The charm and passion of the Habanos culture have found their maximum expression in the spectacular setting of Enrico Mattei Square in Matelica, theater of the Grand Gala Dinner of the XX Amigos de Partagás (2026). The event, now celebrating its extraordinary twentieth anniversary, reaffirms its position as the international benchmark for slow-smoking enthusiasts, combining conviviality, fine dining, and top-quality cigars.
As many as 400 guests from all over Italy and the world enlivened an unforgettable evening, conducted with mastery and consummate elegance by the presenters Raquel Mayedo and Alexandre Avellar.
A welcome of incomparable class
The institutional and cultural value of the evening was enhanced by the presence of prestigious personalities from the sector and international authorities, among whom stands out SE Jorge Luis Cepero Aguilar, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Italy, testifying to the indissoluble bond that unites Cuban tradition with the hospitality of the Marche region.
From their entrance, the guests were welcomed in a sophisticated atmosphere with an exceptional Hoyo de Monterrey Petit Robustos, combined with a careful selection of refined finger foods and the prestigious bubbles of the Ferrari Perlè Trentodoc 2019: an impeccable welcome that immediately set the tone for a memorable event.
Fine cuisine, great music, and the magic of Hoyo de Monterrey
The dinner continued with a top-notch food and wine experience, orchestrated down to the smallest detail. Each course was expertly complemented by the fine wines offered by Grimaldi and Grignano Estate, chosen to create a perfect harmony with the flavors of the menu.
The evening will be framed by artistic performances of extraordinary impact: from dance and art shows curated by Mila Oliva to the overwhelming live notes provided by the powerful expressive charge of the voice of Haila María Mompié, supported by the virtuosity of the Abbey Town Jazz Orchestra.
An ideal setting to accompany and celebrate the tasting of great Cuban cigars, where the elegance of Hoyo de Monterrey has conquered even the palates of the most demanding aficionados.
In addition to the welcome Petit Robustos, the evening featured the timeless and elegant Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2, symbol of softness and aromatic complexity.
World Preview: La Scepción Selectos Reales Edición Regional Italia 2025
The highlight of the Grand Gala Dinner was undoubtedly the world premiere launch of the The Royal Selections of the Regional Edition of Italy 2025. The presentation was personally conducted by Andrea Vincenzi, President of Diadema SpA. (importer and distributor of Habanos in Italy), who emphasized the company's strategic role in promoting cigar culture and positioning itself as a leader in the Italian market.
The preview tasting confirmed the enormous expectations surrounding this vitolario: La Escepción Selectos Reales It already promises to be one of the most desired and sought-after masterpieces by collectors and lovers of Regional Editions.
Awards of excellence and a grand finale
To further enrich the evening's program, a moment of haute horlogerie and friendship: Marco Longhi, President of the maison Cuervo y Sobrinos, wanted to pay homage to two key figures of the event, donating a splendid Cuervo y Sobrinos timepiece to Andrea Vincenzi (President Diadema SpA) and Francesco Minetti, President of the Cigar Club Don Alejandro Robaina from Matelica and historic organizer of the Amigos de Partagás in Italy.
Sealing such an important meeting was the final tasting of the prestigious Ron Isla Grande Extra Year Limited Edition 30 Years Exclusive XX Amigos de Partagás: a rare and enveloping distillate that gave a final touch of intensity to a truly unforgettable evening.
An exclusive experience in the heart of slow smoking
The 20th Amigos de Partagás Gala Dinner confirms its status as an iconic event on the international scene. Much more than a simple tasting, the event represents a true cultural bridge between Italy and Cuba, renewing each year the deep passion for the world of Habanos in an atmosphere of friendship, elegance, and inimitable style.
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