In The Humidor

Alright guys, the holidays are done and now its our turn to puff out our first annual top 25! These cigars are all across the board and we were not paid a dime for putting these cigars on here! These are just some of the many amazing cigars that we enjoyed this year! Within the next couple days we will keep releasing more and more! Check back to see this years top cigar! But for now, onto #25 – #21

Spots 25 – 21

#25 – Blind Mans Bluff – Robusto – 5.0 x 50

So upon first glance of this cigar, it has a very basic band; no shine, no flashy colors, just a simple eyeless man. But as they say, do not judge a book by its cover as this is a fantastic cigar and a real “eye opener”! (Horrible joke, I know). Anyhow, this cigar features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper and longfillers from Honduras as well as the Dominican. With notes of spice, light sweetness, cedar, and earthy notes, this cigar is really a solid burn from start to finish.

#24 – Bugatti Ambassador – Toro – 6.0 x 54

Start your engines my friends as this smoke is a solid right from start all the way to finish line! This beauty is wrapped in a silky smooth Habano wrapper and filled with 4 different long filler leaves. The burn is spot on, the draw is amazing, and those flavors…. Mmmm mmmm good! Creamy, sweet, and just a little bit of spice towards the end delivers an incredible medium body smoke. All of that for a reasonable price makes you feel like you just haggled your way into a Bugatti while only paying for a Hyundai!

#23 – Pistoff Kristoff – Churchill – 7.0 x 50

Kristoff hits the nail on the head with the name of this blend. The Pistoff is mean, and gritty. For the smoker that enjoys a spicy cigar this is the dark alley you don’t mind walking down unsupervised. Pair this with a good rye whiskey you will find a perfect combination to fend off a cold winter night. Don’t be too scared off by the spice though as this cigar smokes very smooth all the way through, with hints of nuttiness and toast, and a surprising sweet finish. The Pistoff comes in a variety of vitola’s including 660 Gordo (6×60); Robusto (5.5 x 54); Churchill (7×50); Corona Gorda (5.75×48) and soon to come in 2019 the Grand Daddy “Extremely” Pistoff (8.5×60). With an MSRP of $8-9 this is very affordable and well worth every dollar.

#22 – Crowned Heads Le Carema – Belicosos Finos LE 2018 – 5.5 X 52

This cigar is a beauty for sure. You see this dark and oily Broadleaf wrapper and just know you are in for a treat. The cigar is filled with Nicaraguan fillers wrapped in an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper with a very simple, yet elegant band. As you enjoy this cigar, you will get notes of nuts, cocoa, a little bit of pepper, and a whole lot of YUM! Medium in body but rich in flavor.

#21 – Partagas Legend – Toro Levenda – 6.2 x 54

So do you enjoy a nice medium bodied Partagas cigar? You know, that solid standard they have been delivering for such a long time? Well if you do, this is NOT the cigar for you! This toothy, full bodied, rich cigar really steps up the strength and flavor profiles. The sweet Broadleaf wrapper is just beautiful and features amazing notes of leather, spice, caramel, and molasses along with an amazing burn from top to bottom! It looks great, tastes great, and is priced great, so it just had to make this years list!

Thursday, January 10, 2019 — Miami, FL- Drew Estate announces today it is shipping the Herrera Esteli Norteño Edicion Limitada to Drew Diplomat retailers nationwide.

Originally released in 2015, the Herrera Esteli Norteño showcases extensively aged tobaccos from the Estelí and Jalapa growing regions of Nicaragua, coupled with a spicy Honduran binder and a rich, bold Mexican San Andrés maduro wrapper. This year’s release features cigars rolled in 2016 aged two years using the original molds from the initial production. Packaged in 15 count boxes, this 7 x 48 box pressed Churchill features a modified blend of the original Norteño allowing for a smoother and complex smoke.

From Little Havana in Miami, Master Blender Willy Herrera notes, “The Norteño Edicion Limitada continues to be one of my favorite projects at Drew Estate. This cigar showcases the complexity in the blending process, requiring tweaks of the classic Norteño blend to really shine in the Churchill Vitola.”

The Herrera Esteli Norteño Edicion Limitada Churchill is available in 15 count boxes with an MSRP of $217.96.

Shapes: Gordo, Robusto, Toro

Wrapper: Ecuador Habano

Origin: Dominican Republic

Filler: Brazilian, Dominican, Nicaraguan

Size Smoked: Toro (6 x 54)

MSRP: around $11.00

So when you hear the word Bugatti, you can almost guarantee the first thing most people think about, is a car that 99% will never be able to afford but we all love to look at and dream about. You thinkink speed, luxury, prestige, and just simply put, a high class style of life. Well, after smoking the Ambassador by Bugatti, you honestly can say they are bringing all those traits from the car to the cigar. From the first look at the Ambassador, you can just see the quality of construction, a bad-a$$ band, and a great feel to the cigar that will help transform your day into that high class style of life right as you light up this beauty.

Time to set the mood and light – 1st gear

Well its Playoff time in the NFL and my buddy, who is a Colts fan, came over for the game. After smoking the Bugatti Signature on New Years Eve, I decided to smoke the Ambassador as I typed up the review I was going to do for the Signature. Drinks were poured, game was on, and it was a perfect 68 degrees out here in Texas. To say things were perfect, would only be true if my Jets actually were playing but one can only dream, so I will say this is as close to perfect as it could be given the state of my NFL team. After cutting the cigar and lighting up, those first couple of puffs were heavenly! Super smooth draw, great fluffy smoke, and a wonderful creaminess hit my palate right off the bat. I was very happy I decided on this stick for the day.

The first third – 2nd gear

So as I was watching the game, enjoying the Ambassador, loving the creaminess of the cigar, I forgot I was supposed to be typing up a review for the Signature. It was at that point I decided the Ambassador was the cigar I needed to review. I like bold cigars which is the way I would classify the Signature. The Ambassador is definitely medium in boldness and I was falling in love with this cigar. That truly says a lot in my opinion as most medium bodied cigars are just solid smokes, not this tasty, but the Ambassador is special. Along with the creamy notes came notes of light coffee that really complimented each other. Side note – if you want a bolder cigar, do make sure to try the Bugatti Signature as it was a wonderful cigar with lots of flavor and a nice bold profile. But back to the stunning Ambassador!

The second third – 3rd gear

So truth be told, the second third of the cigar really did not vary much in boldness or flavor which to me, I was perfectly fine with because I was enjoying the creaminess as described in the first third. The cigar was burning great and the ash was solid and was holding strong.

The final third – 4th into 5th gear

So this is where you hit the highway, put the pedal to the floor, and wave to every cop that you pass on by when you are in your Bugatti. (We here at Inthehumidor.com do not condone speeding or waving at cops as you pass by them, just saying). So the creaminess of the cigar fades just a bit and now some spice notes start to come through. Almost like a nutmeg or sweetness spice. Again, it fits the cigar perfectly and the smoke and construction is still damn near perfect. I smoked this beauty to the nub and would have kept going but it was starting to get just a little to hot.

Conclusion – Time to park

So this cigar is by no means the most complex cigar you are going to smoke, but it is SUPER tasty and constructed perfectly! I had no burn issues, only one relight, and about an hour and 40 minutes of enjoyment out of this beauty. The cigar did smoke a tad slower than most toros that I have had and I am grateful for that. As mentioned earlier, it really does take a lot to impress me out of a mild to medium to cigar and this medium stick really hit the spot for me. I highly recommend this if you are a fan of a medium bodied cigar and would say this would go excellent with a nice cup of coffee in the morning, or a nice post dinner smoke with some baileys to add to that coffee.

Rating

4.8 out of 5! (Only reason it is not a perfect 5 is that I do wish there was a TAD more spice in the cigar. That would have made it the perfect medium bodied stick in my opinion)

We all love visiting our local cigar shop, whether you are new to cigar culture or a seasoned vet. Below are 10 Do’s and Don’ts to follow as you enjoy your time at the lounge.

#1 – The Do Not – Do Not bring your own cigars from home

This should just be a given. A cigar lounge is a place to retreat from your everyday life; the cold, the heat, and so many other things from the outside world. We go there for the comfy chairs and comradery, the air conditioning when it’s hot and humid out, or the heat when temperatures drop a little too low for our liking. But how do you think the shop owner pays for all those things? That’s right, the sales from the shop!!!

#1 -The Do – Always pay the shop first

I get it, we all have a budget and sometimes, online sales are better than your local brick and mortar cigar lounge, but all you get from the online store is that cigar, not everything else that comes with the amazing experience of a cigar lounge. So, if you MUST smoke that special cigar you brought from home, do so, but only after you buy a cigar from the shop.

#2 – The Do Not – Do not put your feet up on the furniture

Who doesn’t love kicking back literally with a drink and a cigar? I know I do. But seriously, the lounge should be a place to kick back but while keeping both feet firmly planted on the ground. Would you like to go into a shop that the furniture looks like it has been used an abused? Neither would I. And just think of how that furniture would have gotten do that point? Case closed.

#2 – The Do – Clean up after yourself

I’m not talking about emptying the ashtrays or wiping down the tables as the cigar lounge is most likely paying someone to do that. However, I am talking the basics, like throwing away your empty bottles, cans, and food that you had delivered or brought with you. The shop employee is not your mother so do not treat them like such unless you want them to discipline you just like your mother did.

#3 – The Do Not – Do not insert yourself into the conversation or force a conversation on others

Many of us may go to the lounge alone and of course talking to the guys is always a blast but inserting yourself into an existing conversation with other patrons uninvited is very simply put, rude. Also, that guy sitting there by himself reading or watching a TV show on his phone, might just need an escape from people and doesn’t want to talk, so let him or her be.

#3 – The Do – On the flipside of #3’s Do Not, DO invite others in if you are in a group and having a good time

I’ve first hand can say this has happened to me many times when I head to a new cigar lounge that I have never been to. I will listen and still mind my business but if I happen to laugh at a joke or agree with a comment, many times my opinion will be asked of me or I will be invited into the conversation in other ways. From there, you now are good to go and now have more brothers/sisters of the leaf in your circle.

#4 – The Do Not – Do not talk about politics or religion…. at all…..not even a little

No matter what your stance is on politics or your religious belief, there WILL be someone who feels the opposite of you. You know what we call that? Human nature. We are all different, all raised differently, and all believe in different things. So, discussion on many things that we are on opposite sides can lead to growth in knowledge, laughter, understanding, and just good ol’ conversation. However, in today’s world, politics and religion is beyond a touchy point and 99 out of 100 conversations in regard to those topics will lead to fights, disagreements, and become more about converting the other person’s thoughts and believes to your own. So again, simply put, just don’t.

#4 – The Do – Do listen and not just be the talker

This can go for every type of conversation. Don’t preach your point and then not listen. I could preach for days and days about how much I feel Tom Brady isn’t the greatest QB ever, but I must give you the chance to prove why you think he is, even though I promise you won’t sway me there. However, I digress.

#5 – The Do Not – Don’t show off or act like a know it all

We have all seen that guy who is showing off his Cuban cigar or his rare and special and limited-edition cigar that is harder to find than Bigfoot. Don’t be that guy. Be proud of what your smoking and if someone asks, “Hey, what are you smoking?”, feel free to show enthusiasm but do not put the cigar down that they are smoking or try to show your cigar is better than the one they are smoking. Also, do preach to others like you know everything about cigars, even if you are an expert.No one likes a know-it-all.

# 5 – The Do – Do talk about Cigars

It’s the perfect spot to do so! Ask about the cigars being smoked around you because who knows, one of them may be smoking a cigar you were interested in trying and you can get some feedback first hand. Also, this is a great opportunity to bring yourself into a conversation or invite others into the conversation as mentioned above. And finally, if you hear a guy talking about cigars that seems like he knows his stuff and you want to know more, ask him! This is a great way to learn about cigars and again, brings another brother or sister of the leaf into your circle.

#6 – The Do Not – Do not smash your cigar out!

This one is simple but really is beneficial. If you smash out a cigar, it will release a very unpleasant odor and sticks around a lot longer than the lovely cigar aroma that we enjoy.

#6 – The Do – Just leave it be

Done with the cigar? Hope it was great!! Now, just leave it sitting on the ashtray if you are leaving. If you are sticking around longer, just flick it into the ashtray and you are good to go. It will go out on its own and be disposed of the next time your cigar lounge employee makes his or her rounds.

#7 – The Do Not – Don’t mooch off the drinks of others

Many cigar lounges are BYOB which is just fantastic. However, nearly every cigar lounge has that one guy that always forgets to bring his booze along. But he will for sure sniff out yours and ask for some and rarely every repay the favor. Don’t be that guy.

#7 – The Do – Do offer drinks to those around you

Many times, while I have been in the cigar lounge, I have been offered a drink since I was in the immediate area. It’s a great gesture and sometimes I will accept,other times not, but the offer is always appreciated. Again, it gives you a chance to connect with others while you are enjoying your cigar and time at the lounge. And trust me, that super old bottle of Blantons that you brought in, I will not expect any of that.

#8 – The Do Not – Do not lick your cigar and then use the house cutter

Really, just think about that for a second. It does not need any further explanation and seems self-explanatory but I promise you will see it many times.

#8 – The Do – Offer your equipment to others

Forgot your lighter? No problem, the lounge will help you out. However, sometimes its busy in the lounge and soon enough, that lighter runs out of fluid. So instead of watching someone wait for the cigar lounge employee to refill it as he or she is trying to take care of customers, offer yours up. Not only will that person appreciate the gesture, I can promise the cigar lounge employee will remember that as well. Now, of course, keep that cutter close if you think the person might be an offender of the #8 Do Not category!

#9 – The Do Not – Do not be oblivious to those around you

Yes, you went to the cigar shop alone and maybe you want to be alone and just do your thing. There is nothing wrong with that. However, you still are not the only one there. Be mindful of others around you. Biggest part of that, do not talk on your phone if possible, especially if it’s quiet in the lounge. Shoot a text instead or step outside momentarily, we will hold your chair for you.

#9 – The Do – Do be mindful to those around you

We love cigars, we love the smell, and guess what, that smell comes from the smoke. However, we blow the smoke away from us in most cases. So if you are sitting next to someone, do not blow the smoke towards them and if possible, hold the cigar in a spot that the smoke coming from the cigar does not go directly into the face of the person next to you. Also, be mindful of your stuff that is on the table and make sure those around you have room to place their drinks or items.

#10 – The Do Not – Do not bring negativity to the cigar shop

I am the first to admit that one of the first places I want to go when I have had a bad day is the cigar shop. But once I step through those doors, I let all that negativity go and I sit down knowing things are already better just by being there. Don’t bring your bad day and push it onto others. Negativity travels, leave it at the door.

#10 – The Do – Most important rule of cigar lounge etiquette – Enjoy Yourself

Take a moment to just breath, relax, unwind, and light up. The time in the cigar lounge is time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, so enjoy it!

I frequently vacation in the depths of my own mind to the point sometimes that I completely forget what day it is, and most often I will need some sort of physical remembrance to help me adapt back to the present reality. Is this weird? Is it normal? Am“I” normal? Typical questions asked a lot on my vacations, but that is by no means what I am here to ramble on about. What is relevant is while on my most recent adventure, my snap back to reality was triggered by a crisp chill only the wind at a certain time of the year can create. Once again, another year has flown by, in a manor the FCC is all too familiar with, a “Blur”. Here we are smack in the middle of December already, which has tremendous amounts of significance. I became a year older not long ago, another blessed Thanksgiving with my family has come and gone, Christmas is right around the corner and the weather is finally starting to change! Now being a native Texan, I typically get the luxury of not having to endure this seasonal change in weather quite as harshly as my less fortunate brothers and sisters that live in Northern regions of the Country. However we have had enough of a change to bring out a few of those subtle early morning chilled aches and pains, predominately associated with old sports injuries and youthful ignorance. The beauty of fall is now littered across the ground outside or its already been swept away by brisk northern Fronts or buried in flakes of Frosty’s epidermis. Winter is officially upon us and its significance reaches much farther than ski trips, hot chocolate,tinsel, garland and bright twinkly lights.

Winter brings on many changes, most we have become used to and can adapt to effortlessly, however a curve ball or two are never out of question. Speaking of curve balls, one of the biggest contributors to my abhorrence for this time of year is the lack of baseball representation in sports. Sure, I can hold onto a few juicy rumors when the Winter Meeting’s roll around but for the most part, unless you live in South America, baseball may as well be nonexistent in the Winter months. Colder months mean indoor sports for the most part, with the exception of Football, and in all Honesty if there was not some sort of Fantasy Football scenario in play, I may not even really watch football. Basketball doesn’t move the needle much until the playoffs start, and soccer is just ridiculous no matter what time of year it is. If there is one saving grace to the start of Winter, there is Hockey! I know…I know, not many people reading this, or that I am associated with for that matter, understand a Texas boy liking a sport dominated by the Maple Syrup pouring, Tim Horton’s donut eating neighbors to our North. But without getting off topic, I will just add quickly that you can’t knock what you may not know about. If you find yourself searching for something to do this time of year and you have a Hockey team local, professional or not, GO TO A GAME!! You will not be disappointed.

Back to the topic at hand the general idea being preached here is that Winter is upon us, and in confluence with the change in weather is the change in lifestyle. Out of the deepest depths of your closets come the jackets, coats, scarves, mittens, hoodies, beanies, and any other accessory synonymous with colder weather. Fire places have the dust knocked off them, the haunting smell of gas resonates from the first time the heater kicks on in months, patio furniture sits lonesome and frostbitten. Many of the activities mentioned herein, or just social outdoor activities in general, are commonly enjoyed with a good cigar in hand. As a Cigar smoker, Mother nature’s attempt to strip me of these social luxuries has begun and I vow to not let it happen.

The last thing I want to do, or any sane person in my opinion, wants to do is stand outside, wrapped up like an overstuffed burrito,in freezing temperatures and attempt to enjoy a cigar. I have tried this before and so much is lost in the experience its criminal. Too many times a good stick is left to flame out having only been smoked a quarter of the way through. You think “oh it’s not that cold outside” and before you know it you’ve plowed through a premium cigar in record time, only to realize you didn’t even enjoy it, let alone taste it. You can dry your tears, there are several ways we, as cigar smokers, can combat Mother Nature and “have our cake and eat it to”!

First and foremost, the easiest solution to this Wintery problem is simply to search for the nearest Brick and Mortar to your location. Without going into great depths, this is simply the best way to sit comfortably and enjoy the protective walls that allow you to immerse yourself in the warm fuzzy feeling of a good cigar and leave Winters’ fury at the door! The next way to combat the seasonal changes has honestly become my favorite thing to do over the last couple years. Playing around with different Vitolas is an awesome way to continue enjoying your favorite cigars and not have to sacrifice anything.Now to be fair not all cigars come in a huge range of different sizes other than the traditional Robusto, Toro, Churchill, etc. However, if you find a particular maker and/or blend you are fond of it would behoove you to check and see if it’s offered in smaller vitolas. Many times, these miniature versions are quite enjoyable and, in my opinion, can be even more enjoyable. Essentially just imagine taking your traditional 2+ hour smoke and cutting the time in half, if not even shorter. Having the same flavor profile, but sometimes can be packed with an even bigger punch,given the compact nature. While there are thousands of examples that I can give, as well as many I still have no clue about, I will refer you to one of myfavorite cigars that just so happens to offer me the luxury of tiny tasty treats. La Galera cigars come from one of the oldest tobacco factories in theDominican Republic, Tabacalera Palma. Helping lead the way is Jose Arnaldo Blanco aka “Jochy” and you can find a bit of brief history here. La Galera cigars provide a solid list of advantages year-round, but especially during the winter months when I am trying to save myself from hypothermia, or I simply just have a mountain of errands to run for the holidays. Of the many blends La Galera offers my two favorites happen to be the basic Connecticut and the Maduro.

The Connecticut is wrapped in a Connecticut Ecuador wrapper, has a Piloto Cubano binder, and is stuffed with three different Dominican long fillers. With a very mild but flavorful profile this is an extremely solid early morning cigar with a rich cup of coffee. Tasty notes of toasted nuts, hints of cocoa and traditional earthy and hay-like notes, commonly associated with Connecticut cigars, let this cigar sit comfortably on your palate. Earlier this year at IPCPR La Galera announced 4 new Vitola’s in association with the “Cubes Project”. Of these new sizes came the La Galera Connecticut Perfecto or “Shorts” vitola. With a petit 4 x 46 size it very similarly resembles the Hemingway Short Story for any of the Fuente fans out there. With an MSRP of about $5 this is not only a cost-effective cigar, but also fits all the parameters of a perfect cold weather cigar. Smoke time for me lasted about 30 minutes and was every bit as good as its larger sizes.

As for the Maduro, this is probably one of my favorite go-to sticks year-round. With a beautiful chocolatey San Andres wrapper, Dominican binder and fillers, this cigar is a great social cigar for someone who enjoys things a bit bolder. The La Galera Maduro brings out notes of rich chocolate, a little bit of spice and cedar are present. But most notable is the smooth creaminess of this cigar, which can pair really well with espresso or your favorite single malt scotch. I typically smoke either the Toro El Lector (6 x 54) or Torpedo Cortador (6.1 x 52) which each sit around $6-7 MSRP, which in my mind makes me feel like I am robbing the humidor. There is also, what I like to call the “fire hydrant of cigars”, the aesthetically pleasing Vitola No. 1 (Corona Gordo) with a size of (3.5 x 50) and MSRP of around $4. Winter has met its match with this cigar with again a smoking time of about 30 minutes, and this one will leave you feeling warm on the inside.

Each of these cigars are absolutely box worthy, so depending on your palate go out and grab a box for Christmas. Boxes come in 20 counts and retail just barely over $100, which makes them even more enticing this time of year, when the wallet is slightly skinnier. I have never been disappointed with La Galera products and I know you will not be either. Don’t let winter ruin your mood or your plans, especially when there are cigars involved. Happy Holidays from Inthehumidor.com and have a safe and merry holiday season.

News Release
For Immediate Release
December 19, 2018

Crux Cigars Introduces Short Salomone Series

(Miami, Fla.) – Crux Cigars has announced the introduction of the Crux Short Salomone Series. The initial production will include three of their popular blends; Epicure, Guild, and Limitada.

Each will be debuted in short run fashion, produced in limited quantities. The initial production will be 10-count boxes of 500 or less. The Short Salomone is a 6 x 54 vitola.

The company are taking pre-orders through December 31st.

“We are excited to announce these short run releases. We are continually looking to enhance our portfolio and the smoking pleasure of our brand,” shared Crux Cigars President Jeff Haugen, “and frankly, we enjoy challenging ourselves and our team.”

The cigars are rolled by a single pair at the La Catedral de Tabaco factory in Esteli, Nicaragua:

Epicure Short Salomone $12.99 MSRP/Cigar InitialProduction: 500 boxes

Guild Short Salomone $11.99 MSRP/Cigar Initial Production: 200 boxes

Limitada Short Salomone $13.99 MSRP/Cigar Initial Production: 300 boxes

Release Date: Spring 2019

For questions or additional details, contact media@cruxcigars.com

December 13, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CROWNED HEADS LAUNCHES “JUAREZ’ AS THOMPSON CIGAR CO. EXCLUSIVE

“Made a good run, but I run too slow / They overtook me down in Juarez, Mexico.”

Cocaine Blues (Johnny Cash)

In 2014, Crowned Heads introduced “Jericho Hill,” a cigar brand inspired by the Johnny Cash track, ‘Cocaine Blues,’ from the 1968 album, ‘At Folsom Prison.’

Four years later, Crowned Heads announces “Juarez,” a cigar inspired by Jericho Hill’ and made exclusively for Thompson Cigar Co. Like ‘Jericho,’ ‘Juarez’ features a dark Mexican (San Andres) wrapper, but the blend departs from there, as the binder is Ecuadorian (Sumatra) and the filler tobaccos are a mix of tobaccos from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. Juarez will launch in 20-count cabinet boxes in three vitolas: 4 3/4 x 52, 6 x 54, and 5 x 56 (all round parejos). The MSRP will range from $5.95-$7.95 per cigar.

“The challenge was put forth to us by Thompson Cigar Co., to create a value-conscious alternative to our Jericho Hill brand,” commented Crowned Heads co-owner/founder, Jon Huber. “We had been working behind the scenes with Tabacalera Pichardo in Esteli (Nicaragua) on some blends since 2016, mostly just for fun, but as time passed and more and more samples were delivered, we became very impressed with the quality and felt there was certainly potential in working with that house. When we smoked the final blend that would ultimately become ‘Juarez,’ we felt like we had something that was ready to launch.”

Established in 2005 (formerly as Dhatuey Tobaccos), Tabacalera Pichardo was founded by Don Eradio Pichardo in Esteli, Nicaragua. Born and raised in Cuba, Pichardo is a third-generation tobacco agriculturist who worked under the late Arsenio Ramos, a true industry icon. In 2014, Pichardo met entrepreneur and sommelier, Luciano Meirelles, who has become instrumental over the last four years in expanding the Tabacalera Pichardo operation. Today, Tabacalera Pichardo produces cigars for over 16 different brands, exporting to 12 different countries.

CROWNEDHEADS.COM

748 FREELAND STATION RD • NASHVILLE, TN 37228

Monday, December 10, 2018 — Miami, FL- Drew Estate announces the shipping of the Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro as well as the repackaged Herrera Esteli Habano and Norteno to retailers nationwide today. The new look for Herrera Esteli and the Brazilian Maduro were introduced at the IPCPR 2018 trade show held in Las Vegas.

The Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro features a dense Plantation Grown Mata Fina wrapper, over a Connecticut River Valley Broadleaf binder with fillers from Nicaragua. Manufactured at La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate, the Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro was blended by Willy Herrera is presented in 5 vitolas:

Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro Robusto Grande 5 ¼ x 52 MSRP $227.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro Toro Especial 6 x 52 MSRP $241.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro Lonsdale 6 x 44 MSRP $231.94/Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro Fino 6 x 52 MSRP $269.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro Short Corona Gorda 5 7/8 x 46 MSRP $203.94/ Box of 25

From Little Havana Miami, Master Blender Willy Herrera, notes, “With the Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro, I wanted to bring the Mata Fina to the forefront of this blend. This tobacco has such a unique texture and it showcases the lush floral and earthy notes I wanted to capture in this cigar. In addition, now that the Herrera Esteli line has been repackaged blending modern simplicity with classic Cuban style, it really shines on our retailers’ shelves and brings unity to the brand.”

Each will be presented in unified Herrera Esteli Branding and will now be packaged in 25 count boxes.

Herrera Esteli Habano blend features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, Honduran Binder, and filler leaves from Nicaragua, presented in the following core vitolas:

Herrera Esteli Habano Robusto Grande 5 ¼ x 52 MSRP $227.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Habano Toro Especial 6 x 52 MSRP $241.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Habano Lonsdale 6 x 44 MSRP $231.94/Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Habano Piramide Fino 6 x 52 MSRP $269.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Habano Short Corona Gorda 5 7/8 x 46 MSRP $203.94/ Box of 25

Herrera Esteli Norteno blend showcases extensively aged tobaccos from the Esteli, and Jalapa growing regions of Nicaragua, coupled with a spicy Honduran Binder, and a rich, bold Mexican San Andrés maduro wrapper in the following core vitolas:

Herrera Esteli Norteno Robusto Grande 5 ¼ x 54 MSRP $227.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Norteno Toro Especial 6 x 52 MSRP $241.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Norteno Lonsdale 6 x 44 MSRP $231.94/Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Norteno Piramide Fino 5 x 50 MSRP $269.94/ Box of 25
Herrera Esteli Norteno Short Corona Gorda 5 7/8 x 46 MSRP $203.94/ Box of 25

The Herrera Esteli Habano, Norteno and Brazilian Maduro are shipping to retailers today. The Herrera Esteli Miami will be shipping in January.

December 5, 2018 — Black Label Trading Company (BLTC) is pleased to announce they are shipping DELIVERANCE NOCTURNE and PORCELAIN to select retailers this month. The Nocturne and Porcelain are handcrafted at BLTC’s own factory; Fabrica Oveja Negra in Esteli, Nicaragua.“This is the 4^th release of Deliverance Nocturne. The Nocturne highlights everything I love about PA Broadleaf, the rich, complex and bold earthiness of the wrapper highlights the unique blend of this cigar. We are also releasing the Deliverance Porcelain featuring a Connecticut wrapper. The Porcelain has a different profile from what you might expect. This is a Connecticut that is geared towards our consumers,” says James Brown, creator of BLTC and partner at Fabrica Oveja Negra. DELIVERANCE NOCTURNE features a Pennsylvania Broadleaf wrapper with Pennsylvania Ligero and Nicaraguan filler & binder. Country of Origin: Nicaragua Wrapper: Pennsylvania Broadleaf Binder: Nicaraguan Habano Filler: Nicaragua & Pennsylvania Perfecto – 5 x 56 (20 count) MSRP $10.50 Short Salomon “Snub Nose” – 4 ¾ x 40 x 56 (18 count) MSRP $10.50 DELIVERANCE PORCELAIN features a Connecticut wrapper Country of Origin: Nicaragua Wrapper: Connecticut Binder: Nicaraguan Habano Filler: Nicaragua & Pennsylvania Corona Gorda – 5.5 x 48 (16 count) MSRP $10.00 Black Label Trading Company is redefining the standards for cigar making. With a “less is more” philosophy, Black Label Trading Co. creates handcrafted premium cigars of the utmost quality in small batch, limited quantities.

For more information contact info@blacklabeltrading.com.

Montecristo Cigars to auction one of a kind

Art Basel-inspired humidor designed by artist, Ruben Trespalacios

MIAMI – Montecristo, maker of world renowned premium cigars, will host an exclusive Montecristo Art Basel event in South Florida’s most popular pop-up event space: The Wharf Miami. The event“Montecristo Marina” hosted by the Montecristo Social Club will combine live art, fine spirits, music, networking and Montecristo cigars while overlooking the Miami River. The event takes place onSaturday December 8, 2018 at 7PM. The Wharf Miami is located at 114 SW North River Drive. Miami, Fl. 33130.

Montecristo Marina will serve as a celebration of art and its relationship to the artisanal virtues of the handmade premium cigar. The Montecristo Epic cigar will serve as the subject. This highly rated super-premium cigar is valued for its artisanal quality; each box is inspected and signed by the artisan to ensure its quality. The centerpiece of the event will be the auction of a one-of-a-kind Montecristo Icon humidor, which will be hand-painted on site during the event by acclaimed artist Ruben Trespalacios.

Trespalacios, who will be visiting the festivities from his home country of Colombia, is known for his flair and use of vibrant colors. His abstract style projects energy, positivity and happiness which catapulted his career beginning in 2014. He was chosen specifically by the Montecristo team for this special live art event.

“The art of handmade premium cigar making, says Rob Norris, President of Altadis U.S.A. Premium Cigar Division, maker of Montecristo, “is a time-honored tradition that dates back many generations. We are excited to celebrate this art form during Art Basel, which has become the epicenter of the Arts in the Americas. Along with Tabacalera USA’s CEO Javier Estades, Head of Product Capability Rafael Nodal, and the rest of the Montecristo team, we look forward to attending and celebrating this special event.”

Wednesday, December 5, 2018 — Miami, FL– Drew Estate announces today that the newest additions to the 4 x 32 Tin Collection along with 4 varieties of custom displays are now shipping nationwide. From this day forward, all Drew Estate Tins will feature Boveda Active Humidification inside the individual packaging to allow for placement anywhere in the retail environment. This will ensure optimum product freshness and a significantly longer shelf life outside the retail humidor.

The following 4 x 32 tins are now shipping with Boveda to retailers:

Deadwood Sweet Jane (4×32) MSRP $90 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $18 per tin
La Vieja Habana Maduro Bomberito (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin
La Vieja Habana Shade Bomberito (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin
La Vieja Habana Habano Bomberito (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin
Isla del Sol Sun Grown Breve (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin
Isla del Sol Maduro Breve (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin
Ambrosia Clove Tikis (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin
Kentucky Fire Cured Swamp Thang Sweet Ponies (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin

These additional 4 x 32 tins will be shipping with Boveda to retailers later in January:

Undercrown Sun Grown Coronets (4×32) MSRP $90 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $18 per tin
Kentucky Fire Cured Swamp Thang Ponies (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin

The Joya de Nicaragua tins will be shipping with Boveda to retailers in March:

JOYA Red (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin
JOYA Black (4×32) MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin
Joya de Nicaragua Antano (4×32) MSRP $90 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $18 per tin

The Drew Estate 4 x 32 Tin Collection now includes Acid Krush Classic Blue, Gold, Morado, Red and Candela, Liga Privada No.9 & T52, Tabak Especial Dulce and Negra, Undercrown Maduro, Shade and Sun Grown, Deadwood Sweet Jane, Ambrosia Clove Tikis, Isla del Sol Sun Grown and Maduro, Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970, Joya Red and Black, Kentucky Fire Cured Ponies, Sweet Ponies, Swamp and Swamp Sweets, Larutan Dirties, La Vieja Habana Habano, Maduro and Connecticut Shade. From the Wynwood Safehouse, Jonathan Drew, President, Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Drew Estate, notes, “The Drew Estate 4 x 32 Tin Collection was designed to transcend the entire DE brand portfolio into the quick and easy, fast smoke space. This three-step process includes reaching all taste palates through our wide variety of brands. Merchandising the collection in all premium cigar shops across the world in an easily “Drew” recognizable fashion; and keeping the product “so fresh and clean, clean” with an important nod to tradition. Our water tower concept is our 21st-century expression of the iconic cigar store Indian. The entire program is Mega Magnifico.” In addition, Drew Estate is shipping a variety of merchandising display options tailored to retailer store size to showcase the tin collection both inside and outside the humidor including:

Half Water Tower Display – Holds 18 sleeves with additional underneath storage
Manhole Cover Display- Holds 24 sleeves
Countertop Water Tower Display- Holds 8 sleeves
Wire Rack Display- Holds 4 sleeves

November 27, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CROWNED HEADS ANNOUNCES “HEADLEY GRANGE BLACK LAB LE 2018” “The goal was audacious and original: to make a cigar that tasted like the heavy, plodding drum beat on the lead-in to the Led Zeppelin classic ‘When the Levee Breaks.'” – Cigar Aficionado Magazine / The 25 Best Cigars of the Year 2012 In 2012, Crowned Heads launched its sophomore brand release, Headley Grange. The cigar received almost immediate acclaim from cigar enthusiasts and the cigar media, alike. As the story has been previously told, the Headley Grange blend was sonically inspired, specifically by the steady, heavy sound of John Bonham’s drums recording at Headley Grange. Headley Grange was the former poorhouse built in 1795 (East Hampshire, England, UK) converted to a recording studio where Led Zeppelin IV was recorded. The Led Zeppelin, “Black Dog,” which like “Stairway to Heaven,” appeared on Led Zeppelin IV, was named after a black Labrador Retriever which was found hanging around Headley Grange during recording. It is with this inspiration that Crowned Heads announces, “Headley Grange Black Lab LE 2018.” Black Lab utilizes the original Headley Grange blend and is finished with a dark Connecticut (Habano) Maduro wrapper. The cigar is box-pressed, and for the first time on any Crowned Heads cigar, features a closed-foot, which highlights the initial flavor of the sumptuous Connecticut Habano flavor upon the initial ignition. Production is limited to 1,500 12-count boxes (18,000 total cigars). Headley Grange Black Lab LE 2018 is manufactured at Tabacalera La Alianza, S.A., under the supervision of cigar industry icon, Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, will begin shipping early December, and will have an MSRP of $10.95 per cigar.

The Facts Country of Origin – Nicaragua Wrapper – Indonesia (Sumatra Besuki) Binder – Nicaraguan (Habano 2000 Esteli) Filler: Dominican Republic (Piloto Cubano Viso), Nicaragua (Criollo 98 Viso Estelí, Nicaraguan Habano 92 Quilali, and Nicaraguan Corojo 99 Ligero Jalapa) Size: 5.5 x 52 MSRP: $11.99 – $12.99 (Box can be found for around $120) Backstory I will start this off by saying I have been a fan of Southern Draw Cigars for some time now after trying and loving the Rose of Sharon and The Jacobs Ladder which was sold to me by my local brick and mortar store as a suggestion over a year ago. So when I heard the Cedrus (pronounced as sed-dress), was making its debut at the 2018 IPCPR, I was excited to say the least. I have had a couple of these sticks prior to the review but at a recent event here at the brand new Cigars International store in The Colony, Texas, I was able to sit down with Robert Holt who is the man behind these amazing cigars, and learn a little bit more about this gem. We talked about the inspiration behind this cigar and how the first size in this line is actually a dedication to very close friends of theirs. After talking with Robert over the past year or so at numerous events, one thing you learn about him is friends and family are one in the same. He brings you into the family and is just a stand-up gentleman so to learn that the name for the line came from close friends and supporters, Phil and Shelly Hogan, I was not surprised at all. They have been a steadfast supporting team to Robert and this was one way to show homage to them. Also through our conversation, Robert talked about the design of the box and even that had ties to Phil as its military theme was another tribute to Phil as he is a United States Navy veteran (Thank you for your service Phil and all those who have served and still actively serving, including Mr. Robert Holt). Continuing with the design of the box, you see a large tree front and center and after some research, you can find that the word Cedrus is derived from Cedrus libani which translate to Lebanese Cedar. This type of tree was used to build temples and sailing vessels which goes hand and hand with the navy aspect of the box as well as one of the main inspirations behind Southern Draw which is the ties to their faith. Time To Smoke First Glance: So the first thing you see of course with any cigar is the box. This box can be summed up very simply in one word, stunning. The cream colored box is accompanied by the dark green graphics which just pop off the box in a rustic, yet majestic look. The golden claps the hold the box together give it just enough of a pop to the design but fits perfectly in terms of aesthetics. Once you open the box, you will find 10 stunning belicoso shaped sticks “standing at attention” ready to be plucked and enjoyed at any moment. Each is wrapped in cellophane and once you remove the wrapper, you have a smooth, dark, stunning cigar in your hands. The band color scheme is reversed from that of the box bearing a dark green band with the cream color showing through the outline of the design and the font. Once you see this cigar, you just feel you should be out in the words hiking with it or marching with your brothers in arms. First Third: After cutting my cigar, sitting down with my Angels Envy Rye, I took my first puff of the cigar which was a cold draw and got the earthy notes I was hoping for by the whole design of the cigar. But after lighting, the earthy notes were not the main player here in the first third of the cigar. Instead, it was a silky smooth, creamy start followed by the build up of pepper that very well could have been accompanied by the drum effect of a movie fight scene as its getting ready to ensue. The ash stayed strong through the first third with having to ash just a little bit above the band and the smoke was just fluffy and plentiful. Towards the bottom part of the first third, I did also get some light coffee and chocolate flavors that gave a nice break from the pepper that has been the “main actor” in this film so far. Second Third: This had to be my favorite part of the cigar as the pepper and spice started to build more and more with the fading coffee and chocolate notes mentioned earlier. With the pepper and spice came some wonderful earthy and woodsy notes. They balanced each other perfectly, no one flavor conquering the other, but fighting along side the better good, which in this case, the better good was my enjoyment! The cigar was still smooth but did get a little bolder here and did hit the back of your throat a little bit more but I did not feel it caused any irritation or left no discomfort on the palate. The ash was not as tight as the first third as you can see a bit fell off during the picture, but it was still a very even burn with a very nice white/gray color mix showing the tobacco came from great soil. The Final Third: During this phase of the cigar, the earthiness and woodsy notes have become the prominent flavors and the smoothness of the cigar from the first half has returned. Even as I smoked the cigar nearly to the nub, it never got to hot, and the burn was still just spot on. The final third of the cigar also brought just the perfect ending that you would get from any great cigar or great movie and that was as the movie ends, the main star makes a triumph return and wins your heart all over again and that happened here as the spice and pepper notes that I loved in the beginning of the cigar, made its way back as I finished this wonderful stick. Total Smoke Time: One hour and 32 minutes Final Thoughts: For a cigar that to me was this good, I could leave just a simple statement such as, “Don’t think, buy this cigar now” and I bet you would still thank me! However, its more job to elaborate a tad more so here we go. The Cedrus from Southern Draw will easily win many of you over, especially if you have tried any of their cigars prior. For those who have tried the silky smooth Rose of Sharon and the bold, hard-hitting Jacobs Ladder, I honestly feel that saying if those two cigars met up, put on The Notebook, some Marvin Gaye, and popped a bottle of wine, 9 months later you would get the Cedrus. It is a wonderful medium to medium-full cigar that is similar to the Jacobs Ladder but also is so smooth, which is a big trait of the Rose of Sharon. The balance of flavors and the great burn on the cigar, accompanied by a very reasonable price point for such a great cigar, is one of many reasons why my original statement of “Don’t think, buy this cigar now” still holds true. Cigar Rating: 4.9 out of 5!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact

Gustavo.Velayos@LaAurora.do

Santiago de los Caballeros 3 de Julio 2018

La Aurora launches La Aurora Hors d’Age 2017 Limited Edition

La Aurora, S.A. launches Hors d’Age, a new limited edition, extra-aged cigar, which will be presented at the next the Annual International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR).

From sowing the seed to the shelf, La Aurora has invested 12 years in the production of Hors d’Age. All tobacco used in the creation of this cigar come from the 2006 harvest, and then are subjected to twice the usual aging time even given to La Aurora’s premium lines. Then, even only 6,000 boxes are produced world-wide.

Wrappers and binders from Ecuador are used to produce Hors d’Age, with the filler being comprised of Colombian, Dominican, and Nicaraguan tobaccos.

Hors d’Age demonstrates perfect balance typical of extra-aged tobaccos, with notes of black pepper prevalent along with a multitude of complex, delicate flavors. Notes of wood, cinnamon, nuts and citrus blend with a finish of dark roast coffee with a creamy texture and long finish. La Aurora Hors d’Age is presented in 15-count boxes of 6×54 Toro.

To commemorate this launch, La Aurora has also produced an extremely limited amount of humidifiers with a humidification system called Cigar Spa. The lid has been made with Spanish olive root and cedar wood has been used for the interior trays. The metallic finishes are rose gold.

For more information and follow La Aurora, visit https://www.laaurora.com.do