MIAMI CIGAR & CO. EXPANDS OUTCAST CIGARS LINE WITH NEW TIN FORMAT AT PCA 2026

Miami Cigar & Co. introduces Outcast Tins, a new extension of the Outcast Cigars line, set to debut at the 2026 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show in New Orleans.

Outcast Cigars was never built to follow tradition, and the introduction of tins continues that approach. Designed for a more flexible, everyday smoking experience, Outcast Tins deliver the same blend in a format that fits outside the usual expectations of premium cigars.

Each tin contains 10 cigarillos (4 x 30), offering a shorter, more accessible option without changing the core profile that defines the brand.

“Outcast was never about fitting into what a cigar is supposed to be,” said Jason Wood. “This format is a natural extension of that—same cigar, just built for how people actually live and smoke today.”

Since its debut, Outcast has been about carving its own lane—less about rules, more about individuality. The addition of tins reinforces that mindset, offering a product that doesn’t require the time, setting, or structure often associated with traditional cigars.

With a suggested retail price of $24.99 per tin, Outcast Tins provide an approachable entry point for consumers while also creating new opportunities for retailers.

Outcast Tins will be showcased at PCA 2026 in New Orleans, with estimated shipping in July 2026.

Product Details:

Format: 4 x 30 cigarillos

Packaging: 10 cigars per tin

Blend: Same as core Outcast Cigars line

MSRP: $24.99 per tin

Black Label Trading Co. (BLTC) debuting MACABRE at this year’s PCA Trade Show in New Orleans

Black Label Trading Co. (BLTC) will be debuting MACABRE at this year’s PCA Trade Show in New Orleans. Macabre is hand crafted at Fabrica Oveja Negra in Esteli, Nicaragua.

BLTC Macabre is a new Limited Release and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis to BLTC/BLK WKS retailers attending PCA 2026. Shipping will commence directly after the show.

"Macabre is quintessential Black Label – rich, dark and elegant with a perfect balance of strength and flavor. The earthy, floral notes on the palate combine perfectly with the bold, intense spice on the retrohale to create a beautiful balance and unique smoking experience,” says James Brown, creator of BLTC/BLK WKS and partner at Fabrica Oveja Negra.

MACABRE features a rich San Andrés wrapper with a rabito cap and Nicaraguan filler tobacco.

Blend and Origin:

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés

Binder: Ecuador Habano

Filler: Nicaragua

Available vitolas:

Robusto 5x50 (20 count) – MSRP $13.50

Corona Gorda 5.5x46 (20 count) – MSRP $13.50

Toro 6x50 (20 count) – MSRP $14.00

MIAMI CIGAR & CO. REINTRODUCES NESTOR MIRANDA PRIVATE RESERVE LANCERO AT PCA 2026

Miami Cigar & Co. announces the return of the Nestor Miranda Private Reserve Lancero, set to debut at the 2026 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show in New Orleans.

Originally introduced in 2021 as part of a series of blends personally selected by Nestor Miranda, the Private Reserve line reflects a more intimate approach to cigar making—one shaped by Miranda’s Cuban roots and his decades building a life and business in Miami. The result is a philosophy centered on balance, refinement, and the enjoyment of the smoking experience.

The reintroduction of the Lancero format continues that approach, bringing back a vitola long favored by experienced smokers. Often regarded as one of the purest expressions of a blend, the lancero demands precision in both construction and composition.

This release features a Dominican Corojo wrapper, Nicaraguan Criollo ‘98 binder, and a blend of Dominican, Nicaraguan, and Brazilian fillers, and is produced at La Aurora in the Dominican Republic, resulting in a smoking experience defined by nuance and balance.

Produced in limited quantities of 500 boxes, the Private Reserve Lancero remains true to its original concept—selective, measured, and rooted in personal preference.

“The lancero has always been my favorite—it’s an elegant cigar, simple as that,” said Nestor Miranda. “At the end of the day, I smoke what I enjoy—and this is exactly that.”

The packaging, defined by deep blue tones and a classic tile-inspired pattern, subtly reflects the intersection of Cuban heritage and Miami’s refined, coastal aesthetic.

Subtle in presentation yet grounded in tradition, the Private Reserve Lancero reflects that same duality—honoring heritage while embracing the spirit and evolution of Miami.

The Nestor Miranda Private Reserve Lancero will be showcased at PCA 2026 in New Orleans. Estimated shipping date: July 2026.

Product Details:

Vitola: 6 3/4 x 40 Lancero

Wrapper: Dominican Corojo

Binder: Nicaraguan Criollo ‘98

Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan & Brazilian

Factory: La Aurora, Dominican Republic

Packaging: 10 cigars per box

Production: 500 boxes

MSRP: $18 per cigar, $180 per box

The Cigar Authority Celebrates Sweet 16 in Epic Style

World’s Longest-Running Cigar Podcast Marks 16 Uninterrupted Years with Exclusive Limited-Edition Holy Cow! Cigar at America’s Oldest Operating Cigar Factory.

The Cigar Authority (TCA) proudly commemorates its remarkable 16th anniversary with a milestone that’s as bold and unforgettable as the cigars it champions.

Since launching on April 1, 2010, TCA has never missed a single weekly episode, proving that their motto, “The show must go on,” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a way of life. Founded by David Garofalo, the podcast has delivered two hours of passionate cigar industry news, guest interviews, and lively banter every week, earning a devoted global following and accolades as one of the most educational and entertaining voices in the cigar community.

To mark this milestone, TCA took the celebration on the road. Instead of their signature live broadcast from the Studio 21 Podcast Cafe in Salem, New Hampshire, the team headed south to the Cigar City, Tampa, Florida, for a historic broadcast at J.C. Newman Cigar Company’s El Reloj factory, America’s oldest continuously operating cigar factory.

“The oldest continuously running cigar podcast at the oldest continuously operating cigar factory seemed like the perfect pairing,” said Mr. Jonathan, co-host and original member of the TCA team since day one.

A celebration this epic demanded something truly special. TCA producer Ed Sullivan made the trip to J.C. Newman in Tampa to collaborate on the blend, resulting in an exclusive, limited-edition cigar that’s as fun in spirit as it is serious in quality.

The TCA 16th Anniversary cigar Holy Cow!, a massive 6” x 60 Nicaraguan Gordo featuring a rich Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and Nicaraguan fillers. Soft box-pressed for exceptional construction and flavor, this powerhouse delivers the bold, complex profile that TCA fans crave. Handmade at the Puros de Estelí, Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima factory (PENSA) the other cigar factory owned by J.C. Newman.

But the real showstopper? The packaging. Forget the traditional box, this cigar comes in a cleverly designed milk carton style, dubbed Holy Cow! Complete with a playful “missing” area featuring a nod to a past producer and host, it’s equal parts whimsical and collectible. “We made the packaging fun, but the cigar is legit,” declared David Garofalo.

Only 300 cartons have been produced. Individual cigars are priced at $16 each, a fitting tribute to the 16th anniversary, while full cartons are an incredible value at just

$199.99 (each carton containing 20 cigars). Available now exclusively at 2GuysCigars.com

“This isn’t just a cigar; it’s a celebration of 16 years of dedication, community, and pure passion for the leaf,” Garofalo added. “From our studio in New Hampshire to the historic floors of El Reloj in Tampa, we’re honoring the past, smoking in the present, and toasting to many more years ahead. The show must go on, and so must the great cigars!”

The American Story Finale: Chapter Four Now Live

A story shaped by heritage, hard work and the American dream reaches its conclusion — the final chapter of The American Story is now live. In this docuseries, we highlight the people and unique components that make the first 100% all-American cigar possible. Each chapter shares a unique story of the hard work, heritage and dedication to quality behind each premium American cigar.

In Chapter One, we explored the origins of an American craft and the roots of the last operating cigar factory in the United States.

In Chapter Two, we delved into the fertile American fields of the Connecticut River Valley and the rolling farmland of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where generations of families keep alive the centuries-old tradition of tobacco farming.

In Chapter Three, we dove deeper into the journey of The American cigar and the craftsmen across the country whose hands shape every step along the way — from hand rolling to label printing and box making.

In the final chapter, we learn more about the people whose hard work, grit and determination allows The American story to live on for generations. Because tradition doesn’t endure by chance — it survives when someone picks up the torch and carries it forward.

Watch The Final Chapter

Vitruvian Toro by Tradecraft Cigars (6 x 50)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Tradecraft Cigars)

The Vitruvian is a renaissance in Connecticut cigars. Blended over four months by Wiber Ventura at Tabacalera William Ventura in the Dominican Republic, it redefines what a Connecticut-wrapped cigar can be—mild to medium in body yet bursting with flavor and complexity.

The blend showcases an elegant Grade A Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper grown by ASP over an Ecuadorian Sumatran binder, with fillers of Nicaragauan Jalapa, Criollo ’98 (various primings), Corojo, Connecticut Wrapper and Ecuadorian Corojo. Wiber’s challenge was balancing sweetness and earth, and the result is nothing short of artistry.

Each draw reveals a refined progression of flavors: sweet citrus, earth, mineral, and cream—delivering harmony, nuance, and sophistication. Smooth yet full-flavored, approachable yet complex, The Vitruvian is crafted for modern connoisseurs who demand depth without overpowering strength.

This is more than a cigar—it’s a rebirth of Connecticut, and a tribute to timeless craftsmanship.

Available in 6x50 Toro.

The cigar is a golden brown and nicely made. It has an average feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up were lime with a touch of orange citrus, brown sugar, tanned leather, earthiness, and black coffee. The sweet notes are rather light. There was black pepper rated at 7 to 7 1/2. The sweet notes need to increase.

At the first third (25 minutes) the notes are about the same. I still had the lime/citrus/brown sugar and they may have come out a little more. Quickly following those are a lot of earthy black coffee. The leather is not there any more. The cigar is mild to medium bodied. The finish has hints of the lime/citrus and black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. The cigar is still very light. I rated the first third 90.

As I moved through the second third (49 minutes) the cigar developed a lot of bitterness. The sweet notes are decreased. The earthy black coffee is still there. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish has bitterness with barely hints of lime and a little black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. Connecticut's have a tendency to develop bitterness. Combine that with the light sweet notes and it's not a good thing. I rated the second third 86.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 15 minutes. The bitterness, for the most part, went away. The sweetness was able to creep up a little. There is still a lot of earthy black coffee. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is mostly black coffee with a drop or two of lime sweetness with very good lingering black pepper. I rated the final third 88.

Overall Score: 88

Altadis U.S.A. and Churchill Downs® Continue Celebrated Partnership with Romeo y Julieta 152nd Kentucky Derby®

In continued partnership with Churchill Downs® and the Kentucky Derby®, Altadis U.S.A. is proud to unveil the Romeo y Julieta 152nd Kentucky Derby® limited-edition cigar, continuing a tradition that unites two iconic institutions founded in 1875.

Building on the success of previous releases, the 152nd edition honors the elegance, tradition, and celebratory spirit that define the Kentucky Derby, while remaining true to the craftsmanship and heritage of the Romeo y Julieta brand.

“The Kentucky Derby is one of the most iconic celebrations of tradition and excellence in American culture,” said Mariana Hinestrosa, Senior Brand Manager for Romeo y Julieta. “This release was designed to reflect that same sense of occasion, through refined presentation, thoughtful details and a blend crafted to recognize one of the most memorable events of the year.”

The limited-edition Romeo y Julieta 152nd Kentucky Derby is presented in a white collector’s box accented with gold detailing and red rose artwork, paying tribute to the iconic blanket of red roses that is draped over the winning thoroughbred. The meticulous design draws inspiration from the Derby’s most recognizable visual elements, while remaining true to the timeless aesthetic of Romeo y Julieta.

The Romeo y Julieta 152nd Kentucky Derby will be available in two box formats:

A 10-count collector’s box, offered through select premium retailers nationwide; and A 1-count commemorative coffin, available exclusively at kiosks throughout Churchill Downs® during Derby Week.

This limited edition features a medium-bodied cigar crafted with Nicaraguan tobaccos, offering a balanced and flavorful profile with notes of vanilla, white chocolate, and a clean, refined finish.

Designed to be enjoyed throughout Derby Week and beyond, the cigar delivers enough complexity to engage seasoned aficionados yet remains refined enough for those seeking a celebratory smoke that does not overwhelm.

Production is limited to one thousand 10-count boxes nationwide, reinforcing the collectable nature of the release. Shipping will begin in April, in advance of the Kentucky Derby, which is held annually on the first Saturday in May at the historic Churchill Downs® in Louisville, Ken.

As part of this longstanding partnership, Altadis U.S.A. is expanding its role and will be the exclusive provider of premium cigars at Churchill Downs during Derby week. This will allow for elevated on-site engagement experiences with some of the most highly regarded brands including Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, H. Upmann, Trinidad and Aging Room.

“This is a strategic effort to strengthen our presence at one of the most prestigious events in the country,” said Oliver Hyams, Vice President of Marketing at Altadis U.S.A. “It allows us to connect our brands with a highly engaged audience.”

Product Details

Size:             Toro (52 x 6)

Wrapper:      Nicaragua 

Binder:          Nicaragua

Filler:            Nicaragua

Strength:      Medium

Origin:          Honduras

MSRP

• $25 per cigar | $250 per 10-count box

• $30 per 1-count commemorative coffin

LOFB Cigars Announces “Department of Honor” — First PCA Exclusive Release Honouring First Responders and Armed Forces

LOFB Cigars (League of Fat Bastards) proudly announces the release of its first PCA-exclusive cigar offering, Department of Honor, a limited-edition pack dedicated to first responders and the six branches of the United States armed forces. 

This special release underscores the company’s mission-driven focus on supporting men’s mental health and recognising the pressures faced by those who serve on the front lines of society.

Founded on the principles of brotherhood, resilience and open dialogue around mental wellbeing, LOFB Cigars views the Department of Honor project as a natural extension of its core values. 

Founder Adam J. Levine commented on the significance of the launch: “

This release fits perfectly into our mission. First responders and armed forces operate under high pressure. These situations can have severe consequences for their mental wellbeing and can lead to depression, PTSD and other mental illnesses. That’s why we chose to release a PCA exclusive pack to support them.”

The Department of Honor pack contains four cigars presented in a paper-wrapped bundle and features two distinct blends: one milder profile and one stronger profile, both offered in a corona format. 

The decision to use a shorter vitola was made following internal discussions with both the LOFB cigar team and the company’s mental health advisors. Levine explained the rationale:

“We decided to go for a shorter format — something that can be smoked relatively quickly after a job while getting ready for the next one. It offers a short mental break on the spot that can help these heroes relax a little before heading into the next situation.”

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the Department of Honor four-pack is set at $46.24. The initial production run will consist of 400 packs, with the option to expand production should demand exceed expectations. A Nicaraguan cigar of the highest quality, which has become synonymous with LOFB Cigars,  the specific blend compositions remain undisclosed at this time. 

LOFB Cigars anticipates that shipping will commence in mid-May.

With Department of Honor, LOFB Cigars combines craftsmanship with purpose, delivering a product that not only celebrates premium tobacco but also highlights the importance of mental wellbeing among those who serve under extraordinary pressure.

“Bloody Good Cigars for a Bloody Good Cause.”

J.SANN & SON and S.T. Dupont Announce First U.S. Based S.T. Dupont Boutique Experience

J.SANN & SON and S.T. Dupont are proud to announce a world-class partnership at the upcoming Wynwood Art District venue featuring the first “S.T. Dupont Boutique Experience.”

As part of the partnership, J.SANN & SON will host unique experiences for collectors, called “S.T. Dupont Collector Meetups,” adding a new twist to the current personal collectorship that surrounds S.T. Dupont. These events will position J.SANN & SON as the premiere gathering place for S.T. Dupont collectors, allowing patrons to fully immerse themselves in the culture and story of the brand and expanding upon and building a community around the collectorship that has until now been a vital, yet solo, part of the S.T. Dupont experience.

“I want cigar enthusiasts to attend S.T. Dupont experiences with the same gusto that you see at Porsche rallies and Rolex meetups,” says J.SANN & SON Founder, Jonathan Drew from Sag Harbor New York. “S.T. Dupont fans can come together, share their stories, display their rare finds, unveil their personal heritage pieces that have been passed down from their fathers and grandfathers - strengthening community bonds for this treasured, journeyed brand.”

S.T Dupont and J.SANN have also collaborated with one of the world’s premier cabinet makers, Builtbrite, to develop a store-in-store display system worthy of the S.T. Dupont vision, including all three of the brand’s product pillars: the Art of Fire, Art of Writing, and Art of Travel. The bespoke boutique cabinet installed at J.SANN & SON will deliver an amazing store-in-store experience and features hand-blown and hand-curved glass encasements from Italy, as well as shelves crafted from hand-ground tempered glass. These artistic choices all culminate in a beautiful, immersive display that truly illuminates the on-site brand experience.

Les Mann, V.P. of Sales USA for S.T. Dupont exclaimed, “I am incredibly excited to partner with JD and the J.SANN & SON team to bring this world-class experience to fans of S.T. Dupont. The J.SANN & SON Store-in-Store will be the first place that fans of the S.T. Dupont brand can browse the full product range under one roof, making it an ideal home for the collectorship that drives our community.”

In addition to the broad range of S.T. Dupont lighters, cutters, humidors, writing instruments, small & large leather goods - show-stealing limited editions and premier one-offs will outfit the J.SANN x S.T. Dupont partnership, including worldwide releases and launch experiences.

“Think of fun, purposeful gatherings for S.T. Dupont fans, celebrating the lifestyle of this treasured French brand,” says JD. “This is not about selling stuff to people. It’s about the amazing times we are going to have together - eating and drinking and smoking premium cigars while we swap tales. We want to know everyone’s S.T. Dupont story.”

The S.T. Dupont Boutique at J.SANN & SON is planned to open in September 2026. Details around the first collectorship experience, “S.T. Dupont Collector Meetups,” will be shared in the near future.

Azorian Robusto by Tradecraft Cigars (5 x 54)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Tradecraft Cigars)

The Azorian, blended by Rob Blumenthal & Wiber Ventura is Tradecraft Cigars Medium-Bodied full flavor offering designed to capture the essence of relaxation and warm tropical sunshine. This cigar delivers a smooth, carefree escape with every draw.  The name Azorian also pays homage to one of the most daring covert mission, Operation Azorian- where the CIA successfully recovered a russian nuclear submarine from the bottom of the Pacific.

Produced by Wiber Ventura at Tabacalera William Ventura in Tamboril, Dominican Republic, The Azorian features the finest tobaccos and flawless construction.

The Azorian is wrapped in a beautifully oily, reddish-brown 7th priming Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, draped over an Ecuadorian Sumatraninder with fillers of PA, Ecuadorian Puntiao, Corojo & Criollo 98'.

The Azorian is wonderfully complex yet balanced, with tasting notes of rich caramel, earth, subtle baking spice and sweet rum. 

Available in 5x54 Robusto and 6 x 54 Toro.

The cigar is nicely made and has a nice feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up were unripened peach, a little brown sugar, and a lot of earthy black coffee. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2. The lead flavor needs to develop and increase in sweetness.

At the first third (20 minutes) the unripened peach flavor has a touch more brown sugar. But there's a lot of earthy black coffee. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is unripened peach with very good lingering black pepper. I'm not a fan of the lead flavor but the brown sugar helps. I rated the first third 92.

Moving through the second third (45 minutes) there's a little more earthy black coffee which pulls down the sweet notes, which are already a little lower than I'd like. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is unchanged. The front end lead flavor is not developing. I rated the second third 91.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 4 minutes. The peach notes finally developed but in a rather low version. There is a touch of brown sugar there and the earthy black coffee pulled back a little. The cigar is full bodied. The finish is a peach note with black coffee and very good lingering black pepper. The cigar slightly improved. I rated the final third 92. 

Overall Score: 91.67

Gladius Robusto by Tradecraft Cigars (5 x 50)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Tradecraft Cigars)

The Gladius is the cornerstone of Tradecraft Cigars core line.  It exemplifies everything we love and look for in a blend.  Crafted by Wiber Ventura at Tabacalera William Ventura, the Gladius boasts perfect construction in all it's vitolas.  The cigar pays homage to the history of the mighty Roman Empire, and the sword yielded by it's Legionaires in battle.

The Gladius features a fire cured San Andres Maduro wrapper grown and supplied from the famed Turrent Family that has been aged from 3-5 years prior to application.  Under the wrapper an Ecuadorian Sumatran Binder encases fillers of Pennsylvania Broadleaf, PA, Ecuadorian Puntiao and Corojo.  

The flavor profile of The Gladius is clean, consistent, full and unlike anything we have smoked.  Expect robust notes of bakers chocolate, meaty savoriness, bakers spices and earth.  The retrohale is equally as complex, with notes of citrus and cinnamon.  The smoke of this cigar causes a pleasant mouth watering effect that keeps you wanting more.  

Available in 5x50 Robusto and 6 x 54 Toro.

The cigar is nicely made and has an average feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was very good. The initial flavors at light up were lime, apple, brown sugar, a little earthiness, and black coffee. There was black coffee rated at 7 1/2. Nice start.

At the first third (18 minutes) the cigar is mixing very well. The same notes are in play along with a little toffee. The mix is very sweet. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is lime and apple with very good lingering black pepper. I rated the first third 95.

As I moved through the second third (34 minutes) the black coffee rose and there was an element of citrus peel in the sweet mix. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is lime, apple, and black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. The cigar is still very good but the citrus peel and elevated black coffee took away a little. I rated the second third 94.

The cigar lasted 55 minutes. In the final third it pretty much reverted back to the way it was in the first third. The citrus peel went away and the black coffee toned down. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is unchanged. The thick sweetness is back and it's very good. I rated the final third 95. For a first cigar from a new company this is a great start.

Overall Score: 94.67

Joya Red, White, & Blue announced

Joya de Nicaragua announces the release of Joya Red White and Blue, a limited-edition cigar created exclusively for the United States in celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence.

"For decades, American cigar smokers have embraced Joya de Nicaragua and allowed us to grow alongside them,” said Joel Fernandez, SAG Imports National Sales Director, “This cigar is our way of saying thank you. As the United States celebrates 250 years of independence, we wanted to create something that could accompany our consumers during one of the most meaningful celebrations in their history. It also marks a special moment for us, as in 2026 we launch our independent distribution under SAG Imports in the United States — the world’s reference market for premium cigars.”

Joya Red White and Blue features an Ecuadorian H. wrapper over carefully selected binders and fillers from Jalapa & Esteli, crafted as part of the JOYA line alongside Joya Cabinetta, Red, Silver, and Black. True to the line’s signature approachability, it delivers a medium-bodied smoking experience, enhanced by extended aging to achieve

The feel and look of the packaging was crafted in the same spirit as the occasion itself. Patriotic elements and quiet symbols of freedom, ambition, and the pursuit of new horizons shape the band and the box in equal measure — honoring a country that has long inspired the world, and a cigar culture that has grown into one of its finest traditions.

“The packaging reflects the spirit of the celebration,” said Cristhian Lanzas, Marketing Director of SAG Imports. “It gently references American aviation, a symbol of freedom, ambition, and the pursuit of new horizons. The cigar band is also complemented by fifty stars encircling the design, representing the 50 states that form a nation that has long inspired the world.”

With a limited production of 500 boxes, Joya Red White and Blue will be presented in 10-count boxes in a traditional Toro (6 x 52) format, with an MSRP of $13.50 per cigar and $135 per box.

The cigar will make its official debut to retailers at the PCA Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans, at the SAG Imports Booth #3447, with shipments to U.S. cigar shops scheduled to begin in early June 2026, giving consumers time to enjoy it ahead of their Fourth of July celebrations.

Don Emmanuel Cigars to Preview Sun & Moon Limited Edition Ahead of PCA 2026 with Rare Miami Appearance by Eladio Díaz

Don Emmanuel Cigars will preview its upcoming Sun & Moon Limited Edition during a special public event at Empire Social Lounge on Wednesday, March 25 at 7:00 PM, offering enthusiasts a first look at the brand’s newest dual-blend project ahead of the 2026 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show.

The evening will feature a rare appearance by legendary master blender Eladio Diaz alongside Brazilian founder and Master Cigar Sommelier Don Emmanuel. The event marks one of Díaz’s few public engagements outside the Dominican Republic and his first appearance at a cigar event in Miami, where he will join Emmanuel in presenting and discussing the philosophy behind the new project.

Developed in partnership with Díaz and produced at Tabacalera Díaz Cabrera in the Dominican Republic, Sun & Moon explores the concept of dual energies through two distinct blends presented within a single box.

Inspired by the natural balance between opposing forces, Sun & Moon reflects the relationship between light and time, energy and reflection. The Sun blend captures brightness and vitality intended for daytime enjoyment, while the Moon blend reveals a deeper and more contemplative character suited for the evening.

Both cigars are crafted in a 6½ x 50 format and feature tobaccos aged in rum barrels, a rare process that contributes additional layers of aroma, complexity, and depth to the smoking experience.

Blend Details

Sun

Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut

Binder: Dominican Republic

Filler: Dominican Republic

Moon

Wrapper: Ecuador Habano

Binder: Mexico

Filler: Dominican Republic

Production is limited to 777 numbered boxes, each containing 14 cigars — seven Sun and seven Moon — allowing smokers to experience both interpretations of the concept within a single presentation.

The suggested retail price is $350 per box, with individual cigars priced at $25 each.

For Emmanuel, whose approach to cigars is influenced by symbolism and the rhythms of nature, the project represents a continuation of the brand’s philosophy.

“Sun gives strength. Moon gives time. A cigar is where both worlds meet,” said Emmanuel.

EL REY DEL MUNDO INTRODUCES LIMITED EDITION KING OF THE WORLD VSOP

El Rey del Mundo is launching a new, limited-edition cigar for those who appreciate aged complexity and bold character from their smoking experiences. The cigar, called El Rey del Mundo King of the World VSOP, was rolled in 2021 and has been carefully resting in STG’s aging room waiting for its opportunity to shine.

King of the World VSOP boasts an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Nicaraguan Habano binder, and a blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican Habano fillers. It is available in a single size — a 6 x 52 Toro. King of the World VSOP was produced at STG Estelí in Nicaragua. The new cigar represents a follow-up to the limited-edition El Rey del Mundo King of the World, which was released in 2024. King of the World VSOP is a medium-to-full-bodied cigar.

Ed Lahmann, Senior Brand Manager for El Rey del Mundo, said, “Fans, for many decades, have always relied on El Rey del Mundo for its exceptional cigars at an exceptional price. King of the World VSOP stays true to this statement and delivers one of the best cigars that we’ve made in a long time. This cigar really punches above its weight, giving cigar smokers across the country a chance to experience the elegance of El Rey del Mundo at a price that’s hard to say no to.”

Only 2,000 boxes of El Rey del Mundo King of the World VSOP have been produced. Suggested Retail Price (SRP) per cigar is $10.99. Each box contains 16 cigars. It will begin shipping in April 2026.

The American Story: Chapter Three Now Live

The American Story journeys on. In this docuseries, we highlight the people and unique components that make the first 100% all-American cigar possible. Each chapter shares a unique story of the hard work, heritage and dedication to quality behind each premium American cigar.

In Chapter One, we explored the origins of an American craft and the roots of the last operating cigar factory in the United States.

In Chapter Two, we delved into the fertile American fields of the Connecticut River Valley and the rolling farmland of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where generations of families keep alive the centuries-old tradition of tobacco farming.

In Chapter Three, we dive deeper into the journey of The American cigar and meet the craftsmen across the country whose hands shape every step along the way — from hand rolling to label printing and box making.

Discover the patience, precision and dedication it takes to craft this premium cigar. Watch Chapter Three today.

Watch Chapter 3

Shipwrecked Monkey (6 x 52)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Grouchymonkey.com)

At Grouchy Monkey Cigars, we craft premium cigar blends that embody the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Founded by Hyman Lazega in Miami, Florida, our company is built on a passion for creating unforgettable experiences. Our mission is to share the Grouchy Monkey experience with a close-knit troop of enthusiasts, fostering memories and connections over expertly crafted cigars. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or unwinding after a long day, our blends are designed to elevate every moment.

Wrapper - Habano and Oscuro Barber Pole

Binder - Criollo Desflorado

Filler - Esteli, Condega and Jalapa

A medium to full barber pole cigar blended by Miguel Pinto and crafted at MGE factory in Esteli, Nicaragua.

The cigar is nicely made and has a nice feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good with a touch of firmness but it was workable. The initial flavors at light up were lime, pear, brown sugar, dry leather, and light black coffee. There is a lot of sweetness in the lime/pear/brown sugar combination. There was black pepper rated at 7 to 7 1/2. Nice start.

At the first third (24 minutes) the cigar is burning fairly evenly. There is a significant amount of sweetness. I still had the lime and pear as the primary flavors but there is a syrupy consistency when they are combined with the brown sugar. There is also tanned leather and somewhat elevated black coffee. The finish is lime and leather with very good lingering black pepper. The cigar is medium bodied. The syrupy notes are quite nice. I rated the first third 94.

Moving through the second third (51 minutes) the lime and pear notes are a little muffled due to the addition of citrus peel and it has brought some bitterness with it. The black coffee has risen quite a bit. The leather is subtle. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is lime, pear, and black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. The bitterness of the citrus peel and reduction of sweetness hurt the cigar. I rated the second third 91.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 19 minutes. The black coffee pulled back and the sweet notes came out a little more. The syrupy sweetness is not there but the lime, pear, and brown sugar are nice. The bitterness went away. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is lime, pear, and brown sugar with very good lingering black pepper. I rated the final third 93. The Grouchy Monkey website has these priced at $48 for a 5 pack.

Overall Score: 92.67