Sancho Panza was founded in Havana, Cuba, in 1848 by German merchant Don Emilio Ohmstedt. Its name comes from the loyal and practical squire Sancho Panza in Cervantes' literary masterpiece "Don Quixote." As one of Cuba's oldest cigar brands, it was once discontinued in the late 19th century, changed hands multiple times in the early 20th century, and was finally acquired by El Rey del Mundo company in the 1930s for a revival. Its assets were nationalized after the 1960 Cuban Revolution. The brand is currently classified as a "local brand" in Habanos S.A.'s product matrix. It selects top-tier leaves  from the Vuelta Abajo region and is seen as a highly valuable "Cuban Hidden Gem" among seasoned aficionados for its unique salty-umami taste, herbal aroma, and medium strength.