Principle Cigars

Welcome to the Principle Cigars showcase, hosted exclusively here on Smoke-Dogg—the premier boutique-only online marketplace where passionate cigar enthusiasts and independent craft blends connect directly. Born from the singular vision of founder Darren Cioffi, a world-renowned antique paper expert and treasure hunter, Principle Cigars treats tobacco not just as a consumer good, but as a fine art. By eliminating mass-market clutter, our ecosystem gives this deeply artisanal brand the dedicated spotlight it deserves, ensuring that discerning smokers can easily discover and acquire these rare, masterpiece expressions.  

The Principle philosophy is simple yet uncompromising: create a harmonious sensory experience where presentation, construction, and complex blending align perfectly. Rather than manufacturing for mass volume, Cioffi designs his blends for the true connoisseur, utilizing exceptionally rare, heavily aged tobaccos. Operating out of the small, highly acclaimed Kelner Boutique Factory (KBF) in Santiago, Dominican Republic, under the watchful eye of Hendrik Kelner Jr., production is strictly limited—with some complex vitolas restricted to just 10 hand-rolled sticks a day.  

Explore the Lines

Our Principle collection offers a diverse look into Cioffi's creative, boundary-pushing mind:

  • The Aviator Series: The classic line where the brand's journey began, balancing five to seven distinct tobaccos aged at least five years into delicate harmony.  
  • The Accomplice Line: Celebrated for its striking fabric bands, this expansive line spans from the creamy, smooth Connecticut to the rich, naturally sweet Maduro.
  • The Archive Collection: A breathtaking crossover of history and blending, featuring limited releases like Straphanger and Engagement, adorned with genuine, 100-year-old vintage lithographs and antique tickets.  
  • Unique Expressions: From the multi-country complexity of the single-coffin Commonwealth to the quick, punchy smoke of the Petits Provocateurs, every profile tells a story. 

Direct From The Factory to You

Because Smoke-Dogg operates on a transparent, independent brand partnership, you are buying entirely authentic product straight from the manufacturer’s own humidor. Every order of individual singles, curated samplers, or full factory boxes is packed and shipped directly from Principle's warehouse, ensuring maximum freshness, flawless wrapper condition, and perfect moisture levels upon arrival. Immerse yourself in the intersection of rich history, meticulous Dominican craftsmanship, and unprecedented complexity. Explore the Principle Cigars collection on Smoke-Dogg today and experience what happens when a brand refuses to compromise its core values.  

To hear directly from the founder about how antique lithography, vintage art movements, and complex tobacco aging shape the identity of these boutique blends, check out this deep dive with Darren Cioffi live at the Light 'em Up Lounge.

10 products

Principle Cigars - 1842
Principle Cigars - 1842

$169.90

Principle Cigars - Frothy Monkey Corona
Principle Cigars - Frothy Monkey Corona

$39.00

Principle Cigars - Frothy Monkey Signature
Principle Cigars - Frothy Monkey Signature

$414.90

Principle Cigars - Martinique Lancero
Principle Cigars - Martinique Lancero

$76.99

Principle Cigars - Martinique Corona Gorda
Principle Cigars - Martinique Corona Gorda

$76.99

Principle Cigars - Cochon Volant
Principle Cigars - Cochon Volant

$105.99

Principle Cigars - Envoi
Principle Cigars - Envoi

$124.90

Principle Cigars - Escopette
Principle Cigars - Escopette

$145.00

Principle Aviator Vainqueur
Principle Aviator Vainqueur

$99.00

Principle Cigars - Aviator Vainqueur
Principle Cigars - Aviator Vainqueur

$99.00

About this collection

The Principle Cigars collection at Smoke Dogg features a principled lineup of premium handcrafted cigars, including:

  • Smooth, medium body blends — Principled, consistent cigars crafted for both new and experienced smokers who appreciate integrity and quality.
  • Premium wrapper selections — Carefully chosen wrapper leaves that deliver a refined, consistent character in every smoke.
  • Multiple formats — Available in Robusto, Toro, and Churchill sizes to suit different smoking occasions and preferences.
  • Flavor notes — Cream, cedar, earth, and subtle spice with a smooth, balanced finish that defines the Principle experience.
  • Consistent quality — Every Principle cigar is crafted with integrity to deliver a reliable, principled smoking experience from first light to final draw.
  • Black-owned brand — Part of Smoke Dogg's curated Black-Owned Cigar Brands collection, supporting independent Black entrepreneurs.

Pair Principle Cigars with accessories from our Cigar Accessories collection or explore more refined blends from Eighty5 Cigars and Definition Cigars.

Who Is This Collection For?

The Principle Cigars collection is designed for:

  • Quality-driven smokers — Those who hold their cigars to a higher standard and appreciate integrity, craftsmanship, and principled blending.
  • New cigar smokers — Beginners looking for a smooth, consistent premium cigar that delivers a reliable and enjoyable first experience.
  • Conscious consumers — Shoppers who want to support Black-owned cigar brands and independent entrepreneurs with every purchase.
  • Everyday smokers — Enthusiasts who want a reliable, principled cigar for daily or casual smoking sessions.
  • Gift shoppers — Those looking for a refined, consistent premium cigar gift suitable for both new and experienced smokers.
  • Experienced aficionados — Seasoned smokers who appreciate a well-crafted, medium body cigar with principled flavor balance and consistency.

Cigar Buying Tips

  1. Great for all experience levels — Principle Cigars are smooth and consistent, making them accessible to both new and experienced cigar smokers.
  2. Try a single stick first — Experience the principled, smooth flavor profile of Principle before committing to a full box.
  3. Pair with a medium drink — Principle's balanced, medium body pairs beautifully with coffee, light bourbon, or a smooth craft beer.
  4. Perfect for any occasion — The consistent, refined profile makes Principle Cigars ideal for both casual and celebratory smoking sessions.
  5. Store properly — Keep Principle cigars in a humidor at 65-70% RH and 65-70F to preserve their smooth, principled flavor profiles.
  6. Use a guillotine cutter — A clean, straight cut ensures the best draw on Principle's premium wrapper leaves.
  7. Support Black-owned brands — Every Principle purchase supports a Black-owned cigar brand. Share your experience and leave a review.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Principle Cigars?

Principle Cigars is a premium cigar brand available at Smoke Dogg, known for principled craftsmanship, smooth blends, and unwavering quality. Part of Smoke Dogg's Black-owned boutique cigar collection.

Where can I buy Principle Cigars online?

Principle Cigars are available at Smoke Dogg (smoke-dogg.com). Shop the full Principle lineup online with shipping across the USA.

What do Principle Cigars taste like?

Principle Cigars deliver smooth, complex flavor profiles with notes of cream, cedar, earth, and subtle spice. Each blend reflects the brand's commitment to integrity and consistent quality.

What strength are Principle Cigars?

Principle Cigars are known for their smooth, medium body strength profiles, making them an excellent choice for both newer and experienced cigar smokers who appreciate principled, consistent blends.

Are Principle Cigars Black-owned?

Yes. Principle Cigars is part of Smoke Dogg's Black-Owned Cigar Brands collection, celebrating Black entrepreneurs who bring integrity, craftsmanship, and excellence to the premium cigar industry.

What sizes do Principle Cigars come in?

Principle Cigars are available in classic formats including Robusto, Toro, and Churchill sizes. Browse the full selection at Smoke Dogg to find your preferred size.

What cigars are similar to Principle Cigars?

If you enjoy Principle Cigars, you may also like Eighty5 Cigars and Definition Cigars from Smoke Dogg's collection — all offering smooth, refined blends with consistent quality and principled craftsmanship.