GERMAN MASTERCLASS: HAUKE WALTER STRIKES AGAIN
- expertcigar
- Jul 14, 2025
- 2 min read
Hosted once again by the iconic Patricia Benden, herself a decorated CSWC competitor, this year marked the 8th edition of the German pre-qualifier—a cornerstone of the CSWC calendar.
The stakes were higher than ever. Along with national glory, the champion earned a coveted seat at the Grand Final in Split, including a fully sponsored luxury weekend by CigarWorld.
Welcoming guests in true Italian fashion—with Tramezzini and bubbly refreshments—the evening unfolded in style. At the heart of the action was Dino Tomic, Marketing Director of Club Mareva Split, representing CSWC founder Marko Bilić, who was away leading qualifiers in the USA and Japan. Dino, with co-host Klaus Kleinlagel, energized the crowd with humor and insight, setting the tone for a night to remember.
A FIELD OF GIANTS
This wasn’t just another qualifier—it was a clash of titans.
Hauke Walter, the only man in CSWC history with three world titles, came to defend his crown.
Astrid Walter, a mainstay in the women’s division, stood poised for a breakthrough.
Oliver Steinhäuser, always a threat, looked sharper than ever.
But there was a twist. This year’s new Oliva CSWC Mareva competition cigar introduced a fresh dynamic. Unlike previous years, its unique combustion behavior tested even the best. Dino offered real-time coaching, reminding all that this cigar required a new level of adaptability.
THE INTRIGUE UNFOLDS
As the race intensified, it was clear that the familiar rhythms had shifted. The three-time world champion Hauke Walter, while in control, finished with a time of just under 2 hours and 40 minutes — impressive, yet below his usual benchmark. In contrast, competitors in other countries have already crossed the 3-hour threshold with this same Oliva cigar, signaling that the global competition is rising fast.
Will Hauke rise to the occasion under the bright lights of Split? Or will new names steal the spotlight?
After a heated final hour, it was Hauke Walter, Oliver Steinhäuser, and Christoph Herb who clinched the top spots, with poise and precision.
TOP FINISHERS – CSWC GERMANY 2025:
Hauke Walter
Oliver Steinhäuser
Christoph Herb
Winners received prestigious prizes from the official global sponsors of CSWC:Oliva Cigar Co., Les Fines Lames, S.T. Dupont, Cuervo y Sobrinos, Damat Tween, Hulecos, InterTabac Fair, DeART Humidors, Boveda, Cigar Journal, and HENK.
As DJ Christian brought the beats and cigars were lit again for celebration, it was clear: Germany remains a powerhouse. But this season, the pressure is mounting. Newcomers are emerging. The Oliva Mareva is rewriting the script. And Hauke Walter, the Iceman of CSWC, will need to summon everything he has to hold onto his legacy.
The Grand Final in Split promises fireworks.
