Saint Luis Rey Eiroa 30th Anniversary Toro (6 x 54)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Altadis USA)

Altadis U.S.A. is introducing the Saint Luis Rey Eiroa 30thAnniversary, an exciting collaboration between Saint Luis Rey and master blender Christian Eiroa to celebrate a historic partnership that shaped the brand three decades ago.

The story begins in 1996, when Christian Eiroa blended the original Saint Luis Rey cigar using renowned Corojo tobaccos. The project was highlighted as Eiroa’s first major endeavor in the cigar industry. Thirty years later, the Saint Luis Rey brand reunites with Eiroa to honor that original blend with a new cigar.

Handmade at the C.L.E. factory in Danli, Honduras, the Saint Luis Rey Eiroa 30th Anniversary captures the authentic essence of Saint Luis Rey, while incorporating the signature craftsmanship and tobacco expertise that has defined Christian Eiroa’s work for decades. The blend, featuring Pinareno and Corojo tobacco, delivers a rich medium-to-full smoking experience designed to evoke the original Saint Luis Rey profile but refined for today’s market.

“Saint Luis Rey has always held a special place in my career,” said Christian Eiroa. “Returning to collaborate on this project 30 years later is incredibly meaningful. This cigar is about honoring the legacy of the original blend while creating something that today’s smokers can truly appreciate.”

Saint Luis Rey Eiroa 30th Anniversary will be offered in four vitolas with an MSRP ranging from $12.00 to $13.50 and will be available exclusively through brick-and-mortar retailers. Presentation plays a key role in telling the story of this collaboration and bringing the partnership to life. The cigars are packaged in 25-count authentic cabinet-style boxes reminiscent of the classic Eiroa appearance. Each cigar is wrapped in signature, co-branded Saint Luis Rey Eiroa tissue paper and finished with the traditional Saint Luis Rey red band.

With a blend rooted in history and crafted by one of the industry's most respected tobacco families, the Saint Luis Rey Eiroa 30th Anniversary celebrates tradition, partnership and the enduring legacy of premium cigars.

Saint Luis Rey Eiroa 30th Anniversary

Origin                                Honduras

Wrapper:                           Pinareno

Binder:                              Corojo

Filler:                                Pinareno & Corojo

Strength:                           Medium to Full

Sizes and Pricing:

Vitola                    Size            MSRP

Rothchilde            50 x 5        $12.00

Torpedo                52 x 6        $12.50

Toro                      54 x 6        $13.00 REVIEWED TODAY

Titan                     60 x 6        $13.50

The cigar is dark brown and well made. It has a nice feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up were apricot, brown sugar, nougat, tanned leather, and a touch of cinnamon. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2. Nice start.

At the first third (17 minutes) I had the same exact notes with the addition of some earthiness. It's not hurting the cigar too much at this point but I'll have to keep an eye on it. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is apricot with good lingering black pepper. I rated the first third 93.

Moving through the second third (38 minutes) the cigar made a major change. It is extremely earthy and black coffee is now in the mix. The apricot and brown sugar are very faint. The cigar is medium bodied, leaning toward medium to full. The finish is an earthy apricot with very good lingering black pepper. The cigar is quite different from the way it started and was in the first third. I rated the second third 89.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 4 minutes. The sweetness got a little better. I could detect the apricot and brown sugar in a nice amount. The black coffee and earthiness are still there but not as intrusive. There is no nougat or tanned leather. It actually went away after the first third. The cigar starts pretty good but loses a lot in the middle section but recovers about midway in the final third. I rated the final third 91.

 Overall Score: 91

Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with an America250 Cigar!

As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. invites cigar enthusiasts to celebrate with an America250 cigar. This year, J.C. Newman is releasing limited-edition cigars hand rolled at J.C. Newman’s historic El Reloj cigar factory in Tampa, Florida, to commemorate this anniversary. The American, Angel Cuesta, LeRoy Neiman and Tampa Smokers cigars bear the official America250 seal.

“J.C. Newman is proud to roll official cigars of the 250th anniversary of the United States,” said fourth-generation cigar maker Drew Newman. “Cigars have been an important part of our country since its founding. Therefore, it is only fitting that we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country with American-made cigars.”

First harvested in the Virginia Colony in 1612, tobacco fueled the growth of the early Americas. At the time of the American Revolution, tobacco was cultivated in all 13 Colonies, and many founders including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, were tobacco farmers. Benjamin Franklin even pledged 5 million pounds of tobacco to help secure France's support for the Revolutionary War.

In 1895, Julius Caeser (J.C.) Newman founded the J.C. Newman Cigar Company. Of the 40,000 licensed cigar manufacturers in the United States at that time, J.C. Newman is the only one left. J.C. Newman’s iconic El Reloj factory in the “Cigar City” of Tampa, Florida, is the last traditional cigar factory still operating in the United States. Inside El Reloj, J.C. Newman keeps America's historic cigar tradition alive by handcrafting premium cigars the same way it did a century ago.

“As part of our participation in America250, we released The American Story, a 20-minute documentary chronicling the centuries-old tradition of American cigar making,” said Newman. “The film showcases the farmers, cigar rollers, box makers and craftspeople who create The American, our 100% all-American cigar.”

In 2016, Congress established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission to plan and coordinate the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding in 2026. America250, the bipartisan organization charged by Congress to lead the commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, aims to engage all Americans in celebrating this historic milestone—including through licensing its America250 branding for unique, made-in-America products. J.C. Newman’s limited-edition The American, Angel Cuesta, Tampa Smokers and El Reloj Collection boxes and cigars all bear the America250 seal.

In his 1958 autobiography Smoke Dreams, company founder Julius C. Newman wrote, “I could not help but realize more than ever what a great country this is. I am filled more than ever with deep pride to be an American.”

Ceniza Fina Goes Dark: Third Blend in Three Years

Ceniza Fina Cigars is shipping its third blend to retailers nationwide.

Ceniza Fina CT Broadleaf is the brand’s richest, darkest cigar to date, a notable contrast to the mellow Connecticut lineit introduced last year.

 First shown at the 2026 PCA Convention & Trade Show in the Powstanie booth, the CT Broadleaf completes a three year arc for owners Sam and Rosie Lopez, who launched the brand in 2024 alongside their Glendale retail store, Fine Ash Cigars. Where the debut Corojo landed in the medium range and the 2025 Connecticut leaned light and creamy, the CT Broadleaf is built for smokers who want depth: a darker, sweeter, more full bodied profile anchored by a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper.

 Like every Ceniza Fina blend before it, the CT Broadleaf is produced by Hostos Fernández Quesada at TABACALERA LA iSLA in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.

THE BLEND

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf

Binder: Mexican

Filler: Piloto Cubano, Criollo 98, Nicaraguan Jalapa & HVA

Strength: Medium to Full

Flavor: Cocoa, dark chocolate, sweet molasses, espresso, and black pepper undertones.

 

All four vitolas are box pressed.

Corona    5.5 x 48    $13.00    $260.00

Robusto    5 x 52      $13.50    $270.00

Toro    6 x 52      $14.00   $280.00

Robusto Gordo    5.5 x 56    $15.00    $300.00

Distribution is handled by Pospiech Cigars.

“We’ve spent years learning what our smokers reach for, and a lot of them kept asking us to go bolder. The CT Broadleaf is our answer, it’s the boldest we’ve put our name on. There’s now a Ceniza Fina for everyone’s taste.”Sam & Rosie Lopez, owners of Ceniza Fina and Fine Ash Cigars.

Micallef Goes Green, White, and Blue For Exclusive Gordo Line At Two Guys

Two Guys Cigars is thrilled to announce the next expansion of the exclusive Micallef Gordo selection, adding three more standout blends from Micallef’s celebrated Color Series: Micallef Green, Micallef White, and Micallef Blue. After launching the 6" x 60 Gordo format in January with Micallef Black and Micallef Red, Two Guys Cigars is once again expanding this exclusive offering with three new additions built for fans of big-ring premium cigars and unbeatable value.

The latest additions to the exclusive Micallef Gordo line include:

Micallef Green Gordo – Featuring a Brazilian Mata Fina wrapper over a Mexican San Andrés Negro binder and Nicaraguan fillers, Micallef Green delivers a medium-to-full-bodied profile with rich notes of cocoa, coffee, leather, dried fruit, and subtle spice.

Micallef White Gordo – The smoothest and mildest addition to The Color Series, Micallef White features a Connecticut wrapper over a Broadleaf binder with Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers, offering mellow notes of cream, subtle sweetness, and refined complexity.

Micallef Blue Gordo – Crafted with a San Andrés Sumatra wrapper, Ecuadorian Habano binder, and Nicaraguan/Dominican fillers, Micallef Blue offers a creamy smoking experience with the balance, flavor, and value.

“When I looked at their lineup,” said David Garofalo, owner and founder of Two Guys Cigars, “I saw they offered Robustos and Toros, but the best value in cigars today is in the Gordo. Micallef didn’t have one… so I told them!” That conversation led to the January launch of Micallef Black and Micallef Red in the exclusive 6" x 60 format at Two Guys Cigars. “Now we’re taking the next step adding Green, White, and Blue give smokers even more choices in blends they love”

True to Micallef’s reputation for value, the new Green, White, and Blue Gordos will carry the same MSRP as the previously released Micallef Black and Red Gordos: $10.29 per cigar or $179.99 per box of 20.

The new Micallef Green, White, and Blue Gordos will go on sale Thursday, July 9 at 10AM EST exclusively at Two Guys Cigars and 2GuysCigars.com.

Altadis U.S.A. Introduces Limited-Edition Jogo Bonito World Cup 2026 Sampler

Altadis U.S.A. is proud to announce the release of its limited-edition Jogo Bonito World Cup 2026 Sampler, a special collection of premium cigars created to celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across 16 cities throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The phrase Jogo Bonito, Portuguese for "The Beautiful Game," embodies the passion, artistry, and global unity that have made soccer the world's most beloved sport. Inspired by that spirit, Altadis U.S.A. has assembled an exclusive collection of some of its most celebrated cigars into a commemorative sampler designed for fans of both premium cigars and the world's largest sporting event.

Limited to just 1,000 samplers, the release features 11 premium cigars from across the Altadis

U.S.A. portfolio, with every cigar earning a rating of 90 points or higher from Cigar Aficionado. Collectively, the cigars included in the sampler boast an average rating exceeding 92 points, representing some of the most acclaimed blends in the company's portfolio. Included among them is the Montecristo 1935 Nicaragua Toro, one of the most celebrated cigars of the modern era and a blend that has appeared in Cigar Aficionado's Top Cigars of the Year rankings in multiple sizes.

The World Cup 2026 Sampler Includes:

● 2 Montecristo 1935 Nicaragua Toro - Rated 95

● 2 Romeo y Julieta 1875 Nicaragua Toro - Rated 90

● 2 H. Upmann by AJ Fernandez Toro - Rated 92

● 2 Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Sonata Vibrato - Rated 93

● 2 Trinidad Espíritu Series No. 2 Toro - Rated 92

● 1 Saint Luis Rey Tabacales Toro - Rated 91

"The World Cup is one of the world's great celebrations, bringing together people from different cultures, backgrounds, and traditions through a shared passion," said Chadwick Gobar, Trade Marketing Manager for Altadis U.S.A. "This sampler reflects that same spirit by uniting some of the highest-rated and most beloved cigars from across our portfolio into a single collection designed for celebration, camaraderie, and memorable moments."

Packaged in a custom-designed presentation box inspired by the energy and atmosphere of a packed fútbol stadium on match day, the sampler captures the excitement and pageantry of the tournament. The collection highlights a wide range of flavor profiles and blending styles while showcasing tobaccos crafted in some of the world's most respected cigar-producing regions, mirroring the international diversity that defines the World Cup itself.

The Jogo Bonito World Cup 2026 Sampler carries an MSRP of $180 and is scheduled to begin shipping to participating retailers on June 12, 2026. The sampler will also be featured at select Altadis U.S.A. World Cup watch-party events throughout the tournament.

THE PUNCH-EST CIGAR EVER: MR. PUNCH BY PUNCH CIGARS

Punch Cigars is honoring its iconic (and “devastatingly handsome”) mascot, Mr. Punch, with a new cigar that bears his name. Mr. Punch by Punch Cigars is a full-time blend that delivers a signature Punch smoking experience with a flavor profile tailored to the modern smoker.  

Mr. Punch by Punch features an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Nicaraguan Jalapa Seco binder, and fillers from Nicaragua. The cigar was produced at the Scandinavian Tobacco Group Factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, and it offers tasting notes of wood, cream, and spice. 

Mr. Punch by Punch is available in three sizes: Toro (6 X 54), Gigante (6 X 60), and the largest Punch Cigar ever released, The Big Slapper (7 X 70). SRPs (suggested retail price) for the respective cigars are $7.89, $8.99, and $10.09. Each size is packaged in boxes of 20. 

Scott Abney, Brand Manager for Punch Cigars, said, “Mr. Punch is a true icon not just in the cigar industry, but in pop culture. So it only made sense to create a cigar that captures his spirit. This new blend delivers a classic Punch smoking experience with a flavor profile tailored to the modern consumer. We know it’s going to be a hit.” 

Mr. Punch by Punch is a full-time release. It will begin shipping to retailers in July 2026. 

 

Drew Estate Announces the Passing of CEO Glenn Wolfson.

It is with profound sadness that Drew Estate announces the passing of Chief Executive Officer Glenn Wolfson.

Wolfson joined Drew Estate as CEO in 2016 following a distinguished 34-year career in management consulting. During his tenure at Drew Estate, Glenn led one of the most important eras of transformation in the company’s history. Under his leadership, Drew Estate transformed its operations, dedicated itself to serving as a most trusted provider to its trade partners and consumers, and established itself as leader in supporting and protecting the premium cigar industry. Importantly, Glenn helped guide that change while staying true to Drew Estate’s mission, core ideology, and iconic culture. ​

Today, Drew Estate is the one of the largest and most admired premium cigar manufacturing companies in the world, renowned for its ability to disrupt, innovate and raise the prominence of the entire premium cigar sector. He had a genuine love for premium cigars and, above all, a profound appreciation for the people he worked with, both at Drew Estate and throughout the industry, and that profound appreciation was reciprocated.

“Glenn loved Drew Estate, its people, its brands, its culture and the broader premium cigar community,” said the Drew Estate Executive Team. “He was a transformational leader, a trusted partner and a deeply valued friend. He challenged all of us to think bigger, lead with discipline, protect what makes Drew Estate special and build this company to last. We are heartbroken by his passing, and we are committed to honoring Glenn through the way we care for one another, serve the trade and continue carrying Drew Estate forward.”

From Sag Harbor New York, Jonathan Drew, Founder and President of Drew Estate writes: “In 2016 Glenn Wolfson confidently and passionately planted his roots at Drew Estate … and like a hearty oak tree had a disproportionately large impact on our unique ecosystem, culture, and community. ​

While Glenn’s talents in business, operations, and general commercial practices drove the company to new heights, his influence as a people person was his separate-amongst-equals … his superpower! ​ Our Drew Estate Wolfy was a natural born leader who instinctively knew how to climb into each of our individual psyches and drive our strengths while mentoring us on how to course-correct our personal weaknesses. Most importantly, he accomplished this with love … really, really deep love. ​

Like the hearty oak tree, Wolfy ALWAYS gave more than he took, with a longevity focused principle of being built to last. On many occasions, more than I can remember, I would say to him “dude, it’s been months since you’ve taken a day off, you need to take a break.” His response was always the same … that the person needed him for the meeting, the workshop, the counseling, the reporting … the whatever. ​ If you’re reading this right now, there’s a good chance that on various occasions this person was you … from our US and Nica staff to our retailers, distributors, suppliers, and even our competitors. Glenn left nothing on the field of life. ​

A mature oak tree does far more than simply occupy space … it creates and supports a community of life, shapes entire ecosystems and influences evolution with impacts that often last for centuries. Soil, water, climate … everything … Wolfy, we will miss you profoundly.”

Drew Estate will continue to be led by its Executive Team until a new CEO is formally announced. ​

PLASENCIA CIGARS APPOINTS EDDY GUERRA AS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL MARKETING

Plasencia Cigars, a world-renowned premium tobacco grower and maker of award-winning cigars with a tobacco tradition since 1865, proudly announces the appointment of Eddy Guerra as Senior Vice President of Global Marketing, effective June 29, 2026.

In this role, Eddy will oversee the company's global marketing strategy, brand development, product positioning, consumer engagement initiatives, and international marketing efforts as Plasencia continues to strengthen its position as one of the world's most respected premium cigar brands. He will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Ed Bello.

Eddy brings more than 15 years of premium cigar and lifestyle marketing experience to the role. His journey into the cigar industry began through the development of high-end cigar lounges across Southeast Asia, where he discovered a passion for premium tobacco, consumer engagement, and brand building. Over the course of his career, he has held senior marketing leadership positions with respected organizations including Altadis U.S.A., Davidoff, and La Flor Dominicana.

Eddy Guerra said “It is both a privilege and an honor to join the Plasencia family and lead global marketing for a company whose legacy spans more than five generations and over 160 years. I believe the world is only beginning to appreciate the depth of what this family has built. To help shape the next chapter of that story is an extraordinary opportunity and one of the proudest moments of my career. I look forward to bringing every lesson and every experience from my journey to a brand with limitless potential and a legacy worthy of the global stage.”

“Plasencia has spent generations building one of the most respected names in premium tobacco,” said Ed Bello, Chief Executive Officer of Plasencia Cigars. “As we continue to expand our global presence, we are making strategic investments in the future of the brand. Eddy's experience, leadership, and understanding of premium consumers make him the ideal person to help guide our marketing efforts and strengthen the connection between our story, our products, and our consumers around the world.”

Heaven's Enforcer by NECM (6 x 52)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Kevin Parow)

The latest cigar from Kevin Parow and New England Cigar Militia. It sold out almost immediately but Kevin says he plans on re-releasing it at some point.

Blend:

* Wrapper: Ecuador Habano

* Binder: Nicaraguan Condega

* Fillers: Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos

It comes in one size; 6x52

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

The test draw after cutting the cap was a little firm but workable. The initial flavors at light up were orange citrus, brown sugar, tanned leather, and black coffee. There was black pepper rated at  7 1/2. Nice start.

At the first third (26 minutes) not much has changed. I still had the citrus, brown sugar, and black coffee. The only thing different is the tanned leather is quite decreased. There is a decent amount of black coffee but it's not earthy at this point. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is a citrus-type note with very good lingering black pepper. The cigar is quite nice at this point. I rated the first third 94.

As I moved through the second third (50 minutes) earthiness is starting to move in. The sweet notes are still there but a little muffled. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. I rated the second third 93.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 18 minutes. The earthiness kept floating upward. It's having an affect on the sweet notes. They are a little more muffled. The cigar is full bodied. The finish is black coffee with some remnants of citrus and very good lingering black pepper. I rated the final third 92. When these return give them a try. 

Overall Score: 93

Powstanie Sumatra Gran Toro (6 1/4 x 54)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Powstanie Cigars)

Pospiech Cigars Inc. is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated launch of the Powstanie Sumatra, a powerful new addition to the Powstanie family that is set to ignite the premium cigar market. O!cially debuting at the PCA Trade Show, the Powstanie Sumatra joins the brand's core lineup with a complex, full-Ravored blend built for the serious cigar enthusiast.

"We've been working toward a Sumatra expression for some time, and we couldn't be more excited to share what we've created," said Mike Szczepankiewicz, Owner of Powstanie Cigars. "The combination of tobaccos in this blend is something truly special — every component was chosen to elevate the others. This is a cigar built to make a statement."

T H E  B L E N D  

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra 

Binder: Dual — Mexico & Pennsylvania

Filler: Dominican Republic and Nicaragua

At the heart of the Powstanie Sumatra is a silky Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper prized for its rich, earthy complexity and natural sweetness. Beneath it, a unique dual binder pairing — Mexican and Pennsylvania leaf — creates a structural backbone that delivers a nuanced combustion and layered depth. The 1ller blend, sourced from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, brings a perfectly balanced interplay of creaminess and spice that de1nes the smoking experience from 1rst light to the 1nal inch. The Powstanie Sumatra is proudly crafted at the legendary Nica Sueño factory in Nicaragua — the same storied house responsible for producing RoMa Craft Tobac cigars. It is a facility renowned for its exacting standards, masterful blending, and unwavering commitment to quality construction, and the perfect home for this exciting new chapter in the Powstanie story.

Vitolas and Pricing:

Vitola                     Size            Boxcount        MSRP

Grand Toro            6¼ × 54           21         $16.00    REVIEWED TODAY

Churchill                7 × 48        21 $15.50

Grand Robusto      5½ × 52           21              $14.00

Petite Robusto       4¾ × 50        21          $13.50

The first production wave will encompass approximately 20,000 units across all four vitolas

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

The test draw after cutting the cap was very good. The initial flavors at light up were tanned leather, lime, brown sugar, a lot of "scratchy" earthiness, and black coffee. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2 to 8. Very nice start.

At the first third (29 minutes) there's still a lot of the scratchy earthiness. There is a lot of a sweet notes coming through similar to a caramel or toffee. It's a little hard to pinpoint due to the scratchy earthiness. The lime is still there but it has pulled back. There's a little tanned leather and a black coffee base. The finish is caramel with some earthiness and very good lingering black pepper. The cigar is medium bodied but it seems to be moving up. I rated the first third 95.

Moving through the second  third (57 minutes) the earthiness has increased a little. Now the lime is coming through better. There were brown sugar notes with modest caramel notes following. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. The scratchy earthiness continues to muffle the notes somewhat. But they have a nice overall effect. The cigar continues to be quite good. I rated the second third 94.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 21 minutes. The lime came back to the lead flavor along with brown sugar, caramel, earthiness, and black coffee. I didn't have the leather any more. The cigar is full bodied. The finish is caramel, black coffee with earthiness, and very good lingering black pepper. I rated the final third 95. This is a very good offering from Powstanie.

Overall Score: 94.67

CAO PACKS THE FULL FASA TRILOGY INTO NEW SIX-CIGAR SAMPLER

CAO is putting the complete FASA lineup into one travel-ready collection. Shipping June 1, 2026, the CAO FASA Sampler delivers all three expressions of the series — Sombra, Sol, and Noche —in a single, humidified fresh pack. 

The sampler is built for smokers who want the right cigar for any time of day. By featuring the Ecuadorian Shade of Sombra, the Honduran OSA Sol of Sol, and the Connecticut Broadleaf of Noche, the collection allows fans to see how three distinct wrappers transform a core blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers. 

"The FASA line is all about having the right smoke for the right moment," said Cory Beardsley, brand manager for CAO. "With this sampler, we’re putting the entire lineup in one pack so you can tailor your smoking experience to your day. Whether you want the smooth creaminess of Sombra in the morning, the spice of Sol in the afternoon, or the intensity of Noche at night, it’s all right there." 

The CAO FASA Sampler includes (2 of each): 

FASA Sombra (Toro & Gigante): Featuring an Ecuadorian Shade wrapper and Cameroon binder. 

FASA Sol (Toro & Gigante): Featuring the signature Honduran OSA Sol wrapper. 

FASA Noche (Toro & Gigante): Featuring a dark Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. 

The CAO FASA Sampler will be available nationwide with an SRP of $43.99 per 6-pack. 

LA GLORIA CUBANA RELEASES 4 PACK SAMPLER OF 90+ RATED CIGARS

La Gloria Cubana is bringing four of its iconic blends together in one sampler pack. The pack includes the La Gloria Cubana Classic, Serie R, Serie R Estelí, and Serie S, all of which have earned 90+ ratings, with two being honored as Top 25 cigars. 

The four cigars included in the La Gloria Cubana Sampler Pack each tell the story and support the legacy of The Lady, starting with the blend that started it all. The Classic Wavell was the first 90+ rated cigar from Cigar Aficionado and established La Gloria Cubana as the Original Boutique cigar brand. 

Next is the Serie R, a fuller-bodied blend that scored a 92 and delivers a rich yet refined experience with dark, punchy notes of coffee, chocolate, earth, and pepper. It’s joined by the Serie R Estelí, a Top 25 cigar that scored a 91, offering a similar medium-to-full profile with nutty notes of spice and coffee in a more Nicaraguan-driven blend. 

Rounding out the pack is the Serie S, the newest member of the La Gloria Cubana core portfolio. Richer and sweeter, it features notes of earth and light spice from its Mexican San Andrés wrapper — the first of its kind for La Gloria Cubana — which helped earn it a 90 from Cigar Aficionado.  

John Hakim, brand manager for La Gloria Cubana, says, “This Sampler Pack really has everything cigar fans want; impressive cigars, each unique in its own way yet still very La Gloria. This Sampler Pack is a reminder of La Gloria Cubana’s dedication to quality and mission to create unforgettable blends. Now, it’s easier than ever for fans to experience the best of The Lady.” 

This full-time pack is available in four-count packs containing the following blends: Classic Wavell (5" × 50), Serie R (5" × 54), Serie R Estelí (6" × 60), and Serie S (5.5" × 56). The La Gloria Cubana Sampler Pack is produced at Scandinavian Tobacco Group Estelí, S.A. in Nicaragua and will begin shipping to retailers in June, 2026. 

 LGC Sampler: SRP per pack $29.99 

PLASENCIA CIGARS APPOINTS TIM GRIEK AS VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES, EMEA & GLOBAL TRAVEL RETAIL

Plasencia Cigars, a world-renowned premium tobacco grower and maker of award-winning cigars with a tobacco tradition since 1865, proudly announces the appointment of Tim Griek as Vice President of Sales, EMEA & Global Travel Retail.

The appointment reflects Plasencia’s continued commitment to strengthening its international presence and building long-term partnerships across key global markets. With nearly 15 years of experience in the tobacco industry, Tim has built a sterling reputation for developing successful sales and channel strategies while fostering meaningful relationships throughout the premium tobacco world.

Since 2023, he has supported the Plasencia family business across the Global Travel Retail channel and the Middle East region, helping expand the brand’s presence in these strategically important markets. Based in Rotkreuz, Switzerland, he will now oversee sales efforts across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Global Travel Retail, working closely with distributors, retailers, and partners to further strengthen Plasencia’s position around the world.

For Tim, the appointment carries a unique personal significance. His first cigar experience came nearly 15 years ago when he selected a Jalapa torpedo from an office humidor, unaware at the time that the cigar had been crafted by the Plasencia family.

“What excites me most about this new role is the opportunity to continue building long-lasting partnerships around the world while representing a brand that is setting a new standard of quality in our industry,” said Tim. “Looking back, it feels like a full-circle moment. Fifteen years ago, my first premium cigar was crafted by the Plasencia family. Today, I have the privilege of helping share their story with partners and consumers around the world. Together with our global partners, we have an opportunity to continue elevating Plasencia as a benchmark for premium cigars worldwide.”

“Tim brings extensive international experience, strong industry relationships, and a deep understanding of global markets,” said Ed Bello, Chief Executive Officer of Plasencia Cigars. “His leadership, strategic mindset, and commitment to building meaningful partnerships make him exceptionally well suited for this role. We are excited to have him  guide the next chapter of Plasencia’s growth across EMEA and Global Travel Retail.”

Davidoff Cigars launches new Voyager's Selection assortment dedicated to the Davidoff Black Band Collection

Davidoff Cigars launches new Voyager's Selection assortment dedicated to the Davidoff Black Band Collection – created exclusively for Global Travel Retail and including Puro Dominicano, the brand's latest addition to the collection.

Davidoff Cigars, the global leader in handmade premium cigars and accessories, announces a new addition to its expanding Voyager's Selection, a line launched in 2025 that was exclusively created for Global Travel Retail. The Voyager's Selection Black Band invites aficionados, travellers and gift givers to discover the brand's popular Black Band Collection in a distinctive format presented in premium, travel-friendly packaging featuring two cigars of each line.

"Our Voyager's Selection Black Band presents our four Black Band Collection lines Escurio, Puro Dominicano, Nicaragua and Yamasá in one single assortment. Especially with the addition of our latest launch Puro Dominicano, the selection will speak to those aficionados seeking depth and intensity in taste profiles of terroirs from all around the world", says Javier González, SVP Head Global Marketing & Innovation at Oettinger Davidoff. "Crafted with our esteemed Global Travel Retail customers in mind, the Voyager's Selection Black Band offers an incredibly diverse range of taste experiences in a single box that makes for a perfect gift and a light-weight yet elegant travel companion."

The Voyager's Selection Black Band: Escurio, Puro Dominicano, Nicaragua and Yamasá in a gran robusto format

The Davidoff Voyager's Selection Black Band presents an intriguing selection of four distinct, exceptionally rich expressions, crafted for medium-to-intense palate stimulation and inviting aficionados on a journey through some of the world’s most renowned tobacco origins. The journey begins in Brazil, where sweet and spicy Escurio delights with a unique salty-sweet profile shaped by Brazilian and Dominican tobaccos. It continues to the Dominican Republic, where Puro Dominicano, a refined Dominican puro made from tobaccos with a combined age of 32 years, offers a full-bodied yet refined and harmonious experience. From there, the path leads to Nicaragua – a bittersweet expression reflecting the heat and intensity of the country’s rich volcanic soils. The journey concludes with Yamasá, named after a distinctive Dominican region, where the Dominican tobaccos reveal an earthy complexity paired with spicy notes from Nicaraguan leaves.

For travellers looking for something truly special, two cigars of each Black Band line are available in the exclusive gran robusto format, united in one assortment and offered only in Global Travel Retail. Dimensions gran robusto: 55 RG x 5 ½" | Ø 2.2 cm x 14 cm | Enjoyment time: 60–80 minutes

The packaging: lightweight, luxurious presentation

Like its cigars, the packaging design takes aficionados on a journey. Delicate gold embossing captures the Estelí region of Nicaragua, symbolising the moment Davidoff first ventured out into the world in search of new taste stimulations, thus laying the foundation of the Black Band Collection.

Housed in a clean-lined, rigid carton box with wooden elements, the Voyager’s Selection is designed with the modern traveller in mind. Lightweight yet unmistakably premium, the packaging combines functionality with luxurious aesthetics. Its sleek, protective structure ensures that each cigar arrives in perfect condition, ready to be enjoyed during the journey or presented as an elegant gift. A refined hologram sticker indicates the travel retail exclusivity.

Launch & Availability

From 16 July 2026*, the Davidoff Voyager's Selection Black Band will be exclusively available at Global Travel Retail.

*Launch dates and availability may vary depending on country.

Tampa Bay 28: Official 'America 250' cigar hand-rolled in Ybor City's historic J.C. Newman Cigar Co.

(from Tampabay28.com)

When it came time for the U.S. Government to honor a domestic cigar with the official "America 250" label — a cigar that would officially mark the nation's 250th birthday — Uncle Sam cast his gaze on Ybor City.

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. — 131 years of hand-rolling cigars the same way — is as integral to the growth of Tampa as tobacco was to the birth of the United States, a major financial catalyst for the American Revolution.

"Our only goal is to roll cigars 100 years from now the same way we do today," says Drew Newman, a fourth-generation cigar maker.

Not only is J.C. Newman the oldest major cigar factory in America, it's also the last. And all these years later, they just received one of their greatest honors:

They are the makers of the official "America 250" cigar.

The long vetting process for getting the "America 250" nod started more than a year ago. When Drew got word that the government deemed them worthy of the honor, he was in joyful shock. "I couldn't believe it," he says.

The "America 250" label adorns several cigars here, but the main one for this year's momentous July Fourth celebration is called "The American" — every aspect of the cigar is grown or made in the United States, from the tobacco (harvested in Florida, Connecticut and Pennsylvania) to the hinges on the cigar box.

As well as giving tours, J.C. Newman features a museum and a factory store, where you can purchase all their products including "The American."

PLASENCIA CIGARS APPOINTS RODRIGO MEDINA MENDIETA AS FIRST-EVER GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADOR

Plasencia Cigars, a world-renowned premium tobacco grower and maker of award-winning cigars with a tobacco tradition since 1865 proudly announces the appointment of Rodrigo Medina Mendieta as the company’s first-ever Global Brand Ambassador, a newly created role that reflects both the continued evolution of the brand and Rodrigo’s nearly 11 years of dedication to expanding Plasencia’s presence around the world.

Throughout his tenure, Rodrigo has played a key role in the international growth of Plasencia Cigars, helping strengthen the brand’s presence across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and other international markets. In his new position, he will serve as a global representative of the brand, sharing the story of the Plasencia family’s five-generation tobacco legacy, commitment to craftsmanship, and deep connection to the land.

Raised in Nicaragua, Rodrigo has long viewed his work with Plasencia as more than a profession. For him, it has been an opportunity to represent his homeland through one of its most celebrated products while helping elevate Nicaragua’s reputation on the global stage.

“What first attracted me to Plasencia was the opportunity to connect my professional career with a product from my country that I deeply believe in,” said Rodrigo. “For years, I asked myself whether a luxury product could come from Nicaragua and stand alongside the world’s most respected brands. Through Plasencia, I have seen that answer become a reality. It is an immense honor to represent a brand that reflects the heritage, craftsmanship, and spirit of the country I love.”

In his role as Global Brand Ambassador, Rodrigo will work closely with retailers, distributors, media, and consumers around the world, helping further elevate awareness of the Plasencia story and its commitment to quality from seed to smoke.

“Rodrigo has been an important part of Plasencia’s journey for more than a decade,” said Ed Bello, Chief Executive Officer of Plasencia Cigars. “His passion for the brand, his deep understanding of international markets, and his authentic connection to our heritage make him uniquely suited for this role. As we continue to grow around the world, Rodrigo will help bring the Plasencia story to new audiences while reinforcing the values that have defined us for five generations.”

My Father La Lealtad Torpedo (6 1/8 x 52)

Video review HERE.

(Description taken from Halfwheel.com website)

This is the second My Father line to come out of the company’s factory in Honduras, and the blend leans Honduran as well. The name means the loyalty, and it will be available in four sizes. This is described as a medium to full-bodied smoke, offering a bit more in the flavor department than the My Father Blue, the first cigar to come out of the company’s Honduran factory.

Wrapper: Ecuador (Habano Oscuro Rosado)

Binder: Honduras and Nicaragua

Filler: Honduras and Nicaragua

Available vitolas:

My Father La Lealtad Robusto (5 1/4 x 52) — $11 (Box of 20, $220)

My Father La Lealtad Toro (6 x 54) — $12.50 (Box of 20, $250)

My Father La Lealtad Toro Gordo (6 x 60) — $13.50 (Box of 20, $270)

My Father La Lealtad Torpedo (6 1/8 x 52) — $13 (Box of 20, $260) REVIEWED TODAY

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

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up were apricot, brown sugar, touch of nougat, earthiness, and leathery black coffee. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2. Very good start.

At the first third (27 minutes) the burn was a little off but I decided to let it catch up as it's not too bad. Now I had the apricot but there's also a citrus note. The brown sugar and light nougat are still there. The black coffee is pronounced but it comes after the sweet notes. There's a little earthiness and leather notes. The cigar is medium bodied, leaning toward medium to full. The finish is apricot with very good lingering black pepper. I rated the first third 94.

As I moved through the second third (1 hour) the cigar burn caught up without needing to be touched up. The earthiness and black coffee are up and the sweet notes are a little lower but it's not too bad. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. The change did not hurt the cigar much. I rated the second third 93.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 37 minutes. The cigar got back to nice again. The apricot notes were good along with the brown sugar and light nougat. The earthiness toned down. The black coffee was in a nice amount. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish was apricot with very good lingering black pepper. I rated the final third 94. Another good cigar out of their new Honduran factory.

Overall Score: 93.67