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Eleven Political Heavyweights Who Love Good Cigars

Posted on March 13, 2021 by Staff

People from all walks of life enjoy the cigar lifestyle. So, it’s no surprise that you’ll also find many political heavyweights who have joined the ranks of brothers and sisters of the leaf. Over the years, many heads of state and other political figures have shown that they, too, live the cigar life. Some of them you’ve probably heard about. A few you may not know yet. So, we created a list of eleven major political players who enjoy good cigars.

Al Sharpton Loves Good Cigars

The Reverend Al Sharpton has been enjoying smoking for over 45 years. It’s a lifetime for many, but not nearly as long as he’s been preaching, battling for civil rights and other causes he believes in. He’s also a member of the Grand Havana Room in New York City. Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former President Trump, owns the same place.

While never holding office, this cigar lover plays the political game. He also smokes with celebrities and politicos alike. Yet, he is often alone in the Grand Havana Room, simply enjoying a good stick.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Long before he became the Governator of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger hosted some of the best cigar parties in Hollywood. When he wasn’t building biceps as Mr. Universe or starring in the latest action film, Arnold enjoyed one to two cigars a day. He often convinced his fellow co-stars to smoke as well. Today, he still enjoys his favorite Cohiba Cigars whenever he’s not saving the world.

Bill Clinton

The forty-second president, William Jefferson Clinton, enjoys a good stick. He often chewed on one while on the golf course. However, his wife, Hillary, had a hard and fast rule of no smoking inside the White House. Outside though, he smoked them whenever he had leisure time. So you could often find him sporting a Gurkha His Majesty Reserve as often as he could.

In American history, some of the most famous “alleged” use of unlit cigars involves President Clinton and former White House Intern Monica Lewinski while they met in the Oval Office. Rumor holds that Miss Lewinski kept some sticks, among other items, as souvenirs from her private visits to the Oval Office.

Che Guevara Loved Good Cigars

Che Guevara was less known than the man he served during the Cuban Revolution, Cuban leader Fidel Castro. He was Castro’s, right-hand man. Good tobacco was rare during the time. Since Guevara loved nothing more than a good cigar, he went so far as to request cigars as payment for his service. He then handed them out to his men to help them relax. Talk about a man who shares his love of smoking.

Fidel Castro

Not only was he famous as a Cuban dictator, but he was also, by all rights, the only reason the famed Cohiba brand of cigars even exists today. The brand was created specifically for the revolutionary leader in 1966 and was only available to visiting dignitaries as gifts from Castro until 1982.

Fiorello Laguardia

The former New York mayor who battled organized crime in the 1930s and 1940s is iconic for smoking at his desk while handling city business. The notoriously tough-on-crime mayor smoked his sticks with the band still on them. We’re guessing it’s because it made him seem tougher.

General George S. Patton Loved Good Cigars

You can’t talk about powerful and influential men without mentioning the general himself. Patton was such a fan of smokes that he carried them wherever he went, including while leading allied forces to victory across Europe during World War II. There are many tales of Patton puffing away on good cigars while issuing orders to his troops. Rumors suggest that he had a specific troop to carry his humidor wherever he went.

John F. Kennedy Loved Good Cigars

The thirty-fifth President of the United States, JFK, holds fame for two main things regarding cigars. First, he was a big fan of smoking them. He also signed into law the Cuban trade embargo that has made authentic Cuban cigars some of the world’s most sought-after and prized possessions of cigar enthusiasts. They are still illegal to purchase or sell in the United States.

Rush Limbaugh

The outspoken radio show host was an avid cigar fan for much of his life. Although, he supposedly quit smoking altogether in the 1980s. Limbaugh would reportedly light up nicely into his later years. Even after his cancer diagnosis, he was an avid supporter of cigars. He even stated that they were one of the few things he enjoyed. Limbaugh was as outspoken about his happiness with smoking sticks as he was in his political beliefs.

Rudy Giuliani Loves Good Cigars

This former New York mayor, attorney, and outspoken politician is as wild about smokes as ever. He often endorses cigar brands and smokes one whenever he has free time. In addition, Rudy smokes cigars to relax and frequents many cigar bars. You could even spot smoking during his dealings with the forty-fifth president of the United States, Donald Trump.

Ulysses S. Grant

The Civil War general and eighteenth president of the United States is probably the most avid cigar smoker on our list. He reportedly smoked up to 20 sticks a day during the height of the Civil War. As a result of his penchant for fine smokes, he was given beloved brands of cigars as gifts from across the world. Despite his numerous daily smokes, Grant collected so many that he started to give them away as gifts to friends and visitors, according to rumors.

Smokers of the Highest Order

We could go on for days listing politicians and political figures who enjoy cigars. The ones listed above represent some of the most important, impactful, and outspoken cigar lovers the world has ever seen. Many helped shape the landscape of cigars in the United States and elsewhere.

Photo credit: “Al Gore and Newt Gingrich applaud to US President Clinton waves during the State of the Union address in 1997,” by White House Official Site, Uploaded by Kmccoy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Cigar Lover and Baseball Heavy Hitter: Alex Rodriguez

Posted on March 6, 2021 by Staff

Alex Rodriguez was consistently one of the best shortstops and third basemen throughout his 22-year baseball career. Today, though, A-Rod is known as more of a businessman than an athlete. He has been one of the most controversial figures in baseball. Part of that was from his involvement in a performance-enhancing drug scandal. Yet, some of it was due to him having some of the highest-recorded salary numbers in baseball history. When he’s not striking deals or appearing as a regular on any number of T.V. shows nowadays, A-Rod enjoys cigars. According to him, he became a cigar lover who enjoys a good smoke after playing a round of golf with Michael Jordan.

A Kid From Miami Hits the Big Time

He intended to attend college and play football as a quarterback. Yet, by the time he was 17, young Rodriguez was already being shopped around by some top teams in the business. Then, a last-minute offer by the Seattle Mariners made him change his mind about attending the University of Miami to play football. So instead, Rodriguez headed off to Washington.

As the number one overall pick in the 1993 draft, the Mariners and critics had high hopes for Rodriguez. Instead, he would spend his first two years outperforming most of his peers in the minor leagues. Then he would take over as the Mariner’s full-time shortstop in ’96.

In Rodriguez’s first year out, he set or tied multiple records, including becoming the youngest shortstop to play in an All-Star game.

It would be the start of his rise as one of the youngest stars in the game.

A Cigar Lover is Born

By the 2000 season, Rodriguez was Seattle’s face of the franchise. He later led them to the American League Championship Series, where they ultimately lost to the New York Yankees. Yet, by this point, Rodriguez’s stock was already rising.

During this time, he recalled falling in love with cigars thanks to a Hoyo de Monterrey Double Carona given to him by Michael Jordan. Rodriguez even remarked about the trouble finding more of them later.

From then, Rodriguez enjoyed a smoke any time he could. The newly found cigar lover would even smoke while lounging by the pool when everyone else was asleep.

He spent the next few seasons with the Texas Rangers. He signed one of the most lucrative contracts in baseball history at $252 million. This contract led Rodriguez to a dose of significant criticism. Critics considered the amount of money spent on him too much when other team areas, namely pitching, were suffering.

Rodriguez spent only three years with the Rangers. Then, he was optioned off to the Yankees in 2004 in a last-minute trade arrangement.

Becoming a Yankee with Controversy

A-Rod would spend the bulk of his career with the Yankees. He also switched from playing shortstop to playing third base. This change was primarily due to baseball great Derek Jeter already holding that position.

During his first season as a Yankee, Rodriguez was already drawing attention. During the 2004 American League Championship Series, he purposely swatted away the glove of an opposing player; This resulted in an interference call and a nullified run from Derek Jeter. Unfortunately, it also led the team to lose and get knocked out of the series.

His next round of controversy came in 2007. He opted out of renewing his contract with the Yankees on the advice of his manager. That was after he had already stated he would stay with the team for the rest of his career.

Though, Rodriguez went on to win the World Series in 2009 with the Yankees. But that was before being caught up in yet another scandal. This time, it was with performance-enhancing drugs, and Rodriguez tested positive for use. After his subsequent suspension and return, Rodriguez’s career looked much different than in prior years. So, he retired in 2016.

Modern Entrepreneur and Cigar Lover

Outside of baseball, Rodriguez has become an outspoken businessman and baseball analyst known for his direct but down-to-earth style.

He is the owner and founder of A-Rod Corp. This holding company now owns dozens of products and Rodriguez’s investments in endeavors. One of these personal endeavors included Rodriguez’s attempt to buy the New York Mets in 2019.

You’ll find Rodriguez behind the commentator’s desk for networks like Fox Sports and ESPN when he’s not running multiple businesses or doing charity work. He often lights up a cigar in the commentator’s booth before or after a game to relax.

Besides his career as a sports analyst, Rodriguez also appears on shows like Shark Tank and Good Morning America as a special contributor.

When he’s not busy, Rodriguez enjoys playing golf and smoking great cigars, a trait he shares with his fiance and business partner, Jennifer Lopez. So whether you think he’s one of the greatest to play the game or overpaid and overrated, you’ll likely see more of A-Rod in the future.

Photo credit: “A-Rod Makes Contact,” by Googie Man, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY-SA 3.0.

Charles Barkley: NBA Legend Who Loves Cigars

Posted on February 20, 2021 by Staff

You probably know Charles Barkley best for his days on the court with one of several teams. Or, perhaps you’re more familiar with him behind a desk commentating on basketball games. Yet, you might not know that he’s as big a fan of cigars as basketball. That’s right. The former 76er and often infamously outspoken Sir Charles is a lover of fine cigars. But, of course, he’s in good company, too, with fellow NBA stars like Michael Jordan and Lebron James.

Charles Barkley: The Early Years

Before charging across the court like a man half his size, Barkley was just a kid from Leeds, Alabama. After a tumultuous childhood, Barkley would pay to play basketball at the local recreation center. But unfortunately, he was too small and uncoordinated to make his high school’s varsity team.

As luck had it, the summer after his junior year, Barkley grew six inches, stood 6’ 4”, and weighed over 200 lbs. The high school basketball coach immediately granted him a spot on the team. From there, he went on to attend Auburn University in Alabama.

At Auburn University, he developed his skills and led the SEC in rebounds each year while earning nicknames. Some called him The Round Mound of Rebound or The Crisco Kid for his issues with his weight. Since then, he has become one of the most athletic big men in the NBA, but Barkley didn’t stop there.

The Philadelphia 76ers later drafted him as the fifth pick in the 1984 draft. Here is where Barkley gained widespread notoriety and fame.

Barkley’s Brash and Outspoken Personality

Today, Charles Barkley is known for his lighthearted jabs and off-the-cuff remarks. That’s especially true for fellow NBA star Shaquille O’Neal. When Barkley began his career, however, the story was different. Back then, he became known for a particularly aggressive play style that often resulted in contact with opposing players; This included several on-court brawls, one of which landed him a record-setting fine in 1990.

Barkley’s most significant incident involved a fan hurling insults and racial slurs at him. When Barkley caught wind of the offenses, he spat at the fan and inadvertently hit a little girl. He received a fine and suspension for his action. Barkley later made amends with the girl and her family. He also credited the incident for teaching him to play the game correctly and with more respect.

Despite all his negative publicity, Barkley played for the United States twice in the 1992 and 1996 Olympics. He received gold medals both times. Barkley is also a two-time Hall of Fame inductee. One of his inductions was for recognition as an individual player. The other induction was from when he played on the “Dream Team” during his time in the Olympics.

Charles Barkley and the Cigar Lifestyle

Throughout his basketball career, Barkley won many awards. He also played successfully for two other teams: the Phoenix Suns and the Houston Rockets. His retirement in 2000 slowed the multi-time All-Star down. Although, he continues philanthropic work and has become a role model to kids across the country.

In his downtime, Barkley likes two things, in particular: golf and cigars. He often smokes three to four cigars a day. When he “decides to light up,” you’ll find him puffing away on a Cuban Churchill while teeing up for a swing.

Barkley claims he began smoking after watching his former rival and friend, Michael Jordan puffing away every time they met. From there, Barkley tried his first cigar and liked it. After that, Jordan became his cigar teacher and had him smoking lower-tier cigars until Barkley moved up to the Cubans he favors today.

If asked about it, Barkley says that he learned two from Jordan. First, the process of smoking a cigar is to learn to enjoy the smoke itself. Second, “always have two humidors,” one for smokers who know what they’re doing and one for those who don’t. This philosophy taught Barkley to enjoy his cigar lifestyle as a way to relax and unwind rather than smoke for the sake of smoking.

Barkley reportedly possesses four humidors and is a collector and smoker. He favors Cuban cigars like the Churchills he often smokes. Yet, he also likes hand-crafted Padron Cigars. Barkley is fond of the idea of treating cigars well. He always stores his premium cigars properly and enjoys each one.

Barkley is Still Making Waves

Since his retirement, Barkley has done a good deal of civic work. He mentors kids and speaks on behalf of the National Basketball Players Association. Yet, he also does endorsements for products and other promotions.

Today, you’ll still find Barkley as a color commentator for the TNT network’s coverage of basketball games. He also continues to enjoy making light of his former teammates and fellow players regularly. So undoubtedly, everyone will see plenty more of this former kid from Leeds, Alabama.

Photo Credit: “Charles Barkley at 2019 NBA Finals,” by Chensiyuan, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY-SA 4.0.

Cigar Lady Demi Moore Loves a Good Smoke

Posted on February 7, 2021 by Staff

For a good reason, Demi Moore is one of Hollywood’s prolific leading ladies. She’s been active for 40 years and has constantly been working throughout her entire career. Demi Moore has done it all: cameos in television series, leading roles in blockbuster films, or lending her iconic voice to animated characters. While doing it all, this leading cigar lady has also been smoking sticks alongside peers such as Kurt Russell and Tom Cruise.

The Early Years

Demi Moore is one of those rare, natural talents with something extra that makes people want to watch everything she does. She was born in Roswell, New Mexico, the birthplace of weirdness and aliens. Moore left home and became a pin-up girl at age 16 before landing a real acting gig at 19. She has battled criticism, gender bias, and even cocaine addiction. Yet, through it all, she has remained one of Hollywood’s most driven and outspoken women.

Moore was a struggling actress long before she was a household name and years before her famous pottery scene with Patrick Swayze in Ghost. She eeked out minor roles in little-known films and TV shows. Moore landed a recurring role in the soap opera General Hospital in 1982. Yet, she would gain a truly impactful role in 1985s St. Elmo’s Fire. Her role in the 80s classic teen drama would have her stealing hearts and catapulting to stardom.

From there, she landed supporting roles in more movies until her big break starring alongside Swayze in Ghost. This role landed Moore critical acclaim and marked her as one of Hollywood’s leading women.

From Actress to Cigar Lady

Demi Moore may be more well-known for her movie roles, but she certainly hasn’t stopped there. Her marriage to action movie icon Bruce Willis resulted in three daughters. Motherhood is a feat few actresses have accomplished while continuing to hold their own in Hollywood. However, Moore is also known for her ability to command the screen. On the set, she is known for her grit and determination, even in the face of criticism.

Moore is unabashed and fearless toward her critics, especially for some of her roles in movies like Striptease and indecent Proposal. Yet, she offers no apologies for her roles. Instead, she says equality means having these parts for people to see.

This leading cigar lady applies that same attitude toward smoking cigars. According to Moore, her first cigar was too much for her taste. It was a Montecristo, and Moore has since found smaller cigars more to her liking. She also often enjoys a Montecristo Joyita while enjoying the occasional Cohiba #2 or Montecristo #2. She was even given a travel humidor by a friend and fellow cigar fan, Tom Cruise. Moore uses it when she’s flying between sets.

Unapologetic and Unforgettable Cigar Lady

Part of what makes Demi Moore a mainstay in the business is her commitment to her craft and her ability to tackle any situation before her. Moore is reportedly one of the most straightforward women in Hollywood to work with. According to some reports, she is among the highest-paid women in history.

Cigar lady Demi Moore takes each role as seriously as the last. She has even gone so far as to speak with the Pentagon to get funding for the film G.I. Jane. The famous movie was about a female Navy SEAL. However, the Pentagon denied her request due to no female SEALs.

Moore continued to work on the film without the help of the White House or the Pentagon. She even went so far as to shave her head for the role. Moore works tirelessly on every project, opting to reshoot scenes until the emotion comes across right.

Her passion for cigars is just as relentless. She has been vocal throughout the years about how she enjoys cigars. Despite being a woman with an image to maintain, Moore feels everyone is equal, and women can enjoy cigars, too.

Still In The Game

Although she’s been acting for 40 years and times have changed, Demi Moore shows no signs of stopping. She frequently has guest appearances and recurring roles in TV shows like the massive hit Empire. She’s also working on new movie projects, animated films, and production work.

Moore has a reputation for doing what she wants and enjoying it, while others mock and criticize her, including her smoking cigars. However, Moore still enjoys cigars and often relishes the opportunity for a good smoke. Although Hollywood standards and ideas towards smoking have soured, Moore is still a rebel and proud to call herself a leading cigar lady. We’ll likely see more of her in the coming years, doing what she does best and giving us a good show.

Photo credit: ” Demi Moore by David Shankbone 2010 NYC,” by David Shankbone, Flickr, licensed CC BY 2.0.

Cigar Aficionado: Tom Selleck Loves His Cigars

Posted on January 23, 2021 by Staff

You know the man, you see the mustache. Still, you might not know that everyone’s favorite private investigator is a fan of a good smoke. Few can claim to be as prevalent as the one-time private investigator turned police commissioner in the long-running series Blue Bloods. Tom Selleck has done what few in Hollywood have managed to do. He has stayed relevant for over four decades and joined the ranks of cigar aficionado that rivals Kurt Russell, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Al Pacino.

At 75 years old, Tom Selleck continues providing the foundation for television characters we still love and enjoy. Repeats of Magnum P.I. play daily, and his latest, long-running series, Blue Bloods, is nothing less than a massive hit. Add to that some commercial advertisements and other endorsements, and it’s hard not to find Selleck on your television at some point during the day.

Not only has Mr. Selleck remained relevant, but he is also one of the biggest stars on television today with a show that is entering its eleventh season. Despite his age, Selleck continues to portray a hard-line cop with plenty of attitude and wisdom. You almost expect a man of his stature to enjoy a nice cigar after a long, hard day.

The Struggle of the Early Days

Before he was a smooth-talking private investigator and long before he was the wise leader of New York’s police department, Selleck struggled to find work. Throughout the ’70s, he had a hard time landing more than a small role in some one-off T.V. shows. For many years, Selleck failed to land a leading role. He would eventually land small parts in films, but most were forgettable.

Tom Selleck spent most of his time trying out for failed T.V. pilots before landing a recurring role on The Rockford Files; This would be the role that finally got him noticed. Selleck played his titular character first in the show Simon and Simon in the early ’80s. But, unfortunately, that was before Thomas Magnum landed his show.

The Early Days of Magnum

Tom Selleck talked in interviews about the early days of filming Magnum P.I. He spoke of how he envisioned himself living a life of luxury years earlier while in the service. In fact, during the struggle to land Magnum P.I. on the air, Selleck recalled doing odd jobs and handyman work to stay in his Hawaiian beach house until filming resumed. Eventually, filming continued, and Selleck went on to play the character for eight seasons. Much of the Magnum P.I. character came from Selleck’s aspirations of living a carefree lifestyle on the beach in Hawaii.

The cigar aficionado rebel, Tom Selleck, is more like Magnum in real life than the character he portrayed on the small screen. Whatever the case, thanks to Selleck’s portrayal of this smooth-talking playboy private eye, we have one of the most significant television characters of all time.

Cigar Aficionado On Screen

Our favorite mustached cop brought cigars into his work on many occasions. Thomas Magnum was known to smoke a cigar and sip brandy occasionally in the ’80s run of Magnum P.I. Seeing Magnum on television gave men and women the desire to be like the smooth-talking, cigar aficionado, private investigator themselves.

Even now, when smoking on screen is seen as a bit of faux pas, Selleck has managed to sneak a cigar in on a few shots of Blue Bloods. He still looks as smooth as ever while doing it, too. Whether playing a new father in movies like 3 Men and a Baby or a rugged cop in the Jesse Stone series, Selleck enjoys a good smoke on and off the screen.

Killing Time With A Good Smoke

When Selleck’s characters don’t smoke, he makes time for a good cigar whenever he gets the chance. Selleck has been a cigar aficionado since he first made it big by solving crimes in Hawaii.

It is widely reported he would spend time between scenes smoking Montecristo #2’s, some of the most popular imported Cuban cigars on the market. Selleck stated he would enjoy one between shoots or when reading lines of script. It was a way to wind down and break the monotony of a long day of filming. Not a casual smoker, Selleck enjoys a good smoke anytime he has some downtime from work.

Cigar Aficionado Spokesperson

Not only is T.V.’s greatest private investigator a fan of a good smoke, but he’s also an avid supporter and spokesperson for cigars and the cigar lifestyle. In fact, Selleck has given numerous interviews about his love for premium stogies and his long-term smoking lifestyle.

Tom Selleck doesn’t shy away from the cigar lifestyle. As a true cigar aficionado, he celebrates it. His tastes have grown over the years. His most recent favorites include The Davidoff Special T and La Gloria Cubana, both premium, pre-Castro Cubans.

At a time when celebrities shy away from smoking, especially on film and television, Selleck remains an outlaw who does what he wants. He enjoys what he enjoys regardless of what others around him are doing. Premium cigars are still a part of Selleck’s wind-down ritual when on set or returning to his California ranch.

Still in the Spotlight

Despite having a hit television show entering its eleventh season, which in the age of streaming services and constant network cancellations is a rarity, Tom Selleck isn’t slowing down. In fact, he still actively films on Blue Bloods, with another installment of the Jesse Stone franchise set to be released shortly. Beyond that, Selleck continues to make endorsements. In addition, he has ongoing advertisements running on television. So it looks like New York’s top cop will be around for years.

Photo Credit: “Tom Selleck on the red carpet at the 1989 Academy Awards, March 29, 1989,” by Alan Light, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY 2.0.

Drew Estate and the Rise of the Infused Cigar

Posted on January 10, 2021 by Staff

Few things in the cigar world evoke such disparate reactions more than “infused” or flavored cigars. Retail shops and cigar lounges relegate infused cigars to separate humidors from “traditional” cigars. Additionally, purists often scoff at them and consider them as inferior in quality and taste. But make no mistake, infused cigars have crept into the premium space largely due to the pioneers at Drew Estate.

The Rebirth of Drew Estate Cigars

Twenty-five years ago, Pulp Fiction burst upon the movie screens and Drew Estate made a similar garish debut shortly thereafter. Flavored cigars were nothing new. In fact, cigars have been dipped in rum or other spirits for as long as they have existed. Unlike mass-produced, cheaply flavored cigars with cut-rate tobacco, the brand set out to launch the “Rebirth of Cigars,” by creating premium infused cigars with its Acid line.

A Recipe as Secret as the Colonel’s

The original Acid Kuba Kuba is a heady, medium-bodied, and exotically flavored cigar, not for the faint of heart. It’s definitely not something you want in your humidor next to your prized Cubans, since cigars readily absorb flavors. The Acid line was an immediate blockbuster and became the backbone of Drew Estate. It has several variations of infusions that take on different nuances in the various sizes, ranging from cigarillo to torpedo.

Twentieth Anniversary Benchmark

To celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the line, Drew Estate created a special blend of ultra-premium tobaccos and gave them a subtle infusion. Then, the boutique brand box-pressed its anniversary cigars to represent the pinnacle of the brand. The finished product resulted in a lush, full-bodied smoke. If this is any indication of what’s in store for the upcoming twenty-fifth-anniversary release, aficionados of infused cigars should start rejoicing.

The Rebirth of Cigars Continues

Drew Estate expanded beyond infused cigars and into the traditional premium space with the Liga Privada and Undercrown lines. The Liga Privada Number 9 remains one of the most coveted and difficult cigars to acquire in the United States. The careful attention to the construction and blending of the Liga or Acid lines is why other top producers added their own infused lines. Imitation, after all, is the most sincere form of flattery.

Swisher Sweets and Drew Estate

When Swisher International acquired Drew Estate in 2014, the acquisition created two, unique smoking experiences. Swisher, the home of the mass-produced, omnipresent flavored Swisher Sweets cigars remained in every deli and gas station across the country. They became the upscale boutique side of the business with its premium, infused cigars. This formed the perfect match. Swisher International’s size allowed Drew Estate to grow its capital while scaling economies across many functions. Additionally, the union also granted better access to distribution as well as advanced cigar-making technology.

A Word from the Founder

Jonathan Drew, the founder of Drew Estate, is an icon among the “new wave” of cigar makers. He remains firmly involved in the day-to-day operations of all the Drew Estate lines. When asked about his vision for the future and his favorite smokes, he responded, “We set out to create the ‘rebirth of cigars,’ which we did in our own fashion. I have the luxury of lighting up an ultra-premium Liga Privada ‘Year of the Rat,’ or my current obsession, which is the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel infused line. Drew Estate makes everything with the same attention to quality or detail. We wanted to make sure that the true aficionados relaxing in cigar lounges would have options that satisfied all palates.”

Jonathan Drew remarks, via Jack Heyer, Drew Estate Director of Social Media December 2020

Photo Credit: @jonathandrewart/Twitter

Hollywood Royalty Kurt Russell Enjoys His Cigars

Posted on December 20, 2020 by Staff

Longevity in Hollywood is a novel idea reserved for a rarefied few. Nevertheless, some actors like Al Pacino, Jack Nicholson, and Sylvester Stallone have managed to be box office staples for decades. Add to that list of long-time screen stars and cigar lovers Kurt Russell. Russell has entered his sixth decade on the big screen and shows no signs of stopping.

The Tarantino Effect

Twenty-five years ago, Quentin Tarantino made Pulp Fiction and reinvigorated the careers of John Travolta and Bruce Willis. It also solidified cigar lover Samuel L. Jackson as one lousy mother! In Tarantino’s recent release, Once Upon A Time in Hollywood, Kurt Russell reunited with Quentin Tarantino. He gave a tour de force performance that garnered more attention than his lead role in Tarantino’s Hateful Eight less than a decade earlier.

In the Beginning, There Was Kurt Russell

Russell’s first movie role at age 12 was kicking Elvis Presley in the shins in It Happened at the World’s Fair. At 13, he played the lead in The Travels of Jaimie McPheeters, his first (in an eventual string of Westerns.) Kurt Russel has enjoyed a star turn in every decade of his career, portraying a steady flow of well-known, rugged leading man roles.

Action Figures

Some actors quickly point out their wall of Oscars and other awards. However, Russell is proud that he now has nine action figures based on characters from his roles. The most recent was from his role as “Ego” in the Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 2. More than any Oscar, these action figures show how much his audiences love him!

Smokes On and Off-Screen

In Escape From L.A., there is a joke that he has no choice but to smoke cigarillos because he can’t find cigarettes. In Tombstone, he deftly lights a cigar while running a poker game. Then, in The Hateful Eight, he enjoys a pipe throughout the movie, despite being chained to a prisoner. Tobacco, in some form, always makes its way on-screen for Russell. He believes that sometimes the cigar, or pipe, is essential to the character. He should know; he’s played over 100 characters!

What Does Kurt Russell Smoke Off Screen?

Russell admits he is not a daily smoker but proudly boasts he has never turned down a cigar. He loves the relaxed time and Zen-like experience that comes with smoking one. The ability to have a civilized conversation in a cushy lounge while enjoying a well-made, mild Cuban cigar is an absolute treat that he relishes.

Where Does Russell Go From Here?

Kurt Russell has been the savior of New York and Los Angeles, a rugged sheriff bringing law and order to Tombstone, a fire captain, Santa Claus, and even a space god. Yet, with a career spanning sixty years and every possible leading man role, he is STILL excited about going to work. He has long been lauded for his tireless work effort, something he got from his father, who said, “Show up and do the work.” Since then, Russell has been doing precisely that for sixty years and is looking forward to his next role, which he hopes will inspire a new action figure for his collection.

Photo credit: “Actor Kurt Russell at the premiere of Grindhouse, Austin, Texas,” by Jeff Balke, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY-SA 3.0.

Brother of the Leaf: Sylvester Stallone Loves Cigars

Posted on December 6, 2020 by Staff

Very few actors have so embedded themselves in the cultural zeitgeist that the mere mention of the character’s name can describe a person in a situation. Rocky will forever be every scrappy underdog. Rambo will always be the wronged person taking justice into their own hands. Both of these characters belong to one of Hollywood’s living legends. He is a brother of the leaf and a man who goes by the nickname “Sly:” Cigar lover Sylvester Stallone.

The Underdog Endures

Never contented with being a background player or an extra, Stallone busted out in 1976 with the Oscar-winning Rocky, which he wrote. Rather than sell the rights and let someone else play the eponymous role, he stuck to his guns and got his way. After a few sequels, Stallone was a household name. Five decades later, the Rocky saga continues to breathe new life into the franchise, with Stallone passing the torch to Michael B. Jordan.

Action Heroes of the ’80s

The 1980s was a golden decade for brawny action movies. Careers of action heroes like Stallone, good friend, and cigar enthusiast Arnold Schwarzenegger launched into orbit. First, Stallone’s portrayal of the PTSD-suffering soldier cum vigilante John Rambo in the Rambo series became a fixture on the big screen. Then, four decades later, they cashed in with The Expendables franchise poking fun at the aging action heroes.

A New Brother of the Leaf is Born

Stallone was no stranger to cigarettes. That’s particularly true when he struggled with his acting career in the 70s. Sylvester Stallone’s smoking habit dates back to when he was 12. Time, however, has a funny way of changing and transforming our habits. In Stallone’s case, you might even call it an epiphany.

When he filmed FIST, he discovered a love for cigars that would stretch across time and maybe even the cosmos. But, more importantly, he also found a transformation effect the cigars had on him and his different roles. Then, this brother of the leaf fell in love with fine cigars and the cigar lifestyle. What’s notable to remember, though, is that his role in FIST offers a rare glimpse of Stallone pictured on-screen with one of the cigars he has become known for.

Quiet on the Set!

Like many other fine actors, Stallone is known for mingling with fellow actors and cigar aficionados on the set. Carl Weathers, best known for his role as Apollo Creed in Rocky, credits Stallone for introducing him to cigars. Another well-known actor and cigar lover, Arnold Schwarzenegger, appeared with Stallone in The Expendables. Off-screen, however, the two are rumored to have had cigar-smoking sessions that were nothing less than renowned. Finally, during the filming of Copland, Stallone also enjoyed some great smokes with another well-known cigar aficionado – Robert DeNiro.

What Does a Legendary Brother of the Leaf Smoke?

Stallone’s love of cigars runs coast to coast deep, literally. He keeps several well-stocked humidors in both his homes – on the East Coast and the West Coast. Like any well-supplied humidor, all contain a broad range of trophy cigars. However, his favorite cigar remains the rare Fuente Opus X. He prefers to smoke at night. During the day, Stallone smokes a different kind of cigar, with his preferences tending toward a minor smoke similar in size to a Robusto. Yet, if you ask him which cigar is his favorite during the day, he’ll likely name the Partagas Series D Number 4.

No Rest for the Weary

Sylvester Stallone has spent five decades in his acting career, but don’t worry. He’s certainly not showing any signs that he’s ready to slow down anytime soon. However, you’ll often find him relaxing with a fine cognac and a cigar at the end of the day. He picked up the game of golf late in life and loved its philosophical aspects. Plus, it’s a perfect time for this brother of the leaf to smoke a few of his favorites. Even though he struggled at golf initially, like everything else in his life, he refused to quit. He continues to live by his mantra to keep pursuing and being what he calls a “positive pest.” That work ethic shows no sign of wavering!

Photo Credit: “Photo taken at the private party after the premiere of the movie FIST, April 13, 1978,” by Alan Light, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY 2.0.

Samuel L. Jackson Knows His Full-Bodied Cigars

Posted on November 29, 2020 by Staff

Try to name a Hollywood blockbuster in which Samuel L. Jackson hasn’t appeared! It’s an impossible task. When you talk about the hardest-working men in showbiz, several names come to mind. However, very few can match Jackson’s work since bursting onto the scene in his first film, Together for Days, in 1972. Fifty years later, he’s showing no signs of stopping, and he’s still smoking his favorite full-bodied cigars, among others.

Samuel L. Jackson Dominates the Big Screen

Samuel L. Jackson has become a fixture on small and big screens. Whether doing Capital One commercials or in any variation of comic book movie, he’s out there! But, like in real life, the odds are pretty good when it comes to the big screen; you will find him smoking something. Jackson has been smoking cigars religiously for years, having transitioned from cigarettes. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that many of his co-stars have also been avid cigar smokers!

Full-Bodied Cigars on the Big Screen?

You know, the times have changed when Jackson plays a scientist in Jurassic Park who smokes a cigarette while working. Less than three years later, he played a boxing promoter (loosely based on cigar aficionado Don King) with a cigar as a fixture. Likewise, he enjoys a cigar and cognac in Django Unchained. However, a trophy cigar is not a prop for the man who is the highest-grossing actor of all time at almost $6 Billion in Box Office receipts.

Full-Bodied Cigars or Big Ring Gauge?

When you reach that level of success, you can afford to have more than a few trophy cigars in your humidor. Like Jackson’s wild fashion choices, he is not afraid to make a splash with a big ring gauge cigar. Cuban trophy cigars like Cohiba Behikes and Romeo and Julieta Gran Churchills have been favorites. However, he is not married to any single brand, having been photographed smoking Montecristos, Davidoffs, and Rocky Patels. He is neither shy about full-bodied cigars, often favoring rich, oily Maduros.

Samuel L. Jackson has Some Great Friends

Cigar lovers tend to travel in packs. It doesn’t hurt when your fellow cigar lovers are work colleagues. Playing Nick Fury in the Avengers movies means being on set with cigar lovers Chris Pratt, Robert Downey Jr., and Don Cheadle, among others. There are stories about legendary smoke-outs after shooting and trying to steal each other’s trophy cigars during busy filming. On the golf course, he sometimes plays and smokes Cuban cigars through rounds with none other than Michael Jordan. It’s good to be friends with Samuel L. Jackson.

You Can’t Stop Nick Fury

As he enters his fifth decade of acting, Jackson shows no signs of slowing down. The Nick Fury origin story is in the works, and there is talk of doing a sequel to the cult classic Snakes on a Plane. He also always remains a favored muse for Quentin Tarantino. His role in Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction got him his only Oscar nomination as Best Supporting Actor. Thankful for the financial rewards, he has made no bones about his desire for recognition for his work’s quality. Hopefully, he has the proper victory cigar set aside for his Oscar acceptance speech.

Photo credit: “Samuel L. Jackson 2019 by Glenn Francis,” by Toglenn, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY-SA 4.0.

Mike Ditka: Da Coach Loves Cigars

Posted on November 15, 2020 by Staff

It takes a special kind of athlete not just to win the game but to view the sport and the entire industry as brimming with career-altering opportunities. Winning athletes come and go, and some fade over time. The rare few aspire to something greater, take charge of their dreams, and leap far from the playing field to the small screen or beyond. Of these, fewer yet can claim their fame to both worlds while enjoying the immortalization that follows in the recurring skits found on Saturday Night Live. Coach Mike Ditka accomplished this feat with a cigar in hand the whole way through.

Mike Ditka on the Field

As a Pro Bowl, hall of fame tight end, Mike Ditka is a throwback to the days when football was what famed coach Vince Lombardi called “a collision sport.” He set a receiving record for tight ends that lasted nearly twenty years. His grit and attitude on the field provided a natural transition to the sidelines as a coach, eventually winning the Super Bowl with the 1986 Chicago Bears. He evaluated players the way he did cigars; he knew if they were a fit right out of the gate.

Work Ethic is a Top Priority

Excellence in a job well done is everything. And that’s precisely what Coach Mike Ditka demanded of his team. He understood that winning went beyond the individual and depended on the effort of all 53 players working together. Work ethic more than mattered; it was a top priority. Excellence was getting out on the field and playing a good game. It meant putting your best foot forward. It was also about striking the other guy faster and far more often than they hit you. This same work ethic is what Ditka’s father instilled in him as a child growing up in Pennsylvania’s mining country. His father summed it up succinctly. “You get out of life what you put into it,” he said. In other words, your effort and discipline are the keys to your success.

Mike Ditka’s Leap to NFL and Cigars

The work ethic and discipline instilled in him landed Ditka an all-American football player for the University of Pittsburgh. He was drafted in the first round by Chicago. He hadn’t given much thought to the NFL. Instead, he focused on a potential career as a dentist. Yet, life has a funny way of changing plans. Mike Ditka celebrated his signing with the Chicago Bears with his first cigar, a White Owl.

Mike Ditka’s Love Affair With Cigars is Born

In those early days, Ditka loved smoking. Still, finances left him constrained to the cheapest, mass-produced cigars like White Owl, Tiparrilo, and Phillies. Over time, his palate became more refined, and his financial situation improved. So he was able to upgrade his cigar preferences. He later became the head coach of the Bears after several Super Bowl-winning seasons as a receiver coach with the Dallas Cowboys. Yet, Ditka was rarely without his trademark Churchill cigar.

Mike Ditka and Trophy Cigars

As the Bears’ head coach, he celebrated winning the Super Bowl by handing out prized trophy cigars from his collection and bottles of champagne in the locker room. He loved the camaraderie of smoking with his players. His love affair with cigars continued well after retiring from football. Many of his former players credit their love of cigars to being introduced to them through Coach Ditka.

The Winning Tradition Continues

After several forays into restaurants and cigar lounges, Mike Ditka partnered with Camacho Cigars to launch a line of sticks as an homage. True to form, Ditka took part in the process. He helped select the various blends, producing a robust, full-bodied smoke worthy of his persona. Although a heart attack two years ago ended his smoking days, Ditka swore he would light a victory cigar should the Bears win the Super Bowl again.

Photo credit: Heilemann (Interior Staff), T. (2008). [Assignment: 48-DPA-02_01_02_08_K_NFL_Peo] Activities at the National Football League’s [pre-Super Bowl XLII interactive theme park,] The NFL Experience, in Glendale, Arizona, where Department of the Interior and other federal agency staff [joined Pro Football Hall of Famer Mike Ditka and other football luminaries for outdoor recreation promotions] [48-DPA-02_01_02_08_K_NFL_Peo_DOI_9540.JPG]. National Archives Catalog. https://catalog.archives.gov/id/7916970