Jeremiah Meerapfel joins Light ‘em Up
Joining us live at the Light ‘em Up Lounge is Jeremiah Meerapfel to talk about the unique family history & legacy, the outstanding craftsmanship, and the most intriguing details about the mythical Cameroon tobacco the Meerapfel family's been known for ever since 1846.
Jeremiah Meerapfel, co-owner of the historic Meerapfel family cigar enterprise, represents a lineage that has shaped the premium tobacco trade for centuries. As the steward of one of the industry’s most respected heritage brands, he blends old-world tradition with a forward-looking vision. Known for his eloquence, charisma, and deep understanding of global markets, Meerapfel champions craftsmanship, exclusivity, and the preservation of artisanal values in an era of mass production. His work is not only about making cigars—it’s about safeguarding a cultural legacy, creating unique experiences for aficionados, and ensuring that the Meerapfel name continues to stand for uncompromising quality and prestige.
"Feel it yourself. These wrappers are as fine as silk, there’s something feminine about it. For me they’re unique, with their slightly sweet flavors and this color – like the best chocolate. This is fitting for the provenance of Central Africa. We cultivate tobacco under conditions, which according to usual standards would be unthinkable."
How did you come into the family business?
I was born into it—cigars and tobacco were part of my daily life from as far back as I can remember. But joining the business wasn’t just a matter of inheritance. I had to earn my place, learn the trade, understand the rhythms of the fields, the factories, and the markets. It’s a business built on relationships and trust, and that takes years to cultivate.
What does the Meerapfel heritage mean to you?
It’s a tremendous responsibility. Our family has been involved in tobacco since the 1600s, and I’m a custodian of that history. Heritage is not something you own—it’s something you protect and pass on. Every decision I make has to honor the generations before me while preparing the way for those who will come after.
How do you see the role of tradition in today’s cigar world?
Tradition is the backbone of authenticity. In a world that moves fast and chases trends, tradition keeps you grounded. For us, it means working with the same families of growers we’ve partnered with for decades, using processes that have been refined over centuries, and refusing to compromise just to cut costs or speed up production.
What sets Meerapfel cigars apart?
We don’t chase volume. Every cigar that carries the Meerapfel name has to be exceptional. That means rare tobaccos, painstaking aging, and blends that are crafted for balance and complexity. They’re not for everyone—they’re for those who understand and appreciate what goes into them.
How do you view the current global cigar market?
The market is more complex than ever. You have emerging regions with growing demand, established markets that are maturing, and regulatory challenges everywhere. Navigating that landscape requires not just business skills, but cultural sensitivity and the ability to adapt without losing your brand’s soul.
How do you maintain exclusivity in your products?
Exclusivity isn’t just about making something rare—it’s about making something meaningful. We deliberately limit production to ensure that every cigar meets our standards. Our customers know they’re getting something crafted with intention, not churned out to fill shelves.
What role does storytelling play in your work?
Storytelling is essential. Cigars are more than just tobacco rolled into a cylinder—they carry history, culture, and emotion. When someone lights a Meerapfel cigar, they’re participating in a story that began generations ago, one that spans continents and centuries. That’s what creates a connection beyond the product itself.
How do you balance preserving heritage with innovating?
It’s about evolution, not revolution. We respect the core of what we do, but we’re not afraid to explore new blends, formats, or experiences that enhance the brand. Innovation must serve the tradition, not replace it.
What’s your philosophy on luxury?
True luxury is about rarity, craftsmanship, and integrity. It’s not about chasing attention—it’s about creating something so well-made, so imbued with meaning, that it speaks for itself. A luxury cigar should feel like a privilege, not just a purchase.
What’s next for Meerapfel?
We’re focused on deepening our relationships with the people who truly understand what we do. That means limited releases, curated experiences, and collaborations that celebrate craftsmanship. The goal isn’t to grow bigger—it’s to grow more meaningful.
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Welcoming Jeremiah to the Light ‘em Up Lounge is an incredible honor. The Meerapfels are notorious for their almost 150-year-old heritage and expertise in the tobacco business having grown and traded tobacco from across the world including Germany, Indonesia, Cuba and Cameroon, which has become an iconic element of the industry in its own right.
Please be invited to sign up and get personal invitations to our upcoming live sessions, where we light em up with some of the industry’s greatest.
Light em up, where the good life has a voice!
Reinhard
Sensory expert, cigar passionado, and host of the Light ‘em Up Lounge
