Multiple sources are reporting that Lars Tetens, perhaps one of the earliest pioneers to introduce flavored cigars into the premium cigar industry, has died.
Lars Tetens is often considered one of the most unconventional figures in the premium cigar industry. In addition to being a cigar maker, he has also been a musician, artist, chef, and leather craftsman. An air of mystery has always surrounded Lars, as he tends to defy conventions. He began working with flavored cigars in the early 1980s, calling them “conditioned cigars.” His process involved infusing tobacco with essential oils, botanicals, and other flavors. Over the years, Lars experimented with various blends through this innovative approach.
Over the years, Lars Tetens would produce his cigars in small batches. By the mid-2010s, though not dormant, the brand had disappeared from many stores.
During his time in the industry, Lars met many people, including Alan Rubin, co-founder of Alec Bradley Cigar Company. Rubin saw an opportunity to resurrect Lars’ work. In 2019, Rubin acquired a majority interest in Lars Tetens Brands, while Tetens retained a minority interest. A new company, World 180, was established to own the brands, while Alec Bradley assumed sales and distribution responsibilities.
The new partnership gave Lars Tetens’ cigars and products some attention following a re-launch at the 2019 IPCPR Trade Show. However, in the months after that, the momentum gradually diminished. Within two years, the brand disappeared, and nobody was talking about what happened to the partnership.
Lars didn’t disappear from the cigar scene completely, and was seen in Pennsylvania shops from time to time, but his cigars disappeared following the split with Alan Rubin. Lars would focus on his other talents: music, art, cooking, and leather products.
The cause of death is undisclosed at press time.
