Cigar Snob Magazine July August 2025

JULY / AUGUST 2025

DESERT GOLF ADVENTURE / CIGAR LOVER Q&A / SUPER PREMIUM RUMS / 48 CIGARS RATED +

26 | CIGAR SNOB | MAR / APR 2024

MAR / APR 2024 | CIGAR SNOB | 27

28 | CIGAR SNOB | MAR / APR 2024

MAR / APR 2024 | CIGAR SNOB | 29

4 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 5

6 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 7

editorials JULY / AUGUST 2025

25 5 TO TRY SUPER PREMIUM RUMS The silky smooth sweetness of a well done rum is a treasure to imbibe. Here are five of our favorites, hand-in-hand with a proper cigar.

26 ZAFRA RUM 30 YEARS /

ILLUSIONE FUME D’AMOUR

28 E. LEÓN JIMENES 110 ANIVERSARIO /

LA AURORA FAMILY CREED FUERTE SOL

30 FOURSQUARE MASTER SERIES EDITION NO. 4 / THE OSCAR MADURO

32 RON CENTENARIO 30 ANIVERSARIO / TATUAJE BLACK

34 ADMIRAL RODNEY HMS FORMIDABLE / VILLIGER MIAMI

39 MESQUITE TRAVEL We hit the links in the northern reaches of the Mohave Desert. Yes, Nevada is hot in the summer, but the spare backdrop, endless blue sky and magnificent golfing is pure comfort

82 FIRST CIGAR : IBIS LUIS We talk with this ambitious influencer, best known as "Cigar Lover," who tells us of her journey from medical professional with an interest in cigars to an accomplished cigar marketer.

8 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 9

features JULY / AUGUST 2025

14 LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

16 FEEDBACK

18 WHAT’S BURNIN’

49 RATINGS

66 SMOKING HOT CIGAR SNOB GYPSY QUEEN FEATURING ESPAÑOLA CIGARS

84 X SCOREBOARD

86 INSTAGRAM SCOREBOARD

88 EVENTS 88 SMOKE-ONOS 90 LA AURORA CIGARS & E. LEÓN JIMENES RUM LAUNCH 94 PROCIGAR NIGHT – PUNTA CANA 96 ROCKY PATEL BRUNCH AT BARTOLOS CAFE 98 COCONUT GROVE CIGAR SOCIAL

BY CIGAR PHONE

10 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 11

JULY / AUGUST 2025

VO L . 1 7 IS SU E 4 www.cigarsnob.com PUBLISHER & EDITOR Erik Calviño SENIOR EDITOR Steve Miller COPY EDITOR Michael LaRocca SALES & OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Oscar M. Calviño

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Ivan Ocampo ART DIRECTOR Andy Astencio ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Jamilet Calviño DIGITAL RETOUCHING SPECIALIST Ramón Santana DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGEMENT Gianni D’Alerta Diana Rita Cabrera CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS David Benoliel Andy Astencio EVENT PHOTOGRAPHERS Jamilet Calviño Miru Photography Cover Photography by David Benoliel www.davidbenolielphotography.com Cover Model -Alina Kozyrka Cigar Snob is published bi-monthly

by Lockstock Publications, Inc. 1421-1 SW 107th Ave., #253 Miami, FL 33174-2509 Tel: 1 (786) 423-1015 Cigar Snob is a registered trademark of Lockstock Publications, Inc., all rights reserved. Reproduction in part or full without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Cigar Snob is printed in the U.S. Contents copyright 2006, Lockstock Publications, Inc. To subscribe, visit www.cigarsnob.com

(SUBSCRIBE TODAY) - Only $18 for one year (six issues) of -

- Magazine delivered to you Visit: www.cigarsnob.com or write: subscribe@cigarsnobmag.com 12 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

It has been three years since the state of the U.S. economy prompted us to create a section called Inflation Buster and it has been incredibly well received. Many of you reached out to thank us for highlighting the companies and brands that are still making great cigars at reasonable prices.

Since then, we’ve had a change of president, gas prices have dropped, and egg prices seem to be under control. But everyone’s still feeling the crunch of higher costs. According to data released in June by the Cigar Association of America, over the first couple of months of 2025, premium cigar imports have dipped by 8.7% as compared to the same time last year. There are too many factors built into that number to draw a conclusion, so I ask you; have your cigar buying patterns changed?

We haven’t seen a change in our local cigar retailers, they are still buzzing as usual. But what we have seen is an increased interest in information like we publish here. We’re also getting bombarded with pairing questions, like the one in this issue’s Feedback section (p.16) and requests for detailed reviews. We’ve noticed more consumers listening to podcasts like ours (Cigar Snob Podcast) to gain more insights about potential new smokes. That can be interpreted as consumers trying to understand more about a new cigar they want to try. In other words, they may be less willing to “take a flyer” on a new cigar before doing some research or hearing a recommendation from a trusted source. Or maybe you just like the sound of our voices!

But seriously, I want to bring it back to the question I posed earlier; have your buying patterns changed in the last year? I find that by and large, cigar smokers don’t stop smoking. Instead, they change where and what cigars they buy, look for better deals, dip into their stash of aging cigars, and consume more information. We’d love to hear it from you, drop us a line at feedback@cigarsnobmag.com and let us know if and how your buying patterns have changed.

We’ve been having a blast giving away free stuff on Win, Stuff, Live every Friday at 3 p.m. eastern via our social media platforms. It used to be that we’d only communicate with our readers six times a year.

The podcast increased the frequency to about 12 to 18 times a year.

With this weekly show, we get to interact with all of you on a weekly basis and even better, we get to give you killer prizes for free. Thank you for being a part of this incredible community.

In between giving away prizes and attending events, we managed to put together a great issue thanks to a small but dedicated team behind the scenes. Ivan and the photo shoot crew produced an elegant and sexy shoot titled Gypsy Queen starting on p. 66. A special thanks to JM Tobacco/Española Cigars for being a part of the production.

We interviewed everyone’s favorite Instagram cigar star, Ibis Luis, otherwise known as @cigarlover12 for our First Cigar Q&A on p. 82.

We also tasted five incredible rums in 5 to Try on p. 25. I must’ve done something right to deserve the desert golf trip I took to Mesquite, Nevada. There are few golf courses that capture the imagination

14 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

like Wolf Creek, and I was fortunate enough to play it with an old friend (JJ) and a new friend for life (GT). Life can be tough at times so when you catch a wave of good fortune, enjoy it and celebrate it with your favorite smoke.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your cigar journey.

Keep ‘em lit,

Erik Calviño ecalvino@cigarsnobmag.com

CORRECTION

Keep the information flowing and congrats on an awesome show!

In our May/June 2025 issue, the name of McCranie’s Pipe Shop in Charlotte, NC, was misspelled. We regret the error.

Best Regards,

ROAD WARRIOR

Great question Brian—we get this question often. You are correct, pairings are subjective and depend a lot on your palate, but there are some definite “rules-of-thumb” as you say that you can lean on when picking a cigar to pair with your beverage.

Gentlemen, Let me start by saying that I am a huge fan of the podcast and the knowledge that you guys deliver to novice cigar smokers like me. I travel for work on a weekly basis both flying and driving, covering 39 states, so your podcast makes my travels go a lot smoother, especially in busy city traffic. I am definitely new to the cigar world "less than 60 cigars smoked" and I rely on your podcast for advice, new product information and perfect pairings. When I have time during the week, I like to visit the local cigar lounge in whatever city I am working in that week to help me unwind and socialize with likeminded people and possibly have a drink or two. I have visited numerous lounges throughout my travels from Seattle to San Diego and from Boston down to Key West and many in-between. I have been fortunate to experience such variety and have always had a good experience at each place.

My question to you guys is this: after stepping into the humidor and picking out my cigar for the evening, is there a general ruleof-thumb to pick out the perfect pairing, whether it be bourbon, rum , or scotch, based on the type of cigar that I have picked? Does a medium-bodied cigar pair better with rum, or full-bodied cigar pair better with bourbon, etc.

I understand that pairings can vary greatly with each individual palette but maybe there is a "guide" or suggestions that I can refer back to during my next visit.

Brian M Atlanta, GA

Connecticut/claro wrapper/mild bodied cigars tend to pair with light bodied spirits with standard, 40% ABVs, citrus forward IPAs, and even dry white wines and Champagnes — mostly beverages that won’t overpower the more subtle notes of the cigar.

Medium-bodied cigars are the most versatile and can hold their own with a wider range—more intense whiskies, flavorful wines and beers like red zinfandels and Belgium tripels often complement them beautifully.

Full-bodied cigars shine when paired with bold, complex spirits like cask-strength bourbons, peaty Islay Scotch, or rich, dark rums.

But for more specific and curated recommendations, be sure to check out our “Perfect Pairings” and “5 to Try” pairing features we do in most of our issues—like page 25 of this issue. We highlight five excellent rums and an ideal cigar to go with each. As you can see, we do the heavy lifting for you by powering through different combinations of spirits and cigars, from the approachable to the unexpected, to find the perfect combo. We also do blind pairings on the Cigar Snob Podcast and give you a little more insight into how we judge certain cigars and how they hold up to different spirits- all while tasting them blind with zero biases going into it.

Thanks again for listening and keep the feedback coming!

WRITE US AT FEEDBACK@CIGARSNOBMAG.COM 16 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

LOUISIANA PASSES CIGAR TAX CAP LEGISLATION Louisiana state lawmakers in June passed a measure that will cap taxes on premium cigars.

The fifty-cent tax cap will take effect January 1. The proposal passed the Louisiana House of Representatives 74-20, and the state Senate 26-11.

“Once again, the local leadership of PCA’s retail partners have produced positive legislation that will benefit Louisiana small businesses, and their customers alike," Glynn Loope, director of state advocacy for the Premium Cigar Association, said in a press release. "We issue our sincere thanks to Representative Bryant, each legislator that voted for the proposal and to Governor Landry for signing H.B. 325.”

The PCA trade show returns to New Orleans April 17-20, 2026.

ESPAÑOLA COROJO NOW SHIPPING JM Tobacco is shipping the Española Corojo, originally launched in 2024 as the Year of the Dragon. The company says that demand prompted it to add the cigar as the third permanent line of Española cigars this year.

The Española Corojo features a Corojo wrapper and comes in a 6 x 52 Toro, 5 x 50 Robusto, and a 6 ¾ x 50 Churchill.

ALTADIS U.S.A. AND TOMMY BAHAMA ANNOUNCE TRINIDAD X TOMMY BAHAMA ISLAND COLLECTION Altadis U.S.A. will collaborate with Tommy Bahama for the Trinidad x Tommy Bahama Island Collection, to be released in August.

The line includes Harbor, a 5 x 52 Robusto ($16.50), Breeze, a 6 x 54 Toro ($17.50), and Marlin, a 6 x 60 Magnum ($18.50). Also offered is a four-pack Harbor sampler ($66).

The Nicaraguan puro is developed by tobacco artisans Rafael Nodal and AJ Fernandez.

“The partnership with Trinidad cigars is a natural extension of the Tommy Bahama philosophy,” Gina Wilcox, vice president of licensing

18 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

at Tommy Bahama, said in a press release. “We believe in timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and effortless style—values that are perfectly reflected in this unique cigar collection.”

In addition, Island Lifestyle Importers, has teamed up with Altadis U.S.A. and Tommy Bahama to create a line of cigar accessories.

DREW ESTATE UNVEILS FREESTYLE LIVE EVENT PACK Drew Estate announces its Freestyle Live Event Pack, which includes a new Nicaraguan puro.

The pack ($40.75) includes three of the new cigars, and a 40-ounce tumbler.

Of the new mystery cigar, Drew Estate Founder Jonathan Drew said in a press release, “We will give ya two clues. First, it’s not a Deadwood of any kind. Second, the new drop is not about the Dominican Republic. Drew Estate is the original people’s champ. That’s my word.”

To find a participating retailer, visit drewestate. com/freestyle2025.

OUTCAST CIGARS IS NOW SHIPPING Outcast Cigars, a new brand, is shipping to retailers. Its portfolio includes a 5 x 50 Robusto, ($10.50), 6 x 47 Corona Gorda ($$11.50), 5 ½ x 54 Toro ($11.50) and 6 x 58 Gran Toro ($12.50).

The lineup features a Brazilian Cubra wrapper, Ecuadorian Sumatra binders and Dominican fillers. The wrapper is a hybrid of Cuban-seed Corojo often called Brazilian Habano.

The cigars are packed in 10-count boxes.

LA FLOR DOMINICANA EXPANDS ORO ACCESS TO SELECT FORMATS WITH 20-COUNT BOX RELEASE

COHIBA UNVEILS THE LATEST EDITION OF SPECTRE Cohiba announces the latest release of Spectre, featuring a seven-year-aged Havana Connecticut 2017 wrapper and fillers that include Criollo '98, grown in Mao, Dominican Republic. A collector's box of ten of the 6 x 52 Toro is available for $1,499.99.

“Spectre has always been about pushing the limits of what’s possible,” Sean Williams, Cohiba brand ambassador, said in a press release. “Rare tobaccos, flawless construction and packaging that is in a league of its own. This year, we’ve taken it even further. The blend is unlike anything we’ve done before, and the box is truly next level. This year’s Spectre is for those who appreciate the smoking experience as much as the cigar.”

E.P. CARRILLO CONNECTICUT SHIPS TO RETAILERS Casa Carrillo is shipping the E.P. Carrillo Connecticut, an addition to its Essence Series. It comes in a 5 ½ x 44 Corona ($9.25), a 5 x 50 Robusto ($9.75) and a 6 x 52 Toro ($10.50). It features an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, Criollo 98 Honduran binders and filler of Honduran and Dominican Republic tobaccos. It is the second Essence cigar crafted outside Casa Carrillo, produced at the Agroindustrias Diadema factory in Honduras.

“The E.P. Carrillo Connecticut was born out of a desire to create a cigar that pairs creamy, mellow flavors with exceptional craftsmanship,” Ernesto Perez-Carrillo said in a press release. “This blend is perfect for both seasoned smokers seeking a refined, nuanced experience and those new to the world of premium cigars.”

PCA AND CAA COMMISSION STUDY ON TAX CAP POLICIES

Oro was previously offered exclusively in tubes.

Premium Cigar Association and Cigar Association of America are collaborating on a national study of cigar tax cap policies enacted and planned in the U.S.

“We’ve always believed in these cigars," Litto Gomez, founder of La Flor Dominicana, said in a press release. "They represent something deeper than just a product; they’re about refinement born from adversity.”

The study is using Goss & Associates, led by Ernie Goss, chair in regional economics at Creighton University. Goss has published more than 100 studies on economic forecasting and on statistical analysis of business and economic trends.

La Flor Dominicana's Oro line is now available in 20-count boxes.

The study will evaluate the effectiveness of cigar tax caps as a matter of state policy and the direct and indirect economic impact of premium cigars for each state including local, state and federal taxes.

"Since 1977, the CAA economic and statistics program has provided actionable insights to support industry advocacy," CAA President Scott Pearce said in a press release. "Currently, we find ourselves having to defend existing tax caps, as well as working to advance new cap bills, in addition to addressing reform of statutes in some states.

And in this regard, research and substantiated data are the number one requests of state legislatures.

CAA is excited to be partnering with PCA to further progress our advocacy with this new study."

The study results are expected to be released later this year.

WEST TAMPA TOBACCO COMPANY SHIPS DARK TIME West Tampa Tobacco Company is shipping West Tampa Dark Time. The 6 x 54 Toro ($29.99) fea-

20 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

tures a U.S. Broadleaf wrapper, Ecuadorian Sumatra binders and Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers.

It comes in a black piano finished box containing 10 cigars along with a Rolex Daytona inspired custom cutter.

CAO INTRODUCES AMAZON BASIN DAGGERS, A NEW TAKE ON A FAVORITE CAO is expanding its Amazon Basin series with the launch of Amazon Basin Daggers, which brings the Basin blend to a 4 x 38 format.

The Dagger comes in five-count packs ($24.99).

“Amazon Basin fans are some of the most passionate in the cigar world," Cory Beardsley, brand manager for CAO, said in a press release. "We’ve seen how quickly the original sells out and heard the same question every year: when are we getting more? Daggers are our answer to that. It’s the same blend, same rainforest story, now available in a new format.”

CAO Amazon Basin is known for its use of Bra-

gança tobacco, a rare varietal grown in the remote Amazon Rainforest and harvested once every three years.

GEORGE RICO OF GRAN HABANO APPOINTED TO THE PCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS George Rico of Gran Habano will replace Max Bichler, who recently resigned, as an associate member on the PCA Board of Directors. Rico will serve the remainder of Bichler's three-year term from 2025 to 2028.

"George brings a deep experience of the industry with him and has been working with the board already on several projects," Todd Naifeh, president of the PCA Board of Directors, said in a press release.

Rico has been working in the cigar industry for over 28 years and is the founder, along with his father, Guillermo, of Gran Habano Cigars. Rico is a fourth-generation tobacco farmer with operations in countries including Colombia, Nicaragua, and Honduras.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 21

22 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 23

SUPER PREMIUM RUMS THE WORLD OF PREMIUM RUMS REPRESENTS THE PINNACLE OF CARIBBEAN AND CENTRAL AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP, WHERE ARTISANS TRANSFORM THE HUMBLE SUGARCANE PLANT INTO LIQUID GOLD THAT IS WORTHY OF THE FINEST COLLECTIONS. THESE EXPRESSIONS—OFTEN AGED FOR DECADES IN CAREFULLY SELECTED VESSELS—SHOWCASE WHAT HAPPENS WHEN TIME, EXPERTISE, AND TROPICAL CLIMATES CONVERGE. THESE AREN’T MIXING RUMS; THEY’RE MEANT FOR SIPPING, CONTEMPLATING, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, CIGAR PAIRING.

by Erik Calviño

ZAFRA RUM 30 YEARS mature sugarcane is cut, crushed, and transformed into the raw materials that will eventually become sugar, molasses, or rum. It represents more than just an agricultural cycle; it is a time of abundance and celebration.

For centuries, the zafra has defined the rhythm of life in sugar-producing regions. From November through April, entire communities mobilize for the harvest, working under the tropical sun to gather cane at its peak sweetness. Timing is everything – cut too early, and the sugar content is insufficient; too late, and it begins to spoil. This delicate balance between patience and urgency, between waiting for perfection and seizing the moment, captures the essence of what makes exceptional rum.

The choice of “Zafra” as a rum brand name reflects this connection to the agricultural heritage that forms the foundation of all great rum.

THREE DECADES OF PATIENCE The defining characteristic of Zafra Rum 30 Years lies in its extraordinary aging regimen. For three full decades, this rum rests in carefully selected American white oak ex-bourbon barrels, each chosen for its potential to contribute unique flavors and characteristics over extended aging. The bottle you crack open today contains a spirit whose life started before DVDs were invented. If you’re too young to know what a DVD is, Google it - a practice that is also younger than the rum in a bottle of Zafra 30.

The barrel selection process is critical to the success and flavor of the final product. Some barrels contribute vanilla and caramel sweetness, others provide spicy oak tannins, while still others develop the complex fruit and nut characteristics that emerge only after decades.

PANAMA 40% ABV

THE HARVEST SEASON The word “zafra” carries deep significance throughout Latin America, derived from the Arabic “safra,” meaning “harvest.” In the Spanishspeaking Caribbean and Central America, zafra has evolved to specifically denote the sugar cane harvest season – that crucial period when

26 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Panama’s tropical heat and humidity create both opportunities and challenges for long-term aging. The higher temperatures increase the rate of extraction from the wood while also elevating the angel’s share – the portion lost to evaporation.

Managing this balance over a long period of time requires exceptional skill and constant monitoring to ensure the rum develops complexity rather than becoming overwhelmed by wood influence.

TASTING NOTES The rum has a rich mahogany hue in the glass while the nose reveals layers of classic bourbon notes along with banana, coconut, and a healthy dose of oak. It’s the kind of nose that keeps you going back for more. When you eventually take

a sip, it explodes onto the palate with a blast of maple, chocolate, and coconut in concert with notes of oak spice.

Illusione Fume D’Amour

PAIRING NOTES ILLUSIONE FUME D’AMOUR IS A BEAUTIFULLY BALANCED CIGAR WITH A MEDIUM STRENGTH PROFILE OF ALMONDS, CEDAR, SUBTLE PEPPER, AND CREAM. ENJOYED AFTER A SIP OF THE ZAFRA 30 NEAT, THE CIGAR TAKES ON A DIMENSION OF NUTTY BUTTERSCOTCH THAT COMPLEMENTS IT BEAUTIFULLY. AFTER THE CIGAR, THE RUM’S SWEETNESS IS COUNTERED WITH INCREASED OAK AND PEPPER NOTES. AN EXCELLENT PAIRING.

PLUS ONE ZAFRA RUM 21 YEARS

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 27

E. LEÓN JIMENES 110 ANIVERSARIO when Francisco León Jimenes introduced his son Guillermo to the business. Guillermo understood that the family’s success in beer and cigarettes had overshadowed its premium cigar competency. Despite its historical significance, the premium cigar operation represented about 1% of the company’s overall revenue by the late 1980s. Instead of accepting this, Guillermo saw it as an opportunity to refocus on what made the family legendary.

and full flavored, with flavors that pick up where the nose left off and add chocolate and herbal bitters. The finish is long and balanced with just enough heat to hold off the sweetness.

La Aurora Family Creed Fuerte Sol

In 2011, Guillermo separated La Aurora from Empresa León Jimenes. His brave decision returned the operation to its independent, family-owned roots.

THE RUM REVELATION This refocus extended beyond cigars to embrace premium consumption culture. In 2013, celebrating the 110th anniversary, Guillermo recognized that exceptional cigars deserved a companion spirit. This led to an innovative partnership with Ron Barceló to create E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario rum.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 40% ABV

LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE In 1903, 18-year-old Eduardo León Jimenes founded La Aurora in the Dominican Republic’s tobacco heartland of Santiago de los Caballeros, establishing what would become the country’s first and most prestigious cigar factory. When Eduardo passed away in 1937, his brother Herminio preserved the family legacy, ensuring the León name continued representing the highest standards of cigar production.

By the mid-20th century, the León Jimenes family had transformed its tobacco operation into Empresa León Jimenes, a conglomerate that helped shape the Dominican economy. Through strategic partnerships with Philip Morris for Marlboro production and major expansions into brewing - acquiring Bohemia Brewery in 1983 and Cervecería Nacional Dominicana in 1986 - Empresa León Jimenes established dominance in multiple industries while maintaining its independence.

THE THIRD GENERATION VISION The 1980s brought transformational leadership

28 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

It took three years to develop E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario and required a meticulous selection process. Barceló’s master distillers evaluated hundreds of expressions, finding the perfect complement to La Aurora’s premium cigars. The chosen rum underwent a special aging process never attempted in the Dominican Republic: eight years in virgin American white oak barrels, followed by two years in virgin French oak tuns.

The American oak provided foundational vanilla, caramel, and sweet spice flavors while the French oak gave the spirit a roundness, homogeneity, and sophisticated character earning a remarkable 97-point Beverage Testing Institute score.

THE ART OF THE PAIRING E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario embodies the complementary excellence philosophy that has guided the León family for over a century. The rum wasn’t developed to be consumed on its own but rather as the ideal companion to La Aurora’s cigars. That doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed by itself. The Beverage Testing Institute rating in 2019 was followed by a Double Gold Medal at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, where fewer than ten spirits per category receive the recognition.

TASTING NOTES On the nose, the E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario delivers rich caramel, butterscotch, and oak spice alongside ripe fruits. The palate is viscose

PAIRING NOTES THE FUERTE SOL IS BEAUTIFULLY BOXPRESSED PROVIDING AN EXCELLENT DRAW AND BURN WITH NOTES OF RED PEPPER, CINNAMON, CEDAR, AND TOASTED ALMONDS. TAKE A SIP OF THE RUM FOLLOWED BY A PUFF OF THE CIGAR AND YOU’LL NOTICE A RICH, SWEET CARAMEL CREAMINESS THAT ENVELOPES THE SMOKE. A FANTASTIC PAIRING.

PLUS ONE E. LEÓN JIMENES 1903

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 29

FOURSQUARE MASTER SERIES EDITION NO. 4 Sir David Seale made a bold gamble, purchasing a decrepit sugar factory whose oldest buildings dated back to 1636. His son Richard, who had joined the family business in 1993, saw the potential to create something unprecedented in the modern rum landscape.

The transformation of the former Foursquare sugar plantation into a state-of-the-art distillery represented more than just a business decision – it embodied a philosophy of complete control over every aspect of production. Unlike many Caribbean operations that rely on bulk sales to international bottlers, Foursquare committed to distilling, aging, blending, and bottling entirely on the island of Barbados. This vertical integration allowed Richard Seale to maintain the exacting standards that would eventually earn his distillery recognition as “Rum Producer of the Year” for five consecutive years.

THE REVOLUTIONARY APPROACH What sets Foursquare apart in the rum world is Seale’s radical commitment to transparency – a concept that was virtually unknown in the industry when he began releasing detailed production information on his labels. Every Foursquare release clearly states its age, cask types, distillation methods, and bottling strength, with the unwavering promise of “No color, no sugar, no additives, no filtration.” This philosophy directly challenged an industry where undisclosed additives and misleading age statements had become commonplace.

BARBADOS 62% ABV

THE PAPPY OF RUM In the world of premium spirits, few distilleries have so quickly achieved the cult status that Foursquare Rum Distillery has earned. This family-owned Barbadian operation has grown from a repurposed sugar factory into one of the world’s most respected rum producers in just over two decades. At the helm is Richard Seale, the fourthgeneration master distiller whose uncompromising commitment to transparency and quality has revolutionized how the rum world thinks about authenticity and excellence.

The Foursquare story begins in 1926 when Reginald Leon Seale established R.L. Seale & Co. as a merchant blender and bottler of rum in Barbados.

For 70 years, the family operated as traditional traders, purchasing rum from various distilleries and blending it under their own labels. But in 1996,

30 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

The distillery operates both traditional copper pot stills and modern twin-column Coffey stills, allowing Seale to create complex blends that showcase the best characteristics of each distillation method. His fundamental belief that Barbados rum’s identity lies in the marriage of pot and column still distillates has become a cornerstone of his production philosophy. Rather than viewing these as competing approaches, Seale sees them as complementary tools for creating depth and complexity that neither method could achieve alone.

MASTER SERIES EXCELLENCE The Master Series represents Foursquare’s most exclusive offerings – private cask selections that showcase Seale’s ability to identify exceptional barrels worthy of individual attention. Edition No. 4, bottled exclusively for Total Wine’s Concierge program, exemplifies this approach with its careful selection from 14-year-old stocks aged in exbourbon barrels.

At 62% ABV, this cask-strength expression delivers the full intensity of tropical aging without compromise. The high proof allows the rum’s natural complexity to shine through, revealing layers of flavor that would be muted at lower strengths.

Despite its power, the rum maintains the characteristic Foursquare elegance – a balance between intensity and drinkability that has made these releases legendary among collectors.

The Master Series Edition No. 4 represents everything that makes Foursquare exceptional: uncompromising quality, complete transparency, and the passionate dedication of a master distiller who refuses to sacrifice excellence for profit. In an industry where shortcuts are commonplace, Seale continues to prove that the patient pursuit of perfection creates not just exceptional rum, but a legacy that will endure for generations.

TASTING NOTES The Foursquare Master Series Edition No. 4 is a powerful spirit by any measure. At 62% ABV, it is best to introduce a few drops of spring water or a block of clean ice. The nose is intense and complex with notes of brown sugar, vanilla, black pepper, and a funky grape must in the background. On the palate there is a healthy oak tannin structure accompanied by butterscotch, dried apricots, and cinnamon.

The Oscar Maduro

PAIRING NOTES THE OSCAR MADURO OPENS THE PROCEEDINGS WITH A FLAVORFUL COMBINATION OF COCOA, SMOOTH EARTH, ALMONDS, AND RIPE FRUIT WITH A TOUCH OF OAKINESS IN THE FINISH. HIGH ALCOHOL SPIRITS WILL ALWAYS WIPE OUT THE DELICATE NOTES OF A CIGAR BUT AFTER HITTING THE FOURSQUARE WITH A FEW DROPS OF WATER, THE CIGAR COMES BACK INTO FOCUS. THE RESULT IS A CIGAR WITH AN ADDED DIMENSION OF VANILLAFLAVORED NUTS WITH AN EARTH AND PEPPER BACKBONE.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 31

RON CENTENARIO 30 ANIVERSARIO gy comes from renewable sources, and Costa Ricans, who call themselves “Ticos,” have adopted the national motto “Pura Vida” – pure life – which captures their laid-back philosophy of appreciating the simple pleasures, always having a positive outlook, and being closer to nature.

A STEADY HAND Under the guidance of Doña Susana Masis, a chemical engineer with over 27 years of experience in the spirits industry, Ron Centenario has evolved from a single expression in 1985 into a world-class portfolio that showcases the best of Costa Rican rum-making tradition. Masis, who serves as both master blender and quality control assurance manager, brings a unique combination of scientific precision and artistic intuition to her craft. Her passion extends beyond the blending room to encompass everything from raw material sourcing to international portfolio development, making her one of the most influential figures in Central American rum production.

Masis has a talent for understanding consumer needs across different international markets, a skill that has allowed Ron Centenario to expand from a domestic brand to one available in over 33 countries.

COSTA RICA 40% ABV

THE SPIRIT OF COSTA RICA Costa Rica may be small, but its ambitions are anything but modest. This Central American nation, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, has managed to punch well above its weight on many levels of the global stage. With just over five million inhabitants, the country is home to an astounding 5% of the world’s biodiversity, a testament to its unique microclimates and commitment to conservation. More than a quarter of Costa Rica’s total land area is protected as natural reserves, making it a leader in environmental stewardship that many larger nations aspire to emulate.

But Costa Rica’s progressive spirit extends beyond environmental protection. In 1948, the government made the bold decision to abolish its military, redirecting those funds toward education and healthcare. The result is a stable democracy that has avoided the social unrest and civil wars that have plagued many of its neighbors. Nearly 100% of the country’s ener-

32 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

THE SOLERA ADVANTAGE The Ron Centenario 30 Aniversario represents the pinnacle of the distillery’s solera system mastery. This traditional Spanish method, adapted from sherry production, involves a complex fractional blending process that would give any bookkeeper nightmares but results in rums of exceptional complexity and consistency. In the solera system, barrels are stacked with the oldest rum at the bottom, followed by progressively younger spirits in the tiers above.

When rum is drawn from the bottom barrels for bottling, it’s replaced with rum from the second oldest tier, which is then replenished from the third oldest, and so on. This creates a continuous blending where even the “youngest” rum in the final product has been influenced by much older spirits. For the 30 Aniversario, this means a blend that incorporates rums ranging from eight to 30 years old.

The process requires meticulous record-keeping and an intimate understanding of how different aged rums will interact with each other. Each barrel contributes its own character – some might offer bright fruit notes, others deep caramel and vanilla, still others the complex tannins that only time in oak can provide. Masis must

orchestrate this symphony of flavors, ensuring that each release maintains the signature profile that Ron Centenario lovers expect.

This 30-year expression earned international recognition with a gold medal at the 2011 International Spirit Awards.

AGED BY NATURE Costa Rica’s geography creates natural aging conditions that are unavailable elsewhere. The country’s position between two oceans, combined with its volcanic terrain and varied elevations, creates microclimates that influence how spirits mature in barrel. The consistent tropical temperatures accelerate the aging process compared to temperate climates, while the humidity levels help prevent excessive evaporation that can concentrate spirits too quickly.

The volcanic soil that feeds Costa Rica’s sugar cane also contributes to the terroir. The cane grown in these fertile, mineral-rich soils provides a foundation of flavor that carries through fermentation, distillation, and into the aging process.

TASTING NOTES Featuring a sherry-like nose loaded with dried fruit, oak, vanilla, and butterscotch, this rich, sweet rum has a round and full mouthfeel.

There’s a touch of heat and wood to balance the caramel and chocolate sweetness. At 40%, Centenario 30 is at its best when tasted neat or with a single rock of pure, clean ice.

Tatuaje Black

PAIRING NOTES THE TATUAJE BLACK IS A POWERFUL AND INTENSE BLEND WITH A CORE OF COCOA POWDER, HAZELNUT, EARTH, AND PEPPER WITH AN AROMA OF TANNED LEATHER THAT FILLS THE ROOM. THE RUM INTRODUCES A LEVEL OF SWEET CREAMINESS TO THE SMOKE THAT TAKES THE EXPERIENCE TO ANOTHER LEVEL.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 33

ADMIRAL RODNEY HMS FORMIDABLE During the battle, shifting winds caught the French line in disarray, disrupting their formation, and Rodney made his move. He ordered his ships to sail directly through gaps in the French line – a maneuver known as “breaking the line.” This tactic shattered the French formation, allowing the British to bring concentrated fire to bear on isolated enemy vessels.

The result was complete victory. Seven French ships were captured, including de Grasse’s flagship, along with the admiral himself. Jamaica was saved, and British Caribbean control secured.

HMS Formidable would forever be associated with one of Britain’s greatest naval victories, making her an obvious choice to inspire a rum that celebrates valor, honor, and service.

A LEGACY OF INNOVATION Laurie Barnard, the late chairman, transformed Saint Lucia Distillers with his vision. While others invested in larger column stills to increase volume, Barnard believed the best rum came from the blending of different distillation methods, barrel types, and even base materials. His philosophy was captured in a proverb that continues to guide the distillery: “We do not put age statements on our rums because we believe passionately that complexity and balance can only be maximized by blending old, complex, but often ‘woody’ rums with fresher but characterful rums.”

SAINT LUCIA 40% ABV

BREAKING THE LINE On the morning of April 12, 1782, the narrow stretch of ocean between the Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Dominica hosted one of the most significant naval engagements in British history. The French fleet under Admiral François Joseph Paul, Comte de Grasse, was racing to aid a dismasted French warship when it encountered a British fleet bearing down from the south. At the head of the British formation sailed the HMS Formidable, flagship of Admiral Sir George Brydges Rodney, a man whose tactical genius and daring would forever change naval warfare.

Rodney had been dispatched to the area to save Jamaica from a planned Franco-Spanish invasion threatening Britain’s lucrative sugar trade. With 15,000 French troops waiting in Santo Domingo and a Spanish fleet preparing to join the assault, the economic stakes could not have been higher.

34 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

This philosophy led to investments in diverse capabilities: small pot stills alongside column stills, proprietary yeast strains, unusual barrel types, and island-grown sugarcane. The Admiral Rodney range, introduced in the 2000s, exemplified this approach. The brand was conceived as a series of naval-themed rums, each named after a ship that participated in the Battle of the Saints. HMS Princessa honored the Spanish vessel captured by the British in 1780, HMS Royal Oak celebrated the ship that maneuvered skillfully in the vanguard of Rodney’s fleet, and HMS Formidable paid tribute to the admiral’s flagship itself.

MASTER OF MANY METHODS Saint Lucia Distillers operates three pot stills alongside a column still, allowing maximum distillation variety. They work with imported molasses and fresh sugarcane juice from 15 acres of cane grown on the island. Beyond standard American white oak ex-bourbon barrels, the distillery experiments with a variety of barrel types including port pipes, sherry butts, and even Chilean wine casks for finishing special releases.

The rum’s production benefits from what the distillery calls “full tropical aging” – meaning the rum

is always aged in Saint Lucia’s climate rather than being partially aged elsewhere. HMS Formidable is aged between nine and 12 years in American white oak bourbon barrels. It showcases what can be achieved when traditional Caribbean distillation meets extended tropical maturation. The 40% ABV bottling strength allows the complex flavors to unfold without being overwhelmed by alcohol heat, making it accessible to both newcomers and connoisseurs.

TASTING NOTES At 40% ABV, I recommend that you taste the HMS Formidable neat and preferably in a nosing glass.

You’ll find tons of rich vanilla, caramel, and tropical fruits on the nose with a touch of freshly cut sugarcane. On the palate, the rum is interestingly at the crossroads between a heavy, aged rum and a lighter, dryer rum. It could be an ideal introduction to aged sipping rums, but it wouldn’t surprise me if many fell head over heels for it. It has a unique, funky quality to the spirit that makes me want to keep taking sips.

Villiger Miami

PAIRING NOTES THE RUM’S DELICATE AND NUANCED PROFILE BEGS FOR A MILD AND CREAMY SMOKE, AND IN THAT CATEGORY THE VILLIGER MIAMI DELIVERS. THE CIGAR IS ON THE MILD END OF THE STRENGTH SPECTRUM BUT DELIVERS TONS OF CEDAR, LIGHTLY ROASTED NUTS, AND SWEET CREAMINESS. COMBINED WITH THE LIGHT BODIED SWEETNESS OF THE ADMIRAL RODNEY RUM, THE RESULT IS A BEAUTIFULLY BALANCED EXPERIENCE.

EDITOR’S NOTE WE PARTNERED WITH TOTAL WINE & MORE (TOTALWINE.COM) TO PUT THIS FEATURE TOGETHER AND PABLO ESTADES WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN MAKING IT HAPPEN. THANKS, PABLO.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 35

36 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 37

DESERT GOLF A MESQUITE ADVENTURE

Photo credit: Courtesy of Wolf Creek Golf Club

MENTION MESQUITE, NEV., TO A GOLFER, AND THEIR EYES LIGHT UP AT THE MENTION OF ONE OF THEIR BUCKET-LIST COURSES. THIS TOWN OF 23,000, PERCHED AN HOUR NORTHEAST OF THE LAS VEGAS STRIP, IS RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE COUNTRY'S PREMIER GOLF DESTINATIONS. WHEN THE OPPORTUNITY AROSE TO EXPERIENCE MESQUITE'S ICONIC BRAND OF DESERT GOLF FIRSTHAND, I PACKED MY CLUBS, LOADED A CIGAR CADDY AND HEADED FOR THE DESERT. MY HOME FOR THE STAY WAS THE CENTRALLY-LOCATED EUREKA CASINO RESORT.

BY ERIK CALVIÑO WOLF CREEK GOLF CLUB

he transition from the neon circus and overthe- top everything of Las Vegas to the austere red mesas of Mesquite feels like stepping into an entirely different universe. Here, the backdrop isn't flashing billboards but towering sandstone cliffs and plateaus that glow a warm amber in the late afternoon sun. The Virgin River winds through this high desert valley, creating an oasis that started as a sparse, Mormon settlement in the 1880s and in recent years has become Nevada’s fastest growing city.

Mesquite represents everything that's right about destination golf.

With nine courses within a 10-mile radius, this isn't a place where you're limited to one signature track – it's a golfer's buffet, where each course serves up its own unique flavor of desert target golf. The town sits 1,880 feet above sea level, meaning your drives will carry a bit further in the thin air, though you'll quickly learn that distance is far less important than accuracy when the desert lurks just off the fairway.

Eureka Casino Resort: The Perfect Base Camp Walking into the Eureka Casino Resort is to discover a hidden gem. This employee-owned property combines a warm hospitality with all the amenities a golf traveler could want. What

sets Eureka apart isn't just its 210 well-appointed rooms and resort vibe – it's the way the staff members take genuine pride in making your experience a good one, knowing they're all stakeholders in the resort's success.

My ground floor suite featured a perfect little outdoor sitting area that became my spot for a morning cigar and coffee while checking email every morning before golf. The bed was comfortable, and the shower was great, but the highlight was the soaking tub with massaging jets. Playing desert golf in the summer will drain you but the soaking tub was my daily post-round salvation. The resort's location provides walking access to Eureka’s casino but it’s separate enough to keep you insulated from the gaming action.

Dining at Eureka Casino deserves a special mention, particularly the recently renovated and expanded, Gregory's Mesquite Grill. The restaurant elevates its cuisine with mesquite wood-fired preparation, a desert twist. But it's the cocktail and

40 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Top and bottom: Poolside cabanas at Eureka Casino Resort, Gregory’s Mesquite Grill’s head bartender Joseph shows off his mixology skills.

Wolf Creek Golf Club: A Video Game Come to Life

wine program that blew my mind. The smoked old fashioned I enjoyed after our round at Wolf Creek was exceptional, with its balanced sweetness and a subtle mesquite essence providing the perfect punctuation to a day spent chasing golf balls across dramatic terrain. Joseph, the head bartender and mixologist, is world class. He made thoughtful recommendations for our group. Some would say he was too good at his job.

No discussion of Mesquite golf begins anywhere other than Wolf Creek, and for good reason. Wolf Creek was the course in Tiger Woods’ PGA Tour video game for PlayStation and although I’ve never been much of a gamer, I vividly remember that one. Stepping onto the first tee gave me a wild case of déjà vu.

Mason Street Courtyard, another Eureka eatery, offers casual fare that hits the spot after an early morning round. The menu is as diverse as you could want: Philly cheesesteak loaded fries, Cajun steak and shrimp risotto, street tacos, and a huli-huli chicken sandwich, and that’s just on the first page. The 10K apple pie, served inside a big coffee mug and topped with strudel ice cream and caramel sauce, takes it over the top.

As you navigate the course’s elevation changes and gawk at the view hole after hole, you can’t help but wonder how such a place exists. Designer Dennis Rider's amateur architect credentials might have raised eyebrows among purists, but the result speaks for itself – since its opening in 2000, the course was named Golf Digest’s Best New Course in 2002. It also won Golf Digest’s Fans Choice Award in 2011, beating out Pebble Beach and Kiawah Island that year. The course is open to the public and has appeared numerous times on "Best Golf

Photo credit: Courtesy of Eureka Casino Resort

The par-5 17th at Wolf Creek has all the desert tricks packed into one stunning, memorable hole.

Courses You Can Play" lists in various publications.

The course conditions during my visit were exceptional, with firm fairways and greens that rolled true.

Gas-powered carts are mandatory – and necessary – as only an ultramarathoner would even attempt to walk this expansive moonscape. Everything about the course is tricked out – severe elevation changes and more blind shots than anywhere else I’ve played, but you know what? Golf is a game that is meant to be fun, and, in that department, Wolf Creek delivers in spades.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the attentiveness of the staff. I was impressed by the constant attention to hydration levels. There was never a shortage of complimentary water bottles. Before teeing off, during the

Photo credit: Courtesy of Wolf Creek Golf Club

round, and immediately after the 18th green, there was staff offering water bottles and icy wet towels to cool you down.

The pro shop misses no opportunity to get the Wolf Creek logo on an article of clothing or golf gear that you’ll fall in love with. It was difficult not to blow the merch budget on the first day, so I snagged a couple of hats, ball markers, and a headcover, put blinders on and moved on.

Cigar smoking is allowed and encouraged in all outdoor areas of the course, around the clubhouse, and more importantly on the terrace of aptly named Terrace Restaurant.

Featured Holes The theatre begins immediately at the par-5 opener, where an elevated tee and wide landing area eases you into the proceedings. The downhill drive to a lush, bright green fairway is serene – a stark contrast to the dramatic desert canyons that surround it.

While I don’t intend to feature every hole, it’s impossible not to talk about the par-4 2nd hole, with its eternal climb to the tee box that requires you catch your breath before teeing off.

Once your heart rate returns to normal, you’ll notice that you have the first real decision of the round – aim left of the peak to a narrow sliver of fairway that could leave you a short pitch or aim safely to the right of it and potentially have an 8-iron. Pro Tip: Bring options up to the tee box, as you won’t want to climb down if you decide to change clubs. Trust me.

The long par-3 3rd flips the script with a blind, uphill shot that requires the loft of an 8-iron and the distance of a 4-iron to reach the green. If your shot is right of the green, you’re dead, the ball rolls down 100 yards or so. Standing on the tee box, a deep ravine separating you from the fairway going diagonally away from you, you understand why some describe this hole as either brilliant or insane – can it be both?

The signature par-5 12th hole offers a view of everything Wolf Creek represents. Playing at 560 yards from the tips, it boasts an elevated tee into a winding, narrow fairway 200 feet below. The hang time on a well-struck drive from this perch is mesmerizing, but the water down the left will be reachable for the longer hitters. The second shot is where things can get dicey, with the green nestled between two water hazards, forcing players to decide between going for it with a risky long iron or laying up. An errant long iron almost guarantees a bogey or more, but you didn’t fly all the way out here to play it safe, did you?

Perhaps no hole captures Wolf Creek's audacious spirit better than the par-5 17th. It has all the tricks. It’s lengthy, playing 562 from the back, slants right then doglegs left, has a creek running across the fairway that is fed by a pond that protects the front and right of the green, and is riddled with bunkers throughout. The tee shot

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 41

has probably the longest drop of any drive on the course. With the added distance, a good drive to the right side of the fairway that manages to avoid bunkers and desert will leave you with a shot at the green in two – but anything to the left side will require patience and three shots. In a course where every hole offers something memorable, this hole stands out.

Oasis Golf Club - The Canyons: Palmer's Hidden Gem While Wolf Creek grabs headlines, the Canyons course at Oasis Golf Club quietly goes about the business of providing some of the most thoughtful golf in Mesquite. The property’s first course, The Palmer, was designed

by Arnold Palmer in 1995 for his good friend, Si Redd, the “king of the slot machines.”

Oasis Golf Club’s second course, The Canyons, opened in 2005 and presents a different challenge from the other course’s bombast. Much of the

42 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Top and bottom: The winding and undulating fairway of the par-4 3rd at The Canyons Course at Oasis Golf Club, the difficult but serene view of the par-4 6th, the hardest hole on The Canyons. course winds calmly through desert arroyos and a residential development, which can create some tighter fairways to hit to, but the length is manageable enough that you certainly don't need a driver on every hole. This strategic element – choosing the right club for position rather than always reaching for the big stick – makes the Canyons a thinking player's course and would make for a great introduction to desert golf.

Featured Holes The signature 9th hole epitomizes the Canyons' combination of beauty and challenge. The 175-yard par-3 is a deceiving test thanks to the severe downhill elevation change making it difficult to pick the right club. The hole plays over a creek and series of waterfalls en route to a large green.

The Palmer-designed back nine's opening salvo immediately announces a step up in difficulty. The 423-yard par-4 is the hardest par-4 on the course with this uphill two-shotter up a narrowing fairway with canyons on the right and the desert wilds of cactus, creosote and rocks to the left.

The par-5 16th is not particularly difficult, with its wide landing area off the tee and unprotected approach. But the

expansive view of the flat top mesas from the tee box is quite unique – as if God himself came down and sliced off the tops of those peaks to give you a level view of the horizon off the tee.

The Canyons allows you to play and have fun without feeling overly punitive. Then you look at the scorecard and notice the course claimed its pound of flesh, especially on the back nine.

Photo credit: Courtesy of Oasis Golf Club- Mesquite

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 43

Conestoga Golf Club: The Thinking Player's Test If Wolf Creek is Mesquite's showman and the Canyons its subtle artist, then Conestoga Golf Club is its scholar.

Conestoga is often considered the second-best course in Mesquite behind Wolf Creek, but in many ways, it provides the most complete golf experience of the three.

Designer Gary Panks has created something special, a routing that respects the dramatic terrain while providing strategic options for players of all abilities. The layout occupies a special site in that part of it enjoys expansive vistas from its elevated back nine while the front nine delves deeper into a wild canyon area.

The layout is at times audacious and has its tricked-out holes, but they’re doled out in a more measured fashion.

There are forced carries over desert on numerous occasions, but the tee options have been thoughtfully set up with a total of seven tee options between Black, Gold, Silver, Silver/ Copper combo, Copper, Copper/Jade lady’s combo, and Jade.

But it’s the strategic element throughout Conestoga that impresses most.

Many desert courses rely primarily on forced carries and visual intimidation, and Conestoga does plenty of that but it also rewards course management and execution handsomely. Above all, it was a blast to play.

The service was, again, top-notch.

There was a gentleman making his way around the course handing out mango-scented, ice-cold towels so that players could keep cool and smell lovely. Speaking of lovely aromas, cigars are welcome in all outdoor areas and as the sun dipped a little, it was time to enjoy an Illusione Fume D’Amour Clementes I’d been saving for this moment.

Featured Holes After a gentle welcome on the 1st, the 2nd hole immediately establishes

44 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Top and bottom: Conestoga’s par-5 6th is a perfect example of the course’s emphasis on strategic shot placement, the 1880 Grille in the clubhouse at Conestoga Golf Club overlooks the 198-yard par-3 10th.

Conestoga's character. An elevated tee provides a commanding view of the surrounding property that makes it hard to keep your phone in your pocket. Down below, the desert island green awaits with a rock retaining wall around two thirds of the green, not unlike what you would see when the putting surface is surrounded by water; in this case it’s desert canyon.

Playing 162 yards from the gold tees, the yardage book recommends you take off two clubs to account for the altitude. It's a brilliant early taste of what’s to come.

The infamous 4th hole is not only the most memorable hole at Conestoga, but for me it was the most memorable of Mesquite. It’s the number 1 handicap on the course and it is known as "The Fence Hole." On flat land and from the gold tees, this would be a 373-yard, dogleg right, par-4 with three bun-

Photo credit: Courtesy of Conestoga Golf Club

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 45

and in the casino bars, creating a proper gaming atmosphere where a good smoke enhances the experience rather than detracting from it. I smoked on the casino floor every day during my stay and didn’t get a sideways look.

It's recommended that you bring your own selection of cigars to Mesquite as the retail options are limited but if you are out of your favorite blend, Mesquite Smoke, Vape, & Cigar houses a solid selection featuring My Father, Rocky Patel, Oliva, Drew Estate, and more. They’re located just seven minutes from Eureka Casino Resort on Pioneer Blvd.

Top and bottom: The William Hill Sports Book makes Eureka Casino a perfect destination for a guy’s trip to Mesquite, the mesquite wood-fired filet at Gregory’s Mesquite Grill inside Eureka Casino. kers protecting the green. However, this hole looks like it was sawed in half at the distance you would probably land your driver. Looking forward from the tee box, all you see is an old west wooden fence and beyond it, all you can see are the Virgin Mountains in the distance. The fairway just stops at the fence and drops off a cliff more than 30 feet where it picks up again. Cautious players hit less than driver here and try to get close to the fence, leaving them a 7- or 8-iron into the green. Confident and long drivers should just fade it down the left side; you’ll be rewarded with a decent chance at birdie. Pro Tip: The players behind you have no idea if you’re delayed on the lower portion of the fairway. Hit your second shot and move it along cowboy, unless you want to leave Conestoga with a Titleist tattoo.

The par-5 6th, with its three isolated fairway landing zones, is another unique layout that forces you to select your club wisely, then execute with little margin for error. To give you a sense of the type of hole it is, the first two landing zones each have a drop area in case you err into one of the

46 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

gulches separating the landing zones.

To complicate matters, the green complex is just that, complex. Highwalled bunkers protect the front and back of the large, angled green. The wisest of players will plan their strategy for this tough hole from the green to the tee. Hit and hope is a recipe for losing a dozen balls to the canyons.

session. For that, the covered area behind the 1880 Grille, Conestoga’s restaurant and bar, was ideal, giving us a view of the course, some muchneeded shade, and a good selection of drinks to go with the smokes. Pro Tip: Plan your trip to Mesquite in the spring or fall, when the daytime temperatures are in the 70s and 80s.

Cigars in the desert

Mesquite may not boast dedicated cigar lounges as you'd find in larger markets, but the town's casino- and golf-centric culture creates a surprisingly cigar-friendly environment.

At Eureka Casino Resort, cigar smoking is welcomed on the casino floor

I visited in July, when the heat is at its peak. Smoking cigars while golfing in 100+ degree heat is not ideal. In these instances, I prefer to save a good cigar for the post-round banter and beer

The lack of formal cigar lounges is compensated by the freedom to enjoy a smoke in the casino and golf environments. The relaxed attitude toward cigar smoking adds to the old-school Nevada charm that makes Mesquite special.

The Mesquite Experience Three days in Mesquite reminded me why I fell in love with golf travel in the first place. It's not just about checking courses off a wish list. It’s also about discovering the courses and experiences that weren’t on your list to begin with; courses that challenge your preconceptions and moments with old and new friends that stick with you long after the scorecards are forgotten.

Wolf Creek's audacious theater, the Canyons' laid-back swagger, and Conestoga's meticulous design each told a different story about what desert golf can be. Eureka Casino Resort provided the perfect backdrop for processing these experiences, whether over an expertly crafted cocktail at Gregory's or during quiet moments smoking a cigar in my outdoor sitting area listening to the desert and watching the sunlight change the hue of those majestic mesas.

The beauty of Mesquite lies in its honest simplicity. This isn't a place trying to be something it's not – it's a desert town that happens to host some extraordinary golf, populated by people who understand that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones you stumble upon rather than chase.

Photo credit: Courtesy of Eureka Casino Resort

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 47

`

48 CIGARS

CHURCHILL Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua

92

$ 15.23 VITOLA: Concerto LENGTH: 7 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

La Flor Dominicana 1994

A well-balanced and complex blend presented with flawless construction. Covered with a dark brown wrapper, this soft-pressed smoke offers a core of dark chocolate, smooth pepper, and heavily roasted almonds accompanied by a rich, toffee sweetness.

$ 10.20

92

VITOLA: Mambo LENGTH: 7 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Dominican Republic FILLER: Dominican Republic

Rocky Patel Vintage 1990

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C An ultra-flavorful, thick Churchill covered with a highly aromatic, medium brown wrapper with somewhat prominent veins. Delivers an excellent output of medium to full strength smoke with notes of earth, cedar, raw almonds, and sweet pepper with a touch of cocoa.

$ 11.45

91

VITOLA: Churchill LENGTH: 7 RING: 48 WRAPPER: Honduras BINDER: Honduras FILLER: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua

Oliva Serie V

H O N D UR AS Opens with a flavorful blast of sweet pepper and earth joined by notes of dark chocolate, raisins, and oak barrel. This full flavored but medium strength blend is consistently well-made providing an excellent smoke output.

$ 1 4.33

90

VITOLA: Churchill Extra LENGTH: 7 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Foundation Aksum Claro

N I CA R AG UA Consistently well-constructed and finished with a dark, reddish-brown wrapper with a velvet feel. Draws and burns well while producing a core of earth, roasted nuts, cocoa, and smooth pepper with medium plus strength.

$ 18.00

90

VITOLA: Double Corona LENGTH: 7 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: USA FILLER: Nicaragua

Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur

89 50 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

N I CA R AG UA

N I CA R AG UA Produces a flavorful, well-balanced smoke with notes of cedar, black pepper, and hazelnut joined by a combination of savory spices. This medium strength Churchill is neatly soft-pressed and topped with a pigtail.

$ 11.09 VITOLA: No.1 LENGTH: 7 1/4 RING: 54 WRAPPER: USA/Connecticut BINDER: USA/Connecticut FILLER: Nicaragua, Honduras, & Dominican Republic

H O N D UR AS Finished with a supple, light brown wrapper showing thin veins, this thick Churchill delivers a profile of earth, cedar, and sweet spice accompanied by notes of almond along a mild to medium strength smoke output.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 51

TORPEDO My Father La Gran Oferta

$ 9.60

92

VITOLA: Torpedo LENGTH: 6 1/8 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

La Flor Dominicana Capitulo II

92

VITOLA: Torpedo LENGTH: 6 1/2 RING: 58 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Ecuador FILLER: Dominican Republic

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C Covered with a dark, oily wrapper, this boxpressed torpedo is finished with a chisel head.

Produces an abundance of smooth, full strength smoke along a firm draw and sharp burn delivering a core of red pepper, earth, roasted almonds, and a raisin-like sweetness on the finish.

$ 16.20 VITOLA: Torpedo LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Dominican Republic FILLER: Nicaragua

Española Maduro

N I CA R AG UA Soft-pressed and consistently well-constructed, this medium to full strength torpedo draws and burns flawlessly while producing an abundant smoke output with a balanced core of earth, pepper, and walnuts accompanied by a touch of mocha.

$ 9.75

90

VITOLA: Belicoso LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: USA FILLER: Dominican Republic

Gurkha Year of the Snake by E.P. Carrillo

90

VITOLA: Torpedo LENGTH: 6 1/2 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Ecuador FILLER: Dominican Republic, Mexico & Nicaragua

Trinidad Espiritu Series No. 2

90 52 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Opens with a flavorful and well-balanced blend of cocoa powder, smooth pepper, and earth complemented by a rich combination of hazelnut and vanilla cream. Consistently well-made and finished with an inviting, dark brown wrapper.

Medium plus strength.

$ 13.90

Joya de Nicaragua Cuatro Cinco

91

N I CA R AG UA

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C Firmly packed and covered with a clean, dark brown wrapper, this medium strength torpedo draws and burns well leaving behind a solid, light gray ash. Produces a core of sweet cedar, soft spice, and almond cream.

$ 20.00

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C A flavorful blend delivering flavors of molasses, toasted oak, and espresso accompanied by subtle notes of bittersweet chocolate and ripe fruit. This well-made torpedo produces an excellent, medium strength smoke output along an easy draw and a wavy burn.

$ 13.60 VITOLA: Belicoso LENGTH: 6 1/8 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Brazil BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Brazil & Nicaragua

N I CA R AG UA Delivers an intense profile of black pepper, charred oak, and molasses complemented by espresso and a hint of roasted nuts. Impeccably constructed and covered with a dark, oily wrapper with a coarse feel. Consistently produces an abundant output of medium plus strength smoke.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 53

GRAN TORO Espinosa Laranja Azulejo

$ 1 4.75

92

VITOLA: Gordo LENGTH: 6 RING: 60 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Brazil FILLER: Nicaragua

Oliva Serie V Melanio Maduro

92

Exceptionally balanced and ultra-flavorful from the jump. Consistently produces an abundant output of medium to full strength smoke with notes of dark chocolate, espresso, oak, and smooth pepper accompanied by a rich creaminess throughout.

$ 22.23 VITOLA: Double Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 60 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

JFR 20th Anniversary

N I CA R AG UA Flawlessly constructed and covered with a clean, dark brown wrapper, this pressed gran toro delivers a balanced core of chocolate, dark roast coffee, subtle earth, and smooth pepper complemented by a note of cedar. Produces an excellent output of medium plus strength smoke.

$ 11.00

91

VITOLA: Titan LENGTH: 6 RING: 60 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Don Pepin Garcia E.R.H

N I CA R AG UA A dark, neatly box-pressed gran toro topped with a tight pigtail. Provides an excellent draw while producing a medium strength smoke output with notes of roasted nuts, espresso, and black pepper accompanied by a sweet creaminess on the finish.

$ 10.40

91

VITOLA: Toro Gordo LENGTH: 6 RING: 60 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Rocky Patel Vintage 2006 San Andreas

91

VITOLA: Sixty LENGTH: 6 RING: 60 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: USA FILLER: Nicaragua

Camacho Broadleaf

N I CA R AG UA Produces an earthy, oaky, and savory profile balanced by notes of almond cream, sugarcane, and a touch of tanned leather on the finish. A consistently well-made, medium plus strength gran toro with a great draw.

$ 1 4.00

N I CA R AG UA Finished with a clean, dark brown wrapper with minimal veins, this medium strength blend has a core of smooth pepper and earth complemented by sweet spice, toast, black tea, and a touch of minerality on the finish.

$ 10.50

90 54 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

N I CA R AG UA

VITOLA: Gordo LENGTH: 6 RING: 60 WRAPPER: Honduras BINDER: Honduras FILLER: Dominican Republic & Honduras

H O N D UR AS Impeccably constructed, this medium plus strength gran toro draws and burns exceptionally while producing a good smoke output with notes of wood, sweet earth, and smooth pepper balanced by savory spices.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 55

TORO Herrera Esteli Miami

$ 15.50

92

VITOLA: Toro Especial LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Ecuador FILLER: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua

Crux Limitada

A powerful toro covered with an oily, medium brown wrapper showing thin veins. Consistently well-constructed, this blend produces an excellent smoke output with notes of black pepper, toasted almonds, cedar, and sweet cream on the finish.

$ 16.49

91

VITOLA: PB5 LENGTH: 5 3/4 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: USA FILLER: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua

Sobremesa Solita

N I CA R AG UA A thick, box-pressed blend covered with a supple, light brown wrapper. Delivers a balanced combination of pepper, wood, and sweet cream complemented by notes of toasted almonds and a touch of cinnamon spice.

$ 15.65

91

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Mexico FILLER: Nicaragua & USA

Leaf by Oscar Sumatra

N I CA R AG UA Opens with a balanced combination of earth, smooth pepper, and sweet cream accompanied by nuts, toast, and the aroma of tanned leather. Consistently well-made and covered with a darkish reddish-brown wrapper with excellent oils.

$ 11.24

90

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Honduras FILLER: Honduras

Volition America by Gurkha – Habano

90

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Undisclosed BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua

Gellis Family Absolutos

H O N D UR AS Consistently well-constructed and covered with a supple, light brown wrapper showing thin veins. Draws and burns flawlessly while producing an excellent output of mild to medium strength smoke with notes of raw almonds, cedar, baking spices and a touch of cream.

$ 13.00

N I CA R AG UA A well-constructed toro that opens with flavors of wood, smooth pepper, and sweet cream accompanied by a hint of hazelnut. Consistently draws well while producing a good output of medium strength smoke.

$ 15.00

89 56 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

USA

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

N I CA R AG UA A savory, soft-pressed blend covered with a somewhat spotty, light brown wrapper with thin veins. Draws and burns exceptionally well while producing a medium strength core of nutmeg, black tea, cedar, and cayenne pepper.

TORO Rocky Patel Sixty

$ 18.75

92

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 1/2 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Leaf by Oscar Limited Edition 2025 Broadleaf

91

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: USA/Connecticut BINDER: Honduras FILLER: Honduras

Henry Clay War Hawk Rebellious Limited Edition

91

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

La Gloria Cubana Los Gloriosos

90

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua

58 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

$ 18.00

H O N D UR AS Opens with an ultra-flavorful and complex combination of roasted nuts, toasted oak, black pepper, and licorice sweetness accentuated by a clean, creamy finish. Consistently well-constructed, this medium strength toro is covered with a dark, oily wrapper.

$ 11.75

N I CA R AG UA Impeccably constructed and covered with a dark, reddish brown wrapper with sheen. This ultra-flavorful blend delivers tons of black pepper, sweet earth, oak, and walnuts along a perfect draw and even burn. Medium to full strength.

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C Delivers a balanced profile of cedar, cashews, sweet cream, and smooth spice accompanied by a rich, toffee flavor on the finish. Consistently well-made and covered with a dark, reddishbrown wrapper and topped with a triple-cap.

$ 23.10 VITOLA: Emerald LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: USA/Connecticut BINDER: Dominican Republic FILLER: Dominican Republic

Room 101 15th Anniversary

89

Beautifully box-pressed, this consistently wellmade blend has a profile of roasted nuts, smooth pepper, and sweet earthiness complemented by milk chocolate on the finish. Draws and burns flawlessly while leaving behind a solid, compact ash.

$ 8.99

Diamond Crown Black Diamond

90

N I CA R AG UA

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C A flavorful blend producing an excellent smoke output of medium strength smoke with a profile of cedar, sweet spices, and black cherry complemented by a touch of cream. This goodlooking toro is covered with a nearly flawless, dark brown wrapper with an oily feel.

$ 1 4.99 VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

N I CA R AG UA Covered with a dark, toothy wrapper, this medium to full strength toro delivers tons of black pepper, earth, and molasses accompanied by charred oak and a hint of currant. Consistently draws and burns well while leaving behind a solid, light gray ash.

TORO Florida Sun Grown 20 Acre Farm

92

$ 15.45 VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: USA/Connecticut BINDER: Honduras FILLER: Nicaragua & USA

Plasencia Alma del Cielo

A beautifully balanced blend delivering a core of oak, delicate spices, and toasted almonds complemented by vanilla cream on the finish. This consistently well-made, medium strength toro draws well and leaves behind a solid, compact ash.

$ 2 7.50

91

VITOLA: Boreal LENGTH: 6 1/8 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

AVO XO

N I CA R AG UA Covered in an attractive, light brown wrapper with a supple feel, this well-made toro produces an excellent output of medium plus strength smoke with a profile of cedar, lightly salted nuts, and white pepper. Leaves behind a solid, light gray ash.

$ 13.50

91

VITOLA: Legato LENGTH: 6 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Dominican Republic FILLER: Dominican Republic

Aladino Connecticut

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C Delivers tons of cedar, nuts, and sweet spices along a good draw and even burn while leaving a slightly flaky ash behind. This good-looking, mild to medium strength toro is finished with a neatly applied, light brown wrapper.

$ 10.80

90

VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Honduras FILLER: Honduras

Perdomo Champagne 10th Anniversary

90

VITOLA: Epicure LENGTH: 6 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Southern Draw Morning Glory

90 60 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

N I CA R AG UA

H O N D UR AS Consistently well-made and covered with a clean, light brown wrapper with minimal veins.

Draws flawlessly and produces an excellent output of mild to medium strength smoke with a profile of lightly salted nuts, oak, and soft spice balanced by a touch of vanilla.

$ 10.75

N I CA R AG UA Covered with a supple, light brown wrapper, this mild to medium strength blend draws and burns perfectly while producing an abundant smoke output. Delivers a profile of soft pepper, cedar, and earth joined by toasted nuts and a touch of cream.

$ 12.25 VITOLA: Toro LENGTH: 6 RING: 52 WRAPPER: USA/Connecticut BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

N I CA R AG UA Delivers a flavorful core of black pepper, toast, nuts, and oak accompanied by a sweet, creamy note on the finish. Impeccably built and covered with a nearly flawless, light brown wrapper, this medium strength toro consistently leaves behind a solid, light gray ash.

ROBUSTO La Mission de L’Atelier 1959

93

$ 9.00 VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 4 3/4 RING: 52 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Padrón 1926 Serie Maduro

92

A balanced and complex short robusto covered with a flawless, dark brown wrapper and topped with a tight pigtail. This medium to full strength blend produces tons of highly aromatic smoke with notes of dark chocolate, sweet earth, oak, and deep pepper joined by caramel and cream.

$ 1 7.12 VITOLA: No. 6 LENGTH: 4 3/4 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Crux Epicure Maduro

N I CA R AG UA Flavorful and well-balanced with a core of dark chocolate, earth, coffee bean, and smooth pepper complemented by a touch of ripe fruit sweetness. A flawlessly box-pressed short robusto that produces an abundant smoke output leaving behind a solid, compact ash.

$ 12.49

92

VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 5 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Artesano del Tobacco El Pulpo

91

N I CA R AG UA Delivers tons of dark chocolate, oak spice, and smooth pepper joined by the aroma of tanned leather. Impeccably built and finished with an inviting, dark brown wrapper with an oily feel.

Produces medium to full strength smoke leaving behind a compact ash.

$ 15.00 VITOLA: Robusto Grande LENGTH: 5 RING: 56 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Blackened M81

N I CA R AG UA A flawlessly box-pressed robusto that opens with a flavorful combination of bittersweet cocoa, earth, deep pepper, and a hint of currant on the finish. Produces an abundant output of medium to full strength smoke along an excellent draw and even burn.

$ 10.00

89

VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 5 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: USA/Connecticut FILLER: Nicaragua & USA

Powstanie San Andres

N I CA R AG UA Covered with a dark, toothy wrapper with excellent oils, this robusto produces tons of medium strength smoke with notes of earth, black pepper, espresso, and roasted nuts. Provides an open draw while leaving behind a slightly flaky ash.

$ 1 4.00

89 62 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

N I CA R AG UA

VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 5 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Ecuador FILLER: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua

N I CA R AG UA Opens with a flavorful combination of earth, pepper, and bitter coffee balanced by a touch of raisin sweetness. This robusto is firmly packed and covered with a dark, reddish-brown wrapper with a somewhat coarse feel. Medium to full strength.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 63

ROBUSTO A. Fuente Don Carlos

$ 12.60

92

VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 5 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Cameroon BINDER: Dominican Republic FILLER: Dominican Republic

Ferio Tego Timeless Prestige

91

A firmly packed robusto delivering a flavorful profile with notes of cinnamon, cedar, sweet pepper, and a hint of almond cream. Produces an excellent output of medium strength smoke leaving behind a solid, compact ash.

$ 10.60 VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 4 3/4 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Honduras BINDER: Dominican Republic FILLER: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua

Aladino Corojo Reserva

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C Consistently well-constructed and covered with a beautiful, reddish-brown wrapper topped with a flat head, this medium strength robusto provides an excellent draw and burn while delivering a core of cedar, sweet cinnamon, and smooth red pepper with a creamy texture.

$ 1 4.20

91

VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 5 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Honduras BINDER: Honduras FILLER: Honduras

La Aurora 107 Ecuador

H O N D UR AS Well-balanced and flavorful, this well-built robusto draws exceptionally while delivering tons of aromatic, medium to full strength smoke with notes of oak spice, black pepper, and bittersweet cocoa complemented by a touch of vanilla on the finish.

$ 9.50

90

VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 5 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Ecuador BINDER: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua FILLER: Dominican Republic

La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor

89

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C Opens with a sweet and creamy core of cedar, cashews, cinnamon, and soft spices. This well-made, mild to medium strength robusto is covered with a clean and neatly applied, medium brown wrapper. Draws well and leaves behind a somewhat flaky ash.

$ 9.75 VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 5 RING: 50 WRAPPER: Mexico BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

Enclave by Eladio Diaz

N I CA R AG UA Impeccably box-pressed and covered with a neatly applied, reddish brown wrapper showing some tooth. Produces a medium plus core of pepper, earth, and grass accompanied by notes of bitter coffee along a perfect draw leaving behind a solid, compact ash.

$ 9.00

88 64 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C

VITOLA: Robusto LENGTH: 5 1/2 RING: 54 WRAPPER: Dominican Republic BINDER: Ecuador FILLER: Dominican Republic

D O M I N I CA N R E P UBLI C Covered with a light brown wrapper with an oily feel, this medium strength blend delivers a savory combination of thyme, cedar, and sweet pepper accompanied by a hint of cream. Provides an easy draw and an abundant smoke output.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 65

DRESS GIANNI VERSACE EARRINGS GLIMPSE EAR CUFF VAZA RING GLIMPSE MIAMI BRACELET NOBODYSUGLY STYLE SHOES CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

SWIMWEAR ZIMMERMANN NECKLACE RUTH HERITAGE JEWELRY NOBODYSUGLY STYLE

DRESS PRABAL GURUNG JEWELRY NOBODYSUGLY STYLE SHOES ALAÏA

SWIMWEAR CELINE SKIRT LAPOINTE JEWELRY NOBODYSUGLY STYLE NECKLACE RUTH HERITAGE BOOTS CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

SWIMWEAR DECOLET THE LABEL JEWELRY NOBODYSUGLY STYLE

DRESS RETROFETE EAR CUFF VAZA NECKLACE ANDI BAGUS

DRESS ALBERTA FERRETTI JEWELRY NOBODYSUGLY STYLE SHOES ALAÏA

DRESS PRABAL GURUNG JEWELRY NOBODYSUGLY STYLE SHOES ALAÏA

DRESS OSCAR DE LA RENTA JEWELRY NOBODYSUGLY STYLE

DRESS RETROFETE EAR CUFF VAZA NECKLACE ANDI BAGUS

SWIMWEAR MILLY JACKET SAINT LAURENT BELT ALAÏA SUNGLASSES BALMAIN NECKLACE ANDI BAGUS

MODEL ALINA KOZYRKA FREEDOM MODELS PHOTOGRAPHY LIMITED EDITION limitededitionmanagement.com PRODUCTION IVAN OCAMPO iocampo@cigarsnobmag.com PRODUCTION ASSISTANT JAMILET CALVIÑO jcalvino@cigarsnobmag.com WARDROBE STYLIST CRISTINA CELLINI limitededitionmanagement.com HAIR AND MAKEUP STYLIST BRI SOFFA limitededitionmanagement.com

CIGAR ESPAÑOLA COROJO

españolacigars.com

SWIMWEAR ANDI BAGUS SUNGLASSES CHANEL JEWELRY NOBODYSUGLY STYLE

82 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Ibis Luis

INTERVIEW BY ERIK CALVIÑO She’s known to her followers as “Cigar Lover,” but her journey from enthusiast to industry insider goes beyond the Instagram handle. What started as a customer request to share her favorite smokes online evolved into a full-time role with Plasencia Cigars and an impactful figure in the cigar community. We sit down with Ibis as she opens up about the cigar that lit the spark, her time behind the counter, and the moments that made it all click.

Do you remember your first cigar?

I actually do; it was a Cuban Romeo y Julieta that I smoked during Christmas with my family in 2007.

Well, that was my first “official” cigar. I remember once trying to take a puff from my aunt’s cigar, who was a cigar smoker, and my mom busted me. She ended up grounding me for a while. So, my actual first cigar was that Romeo y Julieta. I was about 19 at the time, I didn't cough or anything, I guess you could call me a natural.

We first met you when you were working retail at Little Havana Cigar Factory. How did you end up working there?

Yeah, that's a great story. I mean, going back to when I was a kid, I’ve always loved the smell of cigars.

But when I first arrived in Miami I was actually working in the medical field. I was specifically doing ultrasounds and MRIs, yeah, I was licensed and even board certified. I was at Jackson Memorial Hospital every night doing my clinical work, I was getting a second degree in the medical field. And during that time for some reason or another I felt like I needed another part-time job. And one day, I happened to be on Calle Ocho in Little Havana and I ran across this beautiful little cigar shop called Little Havana Cigar Factory. I decided to walk in and I introduced myself to the owner. Long story short, he offered me a job and I thought to myself if I accept this job at most I’ll be here for six months, considering I already had a career. I really didn’t need to work there. And the owner told me something that I would never forget and ultimately became reality. He said, “Everything you learn here is going to change your life.” I was like okay, I mean it’s just retail and I have experience in sales, so I'm like, okay, thank you for the opportunity, but still thinking in the back of my head this is still going to be six months max. I ended up working there for almost five years because I fell in love with it. I fell in love with the tobacco, with the people, the consumers, and more so the history behind the culture. Cigars have so much history most people have no idea. And I’ve always been a nerd when it comes to things I want to know. I need every detail, every side of the story.

You’re obviously an attractive young woman who smokes cigars; but more importantly, you’re a true cigar lover (hence your IG handle.) Was there a particular cigar that took you over the edge from casual smoker to wanting to go deeper into the world of premium cigars?

It was the Placencia Reserva Original. That was my go-to morning cigar for many, many years. I loved that cigar way before I was familiar with the Placencia family. So, when I started smoking this cigar every morning, I said, “Wow, this is amazing.” And then I learned that it was an organic cigar, and to me that made it even better. That led me to wanting to know more about the family who made it, and at a certain point that drove me to want to go work for the company. I wanted to work for this company whose cigars I love and to top it off were made with organic tobacco.

But before that dream came true, you created an Instagram account that became one of the most popular cigar accounts on the platform. In fact your account @cigarlover12 has held the top spot on this magazine’s Instagram Scoreboard for several years. What led you to sharing your cigar journey with the world?

It was back when I was working at Little Havana Cigar Factory. Many customers would wonder why I hadn’t started a social media page. They urged me to start something whether it was Facebook or Instagram or whatever so I could start sharing some of the cigars I was smoking. Many of our customers traveled a lot, so they wanted to follow me since we had similar tastes, that way they could taste and purchase anything new I was smoking. At first, I didn’t like it because I wasn’t too big on the idea of social media. As ironic as it sounds, I’m a very private person and the thought of broadcasting my

PHOTO PROVIDED BY IBIS LUIS

Cigar Sommelier, Bourbon Steward personal life to the world didn’t sound too appealing. However, they kept at it and convinced me I didn’t have to share my entire personal life. They just wanted me to take a picture of the cigars and share them. So that's exactly how “cigar lover” started - as a request from my customers. They even picked my IG name - Cigar Lover. They were like, “Oh, you're a cigar lover. You should call yourself @cigarlover!” I'm like “I'm still not sure guys.” And up until that point, I still wasn't 100% on board. I finally gave in and ended up doing it under pressure. I only did it because they asked me - I was like “okay, cool guys, you win.” And I remember my first post was a Davidoff Nicaragua. It’s always been one of my favorite cigars. So, if you go back into my Instagram, it was eight years ago. And I called it @cigarlover12 because I was 12 years old when I left Cuba and moved to Miami, so the number 12 has a special meaning for me.

Now let’s fast forward to when you move on from retail and start at Plasencia. With your experience in cigar retail and also having this popular social media account, was your role in sales or marketing or was it a little bit of both?

Definitely a little bit of both. I was the in-house sales rep, and I was also helping with marketing. So yeah, you could say it was a dream come true, and it was an amazing journey - I worked for them full time for six years. It was incredible being part of a team that had input on new blends. To be honest, I feel like everything the Plasencias make is amazing and one of the reasons for their success is the collaboration they have internally as a company. The company doesn’t have a “master blender,” so every time we came out with a new cigar, everyone had input. From the sales team to the office staff, to the factory floor, everyone had input. We would sit together and vote on blends until we reached a consensus. So, in that way they always made you feel like you were part of something bigger. Every decision, from the color of the boxes to the design of the cigar rings, to the feedback for the blends, we were always involved. So that was beautiful and I’m grateful that I was part of it.

Recently, you stepped away from your full-time role at Placencia but you’re still working with them in some capacity, right?

I’ll always be part of the Placencia family because it’s something that is part of my life, but now I’m consulting. I help them with their social media and hopefully everything new that is going to come out. I was invited to help them on the campaign for the new Alma del Cielo, which is a great cigar.

In addition to Plasencia, you’re also consulting with Oscar Valladares Cigars. What are you doing for them?

I’m mainly focused on their social media and helping out with some of their marketing. I love Oscar Valladares Cigars, and I love Honduran tobacco. People need to know that the tobacco that they’re growing in Honduras is of amazing quality. And Oscar Valladares has great factories and farms, and it is an honor to help them with their brands.

In addition to Instagram, do you also share content on the other social media platforms?

I have a Facebook account that I should be using more but I have built something so beautiful on Instagram, I mean, that’s my baby. But I’ve never given @cigarlover12 100% of my time, so that’s what I’m doing right now, trying to help companies that I support and I believe in, because I have to truly believe in what I’m sharing. I don’t share anything that I don’t believe in. I have built so many friendships through the platform, my followers are the best. They trust me when I recommend something.

For me, one of the best gifts is when someone says, “Because of you I smoked an Alma Fuerte or Leaf by Oscar and now it’s my favorite cigar.” So, it’s those everyday messages that tell me that I’m doing something good and helping people because for me this isn’t a lifestyle, this is part of my life.

Anyone who follows you knows that in addition to cigars, you also have a passion for whiskey, so for the final question: if money wasn’t an object and you could pick any pairing of a whiskey and a cigar, what would you have?

Oh, beautiful. That’s easy. It would be Macallan 25 with Plasencia Alma Fuerte Salomon. Because I have done it and it's freaking amazing. It's really good, it's one of those pairings that are perfect.

The Macallan 25 is ultra smooth, and the Alma Fuerte is more of a medium to full body with full flavor cigar. So, they both balance beautifully. It’s like perfection, it's a match made in heaven.

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 83

SCOREBOARD We started paying attention to the platform formerly known as Twitter in our March/April 2010 issue when we had our friend and co-founder of Stogie Review Walt White write a story about Twitter’s impact on the cigar world. The following issue was the first to run a Twitter Scoreboard and ever since we’ve been keeping tabs on the Twitter accounts of cigar companies, personalities, retailers, and more. We have transitioned from calling it the Twitter Scoreboard to the odd-sounding X Scoreboard. We’ve also traded the powder blue and bird for the minimalistic, modern X on a black background but as always, if you believe you have the numbers to be on this page, let us know via @cigarsnobmag.

TOP CIGAR COMPANIES ( sorted by followers ) Rocky Patel @RockyPatelCigar ...............................................

Drew Estate Cigars @DrewEstateCigar ....................................

CAO International @CAOCigars ................................................

Padron Cigar @PadronCigars ..................................................

Ashton Cigars @ashtoncigar ...................................................

Alec Bradley Cigars @AlecBradley ...........................................

La Flor Dominicana @LFDCigars ..............................................

Casa Carrillo Cigars @CasaCarrilloCig .....................................

Jonathan Drew @JonathanDrewArt .........................................

Camacho Cigars @camachocigars ...........................................

Oliva Cigar Company @OlivaCigar .............................................

La Gloria Cubana @lagloriacubana ..........................................

JC Newman Cigar @JCNewmanCigars .......................................

Davidoff Cigars @Davidoff_Cigars ...........................................

Pete Johnson @TatuajeCigars ..................................................

Xikar Inc @XIKARinc ...............................................................

Nick Perdomo @PerdomoCigars ..............................................

Punch Cigars @punchcigars ....................................................

AJ Fernandez @ajfcigars .........................................................

Ernesto Padilla @PadillaCigars ................................................

TOP CIGAR ORGANIZATIONS

43968 43050 31003 28447 28173 21751 19737 18598 16946 16861 16683 16525 16490 15939 15209 15145 13714 13630 13189 12737

TOP CIGAR RETAILERS & REPS Famous Smoke Shop @FamousSmokeShop .............................

Slippery Rock Cigars @SlipperyRockCig ...................................

JR Cigars @JRCigars ..............................................................

Mulberry St. Cigars @MulberryStCigar ....................................

Cigar Hustler @cigarhustler ....................................................

Jeff Borysiewicz – Corona Cigar Co @CoronaCigarCo................

Cigar Row @CigarRow ............................................................

Best Cigar Prices @BestCigarPrices ........................................

Michael Herklots @MichaelHerklots ........................................

Lindsay Siddiqi @TheCigarChick ..............................................

23683 16583 12655 12020 9844 8324 6797 6478 5848 4602

84 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

TOP CIGAR RADIO Cigar Dave Show @CigarDaveShow ........................................ 10098 KMA Talk Radio @KMATalkRadio ............................................. 2036 Cigars and Scotch @CigarScotch ............................................ 2012

SOME OF OUR FAVORITE TWEETS, MENTIONS, AND RANDOM SOCIAL MEDIA GOODNESS.

@ashlilly1313 The Banker Daytrader Whale by @hupmann_usa is a mid- full bodied cigar with a Ecuadorian Sumatra-seed wrapper and as for the binder it is Nicaraguan and the filler is a blind of Nicaraguan and Dominican tobacco. This cigar has wonderfully complex flavors with a smooth draw and even burn. This cigar is a real treat and I would recommend it to any new cigar smoker as well as the aficionados #cigar #cigarreview #cigarofthedayclub #cigarworld #cigarlover #cigarsnob

@leatherwoodllc

TOP ONLINE CIGAR TWEEPLES Super Dave @supercigardave ..................................................

Cigar News @CigaRSS ............................................................

Cigar Events @CigarEvents .....................................................

Cigar Dojo @CigarDojo ............................................................

Blind Man’s Puff @BlindMansPuff ............................................

Robusto Cigar Babe @RobustoBabe ........................................

Cigar Federation @CigarFederation .........................................

Stephen LaPre, Sr. @CigarChairman .........................................

CigarHustler.com @CigarHustler .............................................

Cigar Vixen @CigarVixen .........................................................

Cigar Rights of America @cigarrights ...................................... 15305 Premium Cigar Association @PCA1933 .................................... 10628 Tobacconist University @tobacconistU ................................... 4082

34037 20897 15718 15105 14072 13016 11019 10693 9844 8462

St. James, MO Beauty kept by tradition, is the hallmark of exceptionalism.

Celebrating the return to the LW Humidor of a very special Don Carlos. For a limited time experience the Eye of the Bull. #fuentefriday

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 85

INSTAGRAM SCOREBOARD Since its launch in October of 2010, the cigar world has become enamored with Instagram. Today the ‘Gram is unquestionably the most popular platform on which to share snaps of what you’re smoking and drinking. This scoreboard is sorted by number of followers and broken into groups: Top 20 Cigar & Cigar Accessory Companies, Top 10 Retailers & Reps, Top 10 Cigar Influencers, Top 3 Cigar Organizations, and Top 3 Cigar Radio accounts. If you have the numbers and belong in one of these groups, stand up and be counted! Set us straight via Instagram @cigarsnobmag.

TOP CIGAR & ACCESSORY COMPANIES ( sorted by followers ) Padron Cigar @padroncigars ...................................................

Davidoff Cigars @davidoffcigars .............................................

Drew Estate Cigars @drewestatecigar .....................................

Arturo Fuente @arturofuentecigars .........................................

Rocky Patel Premium Cigars @rockypatelcigar ........................

Raquel Quesada @raquelquesadaofficial .................................

Oliva Cigar Co. @olivacigar .....................................................

Boveda @BovedaInc ...............................................................

My Father Cigars @myfathercigars ..........................................

La Flor Dominicana @LFDCigars ..............................................

Gurkha Cigars @gurkhacigars .................................................

Epic Cigars @epiccigars .........................................................

Xikar Inc @xikar .....................................................................

Plasencia Cigars @plasenciacigars .........................................

Camacho Cigars @camachocigars ...........................................

AJ Fernandez @ajfcigars .........................................................

Nick Perdomo @Perdomocigars ..............................................

Ashton Cigars @ashtoncigar ...................................................

Alec Bradley Cigars @alecbradleycigar ...................................

Casa Carrillo Cigars @casacarrillocigars ..................................

TOP CIGAR ORGANIZATIONS

174393 169551 151298 129884 118417 99739 96688 89826 87691 83408 82226 81241 79041 79012 78714 76265 74774 70261 67471 66327

TOP CIGAR RETAILERS & REPS Havana Phil’s Cigar Company @havanaphils .............................

Famous Smoke Shop @famoussmokeshop ...............................

Mulberry St. Cigars @mulberrystcigars ...................................

Michael Herklots @michaelherklots .........................................

Orange County Cigars @occigars ............................................

Master Sensei @cigardojo ......................................................

Cigar Hustler @cigarhustler ....................................................

The Cigar Culture @thecigarculture .........................................

Jeff Borysiewicz – Corona Cigar Co @coronacigarco ................

Angela Yue @angela_yue .........................................................

78642 57804 44509 34023 33335 29780 28157 26795 27471 24801

86 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

TOP CIGAR RADIO Cigar Dave Show @cigardave ................................................. 3571 KMA Talk Radio @KMATalkRadio ............................................. 1657 Eat Drink Smoke @eatdrinksmokepodcast .............................. 1602

SOME OF OUR FAVORITE TWEETS, MENTIONS, AND RANDOM SOCIAL MEDIA GOODNESS.

@uk_aficionadas Boisdale History in the making !Yesterday, we hosted the first ever UK Ladies Aficionados event at @ boisdale_restaurants. It was an unforgettable evening of fine cigars, exquisite whisky, and incredible company. Cheers to the women redefining the cigar scene!

Massive thank you to @roy. sommer_london for all your support

@reinier_lorenzo

TOP ONLINE CIGAR INFLUENCERS ON INSTAGRAM Cigar Lover @cigarlover12 ......................................................

Angela, CCST & IACS CCS @cigarsmokingchick .......................

Liz Cigar Life Style @remarkable_liz ........................................

Delicia-Creator-Influencer @cigarvixen ...................................

Whiskey Girl Josie @whiskeygirl_josie .....................................

Cigar Social Club @cigarsocialclub ..........................................

Eric Kim @scotchandtime ........................................................

Nikki @cigarpassionista ..........................................................

Melanie Sisco @lilsiscokidd21 .................................................

Cigars / Smoke.Laugh.Live @world.of.cigars ............................

Premium Cigar Association @PCA1933 .................................... 29859 Total Product Expo @totalproductexpo ..................................... 11035 Cigar Rights of America @cigarrightsofamerica ......................... 7596

114184 104439 95910 89716 87666 70530 62639 40233 37586 33841

Hello it’s me Lorenzo the guy with the unique flavors just to let you know that more juice coming soon OK. Love you all have a great weekend 👌👌 👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌 #ourflavorisunique #nuestrosaboresunico #love #haveagreatweekend

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 87

EVENTS SMOKE-ONOS CIGAR FESTIVAL Drums, PA

Smoke-onos Cigar Festival drew fans from throughout the northeast, with over 1,000 attendees enjoying spirits, beer, games, and a catered lunch along with deals from brands including Rocky Patel, Arturo Fuente, Romeo y Julieta, Oliva, My Father, Villiger, La Aurora, AJ Fernandez, and Zino. Drew Estate hosted a tent where DJ Eli was spinning and Jonathan Drew signed boxes for fans. Other cigar personalities including Erik Espinosa, Rafael Nodal, Rick Rodriguez, and Michael Herklots greeted consumers and signed boxes.

Natalie and Stavros Karpontinis and Erik Espinosa

Ashley Nicholson and Lora Gilroy

Pedro Gómez, Desmond Johnson, Willy Herrera, Ian Blanken and Erik Calviño

Andrew Estop and Maria Cristina Arrazola

88 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Dave Flannery, Randy and Gene Mancini

Davide Pugliares and Chris Philippi

Thaddeus Hall, Ralph Hanna and Kari Krishnaraj

Brad Rickman and Jim Syfrett

Tom Zbyrad, Law Ream, Arista Pyne and Matt Frye

Robbie Whitlow Jr and Jim Massie

Alli Neas, Jane Boen, Rick Neas, Wendy Henderson and Storm Boen

Mike Schaap, Thomas and Nelly Ohea and James Schemerhorn

Mike Stous and Jay Fifield

John and Lina Remer, Candie and Glenn Tarsi

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 89

EVENTS LA AURORA CIGARS & E. LEÓN JIMENES RUM LAUNCH Miami, FL

La Aurora capped off a milestone week in Miami with three back-to-back events marking the official opening of its new Miami Distribution Center, the unveiling of a cultural mural at Neptune Cigars Superstore in Little Havana, and the U.S. launch of E. León Jimenes 1903 Rum. The event emphasized La Aurora’s growing presence in the U.S. market and its continued emphasis on its Dominican heritage through art, cigars, and spirits.

The León Family

Ed McKenna, Greyci Rodríguez, Guillermo León and Iturbides Zaldivar

Michelle León

90 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Daniela, Guillermo and Michelle Amelia León Photos by: Joseph Luna

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 91

Michelle Amelia, Guillermo, Michelle and Daniela León

John Gaglio and Elvis Batista

Iturbides Zaldivar, Guillermo León and Alberto García

92 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Ed McKenna

EVENTS PROCIGAR NIGHT PUNTA CANA 2025 Punta Cana, DR

Procigar Night Punta Cana, organized by the Association of Dominican Cigar Manufacturers, brought together cigar enthusiasts to celebrate the Dominican premium cigar industry.

The evening began with a cigar conversation that included Litto Gómez and Ciro Cascella, president and vice president of Procigar.

They spoke on the Dominican Republic’s positioning as a global leader in premium cigars.

The talk also featured Frank Elías Rainieri, CEO of Grupo Puntacana, who emphasized the importance of Procigar as a promoter of tourism in the country.

The celebration continued with cuisine, cocktails, live music, a raffle and cigars. Attendees had the chance to connect with master blenders and founders of renowned cigar companies.

Agustin Fernández, Elisha Fermin, Carlos Sr. and Carlos Duran Jr., María Luisa Fernández and Ganímedes Gómez

Willman Hernández, Raquel Quesada and Jonathan González

Ronnel Rodríguez, Gregory Blanco and Pedro Almonte

94 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Tony and Litto Gómez

Catherine Llibre

Isis Lawrence and Javier Elmudesi

John Paul Garrido, Carola de Marco, Ciro Cascella and Ambar Rosario

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 95

EVENTS ROCKY PATEL BRUNCH AT BARTOLO’S CAFE IN NEPTUNE CIGARS & WINE Delray Beach, FL

Bartolo's Cafe hosted a brunch with Rocky Patel Cigars featuring food, drinks and cigar deals with Rocky Patel’s Belkys Sanchez. Patrons enjoyed the Rocky Patel Gold Label and Rocky Patel Sixty while Mrs. Wine Agency’s Karine Malifarge led the wine tasting.

Ericka Sobenes, Belkys Sánchez, Karla Sobenes and Ivy Moulier

Yesi Rosa and Yesenia Guillot

Luz Holguín and Leonor Abzaradel

Majela Hernández, Caleb Craan, Suly Barthelemy and Yanette Sánchez

BIG WIRELESS COVERAGE, WITHOUT BIG WIRELESS COST. Plans start at just $20/month.

Switch & Save Today

833-353-0760

© 2024 Consumer Cellular Inc. Terms and Conditions subject to change. Plans shown above include $5 credit for AutoPay and E-billing. Taxes and other fees apply. Credit approval required for new service. Cellular service is not available in all areas and is subject to system limitations.

96 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 97

EVENTS COCONUT GROVE CIGAR SOCIAL Regatta Grove, Miami, FL

The monthly Cigar Social series by Cigar Phone returned to Regatta Grove for an evening of cigars, cocktails, and waterfront views.

Hosted every third Thursday at the Coconut Grove hotspot, the event draws a crowd of cigar lovers from across South Florida. Cigar Phone also hosts regular gatherings in Fort Lauderdale and South Miami. For the full schedule, visit cigarphone.com.

Clarissa Coney and Darryl Redmon

Ralph Quintero, Hiram Díaz, Livian García, Carlos Ahmed Carus and Sebastian Mas

Brandon Diaz and Alex Llaneza

98 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025

Hiram Díaz, Carlos Ahmed Carus, Ralph Quintero and Gianni D'Alerta

Sergio Yevgeniy, Emilly Medina, Sebastian Mas, Tal Sela and Ashley Merced

Dominic Bono, Alec Zupanec and Mihailo Savanovic

Darryl Redmon, Maria Cervantes, Ralph Quintero, Michael Ramirez and Adrian Oliva

JUL / AUG 2025 | CIGAR SNOB | 99

100 | CIGAR SNOB | JUL / AUG 2025