Cigar Photography

smoke in focus …

Studio Tobac World Tour 2012

May 18

Posted by jayluto in Studio Tobac World Tour 2012 | No Comments

In 2011, Studio Tobac World Tour made its appearance at ‘Fume’ in Montclair, NJ with Special Edition 2011 Touring Corvette. This year, 2012, Studio Tobac World Tour is back yet again to shake things up in the Garden State. Studio’s Ambassador, Bryan ‘The Show’ Scholle, this time around rolled into town with 2012 Studio Tobac Limited Edition Sampler and something completely different – Ford F-150 Raptor SVT. Although the concept is similar – put a vehicle on the road and promote the brand, that truck is decal’ed out, literally ! It is my understanding that this year’s vehicle will not be a giveaway and will most likely spill into 2013 Studio Tobac World Tour, at which point it could become eligible for a giveway … allegedly. In case you wonder about Studio Tobac project, please find their summary from Studio Tobac’s website.

Studio Tobac was born within the Oliva Cigar Company in 2007. It is a collection of the company’s most innovative minds. Studio Tobac consists of an Executive Board of Directors, A Studio Ambassador, an advisory board comprised of independent cigar enthusiasts around the world, as well as General Membership. For over three years the Studio has conceived innovative projects like the renowned NUB cigar. A cigar which introduced a complete new format in premium handmade cigars to the industry. The Studio also successfully produced the CAIN cigar. Cain is the only STRAIGHT LIGERO cigar in the world. These and many more projects exist within the portfolio of Studio Tobac. For 2011 the Executive Board decided to open the Studio to the cigar smoking world. The Board further moved to establish an advisory board to be selected by invitation, as well as a General Membership available to cigar enthusiasts from all over the world.



I said this last year and I will say it again. For those of you who are thinking about attending Studio Tobac Tour, I encourage you to do so. Definitely an event not to be missed. Bryan ‘The Show’ Scholle is a down-to-earth kind of guy and pleasure to hang with. We will revisit Studio Tobac World Tour in 2013, for sure !!!


Please consider the following post:
* Studio Tobac Limited Edition Sampler 2012
* Studio Tobac World Tour 2011
* Bryan Scholle of Studio Tobac

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)- 
 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Studio Tobac Limited Edition Sampler 2012

May 8

Posted by jayluto in Studio Tobac Limited Edition Sampler 2012 | 2 Comments

This week we are photographing, not reviewing, the latest project from Studio Tobac’s stable – ‘Studio Tobac Limited Edition Sampler 2012.’ This is the sequel to last year’s ‘Studio Tobac Limited Edition Sampler 2011.’ Studio Tobac LE samplers are available exclusively at Studio Tobac events during Studio Tobac World Tour. It is unknown at this point if any cigar out of the 2012 sampler will ever see the ‘regular production’ light but I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Cain F lancero Déjà vu. I have yet to sample the content of the Studio Tobac Limited Edition Sampler 2012 to pick my favorite but I do have a specimen lined up for near future review. Stay tuned !


Although slightly delayed but honest Thank You goes to Bryan Scholle and Studio Tobac family for sending over this Studio Tobac Limited Edition Sampler 2012 !


The following are makeup of each cigar (* thanks for Bryan Scholle) and dimensions:


NUB USA (4×60)  / FULL
- undisclosed (made with “USA tobacco”)

Cain F Maduro (5 x 50) / FULL
- wrapper – San Andreas maduro
- binder – Nicaragua
- filler – Nicaragua ligero

ST – EFG01 (5×50) / MILD-MEDIUM (Concept Blend)
- wrapper – Ecuador Connecticut
- binder – Nicaragua
- filler - Nicaragua

Cain Daytona Maduro Figurado (6×60) / MEDIUM
- wrapper - San Andreas maduro
- binder - Nicaragua
- filler - Nicaragua Jalapa ligero

ST – 002 (6×50) / FULL (Concept Blend)
- wrapper – Habano
- binder - Nicaragua
- filler - Nicaragua

Cain Daytona lancero (7×38) / MEDIUM
- wrapper – Ecuador Habano
- binder - Nicaragua
- filler - Nicaragua Jalapa ligero

 

 

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)- 
 
 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

CigarPhoto in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Apr 27

Posted by jayluto in CigarPhoto in Playa del Carmen, Mexico | 3 Comments

CigarPhoto is coming back from a well deserved vacation in pleasantly warm Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Although we have stayed in one of the chain hotels (Iberostar), a trip to Playa del Carmen was added to the itinerary to visit two cigar shops – La 5ta Habano (shop owned by fellow Friends Of Habanos member) and La Casa del Habano. The purpose of that visit wasn’t so much about stocking up but more about going to the store, buying a cuban cigar (legally), ordering mojito with Havana Club Anejo 7 rum and … relaxing.


I was able to accomplish exactly that at the La Casa del Habano. Between mojito sips, I was able to take few photographs and scope out price tags – scary, as expected. I was quoted $850 for a box of Trinidad Fundadores !!! Everything across the board was super overpriced and if I lived in Mexico, I wouldn’t be smoking cuban cigars unless I was paying wholesale. On the way back I stopped at the La 5ta Habano. Great, but very small, shop. Rush Blakely (the owner) has expanded his selection to include non-cubans as well. Refreshing strategy, considering every other Joe will be most likely looking for the forbidden Cohiba.


It wouldn’t be a complete trip to Caribbean region without seeing fakes cuban cigars. Your “standard” glass-top selection was readily available on the main drag. Casa Partagás was selling Siglo VI tubes for $50 each ! Iberostar hotel had a dedicated cigar lounge with decent cigar selection. Unfortunately, once again, way overpriced. I skipped their stock but couldn’t say no to unlimited and free amount of Havana Club Anejo 7 rum. Bliss ! Airport’s Duty Free wasn’t any different. I had to double check with their customer service if prices were in Mex$ or USD$. A box of Cohiba for 900 USD$ tapped it all.


Bottom line, bring your own ! If you smoke cuban cigars exclusively, bring them down as well unless you are willing to pay $25 for Monte #2.



La Casa del Habano
5ta Avenida con Calle 26 No. 301, L-2 Colonia
Xaman-Ha, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, México.
Phone: 52 (984) 803 3001
Email: cservice@lacasadelhabanoplayadelcarmen.com
www.lacasadelhabanoplayadelcarmen.com

La 5ta Habanos (owner: Rush Blakely)
Corner of 5th avenue (Quinta) and Constituyentes
Phone: 9841111873

 

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)- 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bryan Scholle of Studio Tobac

Apr 6

Posted by admin in Bryan Scholle of Studio Tobac | 1 Comment

This week we are placing Bryan Scholle of Studio Tobac in focus.


This photoshoot was executed back in 2011 in Montclair, NJ during 2011 Studio Tobac Tour. I have contact Bryan via Twitter and asked if he would be interested in few simple, without studio lights, camera clicks. We were both game ! The Studio Tobac Tour is about Bryan Scholle and The Car (2011 – Special Edition 2011 Touring Corvette Convertible), like Michael Knight and the K.I.T.T. Despite limited parking and working space (* I was literally crouching on the 2-way busy street), we got few good frames worthy Bryan’s wall. The highlight of the photoshoot had to be the ‘flipping bird’ LOL ! Imagine: North Jersey attitude, jealousy, sick Corvette, two young cats (Bryan and I) posing in front of the car, Dave Wagner (Oliva’s VP of Sales) standing in the middle of the street with an iPhone taking pictures … it only made sense to ‘Flip a Bird’ toward our way, right ? Yep … it happened. We laughed it off and continued smoking Studio Tobac’s latest releases.


2012 Studio Tobac Tour is now in full swing. Check Studio Tobac’s website for latest updates.

Bryan “The Show” Scholle – Bryan has been enjoying fine cigars since 2006, which started as an occasional hobby but quickly formed into a very strong passion. Bryan started with Oliva family in February 2010 as an account executive covering the West Florida Territory. Bryan started his sales career for Coca-cola following in his grandfathers footsteps. He was inducted into the Top Performers Club in 2004 for being Salesman of the year for Florida. Then in 2008 Bryan followed his passion and went to work for a Tampa based cigar shop named Tampa Humidor, which also is 1 of 2 Oliva Lounges in the USA. Bryan’s passion and knowledge for cigars grew during his years that he worked there. Bryan grew up with a very supportive family and group of friends that always told him to “aim for the stars…” , with this support he has been able to accomplish many great things in his short life. Bryan is very excited to be named Studio Ambassador for Studio Tobac, and can’t wait to get out on the open road and to a tobacconist near you very soon. – Studio Tobac website

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Cohiba lanceros

Mar 30

Posted by admin in Cohiba lanceros | 3 Comments

It is time for another ‘forbidden fruit. This week we are photographing and reviewing the one and only – Cohiba lanceros. This Laguito No.1, wrapped in leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region, was initially an exclusive to Cuban regime and used as a diplomatic gift to other Heads of States. The cigar was officially named around 1969 and became commercially available around 1984. Currently it is available in a box of 25 / 50 and a pack of 3 / 5. Obviously there are special releases like Commemorative Humidors and count in those will vary. Two samples smoked for this reviewed came from JUN2001 release and were wrapped in a Standard Band C vs current Band D. Main differences: non-embossed paper / dot rows / La Habana vs. Habana / orange-ish vs. yellow finish (depicted below).


Visually, just like the Cohiba Siglo VI, was not that spectacular. Nothing like Cohiba Behike. Decent construction with clearly visible seams & veins. I did not feel any hard or soft spots upon further inspection. After clipping the cap and lighting the cigar, I was introduced to a relatively tight draw which continued to improve throughout the smoke. In flavor department, the Cohiba lanceros was full of grassy and floral notes as well as hints of woodiness and nuttiness. Definitely a noticeable creamy finish to the smoke. The ash was fairly long considering lancero format, yet a bit “dirty” / dark grey. There was a decent amount of smoke output, especially after draw opened up.


Overall, good experience. I continue to enjoy properly rolled lanceros with good burn and good draw. Personally I wouldn’t purchase a box but I would definitely add few to occasional rotation.


Country of Origin: Cuba
Wrapper: Cuba
Binder: Cuba
Filler: Cuba
Length: 7.6″
Ring: 38

Construction > Good
Burn > Good
Enjoy > Yes
Recommend > Yes
Buy > Yes


Please consider the following post:
* Cohiba Behike
* Cohiba Siglo VI

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)- 
 
 
 
 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tatuaje ‘Celebracion de Cinco’ – cigar giveaway

Mar 1

Posted by admin in Tatuaje ‘Celebracion de Cinco’ | No Comments

And the winner of the Tatuaje ‘Celebracion de Cinco’ 3-pack giveway is …

 

 

 

Thank You all for participating. Cigar smoking is about enjoying as well as sharing. Going forward, if my coolidors / humidors agree, I would like to continue with 1 giveaway per month. Cigars, Photo prints, etc. Conceptually, not too many limits. Everyone is welcome back to ‘play’ again. I have received quite a bit from the cigar industry and local B&Ms. It is time to Pay It Forward. Enjoy !

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tatuaje ‘Celebracion de Cinco’

Feb 25

Posted by admin in Tatuaje 'Celebracion de Cinco' | 40 Comments

—-

! Giveaway !

Leave a comment (no rules) and be eligible for one 3-pack of Tatuaje ‘Celebracion de Cinco’. Deadline – 11:59pm EST on 29FEB2012.

Random selection and announcement will take place on 01MAR2012.

—-

This week we are photographing and reviewing the Tatuaje ‘Celebracion de Cinco.’ This exclusive and limited edition is a collaboration between Pete Johnson of Tatuaje and Cigar Mas Fino – a cigar shop located in Fresno, California operated by the Soza Family. This 2011 project was released to commemorate Cigar Mas Fino’s five years in business, hence ‘Celebracion de Cinco’ or ‘Celebration of Five.’ This robusto vitola came in a box of 24 / only 100 boxes produced. When asked about the makeup, Pete responded with the following:

A slightly stronger noble. Same base blend with a brown label priming for the wrapper. – Pete Johnson

Visually, another well executed blend by My Father Cigars stable. Dark, oily, toothy wrapper with well applied triple cap and unfinished foot. The cigar had no visible veins and extremely tight seams. Great start ! Tatuaje ‘Celebracion de Cinco’ was sporting a standard Havana VI band as well as a secondary band signifying Cigar Mas Fino’s ‘Celebracion de Cinco’ designation. That specific band reminded me of Cuban Regional Edition presentation. I have smoked a total of five samples for this review. I wasn’t trying to match the ‘Cinco’, it was purely a coincidence. Interestingly enough, I was able to experience different / unique flavors in one of those samples. Most delivered good amount of earthiness, espresso, dried fruit (like raisin), and some pepper on the finish. One of the samples lacked most of those flavors and was overpowered with woodiness. All Tatuaje ‘Celebracion de Cinco’ samples delivered good amount of smoke and decent ash. As for as draw / burn goes, unfortunately mixed feedback in this department. Few samples were spot on, yet other experienced the infamous tunneling which subsequently impacted existing flavors.

If it wasn’t for good performance in selected samples, I would have marked this release (or perhaps my box) as questionable. I will continue to sample the rest of the box and continue to evaluate the construction. Overall, despite couple hiccups, another good release by Pete Johnson.

Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Habano Ecuador
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Length: 5″
Ring: 50

Construction > Good
Burn > Mixed
Enjoy > Yes
Recommend > Yes
Buy > Yes

Please consider the following post:
* Tatuaje Federal Cigar 90th Anniversary 109 Rosado
* Tatuaje ‘M-80′

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)- 
 
 
 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EP Carrillo New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 (Exquisitos) – prerelease

Feb 13

Posted by admin in EP Carrillo New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 (Exquisitos) - prerelease | 5 Comments

Today we are photographing and reviewing a prerelease of the New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 (Exquisitos) – the latest short run project from the master blender Ernesto Perez Carrillo. Based on the success of the New Wave Connecticut and the Core Maduro lines, EPC Cigar Co decided to experiment with mixing the tobaccos from both of these lines. The outcome of that is today’s release which consists of the wrapper from New Wave Connecticut and binder / filler from Core Maduro.

Based on the huge success of the New Wave Connecticut and Core Maduro lines, we decided to experiment with mixing the tobaccos from both of these lines. The New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 captures the best of both lines – it is packed with flavors and strength, and is probably our best Short Run yet ! This Short Run will come in the typical 3 Short Run sizes, and we’ll be making 1,000 boxes per size. – Ernie


Vitola Size Packaging Retail
Exquisitos 4 7/8 x 50 Box of 24 $152.40 / $6.35
Invictos 5 7/8 x 52 Box of 24 $170.40 / $7.10
Reinados 6 1/4 x 60 Box of 24 $206.40 / $8.60

Visually, New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 (Exquisitos) was near perfection. The cigar was sporting an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, well applied triple cap, invisible veins and extremely tight seams. The entire length of all three samples was relatively soft to the touch. After clipping the cap, perfect draw as one would expect from Ernesto’s previous releases. Great start, indeed ! In flavor department, New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 opened up with woodiness, earthiness, nuttiness and hints of dried fruit. There was an evident spiciness on the finish as well. Normally I don’t experience dry mouth during smoking but this cigar definitely gave that impression. Not a negative observation though. In the second half, present flavors as well spiciness increased it’s intensity. The burn was good, considering I have smoked my first sample the day after it arrived in the cold North Jersey. It went wavy couple times but corrected itself without manual intervention. The amount of smoke was photo-friendly and the ash … well, photographs below speak for themselves. An amazing construction execution resulted in +2″ of grayish ash.

Tabacalera La Alianza S.A. in the Dominican Republic has another winner, full stop. Ernesto Perez Carrillo continues to innovate and his projects are agreeing with my palate. Can’t beat that. I have smoked Exquisitos for The Review but also sampled Invictos in hopes that the latter will deliver that sweet spot. I can say that it did. Exquisitos was more aggressively spicy, almost too spicy for my taste. Invictos, delivering just as great flavors, was more balanced and refined. As for as constructive feedback, I would appreciate a smaller ring gauge version of the New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012, ala Regalias Real. I have smoked through my share of New Wave Connecticut Stellas (5 1/8 x 42) and Core Maduro Club 52s (5 7/8 x 52) / Core Maduro Regalias Real (5 5/8 x 46) and I believe one can place New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 somewhere in the middle. NWC in the morning, NWC SR’12 in the afternoon, Core Maduro in the evening = magic !

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut
Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf
Filler: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua
Length: 4 7/8 ”
Ring: 50

Construction > Great
Burn > Good
Enjoy > Yes
Recommend > Yes
Buy > Yes

Please consider the following posts:
* EP Carrillo Short Run 2010 No.4
* EP Carrillo Core Maduro

* DISCLAIMER: New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 samples were gifted by EPC Cigar Co. Ernesto’s generosity had no impact on the actual experience. The cigar spoke for itself.

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)- 
 
 
 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Cigar Plume vs. Mold

Feb 10

Posted by admin in Plume vs. Mold | 4 Comments

How often were you told that a given cigar is covered with Plume (or Bloom) only to find out, based upon closeup inspection, that you are dealing with a Mold ? I was on multiple occasions. 9 times out of 10 it is unfortunately the latter – the infamous Mold or simply – fungus.


Mold appears on the surface of cigars and will form irregular, fuzzy, patchy clusters. Although normally mold forms on the surface, it can also be found on the foot and within the filler. Mold can appear in various colors: gray, white, blue, green, yellowish. High humidity (80% and above) or wet spots in cigar containers are the root cause for the Cigar Mold. Inspect your humidors frequently, especially during summer when temperature and humidity levels are high. Folks often debate whether moldy cigar should be destroyed or salvaged. First, remove questionable cigars as soon as possible and inspect the surrounding. Introduce circulation, rotate your cigars and boxes from time to time, and keep humidity in check. Some salvage their moldy cigars by simply wiping that nasty fungus off and subsequently smoking it. I, personally, don’t see the need to salvage mold / fungus. There is plenty of other cigars to choose from. I chuck it and move on.


Plume (or Bloom) is a happy place to be. Unlike patchy and fuzzy mold clusters, Plume will look like a dusty layer throughout the cigar. Initially formed as tiny crystals, Plume is a naturally occurring by-product of long-term cigar aging and rising of essential oils to the surface of the cigar. There is no negative impact on smoking as for as I know. Many cigar smokers cherish cigars covered with Plume and label them as a successful aging project.

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)- 
 


 


                      
 Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

H. Upmann Sir Winston

Feb 1

Posted by admin in H. Upmann Sir Winston | 9 Comments

It is time for another ‘forbidden fruit.’ This week we are photographing and reviewing H. Upmann Sir Winston. This pre-1960s release, packaged in a cabinet of 25, was named after former British Prime Minister – Winston Churchill. H. Upmann Sir Winston, hand rolled with premium tobacco leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region in Cuba, has been label as the best Julieta No.2 vitola Cuba has ever produced. With the high expectation, let’s get right to it, shall we ?


Visually, one is introduced to a silky, oily wrapper with excellent cap finish, no visible veins and well blended seams. Based on up-close inspection, H. Upmann Sir Winston was a well rolled firm product without any soft or hard spots. After clipping the cap, slightly tight draw. Fortunately with some manual intervention the draw improved. In flavor department, grassy / floral, almost dried fruit alike, pleasant taste which ultimately morphed into woodiness. Hints of sweetness, especially on the lips, and milk cocoa. There was also some spiciness on the retrohale but nothing like advertised. Burn line was decent, nothing exceptional. It started off a bit wavy and uneven, then corrected itself in the middle only to go down south once again toward the end. I had to relight couple times. The amount of smoke was excellent after draw intervention and ash, as depicted below, was superb.


Overall, good smoke. One has to appreciate the fact that this is a churchill – a smoke that will take you for a couple-hour ride. I normally don’t smoke churchills nor double coronas (non-cubans or cubans) so H. Upmann Sir Winston is not something I will reach for too often. Others have reported a full body experience which I personally can’t relate to. It had a little bit more punch, no pun intended, but definitely not a nicotine bomb. I have smoked quite a bit of H. Upmann Magnum 50s and 46s and I see myself reaching out for those more often than H. Upmann Sir Winstons.


Country of Origin: Cuba
Wrapper: Cuba
Binder: Cuba
Filler: Cuba
Length: 7″
Ring: 47

Construction > Good
Burn > Good
Enjoy > Yes
Recommend > Yes
Buy > Yes

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EP Carrillo Short Run 2010 No.4

Jan 24

Posted by admin in EP Carrillo Short Run 2010 No.4 | 11 Comments

This week we are photographing and smoking an EP Carrillo Short Run 2010 No.4. This corona vitola, made by the master blender Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, is an exclusive release for Federal Cigar – New Hampshire chain owned by Rick Gadway. EP Carrillo Short Run 2010 No.4 comes in the box of 20 and will set you back $110. As the name implies, Ernesto has expanded 2010 Short Run line by adding No4 vitola. The following additional sizes in the same line are available to the mass market:


Populares – 4 7/8 x 50
Delirios – 5 7/8 x 52
Doninantes – 6 1/4 x 60


EP Carrillo Short Run 2010 No.4, manufactured at Tabacalera La Alianza S.A. in the Dominican Republic, was sporting an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper with couple visible veins and well blended seams. The cigar was tripple capped and ~%95 of it was well constructed. Based on relatively thorough inspection (12 out of 20), tip of each cigar was under-filled and felt very soft to the touch. I have inspected few other EP Carrillo cigars from my humidor and none were constructed the same way. Perhaps done intentionally ? After clipping the cap, Short Run 2010 No.4 had a perfect draw. Not too loose, not too tight. Just what the doctor ordered. In the flavor department, intense experience as expected from No4 ring gauge. Cedar mixed with a bit of sweetness / saltiness. Hints of earthiness and coffee. If you enjoy spicy finish on the palate, Short Run 2010 No.4 will deliver just that. Burn line and ash were of good quality, as expected from industry’s true icon – Ernesto Perez-Carrillo. Don’t let the size fool you ! This relatively short / thin vitola was packing some heat ! I would place it close to the full category.


Overall, EP Carrillo Short Run 2010 No.4 is another successful release. Rick Gadway was generous enough and gifted few samples couple months ago which were burned right off the truck. Both the pre-release and the regular production smoked great but I believe resting them for couple months may be beneficial. Considering the other Federal Cigar exclusive – Tatuaje Federal Cigar 90th Anniversary 109 Rosado / Reserva, Rick Gadway is on the roll. I’m looking forward to upcoming Ernesto Perez-Carrillo’s projects and Rick’s exclusives.


Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua
Length: 5 1/8 ”
Ring: 42

Construction > Good
Burn > Good
Enjoy > Yes
Recommend > Yes
Buy > Yes


Please consider the following posts:
* EP Carrillo Maduro
* Tatuaje Federal Cigar 90th Anniversary 109 Rosado

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Big Smoke New York 2011

Jan 19

Posted by admin in Big Smoke New York 2011 | 2 Comments

In 2011, and for the first time, I had a pleasure of attending the Big Smoke event in the New York. Similarly to Great Smoke, Cigar Fest, Cigar Expo and all other cigar events held across Good Ole US of A, Big Smoke offered a unique opportunity for cigar lovers to meet and celebrate the pleasures of smoking fine, handmade cigars alongside fellow aficionados and representatives from the cigar industry. The 2011 Big Smoke event, held at the Pier 92, was full of cigar icons, political figures, sport stars, and tons of cigar aficionados. I, personally, have spent most of my time with the Studio Tobac family – Bryan Scholle, Ian Hummel and Dave Wagner. Cain F lanceros, few glasses of Zaya & Ron Zacapa, friendly atmosphere, great camaraderie, couldn’t ask for more ! Well, actually, I wouldn’t mind photographing former New York city mayor – Rudy Giuliani ! Luckily, I did :) Rudy Giuliani did stop at the Studio Tobac booth and with some assistance from both Bryan Scholle & Ian Hummel, sparked one of the NUBs. Although this wasn’t a participative photo session, I was able to pull of couple decent frames. I’m definitely looking forward to 2012 Big Smoke event in the New York. 

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Viaje Exclusivo Corona Gorda

Jan 11

Posted by admin in Viaje Exclusivo Corona Gorda | 8 Comments

This week we are photographing and smoking the Viaje Exclusivo in corona gorda format by Andre Farkas of Viaje. This specific vitola is not available for regular sale / distribution but it is available, fortunately, at Viaje events. Some have reported that Viaje Exclusivo CG was only available as a giveaway from Andre himself however at the latest Viaje event at the Cigar Republic (NY) store – a retail face of the Atlantic Cigar Company, I was able to purchase an entire bundle. The cost of the bundle – $220 / 25. Andre Farkas has confirmed that Viaje Exclusivo CG is available for sale at every Viaje event he attends. It is my understanding that the following Viaje cigars are available in the Exclusivo line:


Exclusivo Lancero – Atlantic Cigar Co 15th Anniversary (exclusive)
Exclusivo Robusto box-pressed – Tower Cigars 45th Anniversary (exclusive)
Exclusive Double Perfecto Double Edged Sword
Exclusivo Corona Gorda
Exclusivo Robusto
Exclusivo Shorts
Exclusivo Chiquito


Construction of the Viaje Exclusivo CG was visually pleasing with minimal veins and very tight seams. There is something about that ‘fancy’ finish and today’s cigar, like few other within that line, was sporting well applied pig-tail. The cigar had no soft spots and foot gave the impression of well bunched tobacco. After cutting and lighting, good draw with decent amount of smoke. In flavor department, blast of spice and blast of savory, rich earthiness. Similarly to Exclusivo Shorts, I was able to extract woody / leathery notes in the background. Definitely a noticeable increase in strength when compared to recently smoked Exclusivo Shorts or Exclusivo Tower 45th. As for as the burn and ash, pretty satisfactory experience, as depicted below.


I have put down 3 samples for this photo / review entry and although above comments are overall positive, I did wanted to mention the fact that the first sample had some not so favorable qualities. Not only did I experience that ‘alligator’ looking finish with the ash (similar to Exclusivo Shorts), the middle 2″ or so had a noticeable tunnel which negatively impacted the flavor department. Fortunately, the other two samples had no construction / burn hiccups. If you find the flavor profile up your alley and / or you are a Viaje Exclusivo fan, this is definitely a vitola to seek out. Considering how Viaje cigars are priced and what I have paid for the bundle, Exclusivo Corona Gorda is a no brainer.


Country of Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Criollo
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Length: 5 5/8 ”
Ring: 46

Construction > Good
Burn > Good
Enjoy > Yes
Recommend > Yes
Buy > Yes


Please consider the following post:
* Viaje Exclusivo Shorts

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Four Kicks – cigar giveaway

Jan 10

Posted by admin in Four Kicks | 1 Comment

And the winner of the Four Kicks (corona gorda) 3-pack giveway is …





Thank You all for participating. Cigar smoking is about enjoying as well as sharing. In 2012 and going forward, if my coolidors / humidors agree, I would like to continue with 1 giveaway per month. Cigars, Photo prints, etc. Conceptually, not too many limits. Everyone is welcome back to ‘play’ again. I have received quite a bit from the cigar industry and local B&Ms. It is time to Pay It Forward. Enjoy !

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Four Kicks

Jan 4

Posted by admin in Four Kicks | 43 Comments

—-

! Giveaway !

Leave a comment (no rules) and be eligible for one 3-pack of Four Kicks (corona gorda) by Crowned Heads. Deadline – 11:59pm EST on 09JAN. Random selection and announcement will take place on 10JAN.

—-



This week we are photographing and smoking the latest creation out of the Crowned Heads stable – the Four Kicks. In the last few months, there has been a lot of chatter about the Four Kicks project in the social media circles. Kudos to Jon Huber and Mike Conder for creative and successful marketing campaign. Both individuals and their fellow business partners have shifted their creative minds from one established cigar company to a brand new cigar venture with a catchy label – the Crowned Heads. I can continue to summarize the history, the meaning, the approach or I can simply provide a link to the Crowned Heads website. I will choose the latter since one has to and will appreciate the amount of effort it takes to launch a premium cigar company from the ground floor up after watching numerous videos, reading blog entries, and absorbing all other information. A must read !


Packaged in 24-count boxes, Four Kicks is available in four shapes: Corona Gorda (5 5/8″ x 46), Robusto (5” x 50), Sublime (6” x 54), and Piramide (6 1/8” x 52). The suggested retail price ranges from $6.95 to $8.65 per cigar and is available through the following retailers.


The Four Kicks corona gorda, manufactured at Tabacalera La Alianza S.A. under the supervision of one of the cigar industry’s true icons, Ernesto PerezCarrillo, was sporting an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with clearly visible seams and veins. After clipping the tripple cap, I was introduced to a perfect draw – pretty much an expectation from Ernesto’s work. Pleasing blast of spice on the initial draw and throughout the experience. The spice (pepperish) was definitely heavily concentrated in the back of the throat. In flavor department, hmmm, where should I start ? I have smoked through 3 samples in preparation for this entry and each one brought something additional to the table. There was definitely plenty of woodiness and earthiness throughout the smoke. Previously mentioned spiciness was balanced with less muted, but oh-so-enjoyable, sweetness. Few days prior to the Four Kicks marathon, I have smoked through few good quality CCs and I swear, on more than one puff, I felt that ‘cubanesque’ taste. Whether that is a compliment or an insult, I won’t digress but personally, I found that extra ‘bonus’ to be quite enjoyable.


The Four Kicks in corona gorda vitola is a box worthy purchase. Full Stop ! Whether you are a collector interested in an inaugural release and / or a smoker who finds above flavor description up their alley, you should consider seeking a box, or at least a sampler. I’m patiently awaiting Crowned Heads’ encore but until then, I will continue to enjoy the Four Kicks in my favorite vitola – corona gorda.


Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Length: 5 5/8”
Ring: 46

Construction > Great
Burn > Great
Enjoy > Absolutely
Recommend > Absolutely
Buy > Box-worthy !


Please consider the following post:
* CAO La Traviata

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tatuaje TAA 2011

Dec 31

Posted by admin in Tatuaje TAA 2011 | 9 Comments

This week we are closing 2011 with photographs and review of a cigar called appropriately for this occasion – Tatuaje TAA 2011. This specific project is a collaboration between Pete Johnson of Tatuaje and Tobacconists’ Association of America. For those who wonder what TAA is: The Tobacconists’ Association of America, Ltd. is a trade organization established in 1968 by visionary retail tobacconists. TAA’s mission is to provide an open forum of ideas, strategies, and problem solving between retail tobacconist and vendors to the trade. 1,500 boxes (20 cigars each) were made available only to TAA retailers that visited the TAA show in 2011.

Yearly cigar. Different blend and size every year. Blend is based on the regular brown label. – Pete Johnson



The Tatuaje TAA 2011 cigar had a well applied triple cap but the toothy, oily Broadleaf Connecticut wrapper was a bit rugged looking and had clearly visible seams & few noticeable veins. Bottom line, not as pleasing as Cojonu 2012 Broadleaf. Obviously the look had no impact on the performance nor flavor experience. Draw could have been a tiny bit tighter for my personal taste but overall, no complaints. In flavor department, insane amount of chocolate / sweetness / rich earthiness throughout the first half of the cigar. In between, easily identifiable woodiness and cedar. Not as much spice as others have experienced. Burn line wasn’t perfect but wasn’t bad either. The Tatuaje TAA 2011 went wavy couple times but required absolutely no touch-ups. Ash, although initially fairly tight, became awfully flaky after the middle mark.


Well, did I enjoy Tatuaje TAA 2011 ? You bet I did. Broadleaf Connecticut wrapper, box-pressed finish, closed foot = winning recipe in my cigar book. The cigar delivered great array of flavors, decent strength and excellent format. As for as I’m concerned, this is a box worthy purchase, if you can still find it. Looking forward to Tatuaje & TAA 2012 collaboration.


Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Broadleaf Connecticut
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Length: 5 5/8″
Ring: 54

Construction > Good
Burn > Good
Enjoy > Absolutely
Recommend > Absolutely
Buy > Absolutely


Please consider the following post:
* Tatuaje Federal Cigar 90th Anniversary 109 Rosado
* Tatuaje ‘M-80′

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hoyo de Monterrey Edicion Limitada 2003

Dec 21

Posted by admin in Hoyo de Monterrey Edicion Limitada 2003 | 9 Comments 

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

It is time for another ‘forbidden fruit.’ This week we are photographing and reviewing Hoyo de Monterrey Edicion Limitada 2003. Looking across HdM, this was the first and is one of the figurado shaped Edicion Limitadas.

From cubancigarwebsite
2000 – Edición Limitada – Grand Corona 47 x 235 (9.3″)
2003 – Edición Limitada – Pyramid 52 x 156 (6.1″)
2004 – Edición Limitada – Robusto Extra 50 x 141 (5.6″)
2007 – Edición Limitada – Corona Extra 46 x 137 (5.4″)
2011 – Edición Limitada - Petit Pyramid 46 x 135 (5.3″)



Visually, one is introduced to a relatively dark, aged for 2 years, oily wrapper with a lot of visible veins and seams. After clipping it, excellent draw. Considering inconsistency and construction problems, good draw in a cuban cigar puts a smile on my face. Great start ! Pleasing flavors right out of the gate. Enjoyable chocolate morphed into an espresso like taste. In addition, I was able to extract a bit of cinnamon, woodiness, and hints of sweetness on the lips. To balance it, there was a hint of spice / pepper, especially toward the end. Along with a great draw and a bit unexpected, thick, rich smoke that made photography session that much more enjoable. The burn line was a bit wavy at first but then corrected itself and progressed exceptionally well. The ash, as depicted below, was simply superb.


I absolutely enjoyed Hoyo de Monterrey Edicion Limitada 2003. Considering sweet chocolaty flavors, this cigar reminded me of Cohiba Genios and its maduro characteristics. I had couple samples of HdM EL ’03 couple years ago and recall similar experience. After reading latest reviews on this specimen, I was expecting a lot less flavors and strength. Although I agree with the latter, I believe that this pyramid is still packing quite a bit of flavor. If you can find singles or a box, I strongly recommend it.


Country of Origin: Cuba
Wrapper: Cuba
Binder: Cuba
Filler: Cuba
Length: 6.1″
Ring: 52

Construction > Good
Burn > Great
Enjoy > Absolutely
Recommend > Absolutely
Buy > Absolutely

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

God of Fire Serie B – cigar giveaway

Dec 14

Posted by admin in God of Fire Serie B | 4 Comments

And the winner of the God of Fire Serie B robusto gordo 3-pack giveway is …





Thank You all for participating. Cigar smoking is about enjoying as well as sharing. In 2012 and going forward, if my coolidors / humidors agree, I would like to continue with 1 giveaway per month. Cigars, Photo prints, etc. Conceptually, not too many limits. Everyone is welcome back to ‘play’ again. I have received quite a bit from the cigar industry and local B&Ms. It is time to Pay It Forward. Merry Christmas to You and Yours !

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Studio Tobac Exclusive Collection

Dec 13

Posted by admin in Studio Tobac Exclusive Collection | 5 Comments

This week we are photographing, not reviewing, the latest project from Studio Tobac’s stable – ‘Exclusive Collection.’ I was gifted this sampler by Ian Hummel – Oliva’s Regional Sales Manager couple weeks ago at the Big Smoke in NYC. The concept of the Exclusive Collection was born during Studio Tobac’s Executive Board meeting at the IPCPR. There were 500 boxes made. The Exclusive Collection is shipping now and will be offered to the top Studio Tobac retailers in the US – $120 per box MSPR. The box itself contains 9 cigars: 4 x Cain F lancero, 4 x Cain Daytona lancero, 1 x Culebra.



Cain Daytona lancero (* Nicarguan Cigar of the Year by the European Cigar Journal)
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Jalapa ligero
Length: 7″
Ring: 38

Cain F lancero
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Length: 7″
Ring: 38

Culebra – a special, custom blend exclusive to the Collection.



Please consider the following post:
* Oliva Cain F lancero
* Studio Tobac Tour

- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,