May/June Cigar & Spirits Magazine 2018

MAY/JUNE 2018

INTERVIEW

MARIO LOPEZ & OSCAR DE LA HOYA

READY FOR BUSINESS WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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MAY/JUNE 2018

LINCOLN SALAZAR CEO & Publisher RANDY MASTRONICOLA Editor-in-Chief ELISA JORDAN Managing Editor AUDREY PAVIA Consulting Editor JOE REDMOND Art Director BREAHNA WHEELER Director of Events/Administration CODY CHO Cigar & Spirits Web MIKE GOLDBERG Cigar & Spirits Social Media CHRISTOPHER BEDEROV Account Executive SHAHID GHANI Chief Financial Officer NATALIE NICOL Legal

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joe Bosso, Nick Hammond, Julie Harrington Giffin, Dave Johnson, Elisa Jordan, Amanda Keeley-Thurman, Randy Mastronicola, Greg Mays, Audrey Pavia

A L I N CO L N B L A K E S A L A Z A R P U B L I C AT I O N Editorial, Production and Sales Office Headquartered at: 1 Columbia, Suite 120, Aliso Viejo, CA (949) 599-2761

Cigar & Spirits is published bi-monthly by Top Hat Media Group, Please send address changes to Cigar & Spirits, P.O. Box 37185 Boone, IA 50037-0185. ©2018 by Top Hat Media Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

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Return undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: IMEX Global Solutions, P. O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2, CANADA. Printed in the U.S.A. April 2018 Volume 8/Issue 3 For Advertising: Advertising@CigarandSpirits.com To Contact Us for Questions & Comments email: CustomerService@CigarandSpirits.com Letters to the Editor: Feedback@CigarandSpirits.com

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UNCLE NEAREST PREMIUM WHISKEY ®

ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY. UNCLE NEAREST PREMIUM WHISKEY, 45% ALC/VOL, 50% ALC/VOL, UNCLE NEAREST, NASHVILLE, TN. © 2017 UNCLE NEAREST, INC. WWW.UNCLENEAREST.COM

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contents COVER INTERVIEW

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MARIO LOPEZ AND OSCAR DE LA HOYA GET THEIR TEQUILA ON

LIFESTYLE

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HAPPY TRAILS TO COBBLESTONE STREETS

The Best Summer Sneakers and Hiking Boots

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LOUNGE LIFE STORIES

You might just decide to go for it and become a player in the lounge of your dreams

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TIES, AND SOCKS AND BRIEFS, OH MY!

The not so cliché gift guide for Dad and Grad

FEATURES

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BARKEEPER BACKSTORY

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Bartending and Craft Cocktails in America

ON THE COVER

MARIO AND OSCAR

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VINYL COLLECTIBLES

Drool-worthy Discs for Your Turntable

ABOUT OUR COVER Cigar & Spirits Magazine spent the better part of a hazy cool afternoon with Mario Lopez and Oscar De La Hoya in the hills above Los Angeles this past March. The interviews and photo shoot were fun and their team graciously accommodated our every request.

Rod “Tuddy” Rinks expertly provided grooming and styling for the dynamic duo and Amber Asaly gracefully handled the photography duties.

A special thank you to Liza Cornejo for putting us together and facilitating throughout the day.

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MUSICIANS AND CIGARS

Legends from Aerosmith to ZZ Top Enjoy the Leaf

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INTERVIEWS

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SUMMER SNEAKERS AND BOOTS

OLD DOMINION GETS FIRED UP

Interview with Matthew Ramsey

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BEHIND THE LEAF

A Conversation with Danny Difabio of Rodriguez Cigars

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SPRING COCKTAILS

MEET DARIUS NAMDAR

Habanos Sommelier of the Year

54 VICES

OLD DOMINION

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FEATURED PAIRINGS

Phenomenal Cigar & Spirits Pairings

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MEET DARIUS NAMDAR

FOR YOUR HUMIDOR

30 Cigars Rated

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FOR YOUR BAR

20 Spirits Rated

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FEATURED SPRING COCKTAILS

For Cinco de Mayo and Beyond…

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DADS AND GRADS GIFT GUIDE

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MUSICIANS AND CIGARS

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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publisher’s note One of the hardest jobs we will ever have as men is being a father. It is a job where you never get to take time off. It’s 24hour/365 days a year job.

Fatherhood should be selfless, an act of unconditional love, the most important gift you will ever give your children. So, being that Father’s Day is coming up this June, I wanted to get some advice from existing fathers as well as up and coming dads. With so much craziness in the world, I believe that values, wisdom and manners are taught at home. It is a good opportunity to see what some of these amazing fathers I know had to say.

30 Things Every Father Should Teach Their Children Before Leaving Home MR. M.D.—DITA EYEWEAR. • Teach your sons to fight to defend themselves and their families but only fight to protect. Never start a fight, try to walk away, but make sure not to walk away with your back turned.

• Teach your son to play poker and shoot pool. These skills will teach you a lot about people.

• Know your table manners and know proper knife and fork etiquette.

• Always be a gentleman and know how to make a good cocktail for your wife, girlfriend and friends.

• Develop a strong work ethic.

CARL NOLET JR. NOLET SPIRITS USA/KETEL ONE VODKA. • Discover your passions.

• Learn how to handle fear, failure and adversity.

• Know the importance of keeping your promise as a gentleman.

• Learn how to earn respect and trust.

• Develop mental strength. It is as important as physical strength and take care of your health every day.

• You should listen twice as much as you speak.

CARLITO FUENTE. ARTURO FUENTE CIGARS. • Follow your Dreams!

• If you Believe you will Achieve.

• Never forget your roots and be proud of where you come from.

• Never do anything you would not like to see your mom or dad do.

• Be happy and follow your dreams. Remember, no matter what, I will always be here for you to give you love and support. Time will prove that your character is your destiny.

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JIMMY SALAZAR. (LINCOLN SALAZAR’S FATHER.) • Honesty, trust, and respect all go hand in hand, without one it destroys the other.

• When you speak to others or to an audience be direct but have respect to others and say it from your heart.

• Dress like a gentleman and appreciate the occasion.

• Handle loss well. Sports and games are preparation for loss in work and relationships.

• Treat your girlfriend or wife as you would want anyone to treat your sister.

CODY CHO. NEW FATHER. • Be self-reliant. Women do not need the support of a man to succeed or be happy in life.

• The world is not always fair. There will be ups and downs. How you deal with those struggles defines your character.

• Hard work equals success. Just showing up won’t get you ahead in life. You get what you put in.

• You can’t control events; you can control your mind and feelings.

CEO & Publisher Lincoln Salazar and his father, Jimmy.

Editor-in-Chief Randy Mastronicola and his father, John.

Account Executive Christopher Bederov and his father, Edward.

LINCOLN SALAZAR. (TO MY FUTURE CHILDREN.) • Live each moment. Do not take a second for granted but plan for the future.

• Love unconditionally and with a full heart.

• Forgive. Life is too short for grudges.

• Work hard. Work smart. Let no one person determine your happiness or success and never give up.

• Love God with all your heart and soul. Ask questions about your faith and never stop seeking truth. Laugh more then you cry and smile more then you frown.

I’d like to raise my glass, tip my cigar and say cheers to all of the fathers, mothers and men who have had to step up as role models out there. And a toast to those who guide, protect and love their children throughout their lives. Cheers to you! Happy Father’s Day!

Director of Events/Administration Breahna Wheeler and her father, Steve.

Sincerely, Managing Editor Elisa Jordan’s grandfather, Norbert and great grandfather, John.

Lincoln B. Salazar CEO/Publisher Follow on Instagram

@cigarandspiritsmagpublisher

I would like to dedicate this issue to the men in my life that have mentored me and guided me with loyalty, wisdom and love.

Mr. MD. John Turnbull. Philamone Salazar. Gilbert Salazar.

Merl Hill. Al Kau. Joseph Salazar. And, of course, my father, Jimmy Salazar.

Mario Lopez and his son.

Cheers to you men! I am forever thankful for your wisdom and life lessons as it takes a village. Cheers!

Art Director Joe Redmond and his father, Mike.

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10 years ago we crafted a cigar for those who value Substance over Style and demand absolute satisfaction.

Liga Privada is the no compromise, no short-cuts taken best cigar you have ever smoked, and we strive for that level of perfection, every single day.

- Jonathan Drew

Celebrating 10 Years of No Compromises.

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LIFESTYLE Photo courtesy of shutterstock.com

HAPPY TRAILS TO COBBLESTONE STREETS THE BEST SUMMER SNEAKERS AND HIKING BOOTS

by Dave Johnson

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ith warm weather finally upon us, it feels good to get outside. If you’ve been with us awhile, you know we love shoes. So, this month we are dedicating an entire article to cool summer shoes that look great on the trail or on the streets.

For the first half of these suggestions, we are going to showcase some great hiking shoes.

Summer is peak season for hiking. The snow is a distant memory and temperatures have risen. Ask any national or state park when they get the most visitors, campers, and hikers, and they won’t skip a beat: summer. Regardless of where you hike, be it in Yosemite or your neighborhood, good hiking shoes and boots are essential for an enjoyable experience without the headache of foot aches.

>> Adidas Terrex Fast Mid GTXSurround ($200)

>> Salomon X Ultra 3 ($120)

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irst up is a good hiking boot. Hikers are split on whether hiking boots or shoes are best. Boots have more support, shoes have more mobility. If you like hiking boots, the Adidas Terrex Fast Mid GTX-Surround ($200) are perfect. Adidas might not be the first company you think of when talking about boots, but they started making hiking boots in 1934. Their latest offering is breaking new ground again with many great features.

The Terrex has full GORE-TEX waterproofing, ventilated sidewall for breathability, OrthoLite sockliner, grippy Continental Rubber tread, a speed lacing system, and only weighs 13.6 ounces. Though they are boots, they feel more like sneakers, making these comfortable and versatile.

For a great hiking shoe with maximum versatility, look to the Salomon X Ultra 3 ($120). Salomon is well-known for their incredible running shoes. But they also know how to make great hiking shoes. The X Ultra 3 is one of the best all-rounders that can hike most terrain well. These aren’t waterproof, but they’re very breezy and cool. Not to mention they have incredible traction and are lightweight. We’d take a pair of these any day.

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>> Hoka One One Speedgoat 2 ($140) >> Oboz Bridger Low ($140)

>> Salewa Mountain Trainer ($230) >> Dynafit Speed Mtn ($220)

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you’re one of the self-professed crazies who loves to run on trails, you know that road shoes don’t work for trails. For that you need shoes like the Hoka One One Speedgoat 2 ($140). Hoka One One is renowned for their pillowy, comfortable shoes. That still holds true for the Speedgoats, but they also have great traction with a Vibram outsole, and are incredibly lightweight at 9.8 ounces. Inspired by the fastest recorded completion of the Appalachian Trail, they are built for hardcore trail runners.

Maybe you hike in rocky alpine terrain and need to traverse rocks without sliding. Then go with the Dynafit Speed Mtn ($220). Dynafit makes great mountaineering shoes, and the Speed Mtn has a great balance of features: light weight, waterproof, great invisible lacing system, as well as a Vibram outsole with a great mix of traction and stickiness. Dynafit is the Ferrari of lightweight hikers. A sleek and stylish powerhouse, Dynafit is a dynamite shoe for mountaineering.

Sometimes, though, you need something tougher than normal. If you are hiking in mud and water with lots of roots and trees, the Oboz Bridger Low ($140) is your best choice.

The Bridger is rugged and tough on the outside, but gentle and comfy on the inside. It has a wide toe box, and narrow heel, which make the perfect fit for hiking. Its mud-shedding tread, waterproof Nubuck leather upper, and comfortable insole make this a winner for any hiker needing something a bit “extra.”

And for extended through-hikes when you need a workhorse shoe that will not quit, go with the Salewa Mountain Trainer ($230). If Batman needed a hiking shoe, this would be it. Built like a tank, these shoes are at home in mountainous terrain where the going gets tough. With aggressive tread, breathable waterproof lining, blister-free comfort and nearly indestructible design, these shoes are aiming for the pinnacle. They even look great!

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Photo courtesy of shutterstock.com

“If you’re one of the selfprofessed crazies who loves to run on trails, you know that road shoes don’t work for trails.”

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Photo courtesy of Forsake

>> Range Low ($139) by Forsake

Summer shoes, of course, come in many more varieties, many of them inspired by athletic functions. Meaning, your favorite tennis shoes were probably actually made for tennis, but repurposed for casual wear. Modern sneakers have exploded in popularity in recent years, and though it would be hard to represent the whole scene, here are a few great ones.

F

irst on the list is a pair of sneakers that were inspired by hiking shoes. Forsake has a range of what they call “sneakerboots” that takes cues from hiking shoes, but are meant to be fashionable. Their Range Low ($139) is the perfect mix of both. They’re easy to wear with jeans and a t-shirt, comfortable and stylish, yet they look like hiking shoes—and they’re waterproof. These will look great on or off the trail.

>> Gustin’s Blue Gum Sole High Tops ($176)

Two things will never go out of style: great high tops, and Gustin. That’s why Gustin’s high tops, particularly the Blue Gum Sole High Tops ($176) are the perfect kind of cool. Gustin loves to experiment, and they make combinations of clothes and shoes that you might not find easily. These are made with blue Italian leather and a natural gum sole, but Gustin has many more to choose from, depending on when you catch them. Whichever variety you get, these high tops go well with anything and add extra cool to any look.

Photo courtesy of Gustin

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Photo courtesy of Greats

“These comfortable shoes drip with style, and are the best of what we remember “vintage” to be.”

>> Greats The Pronto ($199)

A sneaker brand that you should really keep an eye on is Greats. When they design a sneaker, they nail it. And The Pronto ($199) should be on your to-buy list. It’s inspired by vintage 70s sneakers, but with high quality Italian leather, superior construction, and an unparalleled attention to detail. These comfortable shoes drip with style, and are the best of what we remember “vintage” to be. As the name says: they’re great. >> Ra II ($150) by Vivobarefoot

>> EXOSTRIKE by ECCO ($270)

Often you need a go-to sneaker that goes with anything, it’s easy to put on, and it feels good. The Ra II ($150) by Vivobarefoot is just what you need. Vivobarefoot makes ultralight, flexible shoes with zero drop, meaning it’s like you’re barefoot. They look great with their leather upper, and they really feel like you’re shoeless. They’re the essential minimalist shoe. And they pack well, too.

The EXOSTRIKE by ECCO ($270) is changing the game with high tops. By bonding Dyneema fabric—the strongest fiber in the world—with leather, they have made an upper that is very light, thin, and super strong. They matched it with the midsole that is also ultra-light, meaning that these shoes are very comfortable, very light and very durable, the perfect shoe trifecta. Loosely inspired by hiking boots, these are the high tops of the future.

Recently hyper-comfortable sneakers inspired by running shoes have been the rage.

And the Tsugi Jun Sneakers ($120) are Puma’s version. And man did they hit it out of the park. It has a knitted, tongue-less top that is very comfortable and fits and feels like a sock. These are the epitome of comfort in a shoe.

>> Tsugi Jun Sneakers ($120) by Puma

There are so many shoes to choose from, but these are a great start to your summer shoe game. And with all the available colors and options for these shoes, your perfect summer shoes are somewhere within these choices.

Dave Johnson is a fragrance reviewer, critic and entertainer on the popular YouTube channel Fragrance Bros. To see more, visit www.FragranceBros.com.

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LIFESTYLE

LOUNGE LIFE STORIES COMFORT. RELAXATION. RESPITE. That feeling like our challenges and stressors are on hold. Just the right vibe for friends on the same wavelength to effortlessly engage.

That’s what attracts us to our favorite cigar lounge. Each establishment has its own personality. It becomes a niche community unto itself. Your go-to lounge is an escape where local flavor and robust tastes are right at your fingertips.

Each of the four cigar spots profiled in this issue have put their unique stamp on the lounge life experience. It’s highly recommended you pop in if you find yourself in their neck of the woods.

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Photo courtesy of shutterstock.com

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Photo courtesy of The Living Room Bar at W South Beach

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THE LIVING ROOM BAR AT W SOUTH BEACH General Manager: Rick Ueno Miami, FL

wsouthbeach.com

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iami is a hotbed of great music, terrific restaurants, timeless architecture and a blend of diverse cultures. If that’s not enough, the city’s warm weather and cool beaches are additional elements that attract visitors from near and far looking to experience one of the U.S.’s favorite regions.

The W South Beach caters to all sorts of visitors, from those on business trips to others seeking a relaxing getaway. Whoever comes in will have the same high-end but comfortable experience—and the opportunity to partake in cigars at the Living Room.

“We opened Living Room Bar as part of the hotel’s original design, it’s part of our DNA,” says Rick Ueno, general manager of Living Room Bar at the W South Beach. “In the bar’s cigar offerings, we incorporated blends that were reflective of South Beach and appeal to our international guests.

We offer cigar varieties that give our guests an unparalleled selection to match any occasion, whether that’s to enjoy during a relaxing afternoon on the terrace with the beach breeze or to celebrate a special occasion. We also host our annual Gentlemen’s Night Out which always features a top cigar brand.”

Rick is a cigar enthusiast himself, having taken up the hobby 10 years ago. Because he smokes, he’s developed a refined palate

and appreciates quality. “Living in Miami, Cuban cigars are not hard to come by,” he says. “Over the years I’ve learned to appreciate a good cigar, like the Hoyo de Monterrey Elegantes. I won’t smoke a bad cigar, if the draw is too hard or the taste is not to my liking, I will drop the cigar immediately. I won’t waste my time no matter how much it cost.”

His high standards are in every aspect of the lounge. From cigars to drinks to décor, the Living Room combines sophisticated with sexy. There is an indoor area and an outdoor terrace overlooking the swimming pool. A little something for everyone, basically. “We like to think of it as a modern playground for our guests to mingle with a smooth cocktail and cigar in hand,” Rick says.

The Living Room’s vibe appeals to nearly everyone who enters, from locals to visitors to celebrities.

“Living Room Bar is the original craft cocktail bar of South Beach, so people come here when they want to enjoy an expertly crafted drink in a vibrant, anything-canhappen setting,” Rick says. “You never know who you’ll see.”

by Elisa Jordan

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Photo courtesy of the Jefferson Hotel

QUILL AT THE JEFFERSON

Director of Food and Beverage: David Fascitelli Washington D.C.

jeffersondc.com

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ashington D.C. is a place steeped in tradition and elegance. It’s home to great museums, grand architecture and performing arts. It’s also a city that plays host to distinguished visitors from all over the world and where national and international policies are made. In short, it’s a place of high standards and excellence. And that’s where Quill comes in.

Nestled in the boutique Jefferson Hotel, Quill is an upscale restaurant and lounge that also offers fine wines, spirits and cigars. “The cigar program was part of the original concept for Quill,” says David Fascitelli, director of food and beverage for the hotel. “The Jefferson is meant to be a home away from home, so having a cigar with a cocktail on the Quill patio is meant to be like sitting in the backyard with good friends having an intimate conversation with the best cocktails.”

The hotel itself is housed in a historic building, so Quill blends classic décor with a contemporary feel. Rich, warm woods are partnered with leather chairs and overstuffed pillows. The modern touches help make the space welcoming, as opposed to stuffy.

Relaxing with a drink and a smoke also gives the lounge a nice vibe.

“The goal is to have a program that is approachable and not at all overwhelming, which is why we only offer a select few cigars,” Fascitelli says. “Quill is a cocktail forward bar and lounge and we want all of our guests both from D.C. and those staying in the hotel to have all of the comforts of home.”

And that’s exactly who the lounge serves—visitors and locals alike. “During the week, our base is a lot of single business travelers and the weekends more of our regular, local base.

We get a nice cross section of everyone.”

by Elisa Jordan

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Quill at The Jefferson features the only glass top bar in North America.

“QUILL IS A COCKTAIL FORWARD BAR AND LOUNGE AND WE WANT ALL OF OUR GUESTS BOTH FROM D.C. AND THOSE STAYING IN THE HOTEL TO HAVE ALL OF THE COMFORTS OF HOME.”

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“TO COMPLEMENT THE CIGAR SELECTION, THE BAR OFFERS MORE THAN 40 VARIETIES OF RUM. THE INTENTION OF THE LOUNGE IS TO TREAT GUESTS TO BAHAMIAN CULTURE, SO ALTHOUGH THE PRODUCT CHOICES ARE SOPHISTICATED ENOUGH TO PLEASE ANY CONNOISSEUR, THE ENVIRONMENT IS STILL WELCOMING AND RELAXING.”

Photo courtesy of Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

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T² AT GRAND HYATT BAHA MAR General Manager: Scott Allen Nassau, The Bahamas

nassauparadiseisland.com

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he Bahamas is a dream destination for almost anyone seeking a relaxing vacation. Warm breezes, salt air, blue ocean—and a long tradition of rum and cigar culture. Both are something guests at T² at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar are welcome to partake in. “Cigars have always been an integral part of the Caribbean culture,” says Scott Allen, general manager of the lounge. “Our team knew it was important to offer guests a space to experience and indulge in this tradition and craft.”

The staff set out to create a unique space at the expansive hotel. Although the overall resort is geared toward families, the staff understood the importance of a place where adults could unwind and partake in island traditions.

Because Baha Mar is a large resort, the challenge came in making the bar different from the other establishments on the property. The goal was to make the lounge “unique and authentic,” Allen says.

“With T², we wanted to create a refined and sophisticated experience, while staying true to the welcoming and approachable Bahamian culture,” he says.

To accomplish this, Baha Mar ensured that the décor was welcoming and that the cigar offerings were enough to satisfy everyone from a beginner to a seasoned enthusiast.

“We have guests who come to the lounge and need little to no help picking their cigar, and there are others who are overwhelmed by the diverse options,” Allen continues. “Cigars are like wine; many often go to the one they are most familiar with and never get the courage to try different options. We take pride in having an amazing team of bartenders and cigar experts who help guests of all levels pick the cigar that matches their taste personality.”

To complement the cigar selection, the bar offers more than 40 varieties of rum. The intention of the lounge is to treat guests to Bahamian culture, so although the product choices are sophisticated enough to please any connoisseur, the environment is still welcoming and relaxing. There are both indoor and outdoor sitting areas and a nautical theme is present throughout.

Cool white walls create a crisp look, which is offset by pops of color, such as red awnings to reflect the island feel. To add to that Bahamian feel, steel drums are often heard wafting through the air as guests sip rum and smoke.

“Ultimately, we want this to be a place where guests interact with one another, exchange stories about their time at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar and leave with a greater appreciation of the Caribbean cigar tradition,” Allen says.

by Elisa Jordan

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SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE

General Manager: Adam Evans Baltimore, MD

sullivanssteakhouse.com

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isitors to Sullivan’s Steakhouse in Baltimore have access to more than just bone-in steaks, fresh seafood and handmade desserts.

Guests are welcomed to relax on the patio and enjoy a cigar while gazing out onto the city’s magnificent Inner Harbor. “The cigar menu offers selections from Ashton, Rocky Patel, Padron and Arturo Fuente and guests are also able to bring cigars from their personal collections,” says Adam Evans, general manager of Sullivan’s.

And thanks to the formidable spirits selection, guests can also pair their favorite cigars with complementary beverages. “Cigars are popular in Baltimore,” Evans says. “Since we are one of the few places where you can enjoy a great cigar paired with rare offerings of bourbon and whiskey, we find a lot of guests proactively seek us out so that they can enjoy this uniquely sophisticated and social experience.”

Because they have regulars seeking out the patio, the cigars, spirits and view, Sullivan’s often finds itself with a fairly experienced customer base.

“The guests that come in to enjoy a cigar on the patio tend to be quite knowledgeable when it comes to cigars, although our staff is always on-hand to walk guests through the menu who are a bit unsure,” Adam says. “Our staff can also share selections of rare bourbon and whiskey that pair well with the cigars.”

by Elisa Jordan Elisa Jordan is the Managing Editor at Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

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Photo courtesy of Sullivan’s Steakhouse

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FEATURE

Barkeeper Backstory Bartending and Craft Cocktails in America

by Amanda Keeley-Thurman

IT IS A FAMILIAR SCENE. The bar is full and alive with patrons as diverse as the spirits on the shelf. Some are there to celebrate a good day, while others are there to recover from a bad one. The bartender is busy making rounds, being whoever he or she needs to be from person to person. They are a shoulder to cry on for the lady with emotional scars, a cheerleader for the family celebrating a big life event, and an expert on local attractions for the young tourists eager to explore a new city. Yes, the bartender wears many masks—and all of this, of course, while mixing cocktails, uncorking wine and pouring the perfect pint.

The bartender is clearly more than just the person making your drinks. Many are artists in their craft, others are great showman behind the bar, and almost all have an instinctual gift of gab. Bartending as a profession has a long and storied history that has paralleled broader changes in society and American culture, but in many ways, it has actually shaped American culture. There is a reason bartending has stood the test of time.

Photo courtesy of shutterstock.com

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Photo courtesy of Wiki Commons

U.S. Bartender Serving English Soldiers.

Historical Role of the Bartender in Society Historically speaking, the bartender has been viewed as a respectable and even at times revered figure in society. The art of cocktail making really took the nation by storm around the 1830s, and with that came the birth of the celebrity bartender.

Let’s journey back in time to the mid-1800s. It is the City Hotel in New York and the lobby bar is packed. Visitors near and far are cramming to find a spot inside not just to quench their thirst, but to see Mr. Willard, the first celebrity bartender, work his magic. The combination of his mad social skills and delightful mint julep caught the attention of many. Charles Augustus Murray wrote in Travels in North America in 1839, “His memory was yet more surprising than his skill at concoction; of the hundreds and thousands who went in to enjoy practical demonstration of the latter, he never forgot a face, or a name if once mentioned.”

Bartending was an appreciated expertise that demanded various skills and training to pull off proficiently. This special talent did not go unnoticed. As George Augustus Sala candidly wrote in an 1853 Household Words article, the bar keeper has an “unapproachable skill in compounding and arranging these beverages and making them not only exquisite to the taste, but delightful to the view…They toss the drinks about, they throw brimful glasses over their heads, they shake the saccharine, they scourge eggs and cream into froth, they send bumpers shooting down the bar from one end to the other without spilling a drop, they give change, talk politics, tell quaint anecdotes, swear strange oaths, smoke, chew and expectorate with astonishing celerity and dexterity. I should like to be a barkeeper, if I were clever enough.”

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Photo courtesy of Wiki Commons

“His memory was yet more surprising than his skill at concoction; of the hundreds and thousands who went in to enjoy practical demonstration of the latter, he never forgot a face, or a name if once mentioned.�

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Photo courtesy of Wiki Commons

M

ark Twain even wrote about the high esteem at which bartenders in the 1800s were held in his semiautobiographical travel book, Roughing It. Twain wrote, “I am not sure but that the saloon keeper held a shade higher rank than any other member of society…Youthful ambition hardly inspired so much to the honors of the law, or the army and navy as to the dignity of proprietorship in a saloon. To be a saloon-keeper was to be illustrious.”

Early bartenders were complex figures and creative masters of their craft, and are responsible for inventing the majority of classic cocktails we still enjoy today. Some of the best-known bartenders were showmen that wowed their patrons with flashy techniques, turning a simple cocktail into an extravagant event. For example, Jerry Thomas, The Professor and renowned Father of American mixology, was so entertaining and inventive with his cocktails, that he was earning more money than the Vice President of the United States at the time. His showmanship got him noticed, but it was the cocktails that really made him famous. In the words of Jerry Thomas, “A new beverage is the pride of the Bartender, and its appreciation and adoption his crowning glory.” In 1862, Jerry Thomas published the “Bar-Tender’s Guide”, the seminal book on cocktail-crafting that introduced staples such as the fizz, the flip, the smash, the sour, and many other styles recognizable today.

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Mark Twain wrote, “To be a saloon-keeper was to be illustrious.”

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Modern Bartenders The bar and bartending has taken many forms over the decades since those pioneering days. There are the old-school “set-em-up Joe” corner bars dominated by locals and frequenters. Then there is the theatrics of the club-style bars where getting a drink can be as wild as a circus act.

More recently there has been a rise in the craft cocktail scene, a throwback to the early bartending days where the art of the mixologist is respectfully savored and appreciated.

In the modern bar scene you will also find that a majority of bartenders are actually women, but this wasn’t always the case, nor was it even legal for many years. In fact, most states had strictly enforced laws on the books that disallowed women from even entering dramshops, bars, or any establishment serving alcohol. These laws loosened slightly at the turn of the century in some places, and women made up about 2% of bartenders by the start of World War II. With much of the male population fighting in Europe or working to directly support the war effort, American bars had little choice but to ditch precedent and hire more barmaids. But it really wasn’t until 1964, with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, that women were given legal precedent to challenge such discriminatory laws and female bartending started to bloom.

As a result, many modern bars are an eclectic and refreshing mix of old and new. There has been a revival of popular interest in classic cocktails such as the Jack Rose, Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Gin Martini, and mercifully, a corresponding drop in requests for such modern monstrosities as the Long Island Iced Tea, Appletini and the Frozen Strawberry Daquiri. Now more than ever in history, you are likely to find expert craftswomen behind the bar inventing, concocting, mixing, shaking, and stirring impeccable craft cocktails.

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Photo courtesy of shutterstock.com

Photo courtesy of Alamy

Tom Cruise played a bartender in 1988’s Cocktail.

Women now make up a bigger percentage of bartenders.

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Photo courtesy of shutterstock.com

Bartenders are often the friendly face greeting patrons who want to celebrate or commiserate.

The Hidden Value of Bartenders Although bars and taverns have seen many changes throughout the years, the role and the value of bartenders within their communities has remained consistent. The bartender is a unique, complex and iconic figure in American history. They are experts in their craft. They are entertainers. They are knowledgeable of the chitchat and comings and goings of the local community.

They are keepers of secrets. They are even required to moonlight as therapists on occasion. They are likely to know more about your neighbors than you do. It is important to savor not just the delicious libations they create, but to steep in the living history of the bar scene and the timeless craft of bartending. In short, it is high time to get to know your bartender.

Orange County native Amanda Keeley-Thurman is a Travel Writer, Family Travel Blogger, wife and mama. She has been writing for Cigar & Spirits Magazine since its debut issue. When she is not jetting around the world with her family and sharing exciting articles on her travel blog HotMamaTravel. com, she is mixing it up nightly as a craft cocktail bartender.

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“The bartender is a unique, complex and iconic figure in American history. They are experts in their craft. They are entertainers.�

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FEATURE

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VINYL

COLLECTIBLES DROOL-WORTHY DISCS FOR YOUR TURNTABLE

by Audrey Pavia

WHETHER YOU ARE OLD ENOUGH to have had vinyl as your sole source of music, or only recently discovered the retro wonders of 45’s and LPs, collecting records can be a fun way to impress your friends and connect you to a time when rock ‘n roll was new and electrifying.

Of course, collecting records is nothing new. Audiophiles have been gathering the rarest and most sought after vinyl for decades.

And those who did most of their collecting in the 1960s and 1970s probably have a jump on the rest of us. The most rare, expensive and downright cool records to have in a record collection were all released in those decades.

Here are 10 rock ‘n roll records that are well known among record collectors. Most are extremely rare and worth unbelievable amounts of money. A few are accessible to the average collector, but no less cool.

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THE BEATLES (A.K.A. THE WHITE ALBUM) Originally released in 1968 as The Beatles, the White Album features some of the Beatles most beloved singles.

This two-LP set has songs like Back in the USSR, Dear Prudence, Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da, While My Guitar Gently Weeps and Blackbird, just to name a handful. But aside from being a great record, the White Album is also special because of its initial release. Band members and Capitol Records executives were given copies stamped with the first serial numbers; John, Paul, George and Ringo got the first four. The numbers began with A000001 and continued onward. These days, the first 50 or so of these albums are worth a lot of money. In 2013, a copy of the album stamped with A00000023 sold for $13,750.

In 2015, Ringo Starr auctioned off the first copy of the album ever printed for $910,000.

THE VELVET UNDERGROUND & NICO The first album by Lou Reed’s band, self-titled The Velvet Underground & Nico, was released in 1967, and is considered one of the most influential albums of all time. The cover featured a print

by Andy Warhol of a bright yellow banana. Early pressings of the album invited people to peel back the banana—doing so revealed a flesh-colored banana underneath. The goal was to boost album sales by including a Warhol-designed interactive cover, but the trouble and expense of making this novelty item made the idea short-lived. Consequently, only the first pressing contained the interactive cover. Today, mint copies of The Velvet Underground & Nico bearing this cover fetches upwards of $3,000.

Photo courtesy of Alamy

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Photo courtesy of Ala

THE ROLLING STONES PROMOTIONAL ALBUM In 1969, the Rolling Stones pressed an album on London Records with 14 songs for promotional purposes only, just before the release of the album Let It Bleed. This promo album contained Route 66, Under My Thumb and Sympathy for the Devil, to name just a few, and was meant to provide rock radio programmers with a variety of Stones songs for airplay. Only 200 copies were made, with 100 going to the UK promotional market and 100 to the U.S. Today, copies in near-mint condition are worth around $3,000.

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THE FREEWHEELIN’ BOB DYLAN When it comes to rarity, the original 1963 pressing of Bob Dylan’s second album, The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, takes the cake. Only 12 of these records are believed to be in existence, and feature four tracks that did not appear in subsequent pressings by Columbia Records. A stereo copy of this original pressing sold for $35,000. Mono versions in mint condition can bring as much as $15,000.

HOST A

RECORD PARTY IN THE DAYS

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Photo courtesy of Ala

THE PRIMITIVES/THE OSTRICH Well before the Velvet Underground, Lou Reed was in a band called the Primitives. Essentially a studio band created just to record the two songs Reed cowrote for the Pickwick label in 1964, the Primitives also featured John Cale, who would go on to form the Velvet Underground with Reed. The A-side of the Primitives single, The Ostrich, features classic Lou Reed vocals and off-the-wall lyrics instructing listeners how to do this new dance. The flip side has a grungy tune called Sneaky Pete. The original single on the cream-colored Pickwick label—not the bootleg with a white label—has sold for upwards of $600.

Although most rare vinyl hails from the ‘60s and ‘70s, the Your Furniture Was Always Dead …

I Was Just Afraid to Tell You single by the Upholsterers was only pressed in 2004. What makes it so rare is that the Upholsterers was one of Jack White’s early bands, and only 100 copies of this record were made. Created before White became famous for being half of the White Stripes, and while he was working as a furniture upholsterer in the Detroit area, the record was sown into furniture White’s musical partner Brian Muldoon, was working on. Only two copies have been discovered so far. Neither one has been sold, so their value hasn’t been tested.

Should they ever go on sale, collectors anticipate paying a high dollar amount.

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THE UPHOLSTERERS/YOUR FURNITURE WAS ALWAYS DEAD…

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Alamy

The Sex Pistols did more than just look punk—they lived it. After making a splash in the U.K. and being dropped by their label EMI in 1977, the U.S. label A&M Records signed them. A&M pressed 25,000 copies of the single God Save the Queen, with No Feelings on the B-side. Six days later, the company dropped the band after Johnny Rotten and crew drunkenly stormed the record company offices and broke a toilet bowl, and supposedly issued a death threat to A&M’s English director at a London club, and made a scene at Heathrow Airport by spitting on each other. Almost all copies of the single were promptly destroyed. The few that managed to escape are now worth more than $12,000 each.

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THE SEX PISTOLS/ GOD SAVE THE QUEEN

before CD’s and MP3 players, party music came from vinyl and turntables. Someone had the job of picking the records and spinning them, while guests danced the night away.

Why not bring back the good old days and host a dance party with nothing but records providing the entertainment? Here are some tips on throwing a vintage vinyl bash: PICK A THEME. Decide if you’ll focus on the ’50s, ‘60’s, 70’s or ‘80’s. Encourage your guests to dress to your decade of choice.

Decorate your house from that period using posters and album covers.

PLAN YOUR PLAYLIST. Figure out the songs you’ll be playing ahead of time, and organize your records in the order you want to play them. If you want guests to dance, choose mostly faster songs with an occasional slowdance number thrown in.

INVOLVE YOUR GUESTS. Ask partygoers to each bring five singles of their choice, and have them man the turntable to play their songs. This will keep everyone involved while giving you time away from the turntable.

DRINK UP! Get a copy of Booze and Vinyl: A Spirited Guide to Great Music & Mixed Drinks,

by Andre and Tenaya Darlington. The book showcases 70 iconic albums from the 1930s through 2000s, while also including cocktail recipes ranging from simple two and threeingredient standbys to a wide range of classic and lesser known drinks.

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THE BEATLES/YESTERDAY & TODAY

Photo courtesy of Ala

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One of the most famous rare records of the past 60 years is the Beatles’ album Yesterday and Today. Not the one with the fab four posed in and around a trunk on the cover—the one most of us have—but the original pressing featuring the affectionately known “butcher cover,” showing the lads dressed up like butchers adorned with slabs of meat and dismembered baby dolls. Taken by Australian photographer Robert Whitaker, the image was meant to remind hero-worshiping fans the Beatles were actually flesh and blood. Instead, the photo sparked outrage among retailers. Capitol Records pressured the Beatles to use another image, and the band relented. Capitol instituted a recall, but some copies of the original cover remained on the market. The new photo was pasted on top of the old one on future covers, but fans soon discovered they could steam off the new photo, revealing the butcher cover beneath. Although today steamed-off butcher covers are worth several thousand dollars, the so-called “first-state butchers” are worth a lot more. In 2016, a shrink-wrapped copy sold for $125,000.

Photo courte sy of Alamy

THE ROLLING STONES/STREET FIGHTING MAN In 1968, civil unrest was rampant, and the Rolling Stones wrote a song about it: Street Fighting Man. For the U.S. release of the single, someone in the London Records art department thought it would be a good idea to include a picture sleeve bearing photos of police officers taking down young protesters. After distributing a limited number of copies with this sleeve, London decided it was inappropriate and changed the photos. Today, less than 20 copies of the original sleeve are believed to exist. A copy in mint condition sold for just over $17,000.

Photo courtesy of

DAVID BOWIE/DIAMOND DOGS

Alamy

The cover of David Bowie’s Diamond Dogs album features Bowie’s torso on the body of a dog, in a painting by artist Guy Peelleart. The first batch of covers originally printed in 1974 showed an anatomically correct dog—the way Peellaert painted Bowie’s lower canine half. Someone at RCA Records noticed the “problem,” and RCA airbrushed out the dog’s genitals for future printings. A handful of the uncensored covers made it into the marketplace, and now fetch nearly $4,000 each. Although RCA later rereleased the album with the original uncensored cover, only the 1974 releases are worth money.

Audrey Pavia is a freelance writer and audiophile living in Southern California. She is a frequent contributor to Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

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El Artista: Artfully Crafted in the Dominican Republic since 1956 We teamed up with David “Big Papi” Ortiz to bring to life a Dominican Dream Team of exceptional tobaccos from Ecuador, Dominica, and Nicaragua. Blended by our master artists for a smoking experience as unique and impressive as Ortiz.

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FEATURE

Aerosmith’s Joe Perry pensive and cool working his stogie.

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LEGENDS FROM AEROSMITH TO ZZ TOP ENJOY THE LEAF

by Randy Mastronicola

MUSICIANS HAVE BEEN KNOWN throughout time to indulge in a variety of enthusiasms to fuel their creativity. Players, singers and songwriters spanning genres from Rock and Pop, Ragtime, Jazz, Swing, Country and Hip Hop have been riding the cigar train for many years. Some have inspired us with their musical legacy and some have found inspiration themselves from stogies.

In no particular order, the following list takes aim at showcasing a few of these classic music icons for the songs in their hearts and their love of fine cigars.

KINKY FRIEDMAN If Mark Twain or Will Rogers were reincarnated as country singers, they would most likely been made in the same mold as Kinky. This quirky Renaissance Man has navigated waters as a country music singer-songwriter, novelist, humorist and politician. Some of his recordings are enjoyably accessible and a few are an acquired taste. However, he is as passionate a cigar smoker as they come and a good leadoff choice for our list. Further enhancing his standing as a legitimate cigar-loving player, Kinky’s a staunch advocate against smoking bans and a cigar maker in his own right. He established his own Honduran cigar blends and they were marketed as “The Finest Cigar in Texas.”

JOE PERRY AND STEVEN TYLER Have Cigar, Will Travel could just as easily have been the title of Joe Perry’s 2009 solo album, Have Guitar, Will Travel. Aerosmith’s legendary lead guitar player has been a legit cigar guy since the 90’s. His bandmate Steven Tyler enjoys a stick just about as well as Joe. So, the “Toxic Twins” as they were known during their drug and alcohol heyday make this list with ease. Thankfully, those days are long behind them and it looks like we’ll have Joe and Steven making music and smoking cigars for a long time to come.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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WHEN ASKED FOR HIS ADVICE TO YOUNGER MUSICIANS, WAITS SAID, “BREAK WINDOWS, SMOKE CIGARS, AND STAY UP LATE. TELL ‘EM TO DO THAT, THEY’LL FIND A LITTLE POT OF GOLD.”

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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TOM WAITS Torch songs and Tom Waits are a pairing unlike any other. The man plays a cigar box banjo and is a passionate cigar lover. His singing is soulful and gravelly. His songwriting prowess is keen, insightful, and other worldly. When asked for his advice to younger musicians, Waits said, “Break windows, smoke cigars, and stay up late. Tell ‘Em to do that, they’ll find a little pot of gold.” Firing up a long and lean habano while listening to the 1985 seminal album, Rain Dogs, will be one of the finest solo music and cigar moments you’ll ever experience.

JOHN COLTRANE Some music legends are a platinum brand unto themselves and they are deservedly recognized by one name. Bird. Dizzy. Duke. Miles. Mingus. Muddy. Monk, and Coltrane are a few who come to mind. “Trane” was a master saxophonist, influential composer, and was recognized in 2007 with a special Pulitzer Prize for his musical genius. His collaborations with Thelonious Monk and Miles Davis are transcendent and vital listens to anyone interested in understanding the American greatness inherent in Jazz. John Coltrane was a lifelong cigar and pipe aficionado. One day soon, we’re going to take an opportunity to lean back and listen to In a Sentimental Mood (his collaboration with Duke Ellington) while smoking a stick with an old friend we haven’t seen for a while.

BRAD PAISLEY “Well I’m a sucker for fine Cuban cigars, the problem is I can’t afford ‘em—but last year I went and got myself a whole box, and just to be safe I insured ‘em.” And so begins Brad Paisley’s ode to the stick in his hit record The Cigar Song from the 2003 album Mud on the Tires.

Paisley’s love of fine tobacco was born while on tour in Canada where he bought his first cigar, a Cuban Montecristo, and he still favors the Monte A. He keeps wellstocked humidors on his tour bus and has been known to enjoy cigars while downing a Yoo-hoo “because it’s like dessert.” Brad also enjoys CAO’s and Cuban Cohibas. He once said of his passion, “It’s our peace pipe; we use it to sit and think about the future and what we’ve just done. It’s kind of a Zen feeling.”

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

LUCIANO PAVAROTTI Opera singers and cigars may not seem like they go hand in hand but Pavarotti was indeed an enthusiast.

Pavarotti, generally regarded as the greatest operatic tenor of the 20th Century, was a Cuban cigar fan. Additionally, he was known to enjoy smaller Swiss cigars for several decades. His influence is legendary and he’s credited for popularizing and ushering in the Baby Boomer generation’s appreciation of Opera.

We encourage you to give a listen to the 1990 release, The Essential Pavarotti, and enjoy this classical music master and his larger than life voice.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

JAY-Z The reigning King of hip-hop has been a cigar guy from just about the day he came into public consciousness with the monster album, The Dynasty: Roc La Familia containing the I Just Wanna Love U single. He’s arguably the greatest MC of all time and a true cigar-loving musical luminary as well. In 2013, he worked with General Cigar Co. to develop the Cohiba Comador. Keeping it in the family, his wife Beyoncé, is a real deal cigar gal as well.

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

DIZZY GILLESPIE We defy you to find a flaw in Dizzy’s genius as a trumpeter. The harmonic complexity of his trumpet work was groundbreaking. He was an innovator par none as a bandleader and composer. Dizzy is recognized as the father of be-bop, a Latin Jazz originator, and a classic cigar lover. He said he knew he “made it” when he could finally afford to buy the Cuban cigars he longed for as a younger man. Dizzy was known to favor Romeo y Julietas. Let’s fire one up soon, lay down some vinyl, and re-visit his sublime A Night in Tunisia album.

ZZ TOP They look like good ol’ Southern cigar guys. And they are.

And they live it. Their defining cigar moment occurred while performing in Singapore several years ago. They fired up their sticks anywhere and everywhere, including onstage.

They garnered the wrath of Singaporean authorities and pissed off Gwen Stefani while she was warming up her voice backstage. ZZ’s Billy Gibbons (a renown cigar box guitar player) told Gwen, “We do what we do, honey.”

CIGARS HAVE BEEN KNOWN to bring people from diverse backgrounds together and musicians are no exception. A few other musical cigar stars through the years that come to mind are “The Killer” Jerry Lee Lewis, Kid Rock, Rihanna, Keith Richards, Jennifer Lopez, and Madonna just to name a few. Let’s fire one up in honor of these artists and hope those still with us continue their love affair with a fine stick and make beautiful music for our ears.

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Photo courtesy of shutterstock.com

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INTERVIEW Photo courtesy of Mason Allen

INTERVIEW WITH

MATTHEW RAMSEY

by Joe Bosso

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Photo courtesy of Dove Shore

And those day jobs were paying the bills.

Before the formation of Old Dominion, Ramsey and two of his pals, multi-instrumentalist Trevor Rosen and guitarist Brad Tursi, were lighting up the Nashville scene with hits they’d written for Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, the Band Perry, Blake Shelton and Dierks Bentley, among others. The trio could have stayed aboard the songwriter-for-hire gravy train for years to come, but they stuck to their guns, insisting that there was strength in their numbers and a certain magic in the sound they’d created with the addition of drummer Whit Sellers and bassist Geoff Sprung.

“We were never trying to chase a particular sound,” Ramsey explains. “It’s more like the sound found us.

I think when you try to force something, it comes across as inauthentic. We realized very quickly that we had a chemistry as a band and a sound that was natural. We didn’t really analyze it or try to adhere to anything that was happening in the industry.

Our attitude was, ‘We like what we do. It excites us.

People will come around.’”

That they did. Old Dominon’s first album, Meat and Candy, a seamless blend of classic country songcraft and contemporary pop sheen, went gold a month after its release in November of 2016, spawning three multi-format hits (“Break Up with Him,” “Snapback” and “Song for Another Time”). The group’s 2017 follow-up, Happy Endings, proved that the quintet was no one-trick pony affair, debuting at No. 1 on the Top Country Albums chart and dispatching hits like “No Such Thing as a Broken Heart” and “Written in the Sand.”

“The validation we feel is pretty incredible, and we’re so grateful for everything that’s happening.”

Ramsey says. “We get to move people with our music, and we’re doing what we love. Any hardships we encountered coming up are minor compared to all the good stuff. We might have been a long-shot at first, but sometimes you have to bet on yourself, even when no one else will.” He pauses, then adds, “If you do that long enough, people will come around.”

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Photo courtesy of Dove Shore

What was your gateway drug into country music? Do you remember the first thing song or artist that hooked you?

I think country music was one of those things that was always around; it was a constant presence in the house. When I was growing up, my parents played country music on the kitchen radio. The funny thing is, I wasn’t really a fan at the time. That kind of came later.

Oh? What were you into as a kid?

I was big into grunge—Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, all those bands. I was a Pantera freak, too. I loved heavy music. But I liked a lot of different types of music— the Four Tops, Elvis Presley. My dad had a pretty extensive and eclectic record collection, so he covered the board for me. As far as getting into country, that kind of happened when I started writing and I realized what great storytellers existed in the genre. That’s what drew me in.

How old were you when you started writing?

Pretty much when I started playing the guitar. I didn’t know how to play other people’s stuff, so I started writing my own songs. I just wanted to make a sound.

Oh, another guy I loved—Bruce Springsteen.

Well, of course. He’s a storyteller.

Absolutely. The way he writes and plays guitar—that kind of thing fueled me.

You made the move from Buchanan, Virginia, to Nashville and set out to be a songwriter. How hard was it for you to get a foot in the door?

Oh, man, it was hard. It was really tough. I moved to Nashville in 2002 and sort of hit the ground running, trying to work whatever job I could. I tried to find people I could write with, but it wasn’t easy. Sometimes people asked me to sing on demos, but that wasn’t enough to pay the bills. It took about nine or 10 years before I felt like I really had my foot in the door of the writing community. They call Nashville a “10-year town,” and that’s no joke.

Some people are content to keep writing for other artists. Were you always thinking of forming a band?

No way. None of the guys in Old Dominion thought of forming a band. We all moved to Nashville to be songwriters or studio musicians. With the exception of Trevor, we knew each other before we moved there. The band thing just happened naturally—we wrote well together and had a lot of fun playing with one another.

As we started having more and more success as writers, it drew attention to us as a band and we realized that we had to start taking it seriously.

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Photo courtesy of Mason Allen

But the thing is, nothing about this band was ever pre-planned; it just happened on its own. But I think the fact that we have a true collaboration between five people, and we respect one another so much, that’s what makes it special. Each guy has his own talent, and we make the most of each talent.

Old Dominion manages to ride both sides of the fence: Your songs have classic structures, but they also have a very contemporary sound. Yet you’ve avoided being tagged as “bro country.”

[Laughs] Yeah, that’s a good thing! That’s something we do think about. I’ll admit that I do listen to all kinds of music, and that includes what’s current—you want to be part of what’s going on. At the same time, I don‘t want to sound dated in a year or two, so I try to retain elements of classic songwriting. The trick is putting your own unique voice to it.

Is there any kind of process to how you guys work? Is one guy the “chorus man,” and is another a “middle-eight master”?

No, it’s different every time. Our brains are always in songwriter mode, so we’re all always thinking of ideas and melodies and writing things down and recording things into our phones. When it comes time to write together, we just throw ideas out: “Oh, that’s cool! What does that mean?” And then you follow that person down the road. One guy might have the driving idea, and the next day it might be somebody else.

We try to be democratic and take in all points of view. If I’m in love with a song and four other guys aren’t, then maybe I need to take a step back and look at it. Maybe they’re right. At the end of the day, we trust our instincts. Nobody wants to be the one guy with a dirty diaper about a song.

We want to all be excited about what we’re doing.

Guitarist Brad Tursi kickin’ back with a stick.

I was struck by the live track “Can’t Get You” that closes the new album. It’s hard-stomping alt-rock, closer to the Foo Fighters than, say, Rascal Flatts. Is this something we might see more of from you?

The rock side is definitely a part of us. We actually tried to record that song in the studio for both of our albums, but it felt like we just couldn’t quite capture it like we do in a live setting; it just didn’t have the right energy. We’d been playing it for a long time, so our fans started asking for it. Finally, we just decided to put the live version on the record.

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Photo courtesy of Mason Allen

“Shoe Shopping” is very poppy. How far are you guys prepared to push the pop envelope. As far as Taylor Swift?

I think we would push it as far as we could if the song called for it. Sometimes we sit down with an idea that might be a more traditional country song; other times we have something that’s pop. Whatever road the song wants to go down, we’re happy to go with it. We let the song lead us every time.

On the last album, you had a bit of sociopolitical commentary in “No Such Thing as a Broken Heart.” Is that a tricky thing to pull off in country music?

Politics in country music is a tricky thing, but I think it’s getting less tricky. It’s a fine like that has to be walked carefully. In that song, we’re not taking sides; we’re just saying that everybody has to go through some trouble or conflict, but we’re all in this together. Just keep your head down and keep going.

I understand that you’re a big cigar fan. Is that right?

Oh, yeah. We smoke a lot of cigars, definitely. Brad and I smoke them more than the rest of the guys. But everybody likes cigars, so we have a sort of rotating cast of smokes that come in and out of our bus. Seems like when people find out you like cigars, they become a nice gift, so we’re steadily supplied.

You smoke in your tour bus?

Oh, no. We smoke outside the tour bus. We don’t smoke them on the bus.

Any particular brands that are your favorites?

I don’t think there’s any particular brand that we stick to. Of course, Padrons are nice, and some great Ashtons show up every now and then. We’re not super particular.

When did you get into cigars?

I’ve been into them for a while. Funny thing is, I used to smoke Swisher Sweets when I was 17 or 18.

How about your choice of spirits? What do you like to kick back with?

We have sort of routine every night before a show. We do a shot of tequila, usually a Don Julio 1942—that shows up as a gift a lot, ‘cause people know we love it. We do a pre-show shot of tequila, and then after the show we make a Manhattan and unwind.

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Photo courtesy of Mason Allen

Let me ask you, is the reality of success as good as the dream you had years ago?

Yes, absolutely. I think it’s probably better. But it’s also more challenging than I ever thought, too. I think it goes both ways. You dream about making music and going on stage, but you don’t really think about the people that it’s going out to, the folks you meet and the places music takes you; the relationships that you’re going to have with people just because of your music. All of that comes later—it’s not part of the dream as you’re coming up.

You don’t really think about the impact your music has on people’s lives—that comes later. I don’t think that’s something I ever really planned on. But it’s better and deeper than anything I could have dreamed.

On the flip side, there’s so much work and stress than I could have imagined, either. You lose sleep. You’re away from your family and friends. Going into this, you have this perceived glamour, but the reality is very different. The glamour is fleeting.

Are you talking about any plans for the next album at all?

Yeah, definitely. We’re always writing, so we’ve got quite a bank of songs already. We actually went into the studio about a month and a half ago, with no songs and no plan of what to record. We just went in there to see what we could write together, the five of us in a room with no plan. We wrote a song each day and recorded everything. It was cool.

So you guys can write spontaneously together? Some songwriters prefer to work in private.

I think the benefit we have is that we were writing together before this anyway, and we still write well together. Sometimes songs happen we us in a room together during regular writing sessions; other times things happen in the back of the bus or in our houses. But it was cool to get in the studio and record things right when they were fresh and new. We’re pretty excited about what we’re going to do next.

New Jersey native Joe Bosso is obsessed with movies of the ‘70s, music of the ‘60s and cigars of any vintage. A graduate of NYU film school, Joe has written for TV shows you definitely know (like The Sopranos) and a few you might have missed. He spent 10 years in the record business and actually got to see a rock star trash a hotel room (identity withheld because, well, you know...).

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#2

BOUTIQUE CIGAR OF 2017

MAGAZINE

#2

BOUTIQUE CIGAR OF 2016

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VICES

FEATURED PAIRINGS PERFECTO PAIRINGS TO EXPAND YOUR PALATE

by Greg Mays

BRICK HOUSE CONNECTICUT Brick House tends to follow their namesake when producing cigars: bold and flavorful. The Connecticut (sometimes called Double Connecticut) series is a bit of a departure for them into milder territory.

The Short Torpedo has a beautifully tight triple-capped torpedo head that holds together perfectly when cutting. The Connecticut wrapper is smooth with a fine grit texture. There is a very familiar scent profile for me pre-light, the American tobacco that my grandfather used to smoke: sweet, light and fragrant.

On light, there’s a toasted marshmallow flavor that hits you immediately, with a sweetness that’s almost sticky on the lips. The Brick House Connecticut is mild, as expected, and has a solid, old-school cigar flavor.

It’s not complex in its palate, but that’s a good thing with this cigar. I note citrus (lime specifically) at the halfway point as well.

I paired the Brick House Connecticut with another import with American influence: Speyburn Arranta Cask.

Speyburn is an affordable and tasty single malt from the Speyside region and this particular malt is aged in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels. It’s also available in the U.S. only. Speyburn Arranta Cask is warming with a lingering sweetness, toffee and marzipan with hints of smoke. From the bourbon casks, I noted a hearty spice mid-palate that makes this a great cigar pair and a welcome addition to the affordable Speyburn single malt family.

SIZE: Short Torpedo 5.5” x 52 | WRAPPER: Connecticut Shade Grown FILLER: Nicaraguan | MSRP (cigar): $7 | MSRP (scotch): $25

| BINDER: Connecticut

DEBONAIRE SAGITA PETITE LANCERO MADURO For those unfamiliar, Debonaire is an “Ultra-Premium” cigar brand born in the past few years from the Debonaire Rum brand, bearing its own moniker “Fine Aged Rum.” The Sagita Petite Lancero surprised me in many ways.

First, I didn’t expect a Connecticut wrapper to bear such distinct (and dark) qualities. With a tiny pigtail on the foot, the wrapper is knobby and earthy, with pronounced veins and even some small twists and turns in the stick itself.

Now the best part: lighting the Sagita Petite. Pre-light, there is an earthy and barnyard scent, and once heat is applied, there’s a minty herb profile that reveals itself. Instantly, I was greeted with satisfying white smoke plumes, a lot more than I expected from a smaller stick. Flavor profiles then seemed to waft in an out as I worked my way through the smoke: Christmas spices, vinegar, hay, arugula, alfalfa, and dry red wine. The flavor this thing conceals is really unexpected.

I paired my little Sagita with Uncle Nearest’s 1856 Silver Tennessee Whiskey. On the nose, this whiskey seemed it would be mild, with an almost odorless profile. The taste, however, was a whole different thing, much like the Sagita. There’s a bold peppermint profile, a bold spiciness that barrels through the first, sweet taste on the lips. The mint notes of Nearest met the mint notes of the Debonaire and 2 surprising products met together for a hopeful pairing.

SIZE: Petite Lancero 5.5”x38 | WRAPPER: Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro | BINDER: Dominican FILLER: Nicaraguan & Dominican | MSRP (cigar): $7 | MSRP (whiskey): $50

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E.P. CARRILLO DUSK SOLIDOS 6X60 Dusk is an interesting name for a cigar. The minute I had the EP Carrillo blend in my hand, I recognized it, though. Like dusk, this is a dark wrapper with hints of lightness, particularly around the edges and veins. Also like dusk, there’s a rainbow of brown and blacks upon examination of the foot. The seams in the wrapper are pronounced and proud.

As the flame hits the Solidos, there’s a bitter dark chocolate taste. Herbal and spice tones meet at the initial flavor, too. The wrapper is dry, but the cigar itself fills the mouth with a touch of olive oil. Within half an inch, the EP Carrillo Dusk settles into its flavor, which is an untouched-barn-floor, earthy and dry profile.

Together with the Dusk, I introduced some light into the mix by way of Pisco Portón.

Pisco is the national spirit of both Chile and Peru, though the differences between the two are hotly and regularly debated. Portón is one of the most popular U.S. brands from Peru, with a stately and heavy bottle that’s a work of art in itself.

Pisco is a usually-clear liquor distilled from grapes. Pisco Portón is herbaceous, with flavors of chilies, lime and fresh cut grass. There’s a bright and bold tone to the drink. As you should expect from a pairing, this bold liquor stands together well with a bold cigar like the Dusk.

SIZE: Solidos 6” x 60 | WRAPPER: Connecticut Broadleaf | BINDER: Ecuadorian FILLER: Nicaraguan | MSRP (cigar): $9 | MSRP (pisco): $40

AJ FERNANDEZ PURO ESPECIAL NEW WORLD You may be familiar with the New World line from AJ Fernandez. Initially introduced 4 years ago, the Puro Especial blend was added at the IPCPR tradeshow last year. If you’ve smoked a “Habano Especial” by Fernandez, that’s the blend to expect from the Puro Especial New World.

Speaking of expectations, I was not prepared for this $8 cigar. It’s flawlessly wrapped and packed, with a tight, white ash that burns razor-sharp to the nub. There’s an aromatic, mellow spice on light, and as you sometimes discover with mild cigars, the flavor bouquet is limited but satisfying. There are traces of toasted leather and brazil nut that, together with the spice give a flavor that I can best describe as a “meaty sweetness.”

On that note, I grabbed a bottle of Stroma, a scotch-based liqueur from Old Pulteney. Now, I almost never recommend drinking a liqueur straight (the sweetness can overwhelm), but Old Pulteney has done something really special with Stroma.

At 35% ABV and a controlled-but-flavorful sweetness, this is actually a liqueur you can drink that tastes great with cigars. Imagine an accessible, flavorful scotchalternative that has a scotch flavor base, with notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. While there are some Winter flavor profiles underlying, however, Stroma remains light and easy-to-drink, somehow.

SIZE: Robusto 5.5” x 52 | WRAPPER: Nicaraguan Habano | BINDER: Nicaraguan FILLER: Nicaraguan | MSRP (cigar): $8 | MSRP (liqueur): $35

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CIGAR & SPIRITS MAGAZINE’S 30 CIGARS RATED Ratings are the average based on a blind tasting of each cigar by our expert panel of eight cigar connoisseurs, who together possess more than 100 years of cigarsmoking experience.

To provide feedback on any of the ratings, or to offer your own opinions on any of the cigars featured, write us at: feedback@cigarandspirits.com.

Follow us on Facebook & Twitter and leave your comments: www.facebook.com/cigarandspiritsmagazine

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tasting notes:

Medium to full-bodied with elements of sweetness and spiciness

Ometepe, Condega and Est

FILLER: Blend of

BINDER: Jalapa

CIGAR RATING

WRAPPER: Dark Nicar

6.125” x 57 Wrapper: Dominican Corojo Binder: Dominican Habano Filler: Dominican Habano

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89

NEW WORLD ALMIRANTE BELICOSO 5½ X 55

aj fern

AGING ROOM SOLERA - COROJO

Tasting Notes: Using the “Solera” system, this cigar combines different vintages of tobacco at different stages of the aging process to obtain a fuller flavor and more complex cigar.

AJ FERNANDEZ NEW WORLD ALMIRANTE

92

Belicoso 5 ½” x 55 Wrapper: Dark Nicaraguan Binder: Jalapa Filler: Blend of Ometepe, Condega & Estelí

CIGAR RATING

Tasting Notes: Medium to full-bodied with rich and spicy notes. The finish is smooth with hints of sweetness.

ALTADIS U.S.A. MONTECRISTO ESPADA

90

6” x 50 Wrapper: Habano Jalapa Vintage 2010 Binder: Habano Jalapa Vintage 2009 Filler: Habano Jalapa Seco Vintage 2008, Habano Jalapa Viso Ometepe Vintage 2008 and Habano Condega Ligero Vintage 2008

CIGAR RATING

Tasting Notes: Tasting Notes for Montecristo Espada: An extremely well-balanced medium to full cigar, layered with rich, hearty notes of wood, pepper, coffee, cream, nuts, and sweetness with a cinnamon and spice finish.

ALTADIS U.S.A. HENRY CLAY STALK CUT

92

A rich, creamy smoke, peppered with bold notes of spice and touches Balanced flavor with hints of

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tasting notes:

Nicaraguan

FILLER: Dominican,

90

Tasting Notes: A medium to full bodied smoke both incredibly creamy and smooth the whole way through including flavors of soil and spice with a hint of both oranges and wood.

Habano (proprietary)

BINDER: USA/Connecticut

Corojo (proprietary)

WRAPPER: Ecuadorean

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5.9” x 52 Wrapper: Cuba Binder: Cuba Filler: Cuba

ar

COHIBA SIGLO VI

PUNCH SIGNATURE ROBUSTO 5 X 54

Full-bodied with undertones of sweet spices, including cinnamon and nutmeg

tasting notes:

Brazilian, Nicaraguan and Cameroon

FILLER: Dominican,

BINDER: Nicaraguan

CIGAR RATING

tasting notes:

Oscuro

5 ½” x 54 Wrapper: Colorado Oscuro Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan

Tasting Notes: A rich and creamy smoke; peppered with bold notes of spice and touches of sweetness.

95

FILLER: Nicaraguan

WRAPPER: Colorado

COHIBA NICARAGUA N54 ROBUSTO EXTRA

CIGAR RATING

___________________________ WRAPPER: Ecuadorean Corojo

_________________________

Tasting Notes: A creamy and velvety medium to full bodied smoke loaded with flavors of wood, earth and a hint of coffee.

88

FALTO INGENIO #10 FIGURADO/ PERFECTO 6 X 60

COHIBA NICARAGUA N54 ROBUSTO EXTRA 5½ X 54

Nicaraguan

4 3/5” x 52 Wrapper: Cuba Binder: Cuba Filler: Cuba

92

COHIBA BEHIKE 52

96

CIGAR RATING

Touches of roasted nuts, fresh tobacco and wellblended complexity

Tasting Notes: Earthy, toasty and cedary notes.

tasting notes:

FILLER: Dominican and

BINDER: Dominican

WRAPPER: Nicaraguan

FALTO LEGADO CORONA GORDA 5½ X 47

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CIGAR RATING

BINDER: Nicaraguan

Size: 6” x 54 Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican & Nicaraguan

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CIGAR RATING

DUNBARTON TOBACCO & TRUST SOBREMESA EL AMERICANO 4.75” x 48 Wrapper: La Meca Ecuador Habano #1 Rosado Binder: Matacapan Negro de Temporal Filler: Nicaragua, USA Lancaster County Broadleaf Ligero

Tasting Notes: A medium- to full-bodied cigar that begins with heavy hints of earth and sweet spice, which progresses and evolves into notes of leather and dark coffee.

91

CIGAR RATING

GENERAL CIGAR CO. MACANUDO INSPIRADO ORANGE 6” x 60 Wrapper: Honduran Binder: Honduran Filler: Dominican Republic, Honduras, Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: This sophisticated blend delivers a spicy, complex smoking experience ublike any other in the Macanudo portfolio.

95

CIGAR RATING

MONTECRISTO A 9.25” x 47 Wrapper: Cuba Binder: Cuba Filler: Cuba

Tasting Notes: A mild to medium cigar yet has a complex and rich flavor profile including earth, leather, woods and spice. Considering the size, this silky smoke has a uniquely superb draw.

93

CIGAR RATING

CUESTA REY CENTRO FINO SUNGROWN NO. 60 6” x 60 Wrapper: Ecuador Sumatra Sun Grown Binder: Dominican Republic Filler: Dominican Republic

Tasting Notes: Full-bodied and bold, spicy and smooth.

90

CIGAR RATING

DEBONAIRE CIGARS SAGITA PETITE LANCERO MADURO 5.5” x 38 Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Binder: Dominican Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Hints of leather, toasted, black pepper with notes of wood, sweet spice, cocoa and leather in the middle. Finishes with leather, wood, sweet spice.

90

CIGAR RATING

DREW ESTATE HERRERA ESTELI DESOCIO 6” x 60 Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Binder: Honduras Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Medium blend with a creaminess and balance of sweet and spice.

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CIGAR RATING

E.P. CARRILLO DUSK SOLIDOS 6” x 60 Wrapper: USA Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Elegant balance and finish with notes of black pepper spice, nuts and a touch of sweetness on a long finish.

91

CIGAR RATING

GENERAL CIGARS CO. CAO PILON TORO 6” x 58 Wrapper: Ecuadoran Habano Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan, Dominican

Tasting Notes: Unprecedented depths of flavor, with notes of wood, spice and a touch of sweetness.

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CIGAR RATING

GENERAL CIGAR CO. PARTAGAS 1845 EXTRA OSCURO ROBUSTO 5.25” x 50 Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf Filler: Honduran, Nicaraguan, Dominican Republic

Tasting Notes: Rich, sweet spice, with hints of caramel and espresso

91

CIGAR RATING

GENERAL CIGAR CO. MACANUDO INSPIRADO RED ROBUSTO 5” x 50 Wrapper: Ecuadoran Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Twelve-year aged Nicaraguan Ometepe, ten-year aged Honduran Jamastran and five-year-aged Nicaraguan Esteli Tasting Notes: Bold and refined, the result of profound aging

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93

CIGAR RATING

J.C. NEWMAN CIGAR CO. BRICK HOUSE TORO MADURO 6” x 52 Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Medium-bodied with notes of earth, cedar, spice and coffee.

91

CIGAR RATING

J.C. NEWMAN CIGAR CO. BRICK HOUSE CONNECTICUT SHORT TORPEDO 5.5” x 52 Wrapper: Connecticut Shade Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Full-bodied with gentle hints of toast, cream and cedar.

93

CIGAR RATING

KRISTOFF HABANO ROBUSTO

5.5” x 54 Wrapper: Brazilian Habano Binder: Brazilian Sumatra Filler: Nicaraguan & Dominican Habano Tasting Notes: The Kristoff Habano is a truly unique blend delivering notes of sweet pecan, spice, tantalizing notes of white pepper, cedar and a long sweet spicy finish.

94

CIGAR RATING

KRISTOFF GC SIGNATURE SERIES CHURCHILL 7” x 50 Wrapper: Brazilian Maduro Binder: Cuban Seed Honduran Filler: Cuban Seed Dominican, Honduran & Nicaraguan

Tasting Notes: The Kristoff GC Series is for the serious cigar smoker only. This cigar is loaded with rich notes of espresso, dried apricot, chocolate and a sweet-spicy finish. A definite must have.

91

CIGAR RATING

KRISTOFF SUMATRA CHURCHILL

7” x 50 Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra Binder: Brazilian Filler: Cuban Seed, Dominican & Nicaraguan Tasting Notes: The Kristoff Sumatra is a medium bodied cigar with velvety floral notes, spice, cinnamon and a smooth sweet finish. This very traditional Cuban flavor will have you feeling like you’ve been transported back to old world Cuba.

94

CIGAR RATING

MICALLEF MIGDALIA

4” x 46 Wrapper: 4-year-old San Andreas Habano Binder: 4-year-old Sumatra Filler: 4-year-old Nicaraguan and Dominican Tasting Notes: Medium- to full-bodied cigar with a distinctive, well-seasoned medley that produces an aromatic cigar.

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CIGAR RATING

MY FATHER CIGARS DON PEPIN GARCIA—ORIGINAL 7” x 50 Wrapper: Corojo Oscuro Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Full-bodied with notes of cocoa, red pepper, cedar and cayenne

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CIGAR RATING

NEW WORLD PURO ESPECIAL TORO 6.5” x 52 Wrapper: Nicaragua Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Medium-bodied cigar with notes of nuts with a sweet finish.

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CIGAR RATING

OLIVA SERIE V BELICOSA 5” x 54 Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Jalapa Valley Ligero

Tasting Notes: Complex blend of Nicaraguan long filler tobaccos. Blended with specially fermented Jalapa Valley ligero, and finished with a Connecticut Broadleaf Wrapper. This cigar is blended to deliver full body taste while maintaining an unparalleled smoothness. This flavorful blend exhibits complex tobacco with rich coffee and dark chocolate tones.

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CIGAR RATING

OLIVA GILBERTO RESERVA 6” x 50 Wrapper: Sumatra Binder: Ecuador Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Medium body and buttery smooth, with notes of earth, spice, cedar, sweet cream and leather.

93

CIGAR RATING

PADRON FAMILY 1964 ANNIVERSARY PRESIDENTE TORO 6” x 50 Wrapper: Nicaragua Habano Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Full-bodies and refined, with a rich chocolate flavor and hints of spice and coffee.

93

CIGAR RATING

PADRON FAMILY 1964 ANNIVERSARY SOBERANO ROBUSTO 5” x 52 Wrapper: Nicaragua Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Notes of mocha, apricot and prunes with hints of red pepper with some sweetness.

91

CIGAR RATING

VENTURA CIGAR CO. ARCHETYPE AXIS MUNDI TORO 6” x 52 Wrapper: Maduro Habano Ecuador Binder: Indonesia Sumatra Filler: Habano Nicaragua

Tasting Notes: Full-bodied with layers of spice, dried figs, maple syrup and charred oak.

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VICES

CIGAR & SPIRITS MAGAZINE’S 20 SPIRITS RATED WILLETT FAMILY ESTATE SMALL BATCH RYE WHISKEY Retail: $36-50 | ABV: 54.5% Well-balanced with an herbal mintiness, intertwined with a sweetness that dances on your tongue until it exits with a spiciness. This is a great utility whiskey to drink neat, make an Old Fashioned, or hold up to a rock. (Tasting notes courtesy of Bill Thomas from Jack Rose Dining Saloon.)

92 RATING

91 RATING

BUFFALO TRACE WHISKEY

91

Retail: $25-30 | ABV: 45% This deep amber whiskey has a complex aroma of vanilla, mint and molasses. Pleasantly sweet to the taste with notes of brown sugar and spice that give way to oak, toffee, dark fruit and anise.

This whiskey finishes long and smooth with serious depth.

RATING

THE PEAT MONSTER

Retail: $59.99 | ABV: 46% An expert blend of peat, salt grass with a smoky burn in this whisky. The finish is long and fruity with sweet oak notes. The Peat Monster is an elegantly executed whisky for novice and seasoned enthusiast alike.

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90 RATING

94

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RATING

DSP CA 162

Retail: $38 | ABV: 40% DSP contains vodka distilled wine made from premium Mendocino County old-vine Viognier grapes. This spirit captures the very best of what wheat and grapes can bring to vodka. Sipped neat or mixed with tonic, it’s an ideal spirit.

TOMAHAWK WHISKY

Retail: $36 | ABV: 47% Tomahawk is the first Seven Stills Collaboration Series to be released as both a whiskey and beer. The beer—co-produced with Monterrey’s Alvarado Street Brewing—was dry hopped with 264 pounds of Mosaic, Simcoe and Citra hops and then distilled, resulting in a whiskey bursting with candied pear flavors layered over breakfast porridge and hints of vanilla and mint.

DIPLOMÁTICO RESERVA EXCLUSIVA RUM

Retail: $40 | ABV: 40% Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva has a distinctive nose with notes of maple syrup, orange peel, brown sugar and licorice. The palate evokes sweet toffee fudge and has a seductive and elegant finish.

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93 RATING

RATING

KOLOA KAUA’I COFFEE RUM Retail: $32.95 | ABV: 34% The initial sips are bold and robust with espresso notes that are captivating and invigorating.

The finish is dry with hints of light vanilla, stone fruit, hazelnut, and chocolate.

THE REAL MCCOY 12 YEAR AGED RUM

Retail: $49.99 | ABV: 40% Exceptionally smooth, mature, balanced with notes of buttery oak, earth, dark chocolate, spice, caramel, wood notes, orange zest and tobacco. This finish is soft, buttery, and peppery spice with a hint of smoke.

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95 RATING

91 RATING

CALIFORNIA COURAGE VODKA

Retail: $36 | ABV: 40% Naturally gluten-free made from 100% GMO free, organic corn. Distilled six times on a column still and a seventh time on a copper pot still for a clean, neutral spirit with a slight viscous and full mouthfeel.

OLD TOM GIN Retail: $38 | 44% ABV The subtle malt is the result of using a base wort of malted barley, combined with an infusion of botanicals in high proof corn spirits. The final distillation is run through an alambic pot still in order to preserve the maximum amount of aromatics, flavor and body. Only the “hearts of the hearts” is retained for this special bottling.

Ransom Old Tom Gin opens with seductive aromatics of juniper berries and coastal forest, set off by apothecary spice notes of cardamom and angelica. The palate is rich and silky, with malt flavors punctuated by lively citrus zest and heady exotic notes of coriander and teak. The gin continues with suppleness and power, with the warmth and richness of the malt carrying clean, focused botanicals on a long, elegant finish.

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RATING

RATING

GOSLING’S FAMILY RESERVE RUM

LAPHROAIG LORE

Retail: $124.99 | ABV: 48% Laphroaig Lore is the richest of the Laphroaig portfolio, this expression is for the scotch novice. Deep with distinctive smoke, peat and seaside minerality, Lore sets the bar high when it comes to Scotch Whiskies. Rich peaty taste with a spicy chili bite and a short, dry finish with a long, sweet aftertaste.

Retail: $99.95 | ABV: 40% Crafted from the same Bermuda blend as Black Seal with one subtle change, Gosling’s Family Reserve Old rum is left resting in charred oak bourbon barrels where it is aged until it has acquired a luscious well balanced complexity much like a rare scotch or cognac.

Ultra-premium, aged Old Rum is aged for an additional 16 years in oak bourbon barrels, to create an incomparable richness and complexity, much like an XO cognac. Each bottle is hand numbered, and put together in the original way Black Seal was, in a champagne bottle, sealed with black wax.

(This is how Gosling’s Black Seal got its name, from the sealing wax the bottle was dipped in.)

Deep, complex nose that awakens the senses to a variety of flavors such as leather, chocolate and a hint of pepper. In the mouth, there is an elegant delivery of these flavors that are perfectly balanced by just the right amount of oak aging.

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RATING

TEQUILA TAPATIO EXCELENCIA EXTRA ANEJO

ELIT BY STOLICHNAYA

Retail: $159 | ABV: 40% 100% Estate grown Blue Agave, distilled in 2000 at La Altena Distillery in Arandas, Mexico; Aged 5 years in once-used American Oak (Char #4 ‘96 Excelencia Lot #1 barrels), then stored in 5L glass jars for another 10 years. Bottled in 2015.

Fabulous intensity of flavor with all the aromatic elements perfectly delineated: intense cooked Agave, cake, spices, brown sugar, chocolate, vanilla and caramel, nuts and light spices, all of which are assembled into a sumptuous whole, with the creamy taste of oak.

Retail: $60 | ABV: 40% This super-premium vodka is made using a unique freezeout filtration process, and is crafted using Alpha Spirit, the highest grade of spirit recognized by the Russian authorities. Inspired by the old Russian tradition of leaving casks outside in plummeting winter conditions, the liquid is chilled to exactly -18°C. It is then put through ion-charged carbon filters at an extremely slowed velocity.

This ensures the finest impurities are captured and removed, leaving a pure liquid charged with character. The result is a vodka with a weighty, rolling mouthfeel, and clean, crisp flavor.

95 RATING

98 RATING

ASOMBROSO, THE COLLABORATION

Retail: $1800 | ABV: 40% The Collaboration is another groundbreaking Masterpiece using Asomobroso tequila and Napa’s esteemed Silver Oak Cellar’s American casks. This has produced a one of a kind Super Ultra-Premium 11-YearOld, Double Barrel Rested, Cabernet Sauvignon Anejo.

Distinct from any other tequila in the world, with hints of vanilla, oak, butterscotch from the 11-year French oak resting, and a bountiful kiss of fruit, boysenberries and fine-grained tannins from the Silver Oak barrel, which adore the agave and culminate with a taste experience of pure pleasure.

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NOLET’S SILVER DRY GIN

Retail: $49 | ABV: 48% This gin is inspired by well over 300 years of family distilling tradition and the expertise of the Nolet family. Nolet’s Silver Dry Gin features a unique combination of botanicals never before used in gin that was created for a new generation of gin drinkers. Nolet’s Silver has a floral and fruit forward flavor, featuring fresh notes of Turkish rose, peach and raspberry.

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RATING

RATING

NO. 3 LONDON DRY GIN

RABBIT HOLE KENTUCKY BOURBON

Retail: $54.99 | ABV: 47.5% This Four-Grained Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a unique expression of American Whiskey. Three malted grains-wheat, barley and honey malt-complement the corn base.

This spectacular sipping Bourbon has a strong backbone that explodes with flavor.

Retail: $40 | ABV: 46% With juniper at its heart, No. 3 is a traditional London dry gin that features three fruits and three spices distilled in traditional copper pot stills. Juniper from Italy, Spanish orange peel and grapefruit peel provide an extra citrus burst.

Juniper is foremost on the palate, supported by floral notes and the spicy-warm flavor of cardamom.

Hints of grapefruit and sweet orange contribute fruitiness, complemented by coriander.

92 RATING

DEVIL’S SHARE BOURBON

95 RATING

DOUBLE CROSS VODKA

Retail: $39.99 | ABV: 40% Small-batch distilled in a 13thcentury village in the Tatra Mountains of Slovakia. 7 times distilled, 7 times filtered.; Made with estate-grown winter wheat and Pure Tatra mountain spring water.

Retail: $129.99 | ABV: 46% A wickedly smooth take on a classic American spirit. Cutwater Spirits select only the heart of each small batch and age their bourbon in virgin, heavily charred American oak barrels. The result is an exceptionally refined spirit rich with aromas of cinnamon, tobacco, oak and vanilla. Its robust, earth flavor carries hints of caramel and vanilla cream to a lingering spicy finish.

Silky and creamy. Balanced with bright flavors of white pepper and lemon zest. A warm, medium-long finish leaves you with a dry, clean palate.

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ON THE COVER

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MARIO LOPEZ AND OSCAR DE LA HOYA...

GET THEIR TEQUILA ON

by Randy Mastronicola photos Amber Asaly

WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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WE MET

with Messrs. Mario Lopez and Oscar De La Hoya at Mario’s handsome hacienda in the hills above Los Angeles this past March. Mario was a convivial host—no shock there—to our staff, gathered friends and business associates.

Mario and Oscar have an easy rapport, as old friends do, and they shared their excitement about their tequila brand, Casa Mexico, with new and old friends alike.

Both men have been in the public eye for a long time, and both have a long-standing affinity for tequila. Mario’s endearing persona has sustained a career in the entertainment industry as a comic actor and well-respected television personality since being cast as A.C. Slater in the 1989 sitcom Saved by the Bell. He’s anchored as an on-air host of the television entertainment magazine, Extra, since 2008. Oscar “The Golden Boy” De La Hoya won gold in the 1992 Summer Olympics and is regarded, pound for pound, as one of the all-time great boxers, having won ten titles in six weight classes during his professional career. He’s been the owner of the promotional boxing firm, Golden Boy Promotions, since 2002. Mario and Oscar decided to expand from personal tequila exploration and partner up in a business venture with Casa Mexico creator Eric Buccio.

Casa Mexico is a small batch, premium tequila, produced in the red volcanic soil of Arandas in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.

Eric developed the blend (featuring añejo, silver, and reposado expressions) over an eight-year period, and began a mission to share the results of his work with industry friends and tequila enthusiasts.

Businessman and producer Mark Roberts became enamored of the product, and asked Eric if he could share a bottle with fellow tequila enthusiast Mario Lopez. As fate would have it, Mario was set to be married in Punta Mita, Mexico. Eric seized the opportunity, and provided Casa Mexico for the wedding party and attendees. To say the least, the tequila went over quite well as over 120 bottles were consumed over the wedding weekend by family and friends. Mario was on board and became a partner.

ANYTIME YOU HAVE A GOOD SPIRIT WITH SOME GOOD FRIENDS, I THINK THAT’S THE ULTIMATE WAY TO CELEBRATE.” - MARIO LOPEZ This past year, Oscar De La Hoya joined the fray. The legendary champion says, “Boxing, tequila, and friendship all go hand in hand.

I’m happy to be working with friends and sharing our tequila with the world.”

Adds Lopez, “Anytime you have a good spirit with some good friends, I think that’s the ultimate way to celebrate. Sharing this brand is going to be a lot of fun.”

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Mario, thank you for opening your home up to us. Is this a typical day at your home?

Mario Lopez: Well, no. It’s not as action packed as this, but that’s what it’s all about, being with your friends, enjoying a good spirit, and having a nice stick in your hand like the ones we have.

Let’s start at the beginning. How did you two meet and become friends?

Mario Lopez: We initially met—my God, I was thinking about it—when he came out of the Olympics.

Oscar De La Hoya: San Diego, right?

Mario Lopez: That’s where we first hung out, but we initially met—you had just won the gold in Barcelona.

Oscar De La Hoya: Right.

Mario Lopez: I remember because I came across a picture just the other day. You were doing the Hollywood Christmas Parade, and we met backstage. He had just won the medal. Being that we share similar backgrounds, we just hit it off. I was aware of him because I was cheering for him at the Summer Olympics. We met there and instantly hit it off.

We’re the same age, obviously both Mexican-Americans, both first generation here. Our parents are immigrants, similar backgrounds and share a lot in common, so it was easy. I think that’s what’s so great about friendships and people inspiring each other—like the old adage goes, one stone sharpens another. I’m not just a friend of Oscar, I’ve always been rooting for him, for his success

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as a fighter and now as a promoter, being able to now be partners—throughout the years, always just being very supportive and proud of all his endeavors, from fighter to now promoter and entrepreneur. It’s cool when you get to do something with your friends that you believe in and get to partner up.

So, how many years has it been?

Mario Lopez: Damn, 1992. Oh, gosh. Don’t make me do math but there are stories to tell from over the years.

Oscar De La Hoya: What story are you going to tell? Are you going to tell them when you body slammed me or when we went to Tijuana?

Mario, you body slammed Oscar De La Hoya?

Oscar De La Hoya: We were doing this charity thing, right?

At Big Bear [California] was it?

Mario Lopez: Yes. I have actually sparred with Oscar a few times, but the first time was funny. We were in Big Bear and we were in the ring, and man, those hands were fast.

I don’t know what happened, I was playing the wrong side, then I grabbed him, picked him up, and body slammed him.

Oscar De La Hoya: It was like Rocky and Hulk Hogan.

Mario Lopez: No doubt he’s Rocky. Then we did it again actually. Three rounds—for a great non-profit that Mitt Romney backs. [CharityVision is a non-profit organization focusing on treating people with curable sight impairments in developing nations.]

THE WEST COAST CIGAR & SPIRITS TASTING

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THE ULTIMATE LIFESTYLE EVENT

SATURDAY, MAY 26TH, 2018

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CIGAR OF THE DAY Cigar & Spirits Magazine’s featured cigar for the photo session was J.C. Newman’s Diamond Crown Julius Caeser. The spicy, earthy and masculine flavors of the cigar were enjoyed by many and added just the right notes to the photo shoot.

Left to right. Oscar De La Hoya, Casa Mexico Partner Eric Buccio, Mario Lopez

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I’VE BACKED JUST A HANDFUL OF PRODUCTS OVER THE YEARS, OVER THE COURSE OF MY CAREER. MAKING THAT TRANSITION OVER TO BUSINESS, WHEN I GET BEHIND SOMETHING, I BELIEVE IN IT.” - OSCAR DE LA HOYA Did you have any tequila before the fight?

Mario Lopez: No way. Guess what though? He’s still fast as hell.

Oscar De La Hoya: That was fun though.

Now you get to make new memories with Casa Mexico.

Oscar De La Hoya: I’ve backed just a handful of products over the years, over the course of my career. Making that transition over to business, when I get behind something, I believe in it. Obviously, that same work ethic I had when I was a fighter, it consists of determination, it consists of believing in the product that you’re a part of. The fact that I’m behind this is because I believe in it. The sky’s the limit.

Mario Lopez: This is our year to really make something happen, have it grow.

It started out for fun, but we believe in it and we share a passion for it. I think the fact that Oscar and I are Mexican speaks to its authenticity, and that will resonate.

Oscar De La Hoya: We have no doubt this tequila is going to be enjoyed by people around the globe. For me, when I heard about Casa Mexico, obviously knowing that Mario was involved, it made it easier for me to make the decision. Then joining efforts and promoting that tequila, getting behind the tequila was a no-brainer. You find out who the founder is, you find out about our partner. Obviously, the founder and CEO, Eric Buccio.

Mario Lopez: He’s a great guy, a quality person. The people I have in my life are always people that have been there from the beginning—people that I know and trust. If you’re in my circle, then you know it’s a pretty tight-knit circle, and I don’t really like to let in too many other people. For me to let you in, you’ve got to be a stand-up guy.

Oscar De La Hoya: You know what I like about Buccio is that not only does he believe in the product, but he is the hardest-working man I’ve ever known.

You’re both so passionate about bringing this spirit to the masses. Why does tequila have so much caché?

Mario Lopez: For a long time, tequila has been experiencing a renaissance. It’s exciting, sexy—a spirit that’s embraced all over the world. We’re happy that we’re riding that momentum. It really makes a lot of sense for us.

Oscar De La Hoya: We were talking earlier today—when you drink champagne, you’re going to drink it from Champagne, France. When you drink bourbon, you want it to be from Kentucky. This happens to be from Mexico. We’re Mexicans, it speaks to our culture. It makes sense as opposed to some random guy who just wants to slap his name on it.

Mario Lopez: Yes, I think it’s ingrained in our culture, our dads, our tíos. Everyone had it. We say we’ve been drinking it for years, and it’s funny because now, tequila sort of transcends the Mexican culture and has permeated into the mainstream. Many people are enjoying it like a wine and are sipping it—as we’ve been casually sipping it through this whole shoot.

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What are your favorite pairings with Casa Mexico?

Oscar De La Hoya: For me, a perfect combination is a cigar, having some carne asada, watching a fight, and then having a little nice añejo neat. It’s the perfect combination—along with your friends.

Mario Lopez: What was that saying? “Just have a good taco, a nice little cigar, and then a little tequila to wash it down.” I enjoy it both on the rocks and straight and neat, but a margarita is nice, too. I do like the blanco.

Oscar De La Hoya: I’m a big añejo fan—straight, neat. But anyway you have it, it’s cool.

Mario Lopez: I don’t discriminate all that much either, to tell you the truth.

Oscar De La Hoya: We don’t discriminate. They’re phenomenal.

Mario Lopez: It just depends on your mood as well.

Have you had a big, first Casa Mexico moment, Oscar?

Oscar De La Hoya: I actually did have a big moment. I was with Saul Canelo Alvarez, who was fighting on Cinco de Mayo—the rematch with Triple G—and we were having the celebratory dinner. I happened to take a few bottles, and we were toasting to the victory and toasting with Casa Mexico. Here you have an international superstar on the rise in Canelo Alvarez, cheering with myself, his family and close friends, with Casa Mexico. That was the moment where I said to myself, “You know what? This is cool.” I didn’t even tell them I was involved with the

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brand. They loved it. The fact that it was the family, it was his really close friends…there was my aha moment. I felt we had something, because of the reaction and how we brought everybody together.

Mario Lopez: I think with anything both Oscar and I have done, we don’t do it half-assed. We’re very committed.

We don’t put our name behind something if we don’t really believe in it. I think this is something we both believe in, something we’re happy to get behind, and with us, you’re going to get 100 percent. Oscar and I can make it crossover, both in visibility and hitting all the demos: men, women, everything. I’m happy about that.

I recognize it. We don’t take it for granted, and hopefully it will serve us well.

Mario, we’ve seen you spar with Oscar, and you can hold your own. How would he have fared on Dancing with the Stars?

Oscar De La Hoya: [laughs] That’s a great question, man.

Mario Lopez: I think I’ve asked him a couple of times if he wanted to do it. He says he’s too busy. He has Golden Boy Promotions and that keeps him busy.

Oscar De La Hoya: I’ve actually haven’t been.

Mario Lopez: You’ve been asked. It’s more that he’s scared to go on. [laughs] Oscar—anything he puts his mind to— he can do well. I think he’s just got a lot on his plate, but everything he does is first rate. The guy plays bocce for two minutes and nails his shot. Unbelievable.

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WHEN WE HIT THE BILLION-DOLLAR MARK, BELIEVE ME, I’M GOING TO GET A SMALL CASA MEXICO TATTOO SOMEWHERE.” - OSCAR DE LA HOYA

Oscar De La Hoya: [laughs] You’re a good athlete, too. He’s probably the best fighter that’s not a fighter, because he loves it. He loves boxing.

He loves boxing, so he trains. We spar. It’s the same with the tequila. It’s like we have that same passion, that same drive.

Sammy Hagar and Adam Levine got matching tattoos of their Mezquila logo a while ago. Do you foresee that in your future?

Mario Lopez: It’s funny you say that because I literally was just talking to Oscar about a half hour ago when we were changing clothes. As we often do—that sounds funny I guess. But we were saying we’re the only guys I think in our generation that don’t have tattoos. We didn’t get our ears pierced, probably because we each afraid of our old man. You know what I mean?

Oscar De La Hoya: I do have to admit, when we hit the billion-dollar mark, believe me, I’m going to get a small Casa Mexico tattoo somewhere.

Mario Lopez: I’m with him on that. I’m with him on that.

We’ve been told Mario’s the bocce king around here.

Mario Lopez: I don’t know about that. It’s a drinking game. Bocce is so much fun. My wife’s Italian, and so I was introduced to it. It turned into a perfect social game. I like it because my dad played, too.

Who would win in a bocce match? Oscar De La Hoya or Mario Lopez?

Mario Lopez: Oscar’s the kind of guy that in anything he plays, he’s just a natural. He gets into it.

Oscar De La Hoya: I think we should go play.

Mario Lopez: All right sounds good.

Oscar De La Hoya: Let’s do it.

Mario Lopez: Let’s do it.

Randy Mastronicola is the Editor-in-Chief of Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

He’s been known to enjoy a good bocce game and a good fight as well.

Oscar De La Hoya: Wait till we do boxing nights here.

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Photo courtesy of Dream Racing

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TIES, AND SOCKS AND BRIEFS, OH MY!

THE NOT SO CLICHÉ GIFT GUIDE FOR DAD AND GRAD

by Julie Harrington Giffin

Handsomely wrapped and tied with a bow (tie). If

there is one thing history has taught dear old dad, it’s that the presentation of fetchingly wrapped Father’s Day gifts far exceeds what hides inside. Year after year, dad puts on an Oscar-worthy performance of pure joy as he unveils his wrapped treasures, the dreaded Father’s Day tie, polka dot socks, and new cotton briefs. And our grads, as practical as it may appear, the accountant’s calculator, briefcase, or dare I say new interview tie (gasp!) aren’t the mind-blowing gifts our grads embrace after graduating from a lifetime of filling in tiny bubbles with a No. 2 pencil. Gifts for dads and grads are traditionally riddled with cliché. As adults, we tend to think toward the practical, but when it comes to gift giving, we must seize the moment to be impractical, so to speak. When it comes to shopping for gifts this “Dad and Grad Season,” it’s time to think beyond the tie.

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Photos courtesy of Dream Racing

DREAM RACING Who doesn’t dream of driving a Ferrari or Lamborghini? Let’s take that dream full throttle and give the gift of racing around the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Imagine the thrill of racing a Ferrari F430 GT at speeds of 135mph! With an incredible lineup of exotic cars and multiple racing packages, this is one wheel of a gift dad and grad can get behind. dreamracing.com $179 - $4000

ELTON JOHN Sequins! Sunglasses! Wigs! Feathers! One of the great music icons of all time, Elton John, celebrates 50 years of music with his grand finale concert tour Farewell Yellow Brick Road. Known for his high-energy stage performances, this will be the musical journey of a lifetime as Elton performs over a half-century of his Grammy and Oscar-winning music. Tickets are available online, and be sure to add your name to the Rocket Club for notification of the latest Elton News. eltonjohn.com $60+

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Photos courtesy of eltonjohn.com

Photo courtesy of Man Crates

MAN CRATES Manly Gifts for Manly Men. These gift sets are packaged in Man Crates or Ammo Cans for gifts guys can really identify with. Eating, drinking, grilling, sports or even the great outdoors, there’s no shortage of “crates or cans” that speak to the interests of guys. A few favorites are the College Barware Crate, Whiskey Connoisseur Crate, Bass Whisperer Crate, The Jerky Gram, and even The Beard Wrangler Mini Crate. Man Crates is on point and feeds to the heart of every man. mancrates.com $60 - $200

CASKERS PRIVATE CASK The ultimate gift for the spirit connoisseur. Present a personal cask of Four Roses Single Barrel with Dad’s name on it, and you will be the golden child for life. Private casks come at a steep price, but for the dad who has everything, this is the gift that tops them all. Private label bottles are available, too, as well as an on-staff Concierge to help you locate rare and ultra-premium spirits. caskers.com Cask price $4500

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BAXTER OF CALIFORNIA Skin and hair care for men are not often a prime topic of conversation, but men definitely enjoy a little pampering. And Baxter of California delivers. A premium collection of high-end hair, skin and shave essentials make guys feel like a million bucks. Since 1965, Baxter of California has continued to perfect the art of men’s grooming, and their hair, shave, skin and body care products are a lifestyle to embrace. Treat them with a premium gift set filled with award-winning products from Baxter of California. If you happen to be in Los Angeles, book an appointment at the Baxter Finley Barber & Shop to experience the ultimate man pampering lifestyle. baxterofcalifornia.com $18 - $300

Photo courtesy of Baxter of California

Photo courtesy of Tasters Club

Photo courtesy of Southern Country Smokers

SOUTHERN COUNTRY SMOKERS

TASTERS CLUB

Never get between a man and his meat! Unless of course, you are a Southern Country Smoker where dudes can smoke outstanding main course dishes or even your Thanksgiving Turkey. Electric or Charcoal, the choice is yours, and the price is right. This is one gift that won’t go up in smoke. southerncountrysmokers.com $69 - $189

The spirited gift that keeps on giving. Whiskey, vodka, tequila, rum, gin, scotch bourbon or bubbly. Taster’s Club delivers full-size, hard-to-find bottles each month with professional tasting notes, history and distillery notes, and how to properly taste and evaluate. A three, six, or twelvemonth membership caters to your desired spirited pleasure. tastersclub.com $44/mo. - $184/mo.

Photo courtesy of Ghost Scream

GHOST SCREAM HOT SAUCE Time for dad and grad to roll up their sleeves and take their taste buds on a ghost screaming adventure. Created by Southern California Chef Matthew Sisson, Ghost Scream Hot Sauce is composed entirely of California-grown produce and is a culinary experience worth taking. The pure and fresh flavor explodes with smoky notes and a wicked kick of fire that captivates the palate. This is an everyday sauce for your everyday dishes, and then some. No need to choose just one of the three different flavors; the Original Hot Sauce, Chili-Garlic Jam and Chili-Garlic Paste come in a convenient 3-pack. And don’t forget those cocktails. Ghost Scream is next level in your Bloody Mary! ghostscream.com 3-pack Kit - $30

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CIGAR & SPIRITS MAGAZINE

CIGAR OF THE MONTH CLUB A welcomed reprieve from the undesirable Jelly of the Month Club, a seasoned or novice cigar guy will surely embrace his monthly delivery of five top-rated, small batch, hand-rolled cigars complete with profiles, tasting notes, and suggested spirit pairings. Cigar & Spirits Magazine’s exclusive panel of experts carefully selects each featured cigar. With over 100 years of cigar experience, the panel ensures the cigars you receive are expertly constructed, properly aged, and received a rating of 90 – 100 points. This gift is an experience that continues to please the palate. www.cigarandspirits.com/club Membership - $39.95/mo.

Tasting Club Membership

Photo courtesy of idrinkproducts.com

Photo courtesy of rockcamp.com

Legendary Guitarist Jeff Beck leading the way at the camp.

DRINKMATE SPRITZER It’s no secret guys like gadgets and here’s one that goes everywhere. The Drinkmate Spritzer is a hand held portable carbonation gun ready to make your water, juice, sport drink, or even favorite cocktail fizz to the max. Simply add your beverage of choice to the Drinkmate canister and pull the trigger to release a sparkle of CO2 for a refreshing carbonated beverage whenever and wherever you want. And no batteries or power needed. From the comfort of your home watching the big game to fishing lakeside in the mountains, Drinkmate adds a touch of sparkle to every occasion. www.idrinkproducts.com $89.99 - $94.99

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL FANTASY CAMP Not your average band camp, Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp is the real deal.

Bring your musical talent and be strategically placed with other musician campers that will form your new band, complete with a Rock Star Counselor, Band Manager, rehearsal studio, and recording studio. Choose the name of your band and get ready to jam in your Master Class sessions designed to improve and fine-tune your musical talent. During rehearsals, you will be perfecting an original song to be performed live in front of a packed house at top-rated venues, such as the famed Whisky A Go Go! Create music and learn from such legends as Dave Navarro (Jane’s Addiction, Red Hot Chili Peppers), Roger Daltry (The Who), Joe Walsh (The Eagles), John Moyer (Disturbed), all past camp counselors. A rockin’ bucket list gift no doubt! rockcamp.com 4-day camp experience $3999+ WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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Photos courtesy of sfbags.com

WATERFIELD BAGS Setting a new standard in bag design, WaterField gained popularity with the tech-savvy community of Northern California by turning out products made for specific tablets, phones, gaming devices, and customer requests for specific bag features. American made, personalized design, top-grade materials, and uncluttered designs are the hallmarks of WaterField’s success.

The unique portfolio of handcrafted bags serves modern-day needs and lifestyles. Two favorites that are sure to please are the Atlas Executive Athletic Holdall, a crossover briefcase/athletic bag that goes from office to gym without compromising on fashion, and the Air Porter Carry-On bag, which is lightweight and perfectly styled to fit under the seat in front of you. Add the Air Caddy insert and you have a pouch that easily fits in the seat back pocket to access your items with ease. As with all WaterField Bags, customer input is an essential part of the design process ensuring these bags have your back! sfbags.com $59 - $429

.GREY Wash, Protect, and Hydrate. Three words that make up the lifestyle brand of .GREY (say dotGREY) skincare for men. In a world where presentation is everything, .GREY gives dad and grad the leading edge in that make it or break it interview or boardroom meeting. .GREY’s premium skincare for men is made from natural ingredients including chamomile, white willow bark extract, jojoba, avocado and grape seed oils, and mango. Give dad and grad a gift that will energize, moisturize and revitalize. www.dotgrey.com The Set $139.00

Julie Harrington Giffin (aka Agave Love) is a Certified Mezcalier. Her branding and editorial originality is delivered with a charismatic and sophisticated confidence. Julie encourages the exploration of life’s more “spirited” pleasures to one and all.

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VICES

FEATURED SPRING COCKTAILS

FOR CINCO DE MAYO AND BEYOND… MARIO’S SAVED BY THE MARGARITA Ingredients: • ¾ oz. fresh squeezed lime juice • 1 oz. triple sec or orange liqueur • 1 ½ oz. Casa Mexico tequila • Salt (optional)

Directions STEP 1: Combine lime juice, triple sec/orange liqueur and tequila in a shaker filled with ice STEP 2: Shake until ingredients are well-combined STEP 3: Rub lime wedge around the top of glass and dip into the salt (optional) STEP 4: Strain into chilled margarita glass or ice-filled glass

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OSCAR’S GOLDEN BOY SUNRISE Ingredients

ICED COFFEE OF CHAMPIONS Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz. Casa Mexico tequila, chilled • 4 oz. fresh orange juice • Dash of grenadine

• 2 oz. Casa Mexico tequila • 1 oz. coffee liqueur

Directions

STEP 1: Pour the tequila into an old-fashioned glass with ice cubes STEP 2: Add the coffee liqueur STEP 3: Gently swirl or stir to mix and serve

Directions STEP 1: Pour the tequila into a chilled glass STEP 2: Pour orange juice into glass STEP 3: Gently float the grenadine on the top

THE KNOCK OUT

SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN MINT JULEP

Ingredients

Ingredients

• ½ oz. vodka • ½ oz. rum • ½ oz. Casa Mexico tequila • ½ oz. gin • ½ oz. Blue Curacao Liqueur • 2 oz. sweet and sour mix • Ice • 2 oz. 7-Up

• Leaves from 4-5 mint sprigs • ½ oz. simple syrup • 2 oz. bourbon • Crushed ice

Directions STEP 1: Pour all ingredients into glass with ice STEP 2: Top off with 7-Up

Directions STEP 1: Combine simple syrup and mint into mint julep cup, oldfashioned glass or Collins glass STEP 2: Muddle to express the mint STEP 3: Add bourbon STEP 4: Add crushed ice and stir well STEP 5: Garnish with sprig of mint

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TRADITIONAL SPRING MOJITO Ingredients

Ingredients

• 10 mint leaves • 1 lime, sliced • 2 tablespoons sugar • 1 cup of ice cubes • 1 ½ oz. rum • ½ cup club soda

• 6 strawberries • 2 teaspoons sugar • Ice • 4 shots gin • 1 teaspoon rose water • Pinch of salt • ½ cup club soda • Mint leaves (optional)

Directions STEP 1: Place mint leaves and 1 lime slice into a glass STEP 2: Muddle to release mint oils and lime juice STEP 3: Add 2 more lime slices and sugar STEP 4: Muddle again STEP 5: Fill the glass almost to the top with ice cubes STEP 6: Pour rum into the glass STEP 7: Add club soda STEP 8: Stir drink (add more sugar if desired)

LEMON DROP SHOOTER

Directions STEP 1: Wash and de-stem strawberries STEP 2: Cut strawberries into very small pieces STEP 3: Sprinkle sugar over strawberries; let sit for 5 minutes STEP 4: Crush strawberries with fork to release juices STEP 5: Combine ice, strawberries, gin, rose water and salt in a cocktail shaker and shake until mixed well STEP 6: Divide mixture between two glasses STEP 7: Top each glass with club soda STEP 8: Garnish with mint leaf, if desired

NEGRONI

Ingredients

Ingredients

• ¾ oz. vodka • ¼ oz. lemon juice • 1 teaspoon sugar • Ice

• 1 oz. Campari • 1 oz. gin • 1 oz. sweet vermouth • Ice • ½ orange wheel

Directions STEP 1: Combine vodka, lemon juice, sugar and ice in a cocktail shaker STEP 2: Shake until well-mixed STEP 3: Pour into shot glass

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THE STRAWBERRY ROSE

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Directions STEP 1: Combine Campari, gin and sweet vermouth into an old fashioned glass with ice STEP 2: Stir until chilled STEP 3: Garnish with half orange wheel

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INTERVIEW

A CONVERSATION WITH DANNY DIFABIO OF RODRIGUEZ CIGARS

by Elisa Jordan

RODRIGUEZ CIGARS IS A COMPANY THAT PRIDES ITSELF ON TRADITION, FAMILY AND HISTORY. THE COMPANY ITSELF WAS FOUNDED IN CUBA IN 1947 BY ANGEL RODRIGUEZ AND HIS WIFE DANIELLA. NOW LOCATED IN KEY WEST, FLORIDA, RODRIGUEZ CIGARS IS RUN BY ANGEL AND DANIELLA’S GRANDSON, DANNY DIFABIO. RODRIGUEZ WAS BUILT, HE SAYS, “ON LOVE AND SACRIFICE.”

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he family’s commitment to a superior product began in 1947 in Cuba, where his grandparents owned 200 acres of property and a Texaco gas station. Their cigar business grew until 1961, when the Cuban government nationalized the family’s property. Angel Rodriguez, a once-successful businessman, was now left with nothing. It was time for a new life in the United States, but it would come at a cost.

“He paid a tax for everyone he wanted to take out of Cuba to come here,” DiFabio says. “In return, he had to sacrifice two years of his life working for free, 16-hour days doing labor.

Picking tobacco leaves and picking onions, going to from one extreme to the other and allowing my family to come to the United States.”

The family reunited and began the process of rebuilding their lives in Florida, “representing our family company, our family name.” Danny himself was born and raised in the Florida Keys and had plans to graduate college and tackle corporate America. “I felt compelled to venture off and try something different,” he says now. But fate had other plans.

Danny began helping out his grandfather, who by this time had been working for more than 30 years in the United States.

He was getting older, and Danny thought his grandfather might need a hand. He thought it might be temporary while he was dreaming of a career elsewhere but soon the grandson was as in love with the cigar industry as his grandfather. Then a cigar historian walked in one day and began sharing stories of Key West’s long history with the tobacco industry.

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“He said, ‘Hey, kid, do you know what your preserving?’” Danny admits that at the time, he didn’t really know. The historian showed him newspapers and documents that pertained to the cigar heritage of Key West. That conversation ignited a passion in Danny for the history of cigars in the area. “I realized that everyone should know that there is still a facility in Key West making cigars.” It was a turning point that made him realize the cigar business was exactly where he wanted to be.

“The first cigar on this island was created in 1831,” he says. “That was when cigar companies started coming to Key West—185 years ago. As this industry started growing, by 1875 there were over 30 million cigars being produced on this island annually.”

All photos courtesy of Rodriguez Cigars

BEHIND THE LEAF

Photos courtesy of Rodriguez Cigars

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ey West’s original cigar manufacturers from the 1800s are long gone, but the legacy they left behind remains. Rodriguez Cigars keeps the old traditions alive in the area. The brickand-mortar facility on Key West attracts locals but it also brings in visitors from around the world. The Keys have long been a destination for vacationers and cruise ships, so Rodriguez Cigars gets quite a bit of recognition from tobacco enthusiasts around the globe.

“The experience people get when they walk through our doors on Key West is something we really take pride in,” Danny says. “When people walk in the first thing that hits them is the strong, sweet aroma of tobacco and the Latin music playing in the background.

People are making cigars. It’s a place where people can basically take a step back into time.

Our products are very competitive but the experience we want to give customers and guests that come in from all over the world is something that I want them to take home with them. It’s a piece of old world culture right at their fingertips that they can experience.”

For as much as he loves the cigar industry’s history and Key West, Danny DiFabio isn’t one to live in the past. Since stepping into the company about nine years ago, he’s been expanding the Rodriguez business model.

Having grown up on Key West and realizing it’s a top destination for weddings, he asked a relative, who’s also a wedding planner, what she thought about setting up cigar bars for receptions. She loved the idea, and Danny set about creating presentations that would look nice at weddings. Rodriguez also provides catering packages for corporate events. A Rodriguez Cigar Lounge has opened in the Gates Hotel, also located on Key West.

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Danny plans to continue working to expand his family’s business. He’d like to branch out into wholesale and continue in the tradition of superior products. “When I started figuring out what I was a part of I went all in,” he says.

“I’m really proud to be working with some really experienced individuals to have allowed me to construct cigars with some of the finest tobacco being grown. Once I had that capability, I said, ‘Let’s go. We need to build on this.’ The authenticity is there.”

Elisa Jordan is the Managing Editor at Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

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INTERVIEW

Photo courtesy of Paul Griffith Photography

MAY/JUNE 2018

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WHAT CAN I GET YOU? A new Habanos Festival and a new Cigar Sommelier of the Year.

NICK HAMMOND sits down with this year’s winner…

IT’S a far cry from the hot, humid, fevered excitement of Festival-time Havana.

But the cool, elegant interior of the Mayfair townhouse that is home to Mark’s Club is something akin to back to basics for Darius Namdar.

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Photo courtesy of Mark’s Club, London

Now Darius is the new toast of London. He’s just won the worldwide competition for Habanos Sommelier of the Year.

“It was utterly exhausting,” says Namdar, and indeed, there are shadows under his eyes this afternoon. Annabel’s – that famous of Mayfair nightspot – is part of the Birley stable and has recently re-opened after refurbishment. Darius has flown back from Havana into the eye of a storm as teething problems are ironed out and equipment and personnel bedded in.

“It’s been straight back into the fray, but Cuba was an incredible experience and I’m very proud of the way it went.”

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Photo courtesy of Hunters & Frankau

H

e only got back from Cuba a couple of days ago. But he is – as ever – immaculately turned out in a conservative dark three-piece, carefully trimmed light beard and an engaging manner that has seen him rise through ranks of the hospitality business from the Maître d’ at the likes of the Chiltern Firehouse to Club Director and Group Cigar Sommelier of the Birley Group.

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Photo courtesy of Mark’s Club, London

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Photo courtesy of Hunters & Frankau

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inning the event is something of a milestone. While the UK has shown well in recent years – both Mike Choi and Slawomir Bielecki have been runners-up in incredibly close-fought battles – it’s been felt by the cognoscenti that defeating the all-conquering Cubans before the judges was becoming a mission impossible.

That was before Darius turned up with his Panattone from Harry’s Bar. “I was smoking an El Rey del Mundo Choix Supreme with Grand Marnier Cuveé de Centenaire and I realised it tasted just like Harry’s Panattone.”

So, a suitcase stuffed with Panattone from another of the Birley Group properties was soon winging its way across the Atlantic, along with a carefully packed case of Imperial Black, loose leaf tea, which formed the palate cleansing finish to an incredible line up of tastes and profiles Namdar offered judges.

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Photo courtesy of Mark’s Club, London

Photo courtesy of Hunters & Frankau

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s well as a mock customer setting, where the sommelier is required to discover the client’s preferences and suggest a drinks and cigar to match, there’s an in-depth quiz on spirits, brands and even unusual cigar sizes. The Habanos Sommelier final is not for the faint hearted.

“There are TV cameras filming it live, photographers in your face, hundreds in the audience – it’s actually very daunting,” says Namdar. “The key thing is to keep your cool and not get flustered. And try and remember all the revision you did.”

His triumph in the contest is also tribute to Hunters & Frankau’s commitment to the cause; for years, the importer for Cuban cigars has been hosting first UK events, then taking winners over to Havana for the main competition. My old friend Jimmy McGhee in particular has put his heart into this project - it’s great to see it pay off in style.

Congrats to both – and keep your eye on Darius Namdar. You haven’t seen the last of him.

Nick Hammond is the UK’s premier cigar writer, a winner of the inaugural Spectator Cigar Writer of the Year Award and a regular contributor to cigar publications around the world. He also writes extensively on travel, luxury, food, drink and The Good Life.

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Photo courtesy of Hunters & Frankau

Darius is intensely focused, and I’d hazard a guess that his current knowledge of Habanos – particularly sizes, histories, Limited and Regional Editions and interesting pairings - is unsurpassed anywhere in the UK and probably further afield.

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92 RATED

Cigar Aficionado’s

Top 25 Cigars

brick house cigars by j.c. newman cigar company. available at fine tobacconists.

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BY J.C. NEWMAN CIGAR CO.

Introducing the new Brick House Double Connecticut. A highly acclaimed Nicaraguan Blend featuring a

genuine Connecticut Shade wrapper and Connecticut

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great price.

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