Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 hours ago
History and Evolution:
James and Angela Brown started Black Label Trading Company in late 2012, initially working out of another factory. Seeking to fully control the production process to ensure innovation and quality, they moved to Nicaragua full-time and opened Fábrica Oveja Negra in Nicaragua. Black Works Studio was subsequently developed to house projects that did not fit the "Black Label mold," specifically catering to cigar enthusiasts with highly artisanal, small-batch, and complex cigar sizes.
Philosophy and Production:
James emphasizes that their approach to cigar making focuses on flavor, complexity, and balance first, rather than prioritizing strength. They find Nicaragua to be an ideal location due to the diversity of its growing regions, which allows for a wide range of flavor profiles from the same strains of tobacco. Consistency is a core commitment for their core line products, which requires long-term planning and buying tobacco years in advance.
For their limited releases, such as the Bishop's Blend, they allow the characteristics of the specific vintage to define each year's production.
Growth and Market Presence:
The company has expanded production slowly and organically, focusing on maintaining comfort and quality rather than rapid growth. They have successfully grown their market internationally, including expansion into Europe and Japan. At the 2026 PCA event, they introduced a new exclusive cigar, the Macabre, continuing their tradition of creating unique offerings for retailers who attend the show.
History and Evolution:
James and Angela Brown started Black Label Trading Company in late 2012, initially working out of another factory. Seeking to fully control the production process to ensure innovation and quality, they moved to Nicaragua full-time and opened Fábrica Oveja Negra in Nicaragua. Black Works Studio was subsequently developed to house projects that did not fit the "Black Label mold," specifically catering to cigar enthusiasts with highly artisanal, small-batch, and complex cigar sizes.
Philosophy and Production:
James emphasizes that their approach to cigar making focuses on flavor, complexity, and balance first, rather than prioritizing strength. They find Nicaragua to be an ideal location due to the diversity of its growing regions, which allows for a wide range of flavor profiles from the same strains of tobacco. Consistency is a core commitment for their core line products, which requires long-term planning and buying tobacco years in advance.
For their limited releases, such as the Bishop's Blend, they allow the characteristics of the specific vintage to define each year's production.
Growth and Market Presence:
The company has expanded production slowly and organically, focusing on maintaining comfort and quality rather than rapid growth. They have successfully grown their market internationally, including expansion into Europe and Japan. At the 2026 PCA event, they introduced a new exclusive cigar, the Macabre, continuing their tradition of creating unique offerings for retailers who attend the show.
