In a year packed with tributes to the nation's big milestone—the 250th birthday of the United States—plenty of companies are stepping up with special items that nod to the country's rich history. From partnerships that highlight the spirit of independence to products that honor those who protect it, the celebrations are everywhere. One standout effort comes from Surpassion Cigars, a brand started by a guy who knows firsthand what service means. They've just rolled out a fresh cigar line that's all about paying respect to the U.S. Army's own 250-year legacy of strength and dedication.
The King of Battle isn't just another smoke—it's a thoughtful nod to the men and women who've stood on the front lines since the Army's beginnings. This regular production cigar comes in a classic 6 x 50 toro size, perfect for those long evenings when you want something substantial but not overwhelming. What sets it apart is the blend: a hearty broadleaf wrapper layered over a Mexican San Andrés binder, with fillers pulled from American and Dominican tobaccos. Every bit of that tobacco has spent at least five years aging, which means you're getting a smooth, mature flavor profile that's built to impress without any rough edges. It's the kind of cigar that invites you to sit back, reflect, and savor the moment, much like the quiet breaks that help recharge after a tough day.
Image credit: Surpassion Cigars
Produced at TABACALERA LA iSLA in the Dominican Republic, the same factory behind Surpassion's other offerings, this cigar keeps things consistent in quality. Each one carries a suggested retail price of $13.50, and they ship in boxes of 10—making it easy to stock up or share with buddies who appreciate a good stick. Retailers started receiving shipments just last week, so it's hitting shelves right in time for folks looking to mark the occasion with something special. Whether you're lighting one up at a backyard barbecue or during a solo unwind session, it's designed to fit into those everyday rituals that make life a bit more enjoyable.
This isn't Surpassion's first rodeo with military-themed releases. Back last year, they introduced the Queen of Battle, another 6 x 50 toro made at the same Dominican factory but with its own unique blend. That one paved the way, showing how the brand weaves in themes of service and resilience. Now, with the King of Battle joining the lineup, it's clear Surpassion is committed to creating cigars that go beyond just taste—they tell a story, one rooted in the grit and honor of the armed forces.
Behind the brand is Asad Imtiaz, who launched Surpassion in 2024 after years in the tobacco world. He teamed up with Manny Riaz, who handles the vice-president role, and both guys cut their teeth at Old Virginia Tobacco Co., a solid retail chain based in Virginia. That experience gave them the know-how to build something from the ground up. For Imtiaz, cigars became more than a hobby; they were a lifeline during his deployment in Iraq. He picked up the habit as a simple way to ease the stress of long days in uniform, finding that quiet puff could bring a sense of calm amid the chaos. It's no surprise, then, that Surpassion's whole vibe draws from his Army days—logos, packaging, and even the names evoke that unbreakable spirit of camaraderie and duty.
As more businesses like J.C. Newman jump in with official ties to America250—the group leading the charge on the anniversary festivities—Surpassion stands out for its personal touch. Founded by a veteran, the company isn't just cashing in on the hype; it's channeling real experiences into every cigar. The King of Battle embodies that, offering a blend that's as robust as the history it celebrates. For anyone who's served, or knows someone who has, it's a reminder of the sacrifices that built this country, wrapped in a form that's meant for relaxation and reflection.
Looking ahead, with the U.S. Army's 250 years of defending freedom fresh in mind, cigars like this one serve as a bridge between past and present. They invite conversations around the fire pit about old stories, shared battles, and the simple pleasures that follow. Priced accessibly and built with care, the King of Battle is poised to become a go-to for those who value tradition without the fuss. As shipments continue to roll out, it's a timely addition to any humidor, ready to honor the legacy while providing that perfect draw every time.
