Leaf by Ramsey Launches ONTCSA: A Premium Tobacco Factory Redefining Flavor and Integrity in Estelí, Nicaragua

Published: June 27, 2025 | Estelí, Nicaragua

ESTELÍ, NICARAGUA — In a bold move that’s reshaping the premium cigar and tobacco wrap industry, Leaf by Ramsey has officially launched its own manufacturing facility: Oso de Nicaragua Tobacco Company S.A. (ONTCSA). Strategically located in Estelí—the beating heart of Nicaragua’s world-renowned tobacco belt—this new venture represents a critical shift toward independence, craftsmanship, and ethical production.

Founders and Leadership

Leaf by Ramsey and ONTCSA are led by a dedicated founding team that has driven the brand’s bold vision from day one:

• Stephen Ramsey Wray Toledo, Founder

• Fortino Rivera, Founder & Partner

• Noah Hendrickson, Founder & Partner

• Gabriel Amador Ramos, Founder & Partner

• Luis Baeza, Partner

From Conflict to Control: Why the Factory Was Born

Founder Stephen Ramsey Wray Toledo described the journey as one marked by both growth and hard lessons. “We weren’t just losing inventory—we were losing trust,” he explained. “Building our own factory was no longer optional. It became a necessity.”

After multiple batches of improperly handled product—including tampering with their signature Sweet Berry flavor—the brand made the bold decision to establish its own production site. The new factory, ONTCSA, provides complete vertical integration for Leaf by Ramsey’s premium cigar lines, flavored wraps, and private label contracts.

A Facility Built for Excellence

The newly completed ONTCSA facility sits in Barrio el Jazmín, surrounded by iconic brands such as AJ Fernandez, Drew Estate, and Perdomo. But ONTCSA is more than a competitor—it’s a category definer. Designed with modern air filtration, natural light-filled rolling rooms, and artisan-grade curing spaces, ONTCSA merges tradition with forward-thinking efficiency.

The factory now manages every aspect of the production process—from leaf selection and fermentation to flavor infusion, rolling, and packaging—ensuring unmatched quality and consistency.

Signature Flavors That Redefine the Premium Market

ONTCSA currently produces over 50 handcrafted flavors, many of which have become category leaders. These include both classic and exotic profiles, carefully developed in Leaf by Ramsey’s proprietary flavor labs.

Among the most exciting new offerings are:

• 🥃 Honey Bourbon [PF-1019-01] – A smooth, rich flavor with sweet undertones.

• 🍒 Cherry Yuzu [PF-1010] – A bright, citrus-forward twist with Japanese flair.

• 🍫 Mint Chocolate [PF-1023-01] – A refreshing yet indulgent blend of cool mint and cocoa.

• ☕ Caramel Chocolate Coffee [PF-1007] – A three-note masterpiece that pairs beautifully with cigars.

• 🍈 Cantaloupe [PF-1006] – A soft, melon-sweet profile ideal for lighter blends.

• 🍪 Cookies & Cream [PF-1016] – A dessert-inspired novelty flavor with mass appeal.

These innovations are not just for in-house use. ONTCSA has become a premier private label partner for boutique brands across the U.S. and international markets. Current partners include Winfred Owens Cigars, K9 Wraps, and several confidential white-label clients.

Ethical Labor & Local Empowerment

While many factories chase volume, ONTCSA was built around values: fairness, sustainability, and opportunity. The company employs local artisans trained under Leaf by Ramsey’s direct mentorship, offering better wages, safe working conditions, and long-term career paths.

Plans are underway for an internal wellness initiative that includes worker meals sourced from the company’s culinary venture, Tacos el Oso®️, which has already become a local hit with factory workers and residents alike.

Tacos, Tobacco, and Community Integration

What began as a complementary business idea has grown into one of Estelí’s most talked-about food spots. Tacos el Oso®️, a full-service Tijuana-style taquería, is located just a few blocks from ONTCSA and has become a staple for locals, factory workers, and visitors alike.

Known for its authentic northern Baja recipes—char-grilled meats, handmade tortillas, and house salsas—the restaurant offers seating for up to 50 guests in a clean, casual setting that fuses street-style flair with comfortable dining. Open late and strategically positioned near major tobacco factories, Tacos el Oso®️ has organically become a cultural touchpoint for Estelí’s working class and culinary explorers.

The restaurant also plays a role in employee care, offering discounted meals to ONTCSA staff and serving as a gathering place for factory and office teams after hours.

A Mission Anchored in Faith

For the team behind Leaf by Ramsey, success isn’t measured in just revenue or volume—but in resilience and integrity.

“There were moments we wanted to quit,” said Stephen Ramsey Wray Toledo. “But every delay, every betrayal, pushed us closer to our purpose. We believe God planted us here not just to build cigars—but to build character.”

What’s Next for ONTCSA?

Leaf by Ramsey is preparing to expand production by 40% in the next 12 months with the construction of two additional rolling galleries. International partnerships are also in motion, particularly in Germany, Thailand, and select U.S. states where flavored tobacco remains legal for adult use.

Gratitude and Collaboration

The road to building ONTCSA wasn’t walked alone. Leaf by Ramsey extends heartfelt thanks to the friends and family who played an instrumental role in bringing this vision to life. Special recognition goes to Marvin Martinez and Mario Garcia for their support and wisdom, and to Juan Carlos Pozo of Tabacos Pozo for his contributions and collaboration.

We are also proud to be clients of one of the most prestigious law firms in Nicaragua — Guerra & Asociados, under the representation of Dr. Mario Guerra. Their legal guidance and unwavering professionalism have been essential in protecting our vision and ensuring ONTCSA’s foundation is built on legal integrity.

At the heart of ONTCSA’s day-to-day success is our trusted administrator, Yessenia Benavides, whose leadership and dedication have been key to keeping operations smooth and focused. Her impact extends beyond the factory—Yessenia also made history as the very first franchise owner of Tacos el Oso®️, marking a powerful step forward for our growing brand and community presence.