & YOUNG | MADE TO REMEMBER.
