Roots Cigar Co. started with a simple idea: make great cigars and stay rooted in what matters.

Our journey began in December of 2024, when our founder, Ryan Bandy, invested in Origen Cigars, a boutique factory startup in the heart of Estelí, Nicaragua. Origen was founded by Elsa, who had previously served as chief quality inspector for AJ Fernandez. Elsa launched Origen as her own venture, and partnering with her allowed Ryan to bring his first blends to life.

Every Roots cigar begins with carefully sourced Nicaraguan tobacco, selected for its character, balance, and depth. Elsa & the Origen Team personally hand-select the best tobacco available to ensure only the finest leaves make it into our blends. Her expertise guarantees every cigar is rolled with precision and balance, while Ryan brings a vision rooted not only in great cigars but in giving back.

Having spent time in Nicaragua on missions trips and personal visits, Ryan grew to love the people and the culture. From the start, his dream has been about more than making cigars — it’s about supporting the communities that have grown to mean so much to him.

With roots in both West Virginia and Nicaragua, our name reflects who we are: grounded, authentic, and connected. At Roots Cigar Co., we believe in craftsmanship, community, and creating moments worth sharing.