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Cigar Life Guy 2022 Cigar Events

Posted on January 16, 2022 by Staff

Each year, large cigar events are an integral part of the cigar culture. They give aficionados the opportunity to gather with hundreds and sometimes thousands of fellow cigar lovers for a day or a week to socialize over a few smokes. Additionally, they also combine cigars, food, drink, music, great scenery, and fellowship, creating “must do” events for many cigar enthusiasts across the country. For the third straight year, Cigar Life Guy™ plans on having a strong event presence with a table or booth and plenty of swag giveaways at many top events. It’s time to get your calendar out and plan which of these top 2022 cigar events you will attend.

Cigar Life Guy: 2022 Cigar Events Schedule

The last few years have brought a proliferation of large cigar events varying in size, scope, and theme. It is not practical to attend them all, so have a look at the carefully curated few events Cigar Life Guy will be a big part of:

January 26-28

Tobacco Plus Expo (TPE)

Las Vegas, NV*

February 16-20

Black Smoke Miami

Miami, FL

May 12-15

Charleston Smoke Out

Charleston, SC

May 24-29

Houston Cigar Week

Houston, TX

June 25

Cigar Life Guy 3^rd Anniversary Party

Atlanta, GA – Life N Times Cigar Lounge

July 8-12

Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show

Las Vegas, NV*

August 12-13

Boutique Cigar Festival – Smoke at the Creek

Martinsville, IN (near Indianapolis)

Labor Day Weekend (TBD) (CANCELLED)

C.A.T.S. Festival

Outside Dallas, TX

September 19-25

Atlanta Cigar Experience

Atlanta, GA

November (TBD)

Cigar Mike Las Vegas Takeover

Las Vegas, NV

December 4

Cigar Heritage Festival

Tampa, FL

*Business-to-business events are not open to the general public. Cigar Life Guy will participate as a media member.

This schedule is subject to change. Questions can be directed to dave@cigarlifeguy.com.

What You Can Expect at Events

Check out the event website or social media listings for additional information and any changes in schedule. Some events are open to free public admission with no ticket or RSVP required. Others are ticketed – some with free tickets and others with a ticket charge. If you’re interested in a ticketed event, act soon. Many events sell out in advance with no onsite sales available.

Legendary cigar personality Cigar Mike has dubbed Cigar Life Guy as “The Swag King” for the quality and creativity of the free branded items Cigar Life Guy gives out to event participants. So, expect plenty of energy and great swag from Cigar Life Guy.

Seating availability varies by event. If you’re concerned about getting a good seat, arrive early.

Do not confuse a VIP ticket with having a reserved seat or section unless your ticket is specifically sold as reserved seating. Many frustrated event attendees have made that mistake and ended up standing.

Cash is still king, so bring some. While most vendors accept credit cards, others might not. Also, cash may be the only form of payment accepted for your valet or parking lot.

Bring some cigars with you. You never know when you might need them. Depending on the event (particularly if at a lounge), good cigar etiquette may dictate that you patronize the house humidor. It is always good to support on-site cigar vendors.

You’ll often find more relaxed restrictions on outside cigars, particularly if it is a paid event, so plan on bringing a few extra cigars with you for these, too.

You never know when the check-out line from the humidor is prohibitively long, or you want to gift something specific to a friend. Also, you might simply like to save a little money and smoke something you already paid for.

The Final Word

Finally, don’t worry about rolling solo! One of the great things about the cigar culture is it is very friendly. It’s also typically easy to strike up conversation with other aficionados, even if you aren’t the outgoing type. You won’t be the only one who didn’t bring a crew with you, so come on out and make some new friends!

Make your plans now to hit some great 2022 cigar events! If you see Cigar Life Guy, stop by and say hi!

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Atlanta Cigar Experience 2021 Highlights

Posted on September 30, 2021 by Staff

Cigar Life Guy was pleased to once again be a lead sponsor for Cigar Mike’s Atlanta Cigar Experience in and around Atlanta, Georgia, September 20-26, 2021. Several hundred cigar enthusiasts from around the country and the world descended on Atlanta to mix with local smokers across at least fifteen venues throughout the week. We’re going to break it all down to give you a taste of what the smoke was all about, and it begins with Cigar Mike Bennett. So, sit back, light up and read on.

“Cigar Mike” Bennett

The weeklong series of events of the Atlanta Cigar Experience is the brainchild of twenty-five-year cigar industry veteran Mike Bennett. Yet, Bennett is affectionately known simply as “Cigar Mike.” Bennett reflected on the week, “Atlanta is special to me since it’s my hometown. I felt so much love seeing my friends — old and new, visit. I was just thrilled everyone had a great time again this year.” Cigar Mike regularly hosts large gatherings of cigar lovers across the country. Notably, he will have his second annual “Cigar Mike Vegas Takeover” in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 4-7, 2021.

Up next, Black Smoke Magazine hosted its official release party to mark the publication’s debut.

Black Smoke Magazine Release Party

Stanley’s Cigar Lounge, a new lounge in town, was the lucky venue that held the most noteworthy party of the week. In fact, local entrepreneur and owner, Monica Coleman, opened the doors to this venue just this month. The event marked the official release for the inaugural issue of Black Smoke Magazine. Additionally, the debut cover featured Atlanta cigar icon Christine Morgan and BSM owner Kennedy Achille. You might also know Achille simply as “TK”. Regardless, we’ve rounded up over 35 great images of this event and linked them here for your viewing pleasure.

Besides Christine and TK, countless other industry personalities made the pilgrimage to Atlanta for the week’s festivities as well. In fact, even the legendary Boston Jimmie joined the fun. So, make sure you check out his recap as well. Finally, there were also more cigar companies, brand owners, manufacturer representatives and store owners than you could count. So, if you’ve never been to the Atlanta Cigar Experience and you’re going to be in the area next year, consider adding it to your calendar. Speaking of, let’s dive into what the Atlanta Cigar Experience entails.

Atlanta Cigar Experience Featured Events

The event kickoff began on Monday at the Cigar City Club in Sandy Springs. The kickoff event is mostly for locals. Yet, the party brought together many shop owners and representatives, too. In fact, anyone in the area who could get away on a typically slow Monday showed up for the event.

Tuesday was day two and turned into a complete street takeover of Main Street in Lithonia. There were parties held indoors and outdoors at the local crowd favorite, Life N Times Cigar Lounge. The lounge offers a selection of coffee, wine and spirits, and favorite boutique cigars to patrons. So, stopping here for a smoke is always a must.

The prerelease announcement party for ATL Cigar Co.’s new line extension “Magic,” arrived on day three of the event. That was on Wednesday, of course. The prerelease announcement was made at Atlantucky Brewery in Downtown, which is also a great place to grab a craft brew. The brewery also carries a local favorite you’ll want to try: Kentucky Mudd chocolate milk stout.

Thursday was day four of the Atlanta Cigar Experience. It also marked the day for the aforementioned Black Smoke Magazine Party in at Stanley’s Cigar Lounge in South Fulton. So, everyone headed over to join the festivities and enjoy a good stick.

On Friday afternoon, we headed over to the Quick Shot gun range near Buckhead. Guests spent time on the range popping off a few rounds for fun. After that, there was a barbecue buffet featuring Barbeque & Smoke sauces and related items. It was enough to make your mouth water. After the wild afternoon on the range, everyone enjoyed an exquisite evening at the Davidoff of Geneva store in Buckhead. Unfortunately, if you didn’t make it to the Atlanta Cigar Experience this year, you’ll miss out on the Davidoff store in the future. The store is closing its Atlanta location at the end of the year and will be missed. Not to worry, though, there are still plenty of other venues to pique your interest and enjoy a good smoke and fellowship at.

Saturday started with a bang. There was a day party takeover at Cam Newton’s Fellaship Lounge in Downtown. After that, event patrons enjoyed the evening at The Patio Social Club in Smyrna before wrapping up the sixth evening of the experience.

Sunday was the final day of the Atlanta Cigar Experience and with it came a finale any cigar enthusiast can appreciate. The finale was at King’s Cigar Lounge and featured all the NFL games on big screens and more barbecue. King’s is just a short Uber ride to the airport. So, cigar enthusiasts returning home can have a final smoke or three before catching their return flights.

Besides the featured evening parties, each afternoon of the Atlanta Cigar Experience included an organized “pop-up” event at a local shop or lounge. The pop-up events are a great way for cigar enthusiasts to mingle in a laid-back environment and check out a local cigar shop or lounge they’ve never visited.

Giving Back: Cigars for Warriors Fundraiser

Giving back and providing opportunities for others to giveback is always a staple of Cigar Mike events. One example for this year was Cigar Life Guy’s “Cigars Just Taste Better in Atlanta” T-shirt promotion. Atlanta Cigar Experience guests received a gift of a fun shirt showcasing Atlanta when they made a donation to Operation: Cigars for Warriors. Shirts were also available at retail partner Highland Cigar Co. and several pop-up events in the weeks leading up to the event. Cigars for Warriors is a 501 (c)(3) charity that has received over $2,000 donated so far. It uses these funds to send cigars to U.S. troops deployed overseas.

What Patrons Said About Atlanta Cigar Experience

When asked what they thought of the Atlanta Cigar Experience, guests had much to say.

“A.C.E. is an annual event for me. I enjoy seeing my extended cigar family. My [personal] quote is ‘That’s why you don’t have no friends…we have family!!!’ Thanks for the Family Reunion, Mike” – Kevin Watkins, Founder, Black Cigar Aficionados.

“The Atlanta Cigar Experience captured the true essence of what the cigar lifestyle is all about! As always, Cigar Mike was the ultimate ambassador to a great week of fellowship” – Reggie Kimble, Stickmen Blog.

“The Atlanta Cigar Experience hosted by Cigar Mike, was a true celebration of the cigar lifestyle, the appreciation of cigar lounges and small business owners who are a part of the lifestyle. It was an honor for Barbeque and Smoke to be a part of an amazing week full of events. We look forward to working with Cigar Mike and his team in the future and are always glad to return to Atlanta, GA” — Mac Bostic, Owner, Barbeque and Smoke.

“Atlanta Cigar Experience is an event I plan to never miss. Cigar Mike makes sure to create an experience like no other. I love the different vibes in the venues. I came last year for the first time knowing my Mom was gonna be gone when I got back. So it’s also my getaway and how I celebrate her leaving this earth with fellowship and enjoying others in the cigar culture” — Calvin “King Hollywood” Jenkins, Owner of Luxe Cigar Lounge in South Carolina.

“You can always count on Cigar Mike to put on a great Atlanta Cigar Experience. I believe much of that is due to his passion for premium cigars and his love for his hometown. Our industry is fortunate to have someone like Mike Bennett” — Eddie Tarazona, Owner, Tarazona Cigars.

“The Cigar Mike experience is always really exciting. You never what you’re going to experience and what to expect. Mike is an experience in his own way. Everything is always tailored to the people and for the people who travel from any distance to be there” – Akbar Alam, manager of Fellaship, an exclusive lounge and restaurant in Atlanta.

“Everywhere you went, you could see and feel Mike’s advocacy for the industry and small business. Cigar Mike is good for both the cigar industry and culture” — Greg Willis, a partner of Emperors Cut Cigars.

“Cigar Mike has an amazing network of people that we were so excited to host at Stanley’s. His connection to the pulse of the cigar community is unmatched” — Monica Coleman, Owner, Stanley’s Cigar Lounge.

“Mike is the host of all hosts! The vibe and events were great” — Mr. SODO in Houston.

“Tuesday night was an amazing experience at Life N Times Cigar Lounge Block Party. Truly enjoyed all the cigar enthusiasts from all sides of the country come together to celebrate Atlanta Cigar Experience 2021, hosted by Cigar Mike. It was a true cigar event that featured vendors, bourbon, cigar sponsors, and music that honored the Atlanta cigar industry” – M.J. Smith, Owner of Life N Times Cigar & Coffee.

“My trip to Atlanta from New Jersey was truly worth it! Mike was a great host. It really was an Atlanta Cigar Mike Experience!” — Donnell Isaac, Silverback Cigar Crew.

“There are days when I stand in awe of Cigar Mike. Though his schedule is often hectic, he is always seems to be in the moment, enjoying the company of whoever is in his presence. This ability is truly a remarkable skill, and I am honored to learn it from a great man” – Leroy Lamar, President, ATL Cigar Co.

That’s a Wrap

The Atlanta Cigar Experience is an annual event, traditionally held the fourth week of September. Look for coming details about the 2022 Atlanta Cigar Experience event and then mark your calendar.

Photo credit: All images are credited to Cigar Life Guy except for Akbar Alam, which is credited to Instagram.com/aalam.

The Fear of Missing Out Hits Cigar Events

Posted on May 23, 2021 by Staff

For many of us in the cigar community, we’re getting back to large-scale cigar events after a horrible break called COVID, which is fantastic. Not only are we getting back to events, but it isn’t just you, there are more of them than ever. Of course, social media makes everything look better than it really is. Put it all together, you’ve got a lot of fifty-year-old cigar smokers suffering from FOMO the same way their kids or grandkids do over whatever kids do these days.

What is FOMO?

FOMO is an acronym for “fear of missing out.” Verywellmind.com defines the fear of missing out as, “the feeling or perception that others are having more fun, living better lives, or experiencing better things than you are. It involves a deep sense of envy and affects self-esteem. It is also often exacerbated by social media like Instagram and Facebook.” This is a real thing. The best way to describe it for many folks is remembering when you were in high school or college and you literally thought you needed to go out every weekend night or couldn’t miss a party? That was FOMO.

There Are More Large Cigar Events Than Ever

It used to be there were only a handful of the large events or herfs. You may be familiar with established names like Cigar Heritage Festival, Big Smoke, the Drew Estate Barnsmokers, Black Smoke Miami, and Atlanta Cigar Week just to name a few. This year there are new or relaunched large events in Charleston, Charlotte, Dallas, Houston, Memphis, Philadelphia, Orlando, Chicago, and Washington D.C. and this isn’t a complete list. Almost every major metro area now has its version of “Cigar Week.” Cigar Mike and I joke about “McDonough Cigar Week” being a reality sometime soon. (McDonough is a nice small city 20 miles south of Atlanta that really doesn’t need a cigar week)

Frankly, the advent of more, large cigar events is great. Some are more successful, better run, or more popular than others. That’s the natural course of things. Yet, on the whole, having more events that are more accessible to even more cigar smokers is a net positive.

Now You Can’t Be Everywhere

There are so many events now, that even the most engaged cigar smoker can’t be everywhere. In fact, often events are held simultaneously. Most of us, whether we’re consumers or event sponsors, have practical constraints like time and money. We have to start prioritizing events. Ask yourself questions. Which cigar events are most important to us? Location and practicality play a vital role, too. So, which ones are the most practical to attend? After all, if you’re not up for a road trip, then finding something close to home is a win.

Finally, you’ll also want to consider how the event is run. Not all events are run, set up, or deliver what every cigar enthusiast wants or needs. Find common ground that aligns with your desires or goals – what you hope to gain from the event. Which events are the most likely to be well run and deliver on what you want? Sometimes that means you need to get good at saying, “No,” even to cigar events. Declining an event doesn’t mean you don’t support the event. Instead, wish your BOTL/SOTL a successful event. It also doesn’t that you’ll never attend that particular event. It just means that this year, it doesn’t work for you. Be okay with that conversation.

Social Media drives FOMO related to Cigar Events

Let’s face it: social media isn’t reality. Everything looks great on social media. I’ve been to many mediocre events that look incredible online, but the reality turns out much different. No, I’m not going to mention names. We all have a good time at cigar events. If we didn’t we wouldn’t keep coming back. When you check your Facebook or IG at 11 pm on a Saturday, remember what you see at your local Cigar Week event isn’t always 100% reality. Your friends who are posting from there will still be your friends next week when they return. If they’re really good friends, they might even bring a cigar for you! But they’ll still be your friends and you’ll still be able to join them at the next cigar event.

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Salud! Cuban Cocktails, Rum and Cigars

Posted on April 13, 2020 by Staff

What better thoughts conjure up images of life in Old Havana than spending a leisurely afternoon in an outdoor café with good friends and rum and cigars while enjoying one of the signature cocktails for which Cuba is famous? Fresh tropical fruit, local ingredients, and plenty of ice create refreshing drinks to counter the sweltering heat. The critical local element is Cuban rum. Few combinations are better than the marriage of rum and cigars, and neither has to be Cuban for you to enjoy them!

The Most Famous Pairing: the Mojito

The mojito is the drink most synonymous with Cuba. A mojito is to Cuba, as a Pina Colada is to Puerto Rico or a Manhattan is to… Manhattan! It combines rum, soda water, fresh lime juice, sugar, and fresh, crushed mint.

Over time, many variations have risen. Substitutions include tequila or vodka. At its heart, an authentic Cuban mojito is always rum-based. While enjoying a mojito, we recommend a cigar that isn’t shy with its flavor. Something that can stand up to the drink’s tartness, sweetness, and a brisk hint of mint. A nice, fat Nicaraguan Gordo with a Maduro wrapper that packs a punch is our choice to go the distance with the bounty of flavors in the cocktail.

Go Bananas with the Daiquiri

You don’t need to make all daiquiris with bananas or strawberries; consider other fruits (beyond maraschino cherries). Many legends suggest its creation lies in the village of Daiquiri by a mining engineer. It gained fame in the 1930s in a frozen version served at the bar Floridita, one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite watering holes.

The basic version is white rum, sugar, lemon juice, and maraschino cherries. Ernest Hemingway preferred the Papa Doble, a double shot of rum, and easy on the sugar. To honor the man and the myth, we recommend any Cuban cigar you are lucky enough to get your hands on. In reality, Ernest Hemingway smoked cigarettes while a wartime correspondent; he never really enjoyed cigars. It was always his ties to Cuba that enhanced that myth.

Simple Rum and Cigars: Cuba Libre

Sometimes the essential recipes are the most timeless. For example, the Cuba Libre sprung to life in the early 1900s when Coca-Cola began exporting its colas to Cuba. Cuba Libre, which translates to “Free Cuba,” referenced Cuba’s newly won freedom from Spain. It comprises cola, rum, and a splash of lime and is usually served in a tall glass with plenty of ice.

Given the simple, everyday aspect of the ingredients, we recommend pairing it with your favorite typical smoker. A nice Connecticut shade wrapper, preferably a Lonsdale, will last as long as the drink, so you may maximize your enjoyment time.

Rum and Cigars: The Long Game

Remember, to make these drinks as authentic as possible, you must keep your ingredients fresh. Always make sure you have an ample supply of ice as well! By all means, take some liberties with the recipes to make your own little slice of Havana. There are no wrong combinations, especially for your choice of rum and cigars to complement the cocktails! Cheers!

Photo credit: Pixabay | Anestiev

Trophy Cigars and the Art of the Hunt

Posted on March 29, 2020 by Staff

How many times over the years have you had someone show you their humidor, and while beaming with pride, point out a few selective beauties? What was the sentence that is usually uttered in conjunction with the great reveal? “I’m saving these for a special occasion.” Or, “you have no idea how hard they were to get.” Now we have all experienced humidor envy at some point or another, and the war to keep up with what the Jones are smoking can be a futile endeavor. That of course doesn’t mean there isn’t a thrill in the chase or art to the hunt for trophy cigars!

The Hunt for Trophy Cigars Begins

Many of us brim with excitement walking into a cigar store when visiting a new town, hoping to score something rare or hard to find. We’ve all been beguiled as the proprietor deftly pulls back the velvet curtain, or opens the hidden case to reveal their secrets. There is a visceral thrill when out pops an Arturo Fuente Opus X BBMF, or a Fuente Don Arturo Anniverxario. The price of each is reasonable enough to include them in your humidor for bragging rights.

Taking the Trophy Cigars to the Next Level

If you’re more concerned with running your reward miles, then a trip to the auction house might be in order. There are many online auction sites with extensive price listings covering the entire gamut. Nothing beats the thrill of swaggering into Sotheby’s and examining their treasures.

Swarovski-encrusted King of Denmarks is always a welcome sight. But, so, too, are boxes of Cohiba Behikes, or the stunning Ghurka Black Dragons. Even if you aren’t planning on bidding, the atmosphere is intoxicating. But, don’t let it lead to an errant bid!

Fly Me to the Moon

There are countless stories about world travelers bringing back boxes of Cubans from duty-free shops in foreign airports. We applaud you for patronizing legitimate products. By doing so, you avoided many counterfeits or boxes purchased from some swarthy back ally character in a trench coat. Now that it’s legal to bring a few boxes back to the United States. So, there’s no reason to worry about removing the bands or disguising them as something else.

One lounge regular used to brag how back in the day he would buy a box and stash them in his wife’s luggage before they boarded. He thought customs agents would target him. Meanwhile, she would walk through unscathed and unfazed. No need for Mission Impossible charades anymore. Carry your trophies with pride and make sure you store them well while you travel!

Smoke ‘Em if you Got ‘Em

We know you are like us. If you care about everything involving the cigar lifestyle, you will look at your humidor, and crack a Cheshire grin. Few things match that first feeling of picking up that special smoke to commemorate a wedding, promotion, or retirement. Whatever it is, remember, every day above ground is a “special occasion.” Never let your trophy cigars gather dust while waiting for the “perfect day.” And whatever you do, no matter how certain you are, never tell your friend that his treasured trophies are counterfeit Cuban cigars!

Photo credit: arturofuente.com

The Cigar Smoking World Championship

Posted on February 9, 2020 by Staff

“The Cigar Smoking World Championship was born out of the true passion of cigars combined with the beauty of the moments spent sharing this passion with like-minded people from all over the World.”

— CSWCWorld.com

The cigar-smoking competition has been ongoing for nine years now and counting. You’ll find the best talent in the industry there. The goal? Smoke your cigar as slowly as possible, as this turns out; the slower, the better. Most recently, more than 250 of the world’s best cigar enthusiasts attended the event. Talk about a lot of smoke! You might think this event was going to be one where anger and competitiveness bring out the worst in people. The opposite is true.

The true gentleman and the camaraderie of the sport radiate from everyone. Win or lose, contenders and fellow cigar aficionados laugh and have a jolly ol’ time. The prizes consist of loser cigars, which are no losing matter, to the grand prize! A trophy and the title of Grand Champion serve as the awards. Also, the champion receives a custom Cueryo y Sobrinos Swiss watch. The winner also gets a 24-hour cruise aboard a mega yacht. By itself, the cruise value climbs over $80,000 per day. And there is much, much more.

How Smoking Competitions Work

The competition is like any sport but compared to the Olympics. People from across the world come together as one collective group with a passion for cigar smoking! The competition is real. It’s fierce. It’s truly a sport of competition. Despite the competition, it’s easy to root for one another, hoping people succeed (but not as much as you hope to win.) Training is standard as well. As fellow cigar smokers know, it’s challenging to make a cigar last and have the physical stamina to keep from letting the smoke get to us. The world record is 3 hours, 52 minutes, and 55 seconds for a single cigar. The community comes closer together by training together, traveling, and having a smoke with a friend.

The Passion for Cigar Smoking

As cigar smokers, we often overlook the passion behind what we do when we light up. We must share our love. Young people are smoking more cigars and need mentorship on the correct way to light up, which cigars to smoke, and smoking etiquette. Let’s pass our knowledge on to them so we can keep the tradition of cigar smoking going.

“The more I smoke cigars, the more experienced I become with the Leaf. The more I realize that cigar smoking is as much (and perhaps more) about the people with whom you experience these cigars than it is the flavors you connote.”

— Tony from Vice Lounge Online.

Let’s keep the camaraderie of smoking cigars going, but make sure to bring extra smokes to share with the ones we love!

Photo credit: Pixabay | Ben_Kerckx

History of Cigars: Central America to Cigar City

Posted on January 27, 2020 by Staff

Can you imagine what it was like to smoke the first stick in the history of cigars? Not one of the crude creations of rolled tobacco burned by ancient Mayans in Central America. The first actual cigar. A cigar brimming with rich Cuban tobacco. A cigar meticulously cultivated and wrapped with care in fragrant tobacco leaves.

The first actual cigar ever smoked may well have been on the bow of a ship heading back to Europe after a trip to the New World. Then, with one spark of a match came the first puff of one of life’s greatest pleasures. Sit back in your chair and put your legs up. Then, fire up your next stick and take a moment to appreciate where those delicate, packed leaves came from. Consider also how many years it took to craft the ideal cigar.

A Brief History of Cigars

It was October 12, 1492. Two men who sailed with Christopher Columbus came upon Cubans smoking tobacco wrapped in plantain leaves. Columbus returned to Europe with his discovery. Thankfully, the Europeans devised a much better idea: use tobacco leaves as the wrapper.

Spain then commissioned many cigar factories in Cuba, and the cigar industry was born. This refinement of the cigar wrapper was the turning point preceding the cigars we know and love today. But the world would still have to wait for the creation of the finest sticks.

Around 1640, the first U.S. high-quality tobacco for cigars was grown in Windsor, Connecticut. But America had to wait another 122 years for the finest tobacco seeds to arrive from Cuba. Finally, thanks to the never-ending conflicts between Spain and England, an English officer found himself in Havana during a siege.

When the siege ended, the first Cuban cigar smuggler brought home roughly 30,000 cigars. That was enough seed to start growing in a new climate. Tobacco’s popularity soared throughout Europe and the colonies. They all demanded one thing: Havanas.

In 1804, Cuba imported over a million pounds of American leaf for use as a wrapper, much of it from Connecticut. Next, the United States began importing Cuban tobacco. Then, production ramped up as iconic brands like Montecristo, Hoyo de Monterrey, and Partagas came into existence. Finally, as Spanish conflicts continued to rage across Cuba, cigar operations started to shift.

In 1868 during the Ten Year’s War, operations moved from Havana to Key West. And in 1885, operations moved again, this time to the Tampa area. As others followed the migration, Tampa gained the name “Cigar City.” By 1890, there were an estimated 3,500 cigar factories in the U.S. In 1920, an estimated eight billion cigars were packed, rolled, and enjoyed.

Castro and the Embargo

Fast forward to 1959. Fidel Castro nationalized the cigar industry in Cuba. By 1961, the Cohiba brand was born, a cigar meant only for Castro and VIPs. But an American embargo on Cuban products shook the industry. It wasn’t until the 1990s that the new cigar boom took place. Cigar Aficionado launched in 1992, and the cigar lifestyle was reborn.

Today, standards have never been higher, and the quality of cigars is more robust than ever. It’s wistful to imagine smoking the first cigar on the bow of a great ship. But there has never been a better time than the present to fire up the latest creation in the history of cigars.

Photo credit: Pixabay | 16692474

The Alabama Cigar Tradition: Rules Be Damned

Posted on October 16, 2019 by Staff

The third Saturday in October means Tennessee vs. Alabama football…and the Alabama cigar tradition. Until Tennessee’s program slipped below mediocrity, this was among the best rivalries in college football. Then, two programs, rich in history, often rose to the top of the Southeastern Conference.

A conference game holds specific title implications: the winner gets to light up a cigar. And we mean right there in the stadium and breaking God knows how many rules.

Oh yeah, fans get in on the act as well. So even if you don’t like college football or these programs are your bitter rivals, you can’t help but smile at this beautiful tradition. But, of course, that’s even more true if you’re a cigar aficionado.

What Happens?

About the time the game ends and the winner is clear, fans inside the stadium start lighting up cigars. Yes, right there in the stadium.

Fans not inside Bryant-Denny Stadium in Alabama or Neyland Stadium in Tennessee light up wherever they are. That might mean in the parking lot where the tailgating party is. Or, they’ll celebrate with victory cigars in local sports bars, at home, or even thousands of miles away.

Here are a few great pics from last year’s game.

What Kind of Cigars are they Smoking After the Game?

For players and staff, favored sticks appear to be Honduran house sticks from R&R Cigars in Downtown Tuscaloosa. Per the R&R website, they are from a Rocky Patel factory.

For the fans, it’s a little bit of everything, from great stuff that has aged in the humidor all year to everyday sticks from the local B&M to the Swishers stuff.

Remember, most of these traditional participants aren’t regular smokers. For many, it is the only stick they smoke all year. Shop owners in Alabama report a 30% increase in sales during game week.

A History of the Alabama-Tennessee Cigar Tradition

In 1961, Jim Goostree, then an Alabama athletic trainer, and a University of Tennessee Alum, made a promise to the Tide players. If they won, snapping a six-game losing streak in the rivalry, he’d dance naked in the locker room. Well, not only did the Tide win, but Ol’ Jim did, in fact, dance. Fortunately, this was in 1961.

Unfortunately, they didn’t have iPhones, Youtube, or Facebook yet. So, there was no video footage of Jim in his birthday suit to float around. But he’s also rumored to have lit a cigar during his naked dance. So, naturally, the players wanted a cigar, too. Boom! A tradition was born.

The tradition lived on for years. Then, it took a few breaks amid political correctness on campus. But, in 2005, somebody in Alabama said, “F*** It!” The tradition was rekindled. Since then, the Alabama athletic department self-reported to the NCAA a minor violation.

Does Nick Saban Partake?

No.

How Many Rules or Laws Does This Violate?

Since 2015, the entire University of Alabama campus, including the stadium, has been a smoke-free environment. The NCAA expressly prohibits the use of tobacco products by any player, coach, member of athletic personnel, etc. So, all players, staff, fans, etc., engage in a minor criminal offense. Any other day of the year, this would result in a citation and a fine.

The actual cigar given to a player is an “impermissible benefit.” In other words, it could subject the player to all kinds of trouble. That includes loss of a scholarship, forfeited games, ineligibility or etcetera. So although the cigar seems small ($10-20 value), players have been penalized for less. USC and Ohio State fans, am I wrong?

But, on this one day in October, the usual rule-based NCAA does something rare. It exercises common sense. This cigar tradition is hurting nobody. It’s fun, and the fans enjoy it.

Alabama Cigar Tradition Brings It Together

There are many wonderful things about cigars and football. Setting a tradition is one of them. Cigars really are about relationships and strengthened over a shared cigar.

The winners of this athletic contest will one day have a story to tell to their grandchildren. So they spoke three to five of the third annual Saturdays in October when they participated in a cigar tradition. A victory cigar tradition. What better way to reminisce?

Photo Credit: “A-Day Game football scrimmage for University of Alabama with coach Nick Saban analyzing every move. Tuscaloosa, Alabama” Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, photograph by Carol M. Highsmith [reproduction number, e.g., LC-USZ62-123456]

Are Real Cohiba Cuban Cigars Worth the Hype?

Posted on August 13, 2019 by Staff

Ask a handful of new cigar smokers what the ‘best’ cigar is, and you’ll likely hear the word “Cuban” come up. As with anything that’s outlawed,’ Real Cuban cigars have had a certain mystique surrounding them. It’s an air that other cigars don’t have. But – are they worth the mystique and the money? Anyone who’s tried to buy Cuban cigars overseas – the real ones, not the Cohiba knockoffs! – knows that they’re costly.

So, is it worth forking up the dollars for the authentic Montecristo, Cohiba, or H. Upmann from Cuba?

What Makes Real Cohiba Cuban Cigars Special

First, Cuban tobacco has a distinctive flavor. It’s the only thing that makes a real ‘Cuban’ cigar taste as it does. Then, there’s the ‘I can’t do what I want’ mentality floating around for almost 60 years. That gives a Cuban cigar a sense of ‘coolness.’ Cuban cigars carry a uniqueness all their own. When tobacco is grown, it takes on the flavor of the soil it’s grown in – so yes, Cubans are unique. The climate in Cuba – being smack in the middle of the Caribbean – makes for some fantastic tobacco.

A typical Cuban has a bold flavor profile that’s rich and complex. For those who have smoked them – you know what I mean. Some Cuban brands have milder varieties. But, the well-known Cuban cigars lie more towards the “fuller” side – so if you’re new to cigars, ease in. Some reputable brands are Cohiba, Montecristo, H. Upmann, and Romeo y Julieta. You can’t go wrong with any of them.

Where Do I Find Them?

Now, you want to buy some good Cuban cigars, but where? Since 1962, there’s been an embargo on cigars from Cuba – one of their top exports. Recently, the U.S. has loosened laws around bringing Cubans back to the United States. It’s still tough to find them in the lower 48 states because they can’t be resold here. Plan on an international trip, but be aware if you travel overseas and are in the market for a Cuban. Watch out for counterfeits – they run rampant.

If you’re sitting on the beach, enjoying a nice umbrella drink, and a vendor asks if you’d like to buy a three-pack of Cohibas for $10 – run away! Real Cubans are expensive – expect to pay some decent dollars for a cigar – usually around $15 or more per stick.

Duty-free shops in airports are great spots to buy authentic Cuban. Although, they may need a couple of months in your humidor when you get home. Also, if you’re staying at a reputable hotel, and we’re assuming you are, ask the front desk where you can find some ‘real’ Cubans. Many tourist towns have a shop or two that sells the real deal, and you can go there to pick up a few to bring home with you.

Is It Worth It?

Yes! Take this with a grain of salt. There are some fantastic cigars from plenty of manufacturers throughout the Caribbean (think Nicaragua, Honduras, etc.). But, if you’ve never had a Cuban, it’s almost a rite of passage – you must try one.

So, seek a real Cuban cigar next time you plan a vacation and want to incorporate some cigars into the mix. Try one for yourself, and let us know what you think!

Photo credit: Pixabay | Rom4in

Top Travel Destinations for Cigar Lovers

Posted on July 30, 2019 by Staff

Vacations wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a fine cigar somewhere in the mix. Finding a place to enjoy a good cigar is a vacation “must” that you can do anywhere. But, if you’re looking for some cigar-centric activities, you’ll want to check out one of these top travel destinations for cigar lovers.

Tampa, Florida

Florida is one of the top vacation spots in the States. It’s easy to get to and loaded with beaches, palm trees, and umbrella drinks. Of all the destinations in Florida, Tampa often flies under the radar. Not for cigar enthusiasts, though. Tampa – once coined the Cigar Capital of the World – was a transplant city for some of the most famous cigar rollers in Cuba. Ybor City, a neighborhood within Tampa city limits, is a hot spot for Floridian cigar making. And, it has a rich story to tell.

Take one of their guided walking tours. Then, stop at Centennial Park for some art and fresh hand-rolled cigars. If you time it right, you can attend the Cigar Heritage Festival. The festival features premium cigars, rolling demonstrations, and some of the finest cigar makers in the world. It’s also a great place if you’re looking to learn about cigar history in America. So, enjoy some great Florida weather and place Tampa on your list.

Dominican Republic

This one shouldn’t be a surprise to the readers out there. Most of us cigar lovers have a handful of Dominicans in our humidors, even if we don’t realize it. The Dominican Republic is known as a top travel destination for its phenomenal beaches, sunshine, and Caribbean vibe. It’s a top vacation spot and cruise destination. But, for cigar lovers, the Dominican Republic also features cigar factories producing some of the top premium brands. These factories will host tours for cigar-loving vacationers such as yourself.

Stop at the Davidoff cigar factory in Santiago for a tour and learn how they make these premium sticks. Or, visit the TDG cigar factory where Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, H. Upmann, and other top brands are rolled. After you’ve learned how some of the top cigars are made, grab a few for the road. Then, sit back and relax with your new cigar and a fine cocktail to relax and enjoy the Caribbean sun. For information on tours, click here.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas – the entertainment capital of the world, is another top destination that made our list. Now, Vegas may not have the heat, sun, and Caribbean allure of the previous spots, but it’s a cigar lover’s dream in its own right. Filled with casinos and nightlife, Vegas is one of the last spots in the U.S. where you can smoke a cigar almost anywhere. Plus, there are a wide variety of high-quality cigars at your fingertips.

If you’re an avid cigar smoker and have the means, check out Cigar Aficionado’s The Big Smoke held every year. This event is brimming with cigar lovers from all over the world. It draws some of the finest manufacturers to attend, like Arturo Fuente, A.J. Fernandez, and others. If that’s not a testament to Vegas being a cigar city, then I don’t know what is.

photo credit: Pixabay