Cigar 101

The H.Upmann Sir Winston is something of a mystery to some, myth to others and a joy to those who have smoked one. The mystery is that its availability has been sporadic to say the least and when they are available, they tend to fly off the shelf nearly immediately, leading on to the myth for some of ‘do they...

Habanos S.A has produced a second release of the H.Upmann Magnum 56 for the general cigar market. The initial release was specifically intended for travel and duty-free concessions but due to limited travel over the past 14 months the jars have been authorised for sale in traditional merchants.   The cigar is the same vitola and blend as the original...

Following up from the Romeo y Julieta Maravillas (Year of the Rat) comes this year’s incumbent in the shape of Hoyo de Monterrey Primavera (Year of the Ox). Habanos S.A through its regional distributors The Pacific Cigar Co. LTD (PCC) and Infifon Hong Kong Limited have the Primavera to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year.   The Primaveras, of course...

Launch Night - Wednesday 19 August 2020 We were delighted to learn of the announcement that the United Kingdom was selected to host the launch of the Habanos S.A. Ramon Allones Allones No.2 Edicion Limitada 2019. The last UK launch of a Limited Edition Habanos was back in November 2017 for the Cohiba Talisman launch. This is the final Edicion...

Cigars vary widely in terms of strength. Some people prefer the full-bodied, strong taste of a cigar, whereas others may gravitate more towards a mild, yet satisfying smoke. We all have our preferences, and sometimes the occasion, time of day or accompanying drink may dictate the strength of the cigar we choose to light up. If you’re new to the...

La Corona “Club King” 1950 Reviewed by Nic Barker.   Length: 5 ¼” Ring gauge: 44 Vitola: Eminentes Just shy of the classic Corona format’s length, but with a slightly heavier ring gauge, this box-pressed beauty sports a mottled claro wrapper leaf, and a light springiness to the touch.   The first draw once lit feels perfect, with a subtle...

2019 sees Cuba celebrates the 500th anniversary of the City of Havana. A nation with a magnificent history, and at times a convoluted history, put on a week to remember as they organised events from sunrise to well after sunset for the 21st Habanos Festival. The Gala Dinner The grandiose closing spectacle did not disappoint as the 21st Habanos Festival...

Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona Gran Reserva Cosecha 2013   Wednesday night was dedicated to the Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona Gran Reserva Cosecha 2013. Coming in their most revered vitola, double corona - 7.6’’ (194mm) x 49 ring gauge, this is the first time the Hoyo brand has been granted the Gran Reserva status.   The Gran Reserva cigars are...

Anatomy of a tobacco nation There are four fundamental regions in Nicaragua where cigars are grown or produced. The main spot is Estelí Valley, known today as the modern global hub of tobacco. It is here where most factories are located. The soil of this area is clayey and the tobacco sweet with earthy and spicy notes. Jalapa, which means...

Destination Nicaragua Traditionally, the Habanos have been the first choice of cigar smokers and connoisseurs. No doubt that the Cuban Black Tobacco is very tasty and has unique flavour, and that the Caribbean island can show a very old culture of cultivating tobacco as well as crafting cigars.   But in the last few years, another country has emerged in...