Inlumino Cigar News Australia

Room 101 Cigars release OSOK Limited Edition

2012-01-31T20:39:00.004+11:00

Sydney cigar lovers would remember Matt Booth's quick visit to Australia in early 2010 to promote his new line of Room 101 cigars and attend the Sydney Tattoo convention. Among Matt's entourage was Edgar 'One Shot One Kill' Hoill, Room 101's chief photographer who has since branched out to launch his own clothing line.

Room 101 Cigars has now launched an OSOK Limited Edition cigar in Edgar's honour. Both Matt and Edgar were more than happy to blaze up and share a few drinks with Sydney cigar lovers back then and I'm sure plenty of my readers will follow-up this new release.

Matt Booth explains the new limited edition:
Edgar Hoill (One Shot, One Kill), is the Los Angeles based photographer responsible for all of the Room101 imagery you find floating around in the universe. From product imagery to lifestyle shots and beyond, Edgar’s keen eye and mental frame are what give his photography life beyond just a simple image on paper.

I’ve had the honor of working with OSOK over the past few years. During this time, I have come to know him as an individual whose character matches up to the quality of his work. His magnetic personality draws people towards his genius imagery and towards OSOK, the character.

I am honored to call Mr. Hoill a good friend and a brother in this lifetime. He is an original member of the 101 family and we would not be where we are today without him. As he has also been a long time cigar enthusiast, I am proud to offer this limited series bearing his name.

Each of the Room101 OSOK cigars were rolled, and then hand-shaped by one master roller in our factory. The blend, considered to be a medium plus, is built on a chassis of Authentic Corojo in the binder and filler. The oily Ecuadorian Habano wrapper adds smoothness, while the combination of Corojo and Dominican Piloto Ligero help further the strength as you move through the smoke.

Fijian Suki

2012-01-25T10:38:00.003+11:00

A recent family holiday to a resort on Denareu Island just outside of Nadi, Fiji led me to discovering a very unique method of preparing and smoking tobacco that has some similarities to the premium cigars I’m more familiar with.

A casual Google search for cigar friendly locations in Nadi brought up a reference to ‘Suki’, Fijian tobacco prepared and smoked much like a cigar. After enquiring about how I might get some Suki from taxi drivers, I head to Nadi Markets. Picture a basic farmer’s market where tropical Fijian fruits are for sale at a tenth of the price you might pay in the shops catering to tourists and you get the idea. Although the bananas, pineapples and guavas look delicious, I was drawn to the section selling Kava where a handful of merchants deal in Suki.

S.J. Khan

I meet S.J. Khan, who is regarded as the market’s premium Suki trader. His family has been farming tobacco since the time of his grandfather and the family farm produces tobacco solely for creating Suki, as many others provide tobacco for cigarette manufacture. He’s unaware of the original source of the tobacco, but it more than likely came via British colonialists or perhaps arrived from the Philippines.

S.J., a dead ringer for Denzel Washington, proudly explains that his tobacco is Grade 1: the best leaves taken from the top of the plant. He explained to me the process they use to cure the tobacco and his account revealed some similarities to premium cigar tobacco curing.

Tobacco is sown in Fiji in June and harvested in August. The leaves are removed from the plant, strung together and hung on bamboo in open air barns for up to a month to dry out. Once dried out, the bottom leaves (Grade 3) are thrown out, while Grade 2 and Grade 1 leaves, from the middle and top of the plant respectively, are kept and the middle stem removed. As S.J. was explaining this, my eyes lit up at the similarities thus far to premium cigar tobacco preparation.

The Uma

But this is where the similarities end. The tobacco does not go through a fermentation process, instead 3 leaves are grouped together and are bound tightly together by a fourth open leaf, and then tied end on end and linked together to form an ‘Uma’. These Umas weigh 10 kilograms and are how the tobacco is stored, transported and sold. One crop from S.J.’s farm can make up to 120 Umas.

S.J.’s wholesale business caters to travelling salesmen who buy lengths of the Uma to sell in villages around Fiji, while his stall at Nadi Market caters to individual purchases. He tells me Fijians usually buy a 2 inch length from the Uma on a daily basis to create their Suki. Not knowing how they use the lengths of Uma to create a Suki, S.J. promptly gives me a demo

The length of Uma purchased is cut and unrolled providing 4 equal lengths of tobacco. The three leaves from the middle are used as filler and the outside leaf as a binder. The leaves are simply bunched together and then the fourth leaf is used to bind it. No fancy wrapper or gum is used to stop it from unraveling. I ask S.J. to roll me 6 Suki of a petit corona length. Locals usually smoke Suki at an even shorter length, although S.J. informs me that elder Fijians often get a longer piece of Uma to create a corona or corona extra sized Suki.

Upon rolling my Suki, S.J. and I walk across the road to a park and light up. So here I am, the only white guy in sight smoking Suki with Nadi’s premier Uma seller. Locals pass by stopping to say hello to S.J. and check out this tourist who is showing a bizarre interest in Suki.

This is strong tobacco - it hasn’t been fermented and I am essentially smoking a pure Ligero cigar. It may not look very impressive, but it draws well and forms perfect ash. Despite a well-trained palate searching for flavours, Suki funnily enough doesn’t provide any hint of a flavour profile besides that of strong tobacco.
“Good quality Uma can be stored for up to 5 years,” says S.J. and he tells me they store it in an air tight box. With Fiji’s constant humidity he says this process can improve the taste and quality over time. His farm is located 3 hours drive away in Nadroga village. He tells me his family plot sits next to a river with mountains overlooking the valley. He returns there once a month to pick up more Uma. Of course I ask S.J. what he usually drinks with his Suki. I hinted at rum or beer, but of course being in Fiji, he notes Kava is the beverage of choice.

If you are heading to Nadi for a tropical get away and enjoy your cigars, pop in on S.J., say hello for me, and buy some Suki, even if it is just for the experience. Mention he looks like Denzel Washington and his daughter and nearby stall-holders will get a laugh! For what we would consider small change, AUD$ 2.50 bought me 6 lengths and S.J was hesitant to accept even this amount. Spending an hour with a gentleman keen to share his trade was a refreshing experience outside the opulent resorts located just a short taxi ride away.

Cigar Underground NTS releases new video

2012-01-23T14:44:00.003+11:00

I've just returned from a week in Fiji - yes it was very relaxing, but in the name of 'work' I discovered Fijian tobacco which is air-cured and then smoked as a 'cigar' known widely as Suki. I'll be filing a story in the coming days on it.

But in the mean time:

Rob Ayala's Cigar Underground NTS group has just released a new video calling for cell leaders and will begin hosting events within the month. More importantly the group will get all members involved in letter writing campaign to help us all voice our concerns over the impact of Plain Packaging on the Aussie cigar trade.

Watch the new video from two very dangerous men.

Rob has also been quoted in a news story surrounding the adverse impacts of the Plain Packaging legislation on the relatively small, independent, Australian cigar retail industry.

Read 'Smoking laws to hurt small cigar retailers' published online here.

14th Habanos Festival. 27 Feb - 2 March

2012-01-06T12:35:00.004+11:00

Welcome to 2012! I trust you all had an enjoyable festive season and enjoyed plenty of fine cigars. The stand-out cigars I enjoyed between Christmas and New Year were a medium-bodied Perdomo Patriarch connecticut, a light-bodied Davidoff 2000, and the full-bodied Vegas Robaina Maestros - the Spanish RE for 2007.

If you have a spare week free in Late February you may be keen on getting to Havana for the 14th Habanos Festival. Details below.

From February 27 - March 2 2012, Cuba will host the 14th Habanos Festival celebrating the Cuban cigar industry. This year's event pays special tribute to two prestigious Habanos brands: Cohiba and Romeo y Julieta. This Habanos Festival also marks 520 years of th discorvery of Cuban tobacco by Europeans.

The Habanos Festival program offers its traditional activities: visits to the best tobacco plantations in Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Rio and to emblematic Habanos factories in Havana, seminars, tastings and pairings, the international Habanosommelier contest, a Master Class on the cigar rolling, and blind tasting of the new Habanos.

As a novelty at this year's festival, Habanos Corporation s.a. announced the International Contest “Habanos in Images” addressed to producers of audiovisual work related to the Habanos. It is aimed at promoting the knowledge and spreading the work of tobacco farmers, cigar rollers and other professionals who take part in the process of Habanos making.

The Welcome Evening, dedicated to the Cohiba brand, will open with an exclusive concert at Karl Marx theatre by the prestigious Cuban singer Augusto Enriquez with his international guests Phil Manzanera and Jack Bruce, who will present a show called "ECLECTIC-US", a mixture of different influences and Cuban musical styles, son, rumba, bolero, rock and Afro-Cuban jazz.

The subsequent cocktail will take place at Cristino Naranjo Club, a privilege place next to the sea in which any event has taken place so far.

On Wednesday 29th there will be a dinner to commemorate the 520th Anniversary of the discovery of tobacco in Cuba by the Europeans at the Museo de Bellas Artes.

The closing of the Festival will take place on Friday evening, March 2nd, with the Gala Dinner dedicated to Romeo y Julieta brand. The Humidor Auction for the benefit of the Cuban Public Health System will closure this edition of the XIV Habanos Festival.

On January 10th registration will be opened at the Habanos Website

2011 - Year in review

2011-12-22T10:51:00.002+11:00

I know we still have just over a week of 2011 to go, but I'll be staying away from technology (besides the odd tweet and facebook update) until the new year so though it apt to conclude 2011 with a wrap-up of the best and worst in the Aussie cigar world.

As is customary for me at this time of year I'd like to thank all the blog's supporters from importers, distributors, retailers, to (and most importantly) all Australian cigar lovers. Our passion has certainly taken a hit this year and this will no doubt evolve in 2012 but I can't help but think that the Aussie cigar scene has never been stronger. Anecdotally retailers are noting that in their shops and at their events, new faces are joining old friends to appreciate fine cigars. If anything, the assault the industry is under is bringing more people towards cigars who want to learn what the fuss is all about. The new faces I met at my two cigar appreciation sessions is testament to that.

This year saw the advent of the SpitBucket crew's CigarClub in Sydney, Mark Thompson's Melbourne-based blog Aussie Cigars join me in sharing the good news, while Rob Ayala's Friends of Habanos and Perdomo Cigars backed Cigars Australia forums continue bringing us together online. New Cuban-themed restaurant La Bodeguita has also proved a new haven for Sydney lovers of the leaf.

I've enjoyed many great cigars this year, so I've put together a list of my cigar highlights of 2011 (in no particular order):

Perdomo Exhibicion Torpedo maduro - The JUNGLE CURRY

San Lotano Oval pyramid

Macanudo Vintage maduro 1997 toro

Por Larranago Encantos 2010 Asia-Pacific Regional Edition

I trust you all have a great Christmas and Holiday season, enjoy a few cigars and live life to its fullest. You only get one shot at life so live it up!

If you don't like my fire then don't come around, 'cause I'm gonna burn one down.

Cheers!

Trivial yes, but with disastrous consequences

2011-12-16T06:45:00.004+11:00

Th opinion piece linked to below is in today's Daily Telegraph (Sydney). Now I'm not a huge fan of the Tele, preferring my SMH anyday, but Akerman's piece reinforces what cigar smokers in Australia and around the world have known for a long time about the plain packaging legisation: It is trivial.

However the government's ill-thought out stance towards premium cigars will decimate Australia's independent specialist cigar retailers, moving a huge industry off-shore to internet suppliers (on a silver platter no less).

Read Piers Akerman's piece: All puffed up in the pursuit of the trivial. (Daily Telegraph 16.12.11)

Rob Ayala and FOH form new activist group

2011-12-14T21:01:00.004+11:00

I think the Beastie Boys said it best: 'You gotta fight for your right to party'.

Rob Ayala of Brisbane outfit CigarCzar is forming a network open to all cigar lovers across Australia.
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From Rob Ayala via FriendsOfHabanos.com:

Australia is the first real country in the world to force cigars underground. Legislation next year will see an assault like no other.

A new band of brothers has formed under the banner:

Cigar Underground Network of Terra AustraliS
*Membership unlimited...abbreviations not recommended*

From the Opera House of Sydney to the red soil mines of Karratha, cigar cells are forming....plans for civic disobedience and good times booming.

The first Announcement for the Cigar Underground Network of Terra Australis will be released next week via video on FOH. This is a ruthless group of carbon criminals...possibly loosely affiliated with FOH....Possibly not.

All Aussie Cigar Lovers should join....text 0412029744 with your name, number and address.

You will know each other by the secret Key Ring below. It will be mailed out to you upon receipt of your text. Spread the word throughout the Australian Cigar Underground. Time is running out.

Cigar Journal: San Lotano's Australian Launch

2011-11-30T21:35:00.004+11:00

My short piece on A.J. Fernandez Cigars' Australian San Lotano launch at Baranows Cigar Lounge is featured in the latest (Northern hemisphere Winter Edition) Cigar Journal. As is usually the case, a piece may be edited dee to space requirements, and so in this case I've decided to publish my original edit. Click on the image below or here to read the Cigar Journal published version.

A spur of the moment trip to Melbourne sowed the seeds for San Lotano Cigars’ recent launch in Australia.

Earlier this year, Clay Roberts, VP of Marketing and Brand Creative for A.J. Fernandez Cigars, was doing business in Singapore and decided to hop on a flight to Melbourne to check out the local cigar scene. Before he knew it, Clay was literally knocking on the door of Baranows Cigar Lounge and introducing himself to Ben Baranow. Totally bewildered that Clay had arrived completely out of the blue, Ben called his father Wal to come down to the Lounge to discuss San Lotano cigars with Clay.

Flying in from Dortmund’s InterTabak trade show, Clay was back in Melbourne in September for San Lotano’s Australian launch.

Created by 31 year old A.J. Fernandez, the San Lotano brand honors the cigars first developed by A.J.’s grandfather in San Luis, Cuba. A.J.’s grandfather counted legendary tobacco farmer Alejandro Robaina as a close friend - so much so, Don Alejandro was A.J.’s mentor up until his passing a few years ago.

The San Lotano Oval, with its unique BIC lighter shaped appearance from the foot, was launched at this year’s IPCPR trade show and was the biggest talking point at the Melbourne event. According to Clay, A.J. believes the San Lotano Oval requires its unique shape for the blend to taste as it does: “this blend, in this shape, is perfect.” Clay admits the company knows what 80% of the blend is and the other 20% is A.J.’s secret. “I’m sure it’s scribbled on some tobacco leaf that he keeps in his pocket,” jokes Clay, before noting that the Oval has become very popular in the USA and that the response to it in Dortmund was excellent.

A maduro, habano and connecticut make up the regular San Lotano line alongside the Oval. Despite what many naysayers believe, A.J. considers Mexican San Andres maduro wrapper leaf, which he uses on his maduro line, the best in the world. “There is a negative connotation towards Mexican tobacco, but A.J. believes it is his duty to change that perception,” says Clay. “The San Andreas maduro is dark, rich, sweet - it’s simply a beautiful wrapper. “

“A.J. is a very interesting guy who has only lived in two places his whole life: San Luis, Cuba, and Esteli, Nicaragua,” says Clay when asked to describe the man behind San Lotano Cigars. “He is a farmer. He’s not a media mogul; not someone running around doing events. I’m often asked if we can get A.J. to do an event, but it’s hard to get him away from the factory. It’s not that he doesn’t appreciate fans of the cigars, he just loves the tobacco – it’s a beautiful thing.” Staying at A.J.’s house in Nicaragua recently, Clay recounts hearing him get up at 3am to check on the tobacco. “He had an idea and wanted to pull some leaves apart. This is the kind of person he is – he’s a mixologist of tobacco, a ‘mad scientist’ if you will.”

Wal Baranow’s relationship with A.J. Fernandez Cigars is clearly going well. Besides hosting the launch and being exclusive Australian retailers of San Lotano, Wal led a group of clients on a trip to Cuba and Nicaragua in October. When in Nicaragua, the expedition toured A.J. Fernandez’s plantations and factories with A.J. himself.

Clay concludes by saying A.J. and the team are very optimistic about San Lotano cigars in several territories; “A.J. wants the cigars in people’s hands around the world.” Judging by the reception San Lotano cigars received in Melbourne, A.J.’s wish is well on its way to becoming a reality.

Habanos announces new H. Upmann Half Corona

2011-11-26T11:04:00.003+11:00

From Habanos:
The new H. Upmann Half Corona allows for the enjoyment of a Habano in any circumstance.

The features of H. Upmann, especially indicated for those who desire a balanced, aromatic light to medium falvor, makes this Habano the adequate one for a brief moment of enjoyment.

Herman Upmann was a German banker whose passion for the Habanos*took him to establish himself in Havana in 1840. He founded a bank and a factory of Habanosin 1844. The bank closed, but his cigar brand persists in our days, and it is considered an example within the most refined Habanos*with a flavor that is light to medium in flavor.

The new H Upmann Half Corona (44 ring gauge x 90 mm in length) that will be presented is for those who prefer a short-sized cigar as a solution to the little time, without giving up the fullness of sensations that a Habano can offer.

The blend of the brand is made with leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region in Pinar del Rio, Cuba. All H.Upmann Habanos are made 'Totalmente a Mano, Tripa Larga' - 'Totally by hand with long filler'. The excellent quality and long history flaunted by the brand is shown in the gold medals that adorn the box, obtained in no less than eleven international fairs during the 19th century and which constitute a characteristic element of this brand.

This format that is incorporated to the H. Upmann brand is an invitation to a short smoke of a pleasant blend. H. Upmann Half Corona presents a smooth to medium flavor, being very aromatic and balanced. For which it is ideal for those who initiate themselves in the extraordinary world of the Habano. This new H.Upmann size is starting to be available in many countries around the world where Habanos smokers are welcoming its launch and enjoying it.

Brand: H. Upmann
Commercial name: Half Corona
Factory name: Half Corona
Measure: 44 ring gauge (17.46 mm) x 90 mm in length
Presentations: Labelled Box - 25 units (already available)
Aluminum Case - 5 units

2nd Cigar Appreciation Session at La Bodeguita, Sydney

2011-11-19T14:12:00.007+11:00

Due to popular demand, I'll be running another cigar appreciation seminar at La Bodeguita del Medio on Tuesday 6 December, again from 6pm - 7pm.

Come along and discover that cigars are not just big cigarettes, are not rolled on the thighs of virgins (devastating news for some), and how centuries of knowledge and craftsmanship combine to produce premium hand-made cigars.

This introductory seminar covers:

Cigar shapes and sizes
How to cut and light cigars
How tobacco leaves are prepared for rolling
The parts of a cigar and how to review a cigar, including identifying flavours

6 - 7pm, Tuesday 6 December at La Bodeguita del Medio, 125 York Street Sydney.

Tickets are limited. Tickets are $40 and include a Cuban cigar and Mojito on arrival. To book your seat give me a call on 0438 501 005 or drop me a line at info@inlumino.com.au

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The first session on Tuesday night was a great success, introducing a few novices and those wanting to learn more, to the art of cigars. Diplomatico Rum's 'Reserva' made a guest appearance half way through the seminar courtesy of Baranows Emporium.

The Gourmantic team was in attendance to brush up on their cigars skills and will be reviewing the evening on www.gourmantic.com soon. A big thank you is extended to them for sending through photos of the night ahead of their write-up.

Bogart's announces Christmas cigar event

2011-11-08T19:55:00.007+11:00

Norman Stein recently announced Bogart's last cigar event for 2011, a Christmas cigar party on Friday 2 December, well-before work and family events intensify. Details below:

BOGART'S LAST EVENT FOR 2011

WE INVITE YOU TO ATTEND COCKTAILS @ VIBE AS A PRE-FESTIVE SEASON OCCASION. COME WITH PARTNERS, FRIENDS and COLLEAGUES FOR DRINKS AND ENJOYMENT OF FINE CIGARS AS A YEAR END GATHERING.

WHEN - FRIDAY 2ND DECEMBER,2011

TIME - 6.30 TO 9.30PM

WHERE - VIBE HOTEL (ON THE TERRACE)100 BAYSWATER ROAD RUSHCUTTERS BAY

COST - $45 PER PERSON (INCLUDES FIRST CIGAR and CANAPES ONLY)

DRINKS CAN BE PURCHASED BY GUESTS FROM THE BAR.

BOGART'S WILL HAVE A DISPLAY OF CIGARS AND ACCESSORIES IDEAL TO PURCHASE FOR CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS

Bogart's Online Shopping: http://cigars.bogarts.com.au

Cigar review: Perdomo ESV 2002 Epicure Maduro

2011-11-06T09:27:00.003+11:00

I made a school boy error with this cigar and I'll explain the error at the end of this review.

I enjoyed this Perdomo Estate Seleccion Vintage (ESV) 2002 Maduro (Epicure 6x54) last Sunday afternoon at fellow cigar and whisky lover Raj's house as the sun was setting and the kids were watching Rio for the 10,000th time. It's a great cigar that reminds me a lot of Perdomo's La Tradicion Cabinet Series

The pre-light draw was a bit light, and offered an inviting, but very slight, nutty flavour on the draw. The cigar began with strong tobacco and earthy flavours and towards the end of the first third there was a light spicy aroma. What reminded me of the La Tradicion Cabinet Series was a bitey/toothy flavour coming through at the beginning of the second third.

The middle of the ESV had white pepper notes overtaking the earthy tobacco flavour first picked up at the beggning of the cigar. There was a very interesting switch towads the end of the cigar, with the earthiness returning and no pepper or spice to speak of. The ESV Maduro had a great draw despite my pre-light concerns.

Now about that school boy error: I enjoyed this cigar as a sun-downer before dinner and should have really enjoyed it after a hearty meal. This ESV is definitely full-bodied and would be best enjoyed after a juicy steak and not a handful of prawns (shrimp for our American readers) as I experienced.

From Perdomo Cigars Australia:
Product Description:
The intricately woven blend of the Perdomo Estate Seleccion Vintage 2002 is a perfect balance of robust flavour and rich complexities coupled with a melody of sweet subtle nuances of cocoa, pepper and spice. The ESV 2002 comes years after the overwhelming success of the original Perdomo ESV Vintage 1991.

TASTING NOTES
The ESV 2002 uses an Ecuadorian-grown Connecticut, a dark and oily Maduro, or an Ecuadorian Sun Grown wrapper. Each compliments the blend of 2002 estate filler and binder tobaccos in their own way. The connecticut is a flavorful light-medium bodied smoke with lots of flavors of cream, earth and nuts. The Maduro providers a medium-to-full bodied smoke with thick flavors of earth, leather and hints of spice. And the Sun Grown is also medium-to-full bodied with notes of pepper, earth, and cedar. You can't go wrong with any of these blends. Each is tailored for different palates, but they are all very flavourful thanks to the use of great vintage tobacco and are made with tremendous quality.

Cigar review: San Lotano Oval pyramid

2011-11-02T09:16:00.003+11:00

The AJ Fernandez San Lotano Oval cigar was launched earlier this year at the IPCPR Trade Show in Las Vegas. I enjoyed a couple of them when I was down on Melbourne a month ago for their Australian launch at Baranows, and without hesitation can say they are a great cigar. The blend keeps things interesting, while the shape and the mouth-feel is superb.

The Oval is truly the work of skilled craftsmen and women. It may appear like it's a squashed, box-pressed cigar, but their is no box-pressing involved in its manufacture. Of the Oval, "this blend, in this shape, is perfect," said Clay Roberts, VP of Marketing and Brand Creative for AJ Fernandez Cigars, when I caught up with him in Melbourne for a Cigar Journal interview.

Although the photo doesn't do it justice, this shot of the foot explains the 'Oval' shape.

There is slight resistance in the pre-light draw which offers light fruit/citrus flavours. The cigar begins with a nice draw and with it, a strong black pepper start. After about half an inch, the black pepper subsides and a thick 'cookie dough' flavour is celarly evident. I can't lay claim to this descriptor as I can with the Perdomo Cigars 'Jungle Curry' as the cookie dough flavour was mentioned by Mark Thompson of Aussie Cigars when I met up with him in Melbourne. I tasted it in the Ovals we had then, and I tasted it again when enjoying this Oval back in Sydney.

The second third continues with the cookie dough flavour but also has a light spicy finish. Towards the end of the second third and throughout the final third, a milky creaminess with hints of spice are the stand-out flavours.

What a great cigar. The San Lotano range is available in Australia exclusively at Baranows Cigars, and they should have more Ovals in stock soon.

Cigar appreciation session at La Bodeguita del Medio Sydney

2011-10-26T21:25:00.006+11:00

Ever wanted to learn more about cigars?

Have you just started delving into the world of cigars?

Join yours truly for a fun, informal, hour-long cigar appreciation session at Sydney's Cuban-themed restaurant La Bodeguita Del Medio.

Come along and discover that cigars are not just big cigarettes and how centuries of knowledge and craftsmanship combine to produce premium hand-made cigars.

The session is an introduction to cigars and will cover:

Cigar shapes and sizes

How to cut and light cigars

How tobacco leaves are meticulously prepared for rolling

The parts of a cigar and the role of the master blender

How to review a cigar, including identifying flavours

Seats are limited for what will be a fun, engaging event.
6-7pm, Tuesday 15 November at La Bodeguita del Medio, 125 York Street Sydney.
Tickets are $40 and include a Cuban cigar and Mojito on arrival.

Contact Sam on 0438 501 005 or info@inlumino.com.au to book your spot.

Sydney Cigar Event Pictorial Review: One Night in Chile

2011-10-20T08:24:00.006+11:00

Last Friday new and familiar faces came together for Bogart's Spring cigar event 'One Night in Chile'.

Guests enjoyed Chilean wine and music, while Dona Flor cigars were a fitting start and finish to a great night.

Guest of honour Mr Ignacio Concha, Consul General of Peru, and Norman Stein of Bogart's

Cigar Review: Macanudo Vintage Maduro 1997 Toro

2011-10-12T16:06:00.004+11:00

What a treat. With 25 boxes of each vitola (toro and perfecto)making it into the country, it is a rare treat indeed to be handed two Macanudo Vintage Maduro 1997s and be asked to review them on behalf of the importer. It is, as you can see, one hell of a dark cigar, but I don't think my photos, professional as they are, do the cigar justice. It is one of the darkest cigar wrappers I've ever seen.

General Cigar's Macanudo Vintage Maduro 1997 is the first maduro cigar to be produced in Macanudo's 'Vintage' series, made with a 1997 vintage broadleaf Connecticut wrapper, which has been monitored and aged since its initial fermentation. It also includes Nicaraguan, Brazilian and Dominican leaf in the filler, with the binder sourced from Honduras. The cigar comes in two formats the 6x54 Toro and a 6x49 Perfecto.

Last night I had the pleasure of enjoying the Toro and look forward to the Perfecto in the near future.

The pre-light draw was perfect and offers coffee and dark chocolate. Upon lighting the cigar, my first notes were that it is a very unique cigar that offers a taste profile unlike any other I have come across in a long time. There is a hint of black pepper, however there is a smattering of a dark chocolate aroma and it leaves a sweet vanilla taste on the back of the palate.

The second third saw a smooth vanilla bean and cocoa profile come to the fore and the hint of black pepper noticed early in the first third completely dissappeared. I note that it is a very smooth cigar that is living up to the hype that a metal cigar band brings.

Thr final third showed some spice influencing the taste, but overall the Toro continues with a rich velvety chocolate taste. The Macanudo Vintage Maduro 1997 is a great occasion cigar - in saying that I mean keep it for yourself, don't enjoy it at a wedding where you'll be distracted. A few close mates and appropraite libations would be the 'occasion' I'm thinking of. The metal band is impressive and is a great keepsake - another piece of the puzzle that further demonstrates what is wrong with Ms Gillard and Ms Roxon's intended plain packaging legislation.

Australian stockists:

Havana Tobacconist – The Star Casino (Sydney, NSW)

Bogart’s House of Fine Cigars – Martin Place Shopping Circle (Sydney, NSW )

Smokelovers – (Adelaide, SA)

Van Dorssen – (Cairns, QLD)

Casa Del Oro – (Melbourne, VIC)

Cignall Flinders St – (Melbourne, VIC)

Baranows Cigar Lounge – (Hawthorn, VIC)

Mr Tobacconist – (Frankston, VIC)

Cigar Review: San Lotano maduro robusto

2011-10-07T07:45:00.005+11:00

Last week I attended the San Lotano cigar launch at Baranows Lounge in Melbourne. Although the talking point of the night was the newly released San Lotano Oval, the three other cigars in the San Lotano range were offered as well. This week I was up in Hunter Valley wine country for a quick getaway with the family. After my two beautiful children fell off to the land of nod, I escaped to enjoy some rural serenity with the maduro robusto for company.

The wrapper, sourced by AJ Fernandez Cigars from San Andreas, Mexico, appears thick and rich and the pre-light draw offers hints of dark chocolate. The blend also includes a Honduran binder with Nicaraguan and Honduran filler. Upon lighting, the maduro offers a nice black pepper start, thick rich smoke, and a long, spicy finish on the back of the palate.

The second third continues with black pepper flavours on the nose, but increasingly there is more smoothness evident. As a former junior baseball player who use to go digging for my glove in the garage when each summer season approached, the aroma reminded me of 'old baseball glove leatheriness'. The spiciness on the back of the palate is also tapering off.

The final stages of the cigar continue with the leather and black pepper notes. It is a consistent, luxurious, well-balanced cigar. It doesn't offer major, life-altering changes at each stage, but it is a steady, high-quality cigar. I'd rate it as a full-bodied stick - I'd like to try the other shapes it is available in - Toro, Churchill, Gordo and Torpedo, to see if there are any major flavour differences.

The San Lotano cigar range made by AJ Fernandez Cigars is available exclusively at Baranows.

Cigar Review: Perdomo La Tradicion Cabinet Series

2011-10-03T08:49:00.005+11:00

Brisbane's Perdomo Lounge is featured in the latest issue of Cigar Journal (3/2011)

I was really looking forward to reviewing Perdomo Cigars' La Tradicion Cabinet Series Cameroon. I'd heard a lot about it over the past few months and what I was also anticipating was smoking a Perdomo in the petit corona size format. The team at Perdomo have created a balanced cigar that will appeal to those seeking a 'quick' cigar or something in a smaller size.

The wrapper was quite veiny, however the veins were soft and reflected the high quality of Cameroon wrapper used. The pre-light draw showed hints of dry-roasted nuts on the palate.

Upon lighting, the cigar exhibited light spice and a nutty profile on the palate, with a hint of black pepper. For mine, it was not a sweet start - it was almost a savoury cigar.

The second third continued the roasted nut flavour profile, but a light earthiness was increasingly evident and this became even more pronounced in the final third.

I really enjoyed the La Tradicion. Construction, burn and draw were excellent. It was definitely a mild-medium bodied cigar that would be best suited to the early afternoon. It would be interesting to pair it with a dry champagne. While reviewing the cigar, I thought it was nice to see Perdomo choose to make this cigar in this size - a pleasing addition to their portfolio.

From Perdomo:
Perdomo Limited Cameroon Edition cigars feature a refined, multidimensional blend of double-aged Cuban-seed tobaccos grown in the rich, dark soil of the Nicaraguan regions of Esteli, Condega and the Jalapa Valley. This edition reveals a unique balance of the rich and subtly-sweet flavours of a Grade-1 African Cameroon wrapper with the bold and flavourful essence of the Cuban seed Nicaraguan filler tobaccos, with notes of coffee bean, leather and caramel. An outstanding cigar, not to be missed.

Tasting Notes:
Medium to Full Bodied

Sizes
Petit Corona 4 1/2 x 44

Event review: San Lotano launch at Baranows Melbourne

2011-09-30T12:50:00.006+10:00

Wal Baranow (left) with Mr Clay Roberts

Last night over 50 cigar lovers took refuge from the past few days of cold wet Melbourne weather in Baranows Lounge to attend the Australian launch of AJ Fernandez Cigars' premium San Lotano Cigars division.

On hand to welcome guests and discuss the various San Lotano blends was Clay Roberts, VP of Marketing and Brand Creative for SJ Fernandez cigars. Clay was made most welcome, and the feedback he received from some of Melbourne's most discerning cigar lovers was overwhelmingly positive.

The San Lotano Oval, released just a few months ago at the IPCPR Trade Show in Las Vegas was handed out in limited supply, although one lucky punter picked up a bundle in the raffle.

Those present received three cigars:

The San Lotano Connecticut (Ecuador) Robusto 5x52, The San Lotano Maduro (San Andres) Robusto 5x52, and the San Lotano Habanos (Brazilian) Torpedo 7x54.

Reviews of the above, and the San Lotano Oval Torpedo, will be posted in the coming weeks.

Baranows is the exclusive Australian retailer of San Lotano Cigars

Bookings closing for Sydney cigar event 14 October 2011

2011-09-26T14:12:00.005+10:00

Norman Stein has advised that bookings for Bogart's next cigar event are closing soon. With only a few tickets remaining, don't wait until the last minute to book tickets to Bogart's first Spring cigar dinner.

The event will be held at Vibe Hotel Rushcutter's Bay on Friday 14 October.

Guests will be treated to a three course meal, wine, two cigars, and entertainment from Martin Taylor's Chiliean-themed band MAMBO.

Tickets are $145 each and can be booked by calling Norman Stein on 02 9235 0788 or online at http://www.bogarts.com.au/

Habanos announces first Ramon Allones Edicion Limitada

2011-09-26T13:54:00.005+10:00

EDICIÓN LIMITADA 2011

ALLONES EXTRA OF RAMÓN ALLONES

This came in from Habanos last week. I'm a huge fan of Ramon Allones expecially the Ramon Allones Specially Selected (RASS) robusto. It is one hell of a robusto that rivals the Cohiba Robusto as one of Habanos' best.

I'm not sure if I am a fan or not of the use of the historic band (see below), but it's nice to see Habanos mixing it up and keeping it fresh. I will have to see the band on the cigar and not in a photo before I make my mind up.

From Habanos:

This is the first time that Ramón Allones has an Edición Limitada. This Edición Limitada is characterized as well by the incorporation of a historic ring that was used in the past centuries of Ramón Allones, one of the oldest Habanos brands, which was created in 1837, and makes of this limited Edition an exclusive item.

Brand:Ramón Allones
Commercial name: Allones Extra
Factory name: Franciscos
Measures: 44 ring gauge (17, 46 mm) x 143 mm in the length)
Presentation: Labelled Box of 25 units

Baranows Lounge to host Australian launch of San Lotano Cigars

2011-09-20T15:21:00.003+10:00

Baranows Private Cigar Lounge will host the Australian launch of San Lotano cigars on Thursday 29 September.

San Lotano Cigars are made by A.J. Fernandez Cigars and Mr Clay Edwards, Vice-President of A.J. Fernandez Cigars Nicaragua, will be on hand to discuss his cigars. The event will include 3 San Lotano cigars, rum on arrival and finger food.

To book contact Baranows sooner rather than later.

Cigar Review: Perdomo Exhibicion Toro Grande Sun Grown

2011-09-19T20:42:00.007+10:00

Last month I reviewed the Perdomo Exhibicion Torpedo Maduro. In doing so I inadvertently re-named that cigar as the 'Jungle Curry' cigar. Local cigar aficionados jumped on the moniker and spread the word via Twitter and Facebook. At the time of writing, I wait patiently for Nick Perdomo to call and thank me personally for conjuring up such a remarkable brand identity.*

Alas I digress. The Toro Grande (6x54) Sun Grown offers none of the heat and spiciness I encountered in the Maduro, however it provides a subtle, easy-going smoke best suited to mid-morning. Of course the draw and burn are flawless - when I come across a Perdomo that doesn't draw well I'll be sure to let you know.

The first third begins with light spice and creaminess. After the Jungle Curry, I was expecting a similar type of smoke so I was pleasently surprised to be enjoying a lighter cigar. Kudos to Perdomo's master blenders.

The second third gives an extra hint of spice and black pepper, although a subtle burnt toast and light hay flavour comes to the fore. The final third increases in flavour minutely and doesn't have the crescendo I was waiting for, however on final assessment it is a great easy going smoke that doesn't challenge the palate. I'd pair it with a Earl Grey Tea or even a green tea. Coffee might be suitable but may drown out the subtle flavour changes.

* 'Inlumino's Jungle Curry' would make a great second cigar band don't you think? 'Don't call us we'll call you' comes to mind. :-)

Perdomo

Event Wrap: Baranows Emporium cigar and spirit tasting

2011-09-14T22:17:00.006+10:00

Last night La Bodeguita Del Medio, Sydney, hosted a Baranows Emporium Cigar, Rum, and Whisky tasting session as part of Australian Bartender Magazine's annual Bar Show Week.

Ben Baranow, pictured above, led 30 members of the liquor and bar trade through a tasting of Baranows Emporium's drinks portfolio. Ben provided a beautiful aged cigar, the Juan Lopez Seleccion No 2 from 1997, to match the whiskies and rums.

The event culminated in an exclusive tasting of the newest addition of the Diplomatico Rum range 'Ambassador Reserve', which will be available in Australia in October.

David Spanton, editor and publisher of Australian Bartender Magazine,

and producer of Bar Show Week.

Tatu Kaarlas, of rum and whiskey review site 'Refined Vices'

John Toubia and the Grasshopper Team

New cigars from Habanos SA

2011-09-13T13:50:00.000+10:00

Habanos SA has announced 2 news cigars, a 2011 Edicion Limitada and a La Casa Del Habano special release.

The Hoyo De Monterrey Short Hoyo Pyramids

Edicion Limitada 2011

The Ediciones Limitadas - Limited Editions- are characterised by their vitolas that do not appear in the usual range of the brand portfolio and are distinguished by a careful selection of their wrapper, filler and binder leaves which have been aged for a period of at least 2 years. The dark wrapper dressing these Habanos comes from the top leaves of the Tapado – shade grown black Cuban tobacco plant, another characteristic that identifies them.

The vitola selected in Hoyo de Monterrey in 2011 is: Short Hoyo Pirámides.

This vitola will be available in the market in just one presentation, a layer (SLB) box of 10 units.

Brand: Hoyo de Monterrey

Commercial name: Short Hoyo Pirámides

Factory name: Forum

Measures: 46 ring gauge (18, 26 mm) x 135 mm in the length

Presentation: 10 unit in one layer SLB Box

The H. Upmann Royal Robusto for La Casa Del Habano

Habanos s.a. is pleased to present the new H.Upmann Royal Robusto, an exclusive release aimed at La Casa del Habano franchise stores. The factory size selected for this special production is Edmundo (ring Gauge 52 x 135 mm in length).

Production is limited to only 5000 boxes containing 10 Royal Robustos.

Brand: H. Upmann

Commercial name: Royal Robusto

Factory name: Edmundo

Measure: Ring gauge 52 (21,43mm) x 135 mm. in length

Presentation: Labelled box of 10 units

Production: 5.000 boxes

Sydney Cigar Event - One Night in Chile

2011-09-07T11:45:00.005+10:00

Consul General of Chile, Mr Ignacio Concha will be the guest of honour at Bogart's next cigar event in Sydney.

A huge night of great food, wine, entertainment, and cigars awaits guests. The event will be ehld at Vibe Hotel Rushcutter's Bay on Friday 14 October. The night begins with cocktails at 7pm, with dinner commencing at 7.45.

Vinos Online are the wine sponsor of the night.

Guests will be treated to a three course meal, wine, two cigars, and entertainment from Martin Taylor's Chiliean-themed band MAMBO.

Tickets are $145 each and can be booked by calling Norman Stein on 02 9235 0788 or online at www.bogarts.com.au

Spitbucket crew launches 'Cigar Club'

2011-08-30T16:58:00.007+10:00

cigar enthusiast extraordinaire Elie Maalouly, one of the team behind new Aussie wine review site Spitbucket, has announced a new 'Cigar Club' venture which kicks-off with its first event next week.

It will be held next week on Tuesday, 6 of September at Fix St James, 99 Elizabeth Street, Sydney.

What you will get on the night:

2 cigars: Hoyo De Monterrey De Dolphin aged release 2001 and Vegas Robaina Don Alejandro Double Corona

Alcohol: Al-dente Wines is sponsoring the event. 5 different scotches will also be served on the night for guest to enjoy and match with the cigars.

Food: There will be food at the venue however THIS IS NOT part of the package. Guests can add an extra $15 for entrees or $30 for mains.

For more information and to book, RSVP to elie@spitbucket.com.au ASAP

Baranows announces cigar and wine event

2011-08-19T15:19:00.003+10:00

Baranows Cigars have been hosting some fantastic cigar events recently, each with a different theme. This week Baranows hosted a memorable Absinthe, Cigars and Burlesque dancing event. Not sure if I'd like to see Ben Baranow do Burlesque, however I'm informed there were professional burlesque dancers complementing Ben's moves.

On Tuesday 6 September Baranows welcomes Jane Mitchell, winemaker with Mitchell Wines from the Clare Valley for a night of great cigars and big reds. Details above.

Habanos announces newest Partagas available in August

2011-08-18T22:18:00.008+10:00

I love getting media releases from Habanos. The English translations of their Spanish media releases add a touch of 'puro' authenticity. Luckily anyone who speaks 'cigars' can quickly pick-up what is going on. Here's the low-down:

Partagás Serie E No 2 is the latest regular production cigar launched by Habanos S.A. and will be available around the world at the end of August.

The Serie E No.2 is the first time a 54 ring gauge cigar has been created in the brand and the packaging takes on slightly a new design (as you can see above).

Marca: Partagás
Vitola de Salida: Serie E No 2
Vitola de Galera: Duke
54 ring gauge x 140 mm in length

Cigar Review: Perdomo Exhibicion Torpedo maduro

2011-08-15T21:14:00.004+10:00

The Perdomo Exhibicion range launched at this year's IPCPR Trade Show

The new Perdomo Exhibicion Torpedo, is a monster of a cigar. Call it what you will, a pyramid or torpedo (I believe the two terms are interchangeable, as opposed to the 'belicoso' vitola) but this cigar is huge, coming in at 6 1/2 inches x 54 ring gauge. The Exhibicion line was launched by Perdomo at this year's IPCPR trade show and I am lucky enough to be one of the first in Australia to sample the maduro Torpedo, brought back by Jason Nelson of Perdomo Cigars Australia. The full Exhibicion line should land in Australia very soon.

The pre-light draw was perfect and showed good flavour. A rum-n-raisin, chocolate ice-cream taste was evident and proved to continue once the cigar was lit.

The first few puffs were filled with intense spice on the palate and nearly knoecked me over. Not just a normal cigar spiciness, it was like I was eating a jungle curry from the House of Flames Thai restaurant* down the road. I love a hot curry and found the cigar very interesting from this point forward.

For those who aren't fans of uber spicy cigars, don't let this put you off as after 5 or so puffs, the intense heat dissipated and a superb toasted fruit and nut profile carries its course through the first third.

The second third eases into a milk coffee profile, leaving just a slight tingle of spice on the palate, and to conclude the toasted fruit and nut profile returns. I don't know what tobacco blend Nick Perdomo has put into the first centimetre of this cigar but it immediately captures your attention. For those that persevere, a full-bodied delight awaits.

From Perdomo:
"Perdomo Exhibition is a testament to Tabacalera Perdomo's dedication to the art of blending factory aged tobacco into premium hand-made cigars. The Perdomo Exhibition blends include a mild to medium Connecticut, a medium to full Sun Grown and a full bodied Maduro"

Other Sizes:

Double Robusto: 5 x 54
Toro Grande: 6 x 54
Churchill: 7 x 54

*I made that up.

Harder to light up a Havana - Pg 4, Financial Review, Weekend Edition

2011-08-07T14:01:00.005+10:00

This weekend's edtion of the Financial Review published Emma Connors' piece 'Harder to light up a Havana'. To both Emma and the Fin Review's credit, the issue of how the Federal Government's proposed plain pacakaging legislation will affect both retailers and importers was handled very fairly.

For an article dealing with the ever-touchy subject of tobacco, the piece was refeshingly free of sensationalism and gave all parties a platform to share what the impacts will be. In essence it was a 'good' piece.

As the link above requires a subscription to the AFR's online site to read it, I will quickly summarise the points below. Most of these are nothing new to Australian cigar lovers keeping an eye on the issue.

- Habanos SA cannot comply with plain packaging of cigars for such a small market such as Australia.

- The internet will become the only option for cigar enthusiasts wishing to buy cigars.

- Multi-national cigarette manufacturer's can easily adapt to plain packaging.

- Dag Holmboe, CEO of Pacific Cigar Company, who I've interviewed for Cigar Journal magazine and met on several occasions is quoted as saying: "People will be able to buy them online but those cigars won't have any health warnings and the government won't collect any tax."

- Tony Garcia, who I also interviewed for Cigar Journal in 2007 as part of a story on South Africa's cigar culture, before he took up his current Australian post with Scandinavian Tobacco Group, said: "There is absolutely no demand by under 18s for premium hand-rolled cigars. It is a non-issue."

- Norman Stein of Bogart's House of Fine Cigars said: "the legislation spells disaster for premium cigars."

My Comments:
The threat of non-compliance to plain packaging made by Habanos SA is real. The Aussie cigar market is miniscule compared to those of Asia, Europe and the Americas. With a multitude of box sizes, packaging styles and tubos, specifically catering to Australia's requirements is not viable.

Should this legislation come into force, as Dag Holmboe points out, Australian cigar lovers will increasingly head to the internet to purchase cigars. I use the word 'increasingly' because for many Australian cigar lovers, the lure of price and service available online from overseas operators already makes the decision an easy one.

As Mr Holmboe points out, these cigars come without the government's current mandated health warnings attached and most packages skip through customs, thus evading tobacco excise and the government missing out on their cut.

The Australian Government (or Brown-Gillard government as @StephenCena recently called them on twitter) is stuck between a rock and a hard place:

Strict plain packaging will severely disrupt the flow of cigars through authorised distributors into Austalia, adding a further cost burden.

Online sales to overseas operators will increase to the detriment of Australian retailers already doing it tough (I'm sure you've all heard parts of the recent Productivity Commission's report into the retail sector in the media).

Cigars bought online don't carry health warnings and the government misses out on the excise.

Surely the government, wanting to keep their hands in the pie and ensure small businesses in Australia survive these tough times must discriminate between cigarettes and premium hand-rolled cigars in the legislation.

I'm sure if Julia Gillard or Nicola Roxon asked any cigar enthuasist (or asked Joe Hockey across parliament's floor, who is, I'm told, a fan of cigars) what influence packaging played in choosing a cigar, the answer would by 'very little'.

Sure, I personally love a nice looking cigar box, not to mention the cigar art adorning the boxes - much of which goes back three centuries. But at the end of the day I want to try different cigars, all of which, besides a small band, already come in the plainest packaging of all: pure, unadulterated, premium cigar-wrapper tobacco leaf.

Cigar loving Art Gallery Director Edmund Capon announces retirement.

2011-08-03T22:16:00.003+10:00

This morning the Sydney Morning Herald reported that Edmund Capon will be stepping down from his post as Director of the NSW Art Gallery later this year.

What may not be known by most is that Edmund is an almost unrivalled cigar enthusiast, enjoying a fine cigar on a daily basis.

Earlier today the Art Gallery (@ArtGalleryofNSW) tweeted: Wondering what the new job ad will read: 'seeking quirky and irreverent art scholar for harbourside appointment. Must love cigars'.

It is pleasing to see that such a public figure makes no excuses for his love of cigars. We wish Mr Capon a long and well-earned retirement with plenty of time to indulge in his passion further!

The Early Early Morning News

2011-07-29T05:57:00.005+10:00

A 5 week-old and a 2 year-old adjusting to life with the 5 week-old makes for fun times and a severe lack of sleep in my household at the moment. As you can judge by the time stamp on this post, I'm wide awake and typing away when BC (Before Children...and yes it is an accurate historical reference) I'd be enjoying my last hour of sleep.

No breaking news this morning folks, this post is just a general update with news from the Aussie cigar scene.

2 Blogs to follow:

Aussie Cigars

If you haven't already checked out Aussie Cigars then I suggest you start following what Mark Thompson has created. Mark is updating his blog with global and local cigar news as well as writing some killer reviews and publishing his own Cigar Notes journal. He is also doing a great job in covering Melbourne events and has also organised his own herf at Siglo for this Saturday night.

Check out: http://aussiecigars.com/

and follow Mark on Twitter: @AussieCigar

Finger Burner

Jonathan Woods has just created his own cigar review site Finger Burner. Also from Victoria, Jonathan is just getting started, but his reviews are entertaining and I suggest you check his work out. Congratulations are also due to the Woods family - like me, Jonathan and his wife has just welcomed a new bub into the world.

Have a squiz at http://www.fingerburner.com/

and follow Jonathan on twitter: @woodsontuba and @fingerburner

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Bogart's Cigar Event Sydney

Norman Stein recently advised via email that the Bogart's team will be hosting the first of his spring cigar events on Friday 14 October. I popped into Bogart's this week and had a chat to Norman and Pauline. The Chilean Consul General, a cigar enthusiast through and through, will be guest of honour at the next event. Stay tuned for more details.

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La Bodeguita Del Medio, Sydney

La Bodeguita del Medio held their launch party earlier this month and what a night it was. Shares in Havana Club would have been a good earner that night wih the amount of Mojitos moving across the bar. Romeo y Julieta No 3s were presented on the night, turning the cigar balcony into the hottset place to be. Standing room only ensured new friends were made very easily - great cigars and mojitos didn't hurt either.

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Quay Restaurant

On Wednesday this week I dined at Quay restaurant (for a restaurant like Quay you HAVE to say 'dined' as it was far more than just eating). It was an outstanding meal made even more staisfying when I glanced at the back page of the menu to see a selection of cigars on offer. It is fantastic to see that a gatronomic powerhouse such as Quay appreciates the pleasures of premium cigars as much as they do premium food, wine and liquor.

Unfortunately they labelled the Cohiba Siglo VI as a 'straight pyramid' rather than the 'Canonazo' or 'Robusto Extra'. Some may scoff at a small mistake and wonder why I'm being pedantic, but I wonder is such errors would be found or tolerated in their wine list?

Enjoy your weekend. The sun is just popping over the horizon.

Cigar Review: Juan Lopez Seleccion No. 4, 2010 Asia-Pac Regional Edition

2011-07-06T12:55:00.004+10:00

The Juan Lopez Seleccion No. 4, the Asia-Pacific Regional Edition for 2010 from Habanos SA is a great young cigar.

The pre-light draw showed hints of iced coffee, but it was only upon lighting up the pyramid-shaped cigar that it truly demonstrated what a great cigar it is. The first third began with a full, rich, dried-fruit flavour and hints of pepper. The middle of the cigar continue with dried fruit flavours, however the pepper, evident at the start begins to disappear. Starting in a flurry of action, the medium-bodied Juan Lopez then mellows out in the last third, providing a lovely finish to a very staisfying cigar.

From Pacific Cigar Company:

Since 2006, Habanos SA has been making the Asia Pacific Regional Edition Cigars at the request of the Pacific Cigar Company. Every year, two Regional Edition cigars are made and released onto the Asia Pacific market.

For 2010, the 2 Regional Edition cigars are: Juan Lopez Seleccion No.4 and Por Larranaga Encantos.

The Juan Lopez brand was established in 1876 in Havana and the cigars are made of fine tobacco leaves from Vuelta Abajo. One of the true Habanos brands, Juan Lopez cigars are now hand-made made in small quantities. Juan Lopez cigars give a pleasing woody flavour and a delicate herbal aftertaste. The tobacco blend is considered mild by Cuban standards.

Presented in 'Piramides' format, this Seleccion No. 4 from Juan Lopez has a ring gauge of 52 with a 156mm length. Available in box of 25 sticks, this shape and size of cigar is not regularly produced found in the Juan Lopez portfolio. This unique size is specially produced by Habanos SA for Asia Pacific smokers.

Perdomo Cigars Australia opens Lounge

2011-07-04T11:47:00.006+10:00

Perdomo Cigars Australia Marketing Manager Cameron Reilly (left) and General Manager Jason Nelson (right) enjoying Perdomo cigars in their custom-built lounge.

Brisbane-based Perdomo Cigars Australia has recently launched the Perdomo Lounge.

"Having a cigar lounge has been a goal of ours for several years," says Jason Nelson, General Manager of Perdomo Cigars Australia. "After several frustrating attempts to secure a venue, we decided to build our own."

The new Perdomo Lounge is situated inside a spacious, luxurious, outdoor pergola, built by Suave Outdoor Living, one of Nelson's other businesses. Clients can relax with a Perdomo cigar in plush cane chairs, while outdoor fires take the edge off the mild sub- tropical winter chill during the evening. The lounge is connected to Perdomo's walk-in humidor retail store, so guests can either bring their own cigars or purchase one when they arrive. Perdomo’s Lot 23, Patriarch, and Grand Cru lines are proving popular amongst clientele

Although only launching in May 2011, the lounge has already become a destination point for many of Brisbane's cigar aficionados, using it to relax after work, or even as a luxury airport lounge.

"As we are located only five minutes from Brisbane International airport, and ten minutes from the city, we get several clients who stop here for a cigar on their way to catch a flight," notes Jason. He says the vision for the lounge is to provide a sophisticated, comfortable and semi-private alternative for cigar lovers who are looking for somewhere to enjoy a cigar with clients, colleagues, or friends.

“Over the next couple of years, the plan is to extend the lounge to accommodate more patrons, ideally including a more traditional indoor smoking area,” says Jason. "We're hoping that a change in government will bring with it a more pragmatic view of cigar lounges, similar to what we have seen happen recently in Europe and the United States. While none of us want to smoke cigars in public space, people should have the right to enjoy a cigar in a dedicated cigar lounge."

The return of Dona Flor

2011-06-29T10:04:00.007+10:00

Bogart's is pleased to announce the return of Dona Flor cigars to Australia. After going missing in action after a distribution problem, Norman Stein is very happy to be stocking the range of Brazilian puros again.

For those of you wanting to learn more about the history of Dona Flor and its creator's family links to Cuba, please find an excerpt of a story I wrote for Cigar Journal and published in 2008 below. I have included a link to the full story at the end of this post.

Arturo Toraño (left) and Felix Menendez admire the Menendez Amerino Mata Fina tobacco crop.

Brazil’s Recôncavo region of Bahia produces the country’s finest Mata Fina and Mata Norte tobacco. I discussed the merits of Brazilian tobacco and hand-made ‘feito a mão’ Brazilian puros with a man who should know: Felix Menendez.

Felix Menendez’s involvement with Brazilian tobacco stretches back 30 years, but it is with Cuban tobacco that he learnt his trade from a young age. Son of famed Cuban cigar producer Alonso Menendez Garcia, who owned the Montecristo and H. Upmann cigar brands with his brothers and Jose M. Garcia before Castro’s revolution, Felix is a now forging a new cigar-making legacy. “I have been involved with premium cigars and tobacco since before I can remember,” he mentions before recalling his early years.

Born in Havana in 1944, he began working in the family’s factories at the age of 13. Three years later the family, having lost their business, would flee Cuba heading first to Spain then to the Canary Islands. Here, Felix’s father again set up his business, sourcing tobacco from relatives who had also left Cuba - the Toraños. “When we were in the Canary Islands we used to buy tobacco from Carlos Toraño Senior. With the Toraños we have a good family relation.” The Amerino family, who have grown tobacco in Brazil since the beginning of the 20th Century, also supplied leaf for the new venture. It was here that Felix and older brother Benjamin were introduced to the Brazilian Mata Fina tobacco variety. Moving to Brazil in the 1970s, the Menendez brothers established ‘Menendez Amerino & Cia.’ with the Amerinos who are today represented by Mario Amerino da Silva Portugal.

The Menendez Amerino Group produces hand made cigars under three brands: Alonso Menendez, Dona Flor and Aquarius, all of which are Brazilian puros. Felix notes Dona Flor as being the more fuller-bodied cigar with Alonso Menendez and Aquarius less so. Each is an expert blend of Mata Fina and Mata Norte tobaccos, grown in the tropical Bahian region of Recôncavo. Cigars are rolled at nearby factories in São Gonçalo dos Campos, located north-west of capital city Salvador.

Felix Menendez continues his family’s cigar history, albeit in a different country to which he began with his father in Cuba. And what of Alonso Menendez’s impact on his son? “I have tremendous respect for my father as a person and as a tobacco man. I’m only too sorry that I was only 21 when he passed away. I would have liked to have learnt more from him.”

Read the full story of Menendez Amerino Cigars here.

Restaurant Review: La Bodeguita del Medio Sydney

2011-06-20T17:17:00.010+10:00

This is well and truly a first for this blog. I have never published a restaurant review here, but when the restaurant is new Cuban offering La Bodeguita del Medio, which besides offering great food also offers equally great rum and cigars, I guess there is always going to be a first for everything.

Ben Baranow of Baranows Emporium was in town last week spruiking his premium liquor wares to bars all around town so it was a great chance to catch-up and also try LBDM’s dinner menu. A San Cristobal La Punta and Mojito before dinner didn’t go astray either.

For starters, Ben and I shared two ‘comestibles’ (sounds rather intimate for two married blokes doesn’t it?); the Pan con Lechon ($18) aka pork sandwich, and the Ropa Vieja ($24), a tomato and yoghurt braised lamb neck, with Cuban rice and black bean vinaigrette. The Pan con Lechon is much, much more than a simple sandwich. It is a tangy excursion into the taste of Havana via Miami. The lamb neck is mouth-watering and breaks apart easily – in our most civilised manner, Ben and I share turns scraping the black bean vinaigrette remains from the bowl and mixing it with the rice. The only downside thus far: The rectangular entree plates are impossibly small for dishing (or is that ‘plating’) shared food. Rice and beans end up on the table despite our best efforts.

The Ropa Vieja (left) and Pan con Lechon (right)

For mains I go with the Pato con Chocolate ($36) which sounds like an odd combination of duck breast, sweet potato and spinach croquants and chocolate sauce, but tastes magnificent. General Manager Tony Maia informs me afterwards that it is currently executive chef Danny Parreno’s best seller.

Ben goes for the Codillo de cerdo con naranja ($32), which despite his love of pork hock (and best efforts) he can’t finish. Both mains, thankfully, are served on suitably sized plates! Our amateur palates guess the side order of black beans, Frijoles Negros ($8), are flavoured with nutmeg, making them a refreshing approach to the classic South American staple.

We leave the table with full bellies and before heading out to the cigar balcony for more Mojitos and two 1997 Vegas Robaina Unicos Ben has brought with him, we scribble our celebratory messages on the wall.

La Bodeguita del Medio
125 York Street, Sydney
Ph. 02 9264 4224
www.lbdm.com.au
twitter: @labodoz

'Cigar Notes' Cigar Review: Ramon Allones LCDH 2010 - Allones Superiores

2011-06-03T14:53:00.007+10:00

Apologies readers, not a whole lot of posting for a month or so. But lets get back into it.

On Wednesday evening I enjoyed the Ramon Allones La Casa Del Habano 2010 release, the 'Allones Superiores' corona gorda. I reviewed it using Mark Thompson's 'Cigar Notes' reviewing method. If you are unfamiliar with Mark's blog I suggest you check it out.

Mark's blog provides cigar reviews and news from the wide world of cigars. He self-published his own cigar journal 'Cigar Notes' and kindly agreed to me using his review template and include an image below. Cigar Notes is a bound, 26 cigar review template notebook and includes a list of commonly noted flavours if you get stuck. Mark published Cigar Notes independently and is offering it for free for a limited time so drop Mark a line if you are keen on getting a copy. Be quick though, as there may not be any left.

If you're on twitter give Mark a follow: @aussiecigar

The Review:
The outline below tells the tale of cigar that offers some basic flavours, but will need a few more years in the humi. 1-3 in the first section is 3=Excellent, 1=Poor.

click on the image for an enlarged version

La Bodeguita del Medio opens its doors in Sydney

2011-04-28T21:43:00.011+10:00

Most will never get the chance to enjoy a mojito in Ernest Hemingway’s favourite Havana bar, La Bodeguita del Medio. Those who want to experience the next best thing get their chance next week as the La Bodeguita franchise opens its doors in Sydney.

The Venue

Tony Maia, LBDM’s venue manager says, “La Bodeguita is something Sydney has never seen. There is nothing like it in Australia. Guests can expect everything from great food, wine and rum, Cuban music, dancing, and cigars.”
LBDM’s layout allows guests to stroll downstairs to the bar for a drink and a bite to eat while enjoying live Cuban music, head upstairs to the restaurant and walk-in humidor, or breeze straight through to the cigar balcony at the rear of the building.

The Food

With extensive time spent in Melbourne kitchens, Executive Chef Danny Parreno comes to LBDM from his latest stint in Miami, bringing with him a boat-load of South and Central American cuisine experience. ‘Ropa Vieja’ is one of Danny’s favourite dishes that he urges guests to try.

The Rum

“Every night is rum appreciation night,” proclaims Bar Manager James Carlin, who has 102 rums at his disposal, with more on the way. “Most of our selection can’t be found anywhere else in Australia,” he says. Many of the Cuban rums have been sourced from a German outfit who deal directly with Cuba. His charges behind the bar knock out a great mojito and plenty of other classic Cuban cocktails.

James’ favourites are the Admiral Rodney XO from St Lucia, Doorley’s XO from Barbados, and the El Dorado 12yo from Guyana. Tasting sets will allow rum lovers to try different rums from across the Caribbean.

The Cigars

Sydney’s cigar cognoscenti will be blown away by LBDM’s walk-in Humidor. The LBDM team, all avid cigar smokers have ensured a wide variety of Cuban cigars are on offer. A box of Cohiba Behike 54 casually sits amidst boxes of Montecristo, Trinidad and Hoyo De Monterrey. Pacific Cigar Co will be assisting with cigar events later in the year.

The Balcony

The balcony, still undergoing final adjustments, comfortably caters to 30 people. Overlooking the laneway below, the tucked-away location exudes a classic NYC/La Habana Vieja inner-city grittiness. An emergency fire escape ladder is off to one side, while shutters and raw brickwork adds to the balcony's old Havana charm, making it the perfect metropolitan escape.

I was the first to enjoy a rum and cigar on the balcony. I am pretty sure I won’t be the last.

Get to La Bodeguita and support Sydney’s newest cigar/rum/good-times venue!
125 York Street, Sydney
Ph. 02 9264 4224
www.lbdm.com.au
twitter: @labodoz

Cigar Review: Por Larranaga Encantos - 2010 Regional Edition

2011-04-26T07:42:00.006+10:00

Cigar Review: Por Larranaga Encantos - the 2010 Habanos SA Asia-Pacific Regional Edition

To begin with, let me just say I love the shape of the Encantos (43 x 170mm/6.7"). The Lonsdale shape handles well and fits well in the hand. The cigar had a mildly tight draw that was concerning, but just like my previous review of the Perdomo Cuban Bullet, the tight draw experienced pre-light disappeared upon lighting it up.

There was a sweet start to begin with and a slightly salty finish ensued for the first few puffs. The sweet notes disappeared half-way into the first third, and the Encantos then showed classic 'hay' flavours.

In the second third there were intensifying hints of white pepper, while more evident was a certain ocean spray/saltiness on being tasted. This 'Ocean Spray' as I like to call it, which one may experience when walking along the beach, reminded me of the Cohiba Behike 52.

The intensity lifts in the final third with more salt and pepper on the nose. The smoke, which was quite whispy to begin with, thickens and fills the palate with each draw. A very enjoyable medium-bodied cigar and one I'd easily come back to in the future. It would go down a treat with some salt and pepper squid a a glass of Chardonnay or Riesling.

From Pacific Cigar Company:
Por Larranaga Encantos, a cigar of the Dalias shape with a girth of 43 and a length of 170mm, is a 2010 Regional Edition cigar made by Habanos S.A. for Asia Pacific smokers at the request of The Pacific Cigar Company. This size & shape resembles the Ramon Allones 8-9-8 that was discontinued by Habanos S.A. some years ago.

Available in all leading cigar stores in Asia, this is a never-made before size in the Por Larranaga brand. Bearing the brand characteristic taste of subtle herbal sweetness tingle with slight spice, pepper and earthiness, it has a mid to full body with slight creaminess. This is a well-constructed cigar for savoring now. As with all Habanos it is also a cigar with aging potential.

Specifications:
Cigar & Brand : Por Larranaga Encanto.
Cigar Shape : Dalias.
Cigar Size : 43 ring gauge & 170mm length.

This is also the 300th post to this blog. A big thank you to everyone who has passionately supported my endeavours since 2006. "We've come a long way baby!

Cigar Review: Perdomo Cuban Bullet

2011-04-20T08:33:00.005+10:00

I smoked the Perdomo Cuban Bullet Toro (6x50, 'natural' wrapper) yesterday and was pretty impressed. It was a consistent smoke offering easy going flavours.

After clipping the Perdomo the pre-light draw was quite tight and I was a little bit concerned. This concern was allayed after ligting it which was a great result. Pre-light there was a some sweetness in the draw with roasted coffee bean flavours.

The cigar begins with plent of soft spice at the start and delivers a long finish after each puff - hints of white pepper are tasted at the back of the palate. The burn is great and the cigar provides plenty of thick smoke.

Towards the end of the first third, a roasted nut and slight honey flavour develops and this takes charge throughout the rest of the cigar. It is a smooth and soft smoke. The final nub produces a nice hit of white pepper to give the cigar a kick in its dying stages. A nice finish!

The Toro natural is a smooth, easy-going, medium-bodied cigar. I love the cross-hair imagery used on the band and box, and it reminds me of Hip Hop group Public Enemy's logo. The cigar's imagery provides perfect ammunition for a Cuban emigre in Miami, puffing away on a lazy Sunday afternoon while entertaining thoughts of a bullet for a certain political leader. Whatever your state of mind is I'm sure the effect will be the same - this Cuban Bullet easily killed-off the rest of my afternoon; it was hard to resist a lazy afternoon away from the laptop.

Cigar Friendly Venues in Sydney, Australia

2011-04-11T14:34:00.005+10:00

Two more Sydney venues have put their hands up as being Cigar Friendly, while I was reminded of another this past week.

The Grasshopper

John Toubia, one of the team at Sydney laneway bar The Grasshopper was at Bogart's cigar event a few weeks back and mentioned that their small outdoor area is cigar friendly and the team is keen on hosting their own cigar events. Jump on their emailing list to say up to date with any cigar events coming up! Don't walk past by mistake - the bar is located in Temperance Lane off George Street!

Coast Restaurant Rooftop Bar

Via Twitter, I recently got in touch with Coast Restaurant at Cockle Bay Wharf. Coast's Roof Top Bar is cigar friendly and looks west across to a well-known Sydney cigar fiendly institution, Cohibar.

Ivy

I was at Ivy during the week for a whisky tasting session with Drinks Trade magazine and forgot about this lovely spot for a cigar that is well-protected from the elements. That little space on the second level between 'The Lawn' and 'The Den' is perfect for a cigar. So much so I did indulge in a Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 after the whisky tasting session.

More cigar friendly venues in Sydney and other Australian cities are linked to in the menu on the right of your screen.

Cheers and Enjoy!

Bogart's event and Macanudo Vintage 2000 cigar review

2011-04-05T19:46:00.007+10:00

Just over a week ago, members of Sydney's cigar community gathered for Norman Stein's most recent Bogart's cigar event at Ottoman Restaurant. It was a great evening that offered guests the chance to savour the Macanudo Vintage 2000 Toro, Pyrat XO rum supplied by SouthTrade International, and update their tango skills.

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Macanudo Vintage 2000 Cigar Review

The Vintage 2000 Toro offered to guests at Bogart's Sydney event is definitely one to savour. I kept mine to enjoy at a later date and it proved to be impressive. It offered a light raisin toast flavour, and the Yering Station 2006 chardonnay complemented it perfectly adding a smattering of classic chardonnay 'butteriness' to my 'raisin toast' cigar.

There was no pepper or heavy spice to contend with and it was overall a very delicate, refined cigar. The Vintage 2000 is a medium-bodied cigar and is definitely not one to rush through. It is DEFINITELY not a cigar to take with you on a big night out with the boys to puff on after a few too many beers. Instead its light fragrance suits quiet conversations with some Nina Simone playing in the background (or other suitably qualified soul musician) .

The second half of the cigar had some spice creeping in, but nothing too strong to replace the light fruit flavours. The Macanudo is up there with some of the finer, light-bodied Davidoffs.

A finger-burner.

2010 Asia-Pacific Regional Edition - Por Larranaga Encantos

2011-03-22T20:09:00.003+11:00

For those of you thinking 'hey it is 2011 not 2010', relax a moment. The Por Larranaga Encanto is the 2010 Regional Edition of the Asia-Pacific but a late production schedule has meant that they have only been released this side of January 1st.

The Encantos, crafted in the 'Dalias' format 43x170mm, was made by Habanos S.A. for the Asia Pacific market at the request of The Pacific Cigar Company, the Dalias size resembles the Ramon Allones 8-9-8 cigar that was discontinued by Habanos S.A. a few years ago.

Available in all leading cigar stores in the Asia-Pacific region, this is a never-made before size in the Por Larranage brand. Being a reginal edition it has been made in limited quantities (4000 boxes) and packaged in boxes of 25 sticks.

'The Perfectionist' - European Cigar Journal feature on Perdomo Cigars

2011-03-17T09:19:00.005+11:00

The latest cover story from European Cigar Journal, is now up on my website.

'The Perfectionist', written by ECJ editor Reinhold Widmayer with a small inclusion from me, tells the story of Nick Perdomo Jr and his focus on quality and perfection.

You can read it here. Remember, European Cigar Journal is published in German and English, so just scroll through the story until you reach the English version. Unless you would like to work on your German.

Cheers
Sam

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'A taste of Nicaragua Down Under' - Perdomo Cigars Australia

2011-03-12T13:28:00.004+11:00

In the 1st edition of European Cigar Journal for 2011, Nick Perdomo Jr and his Nicaraguan Perdomo Cigars operation are featured. ECJ's Editor asked me to contribute a short piece on The Perdomo Cigars' Australian operation for his story. 'The Perfectionist', the full length feature on Nick Perdomo Jr and Perdomo Cigars Australia will be up on my website shortly, however I thought I'd share my piece on the blog.

A taste of Nicaragua Down Under: Perdomo Cigars Australia

Samuel Spurr discusses Perdomo cigars with Jason Nelson and Cameron Reilly, the dynamic duo behind Perdomo Cigars Australia.

When a well-known Sydney stockbroking identity died in 2005, his vast collection of Perdomo cigars was sold at auction. Jason Nelson’s local cigar retailer bought some and suggested that Jason try them. After smoking nothing but Cuban cigars for 10 years, Jason found them to be the smoothest, most consistent cigars he’d ever had - so much so, he bought the rest of the retailer’s stock. A year or so later, Jason visited the retailer again only to be told that they were all gone and that nobody was importing them into Australia.

“I immediately called Perdomo headquarters in Miami to find out how I could get my hands on more,” recalls Jason. “They put me onto their Asia-Pacific distributor based in Thailand and I negotiated the rights to be the exclusive distributor of Perdomo Cigars in Australia.”

The privilege and the challenge
Bringing new cigars into one of the world’s smallest and most regulated tobacco markets is no easy feat. Jason had to introduce a relatively unknown cigar and do so with prohibitive advertising and marketing channels. “Unlike the USA, Australian cigar aficionados can easily get their hands on Cuban cigars, so many haven't tried a variety of non-Cubans,” says Jason. “However we've found that fairly easy to fix by simply letting Aussie cigar fans try a Perdomo - most that do are hooked.”

Jason’s only difficulty when introducing the brand to Australia was dealing with the extremely prohibitive regulatory environment. “The government lumps all smokers into the same category, even though cigar enthusiasts are in a completely different demographic to cigarette smokers,” Jason disdainfully notes.

Growing the business
In early 2010, one of Australia's digital pioneers, Cameron Reilly, joined the team. Since then they have implemented a variety of digital marketing initiatives which have helped sales grow 150% over the last year. “We completely revamped the Perdomo Cigars Australia website,” states Cameron. “Building it from the ground-up, the new site contains customer reviews and ‘PerdomoVision’, a regular video podcast featuring Perdomo clients. Two secondary sites designed to further strengthen the Australian cigar community have also been launched. ‘Cigars Australia’, is a general forum for Australian cigar aficionados, and ‘Cigar Talk’, is a regular video podcast for people to talk about cigars in general.

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Pyrat XO Rum to feature at Bogart's Cigar Event

2011-03-09T22:26:00.002+11:00

In case you needed any extra incentive to get along to Bogart's first cigar event of the year on 25 March, here it is:

SouthTrade Intl will be featuring Pyrat XO Rum (pronounced 'pirate') on the night. Bottled by the Anguilla rum company Pyrat is part of the Patron family of spirits.

Get in touch with Norman Stein at Bogart's to grab a ticket or two to this event being held at Ottoman Cuisine on Hickson Road.

The harbourside location for this event was a hit last year and with plenty of covered outdoor space it is a great place to enjoy cigars.

Cigar review: Perdomo Lot 23 Punta Gorda Connecticut

2011-03-08T20:26:00.005+11:00

The Perdomo Lot 23 Punta Gorda (5x60) is a good-sized, light to medium-bodied cigar. I enjoyed this cigar after dinner, however I suggest it is better suited as a mid-morning cigar.

Background:
The Perdomo Lot 23 cigars’ fillers and binders are grown exclusively on the same plot of land on one of Perdomo's most prestigious farms in Estelí, Nicaragua. Nicholas Perdomo, Sr. pioneered the Perdomo Lot 23 project in 2000 as he and son Nick Jr. cleared an untouched plot of land near their factory. The virgin land was so fertile that it provided the incredible tobacco for Perdomo Lot 23 and a line that could carry on the Perdomo family commitment to excellence.

The Review:
From experience with other Perdomo's I didn't clip too much of the tapered head ensuring the pre-light draw was perfect. Upon lighting it up, the first third offered smooth flavours of cinnamon and fruit loaf. There was an underlying sweetness but on the whole it was well-balanced to begin with.

The Punta Gorda was going well until about half way through the second third when it seemed to slowly lose some of its sweetness and quite abruptly fell flat. There was nothing too exciting about this middle part of the cigar, but to its credit it came back to life in the final third. The prevailing sweetness of the first third turned into a mild black pepper taste and the cigar's smoke became a lot creamier on the palate.

As mentioned before, this Lot 23 is fit for a mid-morning break and its relatively short smoking time makes it all the more fitting for that time of day.

illegal tobacco imports

2011-03-02T21:01:00.004+11:00

Today Dynamic Business.com.au ran a story on how illegal tobacco imports are hurting Australian small businesses and increasing the illicit tobacco trade (not to mention denying the Australian government of much valued excise). Now I don't like to mix stories about premium cigars with cigarettes, let alone the dodgy importation of chop chop, but the article once again raised issues that lovers of premium cigars will eventually have to contend with as all tobacco products continue to be lumped together.

From Dynamic Business.com.au:
Between the big grocery suppliers and illegal tobacco sellers, small, legitimate cigarette and tobacco outlets, such as corner shops and convenience stores, are feeling the pinch. Following the release of a report* by Deloitt that reveals the illicit tobacco market has more than doubled over the past four years, the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) is calling for an immediate review of the regulations surrounding the sale of tobacco in Australia.

“The illicit tobacco market now makes up 15.9% of the legal tobacco market in Australia and is estimated to cost the Australian government $1.126 billion in lost revenue annually,” said AACS Executive Director Sheryle Moon. “Government policy aimed at reducing the number of smokers in our community is having some success, but our research highlights that while tobacco sales have dropped by 10% in convenience stories, tobacco sales have increased by 8.5% in major grocery stores and there is no question that the illegal trade is growing.

This evening Channel 9's A Current Affair's story 'Under Attack' went one step further, linking recent tobacco excise increases with an increase in illegal chop chop making its way onto the market (ie Duty not Paid).

Both stories didn't even mention premium cigars but current and future legislation will no doubt impact Australian cigar aficionados. I'm tired of having all tobacco products lumped together. If the Australian wine industry was lumped in with the RTD/Alco-Pops tax increase of a few years ago we sure would be hearing about it!

Watch the 'Under Attack' video here.

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XIII Habanos Festival, 2011 - What? You're not there either?

2011-02-22T14:47:00.005+11:00

If, like me, you are not in Cuba this week for the 13th Habanos Festival, here is what we are missing out on:

Courtesy of our man in Havana:

Havana, 21st February, 2011- The XIII Habanos Festival celebrates this year its XIII edition and will be hold between the 21st and the 25th of February, 2011 in Havana (Cuba). More than 1500 aficionados from more than 80 countries will have the opportunity to attend the most important event in the world of tobacco to exclusively enjoy the new products that Habanos s.a. will launch to the market in 2011.

During the XIII Habanos Festival, Habanos s.a. will present the new Montecristo No. 2 Gran Reserva Cosecha 2005, the first Gran Reserva of the brand with a limited and exclusive production which could be tasted during the Gala Dinner, culmination of the Festival and that will be hold on Friday, 25th of February. Its special features will be announced during the week.

On Monday 21 February at the Welcome Night, Festival goers will enjoy an exclusive concert by Leo Brouwer, Cuban composer, renowned musician and awarded with the Grammy Latino 2010, at the Gran Teatro de La Habana. Afterwards they can taste two new launches of Partagás, which for this edition enrich their Series with the addition of the Serie E, presented with the Vitola Serie E No. 2, and extends its Serie D with the introduction of the new Serie D No. 5.

On Wednesday February 23 there will be the H. Upmann Night where it can be taste the new Vitola H. Upmann Half Corona, an accessible format, designed to enjoy the cigar at any time and for those who come to the Habano for the first time.

THE FIRST GRAN RESERVA MONTECRISTO AND THE NEW SERIE E OF PARTAGÁS WILL BE PRESENTED DURING THE XIII HABANOS FESTIVAL

• The new Montecristo No. 2 Gran Reserva Cosecha 2005, with a limited production of 5000 numbered boxes, will be the most exclusive launch of this XIII edition.

• In addition to the new Serie E of Partagas, a new vitola in the mythic Serie D and the new Vitola Half Corona of H. Upmann comprise the major releases that Habanos s.a. will present during the Festival.

• Corporación Habanos s.a. returned to growth in 2010, up 2% in its turnover to reach $ 368 million.

Activities program

This year, among others, foreign and Cuban personalities will be present at the Habanos Festival such as the great Cuban artist Omara Portuondo and actor Jorge Perugorría. Furthermore, we will be honored by the presence of the Cuban maestro Leo Brouwer, Founder and Director Emeritus of the Orquesta Filarmónica de Córdoba, who has received the Latin Grammy 2010, and who will hold a spectacular concert during the Welcome Night together with his guests; Edin Karamazov, one of the most important lutenists in the world, who has recorded several music tracks with Sting, and José Manuel Hierro, a guitarist from Córdoba, recipient of two Spanish National Awards for guitar, among many other acknowledgments. Musician Pancho Amat, just awarded with Cuba´s national prize, will be the star guiding the H. Upmann night on Wednesday 23 of February.

Throughout the week will be hold the Trade Fair, the International Seminar and the traditional visits to plantations and factories, in order to know the process of making a Habano. This year we will visit the Real Fábrica de Tabacos de Partagas created in 1845, the most emblematic for its location and tradition, which will soon be restored so that it is one of the last chances to visit it before that process.

The Habanos Festival continues the tradition of associating the Habanos brand with excellent products, so this year it will celebrate the Alliance of Habanos with the best Cuban rums aged and extra-aged, one of the most expected alliances.

For the first time in the history of this event, the Festival will host a Blind Taste of Habanos, where the best Cuban tasters will proceed to try 3 Habanos only through the sense of touch and test, without the help of the eyesight.

Habanosommelier International Contest, which this year celebrates its tenth edition, is one of the highlights of the Festival, with an increasing number of aficionados, that demand the sommelier's advice when choosing a Habano.

To end a full week in the delight of the senses, during the Gala Evening will take place Habanos 2010 Awards in three categories (Production, Business and Communication) and the Grand Humidor Auction of authentic handicraft works of art in precious woods with an exceptional assortment of Habanos is another stellar moment of the evening. As already traditional, the money collected from the auction goes to the Cuban Health System, which in the in the sum of the last 10 editions donated a total of more than $ 8 million.

Grupo Habanos 2011 Financial results

In 2010 Grupo Habanos (Habanos s.a. and exclusive distributors of Habanos throughout the world) had a turnover of $ 368 million approximately, an increase of 2% compared to 2009.

The market share stood at 80% market share in value worldwide excluding the U.S., confirming its position as worldwide leader at the Premium market.

Appointment of Jorge Luis Fernández Maique as new Co-President of Habanos s.a.

Dated February 8, 2011 Jorge Luis Fernández Maique was appointed Co-President of Habanos s.a. to replace Óscar Basulto Torres. Before that, Jorge Luis Fernández Maique was the Vice President of Logistics. Fernández Maique will work with the other Co-President Buenaventura Jiménez Sánchez-Cañete.

Fernández Maique said after his appointment: "I assume the Co-Presidence of Habanos s.a. after a year 2010 in which, despite the difficulties in certain markets and restrictions on consumption in many countries laws, the turnover of Corporación Habanos s.a. has grown by 2%. We are confident in a maintained growth for 2011 and that the dynamism in the presentation of new products being displayed by Habanos s.a. in recent years help to consolidate this trend".

Fernández Maique also noted that "despite the difficulties of some global markets, the trend in cigars sales has rebounded in several major markets, especially in Asia and Middle East, and in some Western European countries that start out of the crisis".

Maique insisted: "The new Habanos which are presented for 2011, especially in the Partagas brand, with an extension of the Serie D and the creation of the new Serie E, the new H. Upmann Half Corona, also suited for those who are interested in Habanos, and the first Gran Reserva in the Montecristo brand, will let us to dynamize the market with new Habanos highly adapted to the evolution of smokers preferences, and consumption restrictions in most markets".

"Despite the laws anti-tobacco, the Habano continues to strengthen in the world. Habanos s.a. is promoting the creation of their own spaces for sale and enjoyment of the Habano, with over 140 shops of La Casa del Habano, the franchises own Habanos. It also consolidates the recent franchise Cohiba Atmosphere, recreating the unique atmosphere of Cohiba, based on landmarks such as Prague, Beijing, Hong Kong, Buenos Aires, Cancun and Tokyo”.

Other launchings for 2011

Habanos s.a. also introduced Limited Editions 2011, which are the following:

- Cohiba: Cohiba 1966. Factory Name: Cañonazo Especial. Ring gauge 52 x 166mm. This Limited Edition also commemorates the 45th anniversary of the creation of the Cohiba brand.

- Hoyo de Monterrey: Short Hoyo Pirámides. Factory Name: Forum. Ring gauge 46 x 135mm.

- Ramón Allones: Allones Extra. Factory Name: Franciscos. Ring Gauge 44 x 143mm.

There will be produced also Special Series and Regional Editions for each territory to be communicated to the extent they are available in markets.

Cigar Review - Macanudo 1968 Titan

2011-02-19T13:26:00.007+11:00

This time last year I reviewed this cigar's taller, skinnier brother the Macanudo 1968 robusto. 5 years ago, calling a robusto cigar 'skinnier' than a another would be questionable, but these days with the rise of +56 ring gauge cigars due in no small part to the blazing trail set by Nub Cigars, you can make this claim.

The Macanudo 1968 Titan has a 60 ring gauge and 4 inches long, The wrapper on this cigar was very thick and veiny, with plenty of oil. It had a tight pre-light draw which was of some concern. The tight pre-light draw unfortuntely was indiciative of the cigar's draw and burn once I lit it up. I wouldn't say it was a tight draw, but it did need some extra attention which slightly took away from my enjoyment of it.

The cigar had similar taste profile to the robusto - a sweet fruitcake profile, however the Titan didn't reach the same heights as the robusto and for a cigar that is 4x60 I was expecting a bit more of a 'kick' from the beginning. I'd be tempted to try more Titans - perhaps I just got the stick that hard a harder than usual draw.

Sydney Cigar Event - Friday 25 March.

2011-02-16T08:36:00.005+11:00

Norman Stein and the Bogart's team just announced their first event for 2011. Join Norman, Pauline and a host of regulars and new faces on Friday 25 March at Ottoman Cuisine on Hickson Road for a night of great fun.

The harbourside location for this event was a hit last year and with plenty of covered outdoor space it is a great place to enjoy cigars.

The ticket price includes a three course meal, two cigars, cocktails and drinks throughout the evening.

Patio de Tango will be putting on a great floor show and live band 'Mambo' wills urely get your body moving on the dance floor.

To book your tickets contact Bogart's sooner rather than later.

If you head into Bogart's to book your tickets, be sure to check out the Vintage Cigar Art Tray up for Auction on Ebay to support the Queensland Flood Victims.

Cigar Art auction supporting Queensland flood victims

2011-02-14T17:20:00.006+11:00

Inlumino Cigar News Australia proudly supports the auction of this cigar art memorabilia.

I hope all Aussie and international cigar enthusiasts support this initiative.

Please forward this blog link to those who may be interested.

- Click on the image to open a larger version in a new window -

To make a contribution to the Queensland flood relief efforts, Norman Stein is auctioning an antique cigar art serving tray that came into his possession a few years ago.

To bid on this item and support the Queensland flood relief effort head over to the EBAY auction here.

This antique wooden framed tray contains vistas (art work) from antique cigar boxes and individual cigar bands. It is unofficially assessed as being circa 1950s and was made to be a serving tray with a glass top protecting the artwork.

The tray includes cigar box art and cigar bands from brands from Cuba, Dominican Republic and the Philippines.

The bands and vistas in the tray are from the Henry Clay, Club Real, La Perla Del Orient, Monopole, La Flor De Murias, and La Insular brands.

Production of most, if not all, of these cigar brands has been discontinued or has ceased completely. This tray is a rare collector’s item and will appeal to cigar aficionados and history buffs alike.

Those who are in Sydney may wish to head into Bogart's to get a better look at it.
(5 Martin Place Shopping Circle, Martin Place Sydney, ph 9235 0788)

All money raised from this auction will be donated to the Premier’s Flood Appeal for Queensland flood victims.

To bid on this one of a kind piece head to eBay NOW!

Cigar Friendly Adelaide - The Treasury

2011-02-01T15:43:00.001+11:00

One of our readers 'John' shares the following:

The Treasury in Adelaide has a nice outdoor area that is cigar friendly. Its a great place to meet up for friday nite after work drinks and enjoy a cigar. They even have a (small) selection of cubans at the bar.

Cigar Friendly Sydney - Georges King St Wharf

2011-01-31T19:49:00.004+11:00

Last week I had the pleasure of enjoying a long Mediterranean lunch at Georges King Street Wharf, Sydney. During the lunch I spied the drinks and cigar menu and I was reminded of what a fantastic cigar friendly venue this place is.

Although you can't arrive and spark up anytime, you can enjoy a stick after lunch or dinner in their Grove Bar. The covered lounge area welcomes cigars from 3-5pm and after 10pm.

The location, overlooking Darling Harbour is second to none. Enjoying the view with a cigar and cocktail makes it even better.

Do you know of any little known cigar friendly venues around Australia I haven't linked to in the 'Cigar Friendly Venues' menu on the right? If you do, please drop me a line with short description and I'll credit you with the 'find'. Share the love!

New SIGLO products for 2011

2011-01-20T10:55:00.003+11:00

SIGLO recently launched their new 'Oblong' humidor and 'L&R' scissors pictured below.

Audrey Choong, the woman behind Pacific Cigar Company's SIGLO division, states that the SIGLO Oblong Humidor is made of Spanish cedar and a specially selected veneer.

"A composite of tree roots in this specially engineered wood veneer is wrapped over an elongated box with gently rounded corners. Engineered wood is more stable than hardwood and less susceptible to humidity or moisture change. Therefore it is less likely to swell, warp or twist over time."

This SIGLO Oblong Humidor stores up to 100 cigars, and is now available in all leading cigar retailers and lifestyle stores.

SIGLO proudly introduces cigar scissors that are user-friendly to both right-handed & left-handed aficionados. Based on the concept of Tai Chi symbol (yin & yang) of harmony & balance, the SIGLO 'L&R' Scissors are designed with a balance of comfort and sharpness in mind.

"Precision crafted with high quality Japanese stainless steel in Seki, Japan, the L&R scissors are thoroughly forged, precisely sharpened and carefully polished, thus giving a precise & smooth cut," says Choong. "The shape and design of the steel fits comfortably in the hands of both right and left handed users."

For more information on SIGLO accessories, please visit:
- SIGLO Blog (www.sigloblog.com)
- SIGLO Online (www.sigloaccessory.com)
- SIGLO on Facebook (www.facebook.com/sigloaccessory)

Humo Jaguar - Honduras to host inaugural cigar festival

2011-01-16T21:40:00.003+11:00

Honduras will be launching its innaugural cigar festival in less than a month's time. Cuba has its Habanos Festival and the DOminican REpublic has ProCigar, so it is great to see another magnificent cigar producing country hosting their own event.

Information below courtesy of Altadis USA:

Honduras, will be hosting the First ‘Humo Jaguar’ International Festival from February 15-17, 2011. The event will feature Honduran producers of some of the best cigars on the planet, along with most of the best known multinational cigar manufacturers in the tobacco world.

Participants will also be able to explore investment opportunities in Honduras, which, located in the heart of the Americas, is the perfect place to do business in both Central America and the United States, the primary market for cigars worldwide.

The event is organized by the Honduran Association of Tobacco Growers and Cigar Makers (APROTABACOH) and FIDE, Investment and Exports, an organization with more than 25 years of experience promoting investment and exports in Honduras.

Participants in the festival will also find that their trip to Honduras is the perfect opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the country, which is home to cloud forests and the second largest coral reef in the world. You’ll also find a wealth of colonial sites such as Comayagua, the former capital of Honduras, whose beautiful cathedral is home to the oldest clock in the Americas. And, of course, you’ll want to explore Honduras’ pre-Columbian heritage as well, with its magnificent Mayan ruins.

The Humo Jaguar Festival will take place primarily in Tegucigalpa, the capital city of Honduras, and Danlí, one of the country’s main centers for cigar production, located about an hour and a half from the capital. There will also be a special visit to the department of Copan in western Honduras, another important center of tobacco production.

Copan is home to the oldest cigar factory on the continent, as well as the Mayan ruins of Copan, which have been named a Heritage for Humanity site by the United Nations. More than 1,300 years ago, Copan was already well known for its tobacco. Today the ancient city is considered to have been the Paris of the Mayan Empire.

Tobacco and the ancient Maya were so interlinked, in fact, that numerous historians today believe that the word cigar is rooted in the Mayan word siyar, which means tobacco, or the Mayan term cikar, which means to smoke.

The festival is called Humo Jaguar in honor of the 20th ruler of Copan, who reigned over the city for 67 years. Archaeologists know that he died at age 80. Even though he became king at the young age of 13, it was under his rule, and that of his son 18 Rabbit, that Copan enjoyed its golden age of cultural and economic prosperity (625 to 735 A.D.)

The Humo Jaguar Festival will feature tastes from the 2011 collections of the most prestigious cigar brands in Honduras, including Rocky Patel, Camacho, Flor de Selva, Flor de Copán and Don Tomas among others.

Some of the top multinational companies in the industry – Swedish Match, Imperial Tobacco, Oettingher, Skandinavian Tobacco and Altadis – have been operating in Honduras for several decades.

The Humo Jaguar Festival program will also include conferences, guided tours of the country’s top tobacco farms and cigar manufacturers, as well as concerts and presentations by the best musicians and singers in Honduras.

Welcome to 2011

2011-01-12T12:37:00.004+11:00

Welcome one and all to 2011 and what will surely be another captivating year in the Australian and international cigar scene. There hasn't been alot of news to report over the first few weeks of January, however one of my last posts for 2010 is worthy of a mention again this year as it may have got lost in the silly season. You can read more here but in short, Norman Stein in hosting 'Saturday Stogies' outside his store on Saturdays. So while your significant other shops on Pitt Street, you can enjoy a cigar with Norman and others.

Inlumino Cigar News Australia would also like to send a big 'stay safe and dry' to cigar peeps up in Queensland. Rob Ayala of Cigar Czars and the team are doing it tough. Rob and family are safe but seperated (as reported on FriendsofHabanos), while Jason Nelson of Perdomo Cigars is overseas yet reported via FB that he had his home sandbagged. Please keep all these guys, their staff, and families and the general Queensland population in your thoughts and prayers. They are definitely not out of the woods yet.

2010: The Cigar Year in Review

2010-12-30T12:51:00.000+11:00

Well 2010 is just about over and 2011 is knocking on the door. I'd personally like to thank all the blog's supporters. I'd also like to thank the cigar retailers and industry figures who share news and info on a regular basis to help make this blog the success it is.

I trust you enjoyed your Christmas and will be celebrating the beginning of 2011 with a few sticks!

Cheers

Sam

The year in review - select posts from 2010

January: 'Big Year for Perdomo ahead'

February: 'Cigar Review: Macanudo 1968'

March: 'Bogart's Event Review'

April: 'The Excise and Plain Packaging - Ramifications for cigars?'

May: 'Baranows comment on the excise increase'

June: 'Trinidad Short Robusto T EL 2010 Review'

July: 'Matt Booth's flying Room 101 Cigars visit downunder'

August: 'Whisky Live 2010 Sydney cigar friendly'

September: 'Inlumino Cigar News Australia featured on Perdomo Vision Ep 9'

October: 'A Visit to CigarWorld - Gold Coast Australia'

November: 'Cigar Roller visiting Australia November-December'

December: 'Sol Levy - Sydney's tobacconist extraordinaire, the final instalment'

Saturday stogies at Bogart's Sydney

2010-12-29T12:15:00.003+11:00

Norman Stein of Bogart's House of Fine Cigars has just announced a new weekly initiative: Saturday Stogies @ Bogart's

Each Saturday, cigar fans are welcome to visit Norman's cigar store in the CBD and if they have time to kill, they are welcome to smoke cigars just outside Bogart's store.

The area outside the store is sheltered and away from the hustle n' bustle of the Saturday shopping crowd. A great way to indulge in the smoke shop experience and catch up with some fellow cigar friends.

Bogart's will provide a Vittoria coffee with any purchase from the store, while great snacks are also available from next door at 'Wrapz'.

Trinidad 40th Anniversary Humidor

2010-12-10T08:52:00.003+11:00

This just in from Havana. I wonder if Santa can stop in Havana before heading to Australia?

Habanos S.A. is proud to present the Trinidad Humidor specially conceived to mark the 40th anniversary of the brand. Made of cedar and majagua with its characteristic green colour, and reproducing the brand logo on the top made of precious Cuban woods, this case is a masterpiece.

The Trinidad marca is named after the beautiful 16th Century city of La Santísima Trinidad (The Holy Trinity), listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Area, which is situated on Cuba’s south coast.

Trinidad, as a Habano cigar, dates back to 1969 but for many years, like Cohiba, it was made only as gifts for foreign diplomats. It was only released for general sale in 1998.

The Trinidad 40th Anniversary Humidor will be available in the coming weeks at Las Casas del Habano shops worldwide.

• Brand: Trinidad
• Commercial Name: Trinidad 40 Aniversario
• Dimensions: Girth 52 x 150 mm long with pigtail
• Presentation: Commemorative Humidor of 40 units

European Cigar Journal 4/2010

2010-12-02T16:02:00.003+11:00

Yours truly has two features published in the latest issue of European Cigar Journal.

'Asian Expansion' takes a quick look at some of the cities and countries in Asia opening up to premium cigars, with many brands such as Davidoff, Brun Del Re, Santa Damiana, and Perdomo jumping at the chance to enter this booming market. Of course Habanos SA through Pacific Cigar Co continues to make waves as well.

'Sydney's Tobacconist Extraordinaire' needs no introduction if you have been keeping up with my blog for the past week. I trust you enjoyed my full-length edit, and now you can check out the ECJ published version.

A reminder, don't be put off by the German text, scroll down and you'll reach the English version.

Sol Levy - Sydney's Tobacconist Extraordinaire, Part 3

2010-12-01T19:17:00.004+11:00

The final instalment

- Evelyn Platus, with Peterson’s with 2010’s ‘Pipe of the year’ -

Sol Levy still keeps without doubt one of Australia’s largest range of pipes

Sol’s Legacy
When asked what the founder of the business would think of the current state of the shop, Evelyn believes he’d be pretty proud of what the family has achieved. “Sol Levy was a small businessman and he hit on something that worked at the time – of course there was a lot of luck involved. When my father took over, he really put it on the map, putting a lot of effort into advertising and growing the business.”

Evelyn has had her three adult children working in the shop at various stages, and she is keen to keep the business in the family, however current anti-tobacco sentiment may make decisions for her. “My father is blessed with plenty of grand-children, but at this stage none of them are interested. The shop has ‘always been here’ from their point of view, if they are in town they pop in, they know where to come.” However she remains optimistic, “there’s possibilities of course, I’d want them to learn as much out there in the ‘real world’ before they have a go.”

‘Sol Levy’, is indeed the story of a ‘tobacconist extraordinaire’, and is a living history that mirrors the experiences of other hard-working migrants seeking to prosper in a new country. The shop has served generations of Australian cigar and pipe lovers and with a bit of luck will continue to do so for a few more years yet.

“If we can turn the tide against current legislation and current social thinking on smoking then we could still survive,” Evelyn says. “There are many more government employees paid to fight the tobacco industry than there are individuals who are prepared to stand-up and champion their cause. We really need a massive social shift.”

Sol Levy - Sydney's Tobacconist Extraordinaire, Part 2

2010-11-29T20:11:00.004+11:00

Part II

- Part of Sol Levi's pipe repair factory located on the premises -
Evelyn’s father set up a pipe repair ‘factory’ in his former nursery

From Australian Cigars to Pipe Tobacco
Sol Levy reached the pinnacle of the Australian cigar industry when, in 1892, he was awarded first prize for cigar making by the Agricultural Society of New South Wales. At the time, Australian cigar making was in its infancy and unfortunately would not reach maturity, slowly petering out in the mid 20th Century. “It was very common to roll cigars in those days,” informs Evelyn. “Sol rolled cigars in the building, rolling in the shop’s basement in summer and in the attic in winter due to the temperature extremes.” Cigar making was an extended family pursuit, with Ted’s brother making and selling cigars under his own brand name ‘Lyle’s Cigars’ up until 1938. “He made about 20 pounds a week which, in those pre-war days, was excellent money,” states Evelyn. When Evelyn’s father set-up a pipe repair ‘factory’ in his former nursery, the shop slowly shifted focus from premium cigars to pipes, and pipe tobacco.

Until the latter part of the 20th century a barbershop was part of the shop but the business remained first and foremost a tobacconist. “We were and still are well-known for having our own pipe tobacco blends,” says Evelyn. “We even had customers create blends which we’d then keep because there wasn’t anything similar commercially available.” She adds that, “tobacco blending is of course an art - you have to get the balance just right.”

Evelyn’s current stock of house blends may not be as extensive as they once were but the shop still keeps without doubt one of Australia’s largest range of pipes and pipe tobacco, with Peterson being Evelyn’s favourite manufacturer. “Peterson represents good quality, good service, and good pricing. Their pipes are very popular and are classic designs. Dad has done business with them since the 1960s.” Evelyn informs that the shop currently services clients from across Australia and New Zealand with many of her current clients spanning generations of family pipe and cigar lovers.

Enjoying both cigars and pipes throughout the week, Evelyn has quite an inventory at her disposal. Her favourite cigars are Fonsecas, because they’re not too strong, “every time I light one up I’m set. Hoyos are also good. For my pipe I’m currently enjoying the Peterson Sherlock Holmes tobacco blend, but often I’ll open something up to show a customer and think to myself, ‘hmm that looks good’ and I’ll give it a go.”

Next post - the third and final instalment.

Sol Levy - Sydney's Tobacconist Extraordinaire, Part 1

2010-11-27T11:01:00.005+11:00

A few months ago I had the great pleasure of interviewing Evelyn Platus, the current caretaker of Sydney's famous Sol Levy tobacconist on George Street. I wrote a piece for European Cigar Journal to celebrate the store's 120th anniversary. This short piece for ECJ is currently making its way to newsagencies and cigar stores across the globe, but before I share the published article, I thought I'd share my original (and more detailed) edit.

Please enjoy part one of 'Sydney's Tobacconist Extraordinaire' to be published over three parts.

Cheers
Sam

- One of few remaining images of founder Sol Levy -

This photo is part of a presentation to him from the Hebrew Benevolent Society of NSW prior to a trip to the ‘Old World’ in 1910, and hangs in the store.

Emigrating from what is modern day Poland to Australia in the late 1800s, Sol Levy established his tobacconist in a burgeoning economy on the other side of the world. Spending time with Levy’s great grand-niece, Samuel Spurr re-tells some of this family business’ 120 year history.

Adjacent to Sydney’s Central train terminal, and fronting bustling George Street which leads through the city to the historic ‘Rocks’ quarter and Circular Quay, is a humble shopfront that has seen its fair share of history pass by. Inside, Evelyn Platus oversees Australia’s oldest, family-run, fine-tobacco establishment: ‘Sol Levy - Tobacconist Extraordinaire’.

The Levy Family
Born in 1860, Sol Levy, a cigar maker by trade, made his way to Sydney in the 1880s and set to task immediately upon arriving in the Great South Land. The young Jewish immigrant established his business at 715 George Street. Thirty years later, the business would occupy the building next door, where it has remained since. Constructed in 1850, 713 George Street originally traded as a wool store and has undergone little structural change - the floors above the shop reveal original sandstone masonry and aged wooden framework.

Sol was the inaugural Treasurer, and later President, of the New South Wales Hebrew Benevolent Society, and worked tirelessly within the Jewish community, assisting fellow Eastern European Jews reach Australian shores. He and his wife Elizabeth, not having any children of their own, adopted their infant nephew Ted Levi to assist Elizabeth’s sister after her husband died at a young age. Ted, who honoured his late father by keeping his Levi surname, learnt the cigar trade from his adoptive father, running the shop with Elizabeth after Sol passed away in 1925. In 1962, on an inconspicuous bus trip to work one day, Ted died prematurely of a heart attack, thus passing the reins to his son Sol. Sol Levi, the current patriarch of the family, sits quietly in semi-retirement overseeing all the action.

Beginning full-time work at the shop in 1995, Evelyn took over the day to day running of the business in 1998. Like many in the tobacco industry, her apprenticeship was completed as a teenager during summer holidays and on weekends. “As kids we were at the shop all the time,” she recalls. “We used to come in on Saturday afternoons and polish the linoleum floor. Often we’d be chased by ‘Uncle’ George who worked his whole life for Ted. I remember sleeping in the old saloon chairs while dad was repairing pipes late into the night. Growing up here involved cutting and packing filters and re-packaging bulk orders of pipe cleaners. When we were older, we’d help ourselves to a pack of cigarettes and smoke out the back while burning-off old boxes in a 44 gallon drum.”

Part 2 will be posted in a few days.

Sydney Cigar Event: Bogart's Christmas Cheer @ VIBE

2010-11-14T13:52:00.005+11:00

Bogart’s Drinks @ VIBE

Norman Stein and the Bogart’s team are having an informal drinks and cigars gathering on the terrace at VIBE HOTEL, 100 Bayswater Road, Rushcutters Bay on Friday 26th November from 6.00 to 8.30pm (or longer if you wish).

Tickets to this event are free (provided you book with Norman) - just buy drinks and finger food from the bar and Bogart’s will provide a cigar and live music. Come along, relax and catch up with friends before the Christmas rush and bustle kicks in…

To book, call Bogart’s on 02 9235 0788 or email cigars@bogarts.com.au

Cigar Roller visiting Australia: Nov-Dec 2010

2010-11-08T19:15:00.003+11:00

The Pacific Cigar Company recently announced the visit of cigar roller Ramses Herrera to Australia later this month. Ramses has been rolling cigars for over 14 years, beginning his career at the Partagas Factory in 1996.

He will be visiting cigar retailers in Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth, but unfortunately won't be visiting Sydney. Due to current NSW legislation and the possible legal implications of hosting a roller to 'promote' tobacco, The Pacific Cigar Company chose not to showcase Ramses' skills in Sydney.

If there ever was a reason for Sydney cigar lovers to agitate for change this has to be it. I always enjoy speaking with cigar rollers when they are in town and picking up a few freshly rolled cigars. The Pacific Cigar Company can't be to blame as they are trying to abide by legislation and obviously don't want to draw any negative publicity from Ramses' visit.

For those in other cities here are dates when Mr Herrera will be working his magic:

Melbourne: Casa Habana Thursday 18 Nov - Saturday20 Nov.
Melbourne: Casa Habana Monday 22 Nov AM/ Baranows Monday 22 Nov PM
Brisbane: Cigar Czars Wednesday 24 Nov
Melbourne: Casa Habana Thursday 25 Nov PM and Friday 26 Nov AM
Melbourne: Alexanders Friday 26 Nov PM
Melbourne: Casa Habana Saturday 27 Nov
Perth: Devlins Monday Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 Nov

Cigar and Website Launches

2010-11-04T20:31:00.004+11:00

Baranows Cigars recently announced their launch of Oliva Cigars. Wal, Ben and the team are holding a launch event on Tuesday 16 November and $60 ticket price includes 2 Oliva cigars, including the award winning Serie V, Diplomatico Rum from Venezuela and finger food.

Contact Baranows direct on 03 9819 6699 to book your spot at the Oliva launch.

---

Meanwhile, the Brisbane-based Perdomo Boys have been busily working behind the scenes to launch their new Perdomo Cigars Australia website today. The site features a number scrolling images, which have been produced as prints and posters and are available for sale - perfect for that empty wall space in your man-cave!

"We are very excited to introduce some beautiful cigar-themed art into
the marketplace with the launch of our new site," said Jason Nelson,
GM of Perdomo Cigars Australia. "Like most cigar lovers, we are always
looking for cigar-themed art to hang on our walls and unfortunately
most of it is a little tacky. So we wanted to create some beautiful
classy images that people can be proud to hang in their home and
office."

"Of course we are also excited about our new range of Perdomo Cigars
(Cuban Bullet, Nick's Sticks) and our new programs such as the
'Monthly Value Plan' and the upgraded 'Ambassador Membership'."

Alcohol more dangerous that other drugs...

2010-11-01T21:07:00.002+11:00

...but what about tobacco?

Today in the Sydney Morning Herald, a British report was featured showing that alcohol is more dangerous than illegal drugs when the effects on society are taken into account.

Alcohol is more dangerous than illegal drugs like heroin and crack cocaine - when the ripple effect on society is taken into consideration, a new UK study has found.

British experts said alcohol was most destructive because it was so widely used and had devastating consequences not only for drinkers but for those around them.

The study evaluated substances including alcohol, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and marijuana, ranking them based on how destructive they were to the individual who took them and to society as a whole.

Researchers analysed how addictive a drug was and how it harmed the human body, in addition to other criteria like environmental damage caused by the drug, its role in breaking up families and its economic costs, such as health care, social services, and prison.

Heroin, crack cocaine and methamphetamine, or crystal meth, were the most lethal to individuals. When considering their wider social effects, alcohol, heroin and crack cocaine were the deadliest. But overall, alcohol outranked all other substances, followed by heroin and crack cocaine. Marijuana, ecstasy and LSD scored far lower.

I often wonder how tobacco, and in my case, premium cigars in the otbacco category would fare in a similar study. Yes, the personal effects that may come later in life are acknowledged, but as an adult, who pays their taxes and then some (including tobacco excise on each purchase) that is a risk I am willing to take. Take away the smoke's aromas and 2nd hand smoke issue - (imagine cigar smokers could congregate indoors where we wouldn't bother any non-smokers!) and all the possible ill-effects are extremely personal and do not effect society.

I break it down like this:
I have never behaved obnoxiously or irresponsibly in public after enjoying a cigar or two;
I can drive home safely and can, if I wish, have full control of heavy machinery after a night smoking cigars;
I don't feel the temptation to do anything stupid that may harm others after smoking a cigar;
I don't, and never will, rob or steal from anyone to 'feed my addiction' as those addicted to other vices might;
I definitely do not feel inclined to commit an act of domestic violence after smoking 'too many cigars'.

Sure I enjoy a drink or two when I am having a cigar, and I'm not out to crucify the liquor trade, but I believe that alcohol, when consumed responsibly, is fine. Interestingly, tobacco and more so premium cigars for that matter, can be consumed as much as desired and when done so in isolation, (without interference from alcohol or other drugs) has a very minimal, if any, impact on society.

So enjoy your cigar, you may not win a popularity contest, others may get the shits from your smoke and claim second hand smoke inhalation before they walk down busy roadways while heavy transport spews emissions into their path, but do so knowing that your 'vice', on its own, has no other detrimental social effect.

Cigar Review: Romeo y Julieta Wide Churchill

2010-10-29T20:16:00.006+11:00

Released earlier this year, the Romeo y Julieta Wide Churchill follows in the footsteps of the Short Churchill released in 2006. Personally, the use of the word ‘wide’ and ‘short’ negates the inclusion of the ‘Churchill’ size reference, but that is another matter.

The cigar’s wrapper is light colorado in colour with some oil apparent and is slightly veiny, The smell at cold is classic barnyard, with a light earthiness flavour in the pre-light draw.

The RyJ begins with a very light perfume - a nice warm aroma, with nothing too spicy on the nose. The first third is not overly complex, but beautifully balanced and puts one in a very reflective mood. A perfect draw is expected these days and the stick doesn't disappoint in this regard.

The Second third continues in much the same way as the first albeit with a slight increase in a floral aroma. The trend continues toward the end of the stick, and unlike the William Shakespeare tragedy, doesn't provide an overly emphatic good-bye.

The Wide Churchill is definitely a smooth cigar, but not one you would reach for if you were after intense flavours. I think it would be a great cigar to pair with Champagne as its well-balanced, light aromas would complement a dry bottle style of bubbly.

The RyJ is available at all major Habanos SA stockists.

The details
- Brand: Romeo y Julieta
- Commercial name: WIDE CHURCHILLS
- Factory name: Montesco
- Measurements: 55 ring gauge x 5.1" - (21,83 mm x 130.mm length).
- Packaging: In boxes of 10 and 20 cigars
Aluminum Tube in 3-cigar carton pack

A bit of Australian cigar history

2010-10-28T20:40:00.006+11:00

A recent story I've completed for European Cigar Journal on Sydney's Sol Levy cigar and pipe shop saw me delving into the archives for information on their 120 year history and more information about the Australian cigar and tobacco scene at the turn of the 20th Century. The National Library of Australia is a fantastic resource, with extensive listing of newspapers from 1803 to 1954.

My story on Sol Levy, his family and tobacco shop will be featured in edition 4/2010 of European Cigar Journal, while I'll also be putting a sneak peek on Inlumino Cigar News Australia later in the year. The tale is a seriously good yarn that spans 120 years and four generations of the Levy/Levi extended family.

Newspapers on the NLA site are reproduced in their original format, although some articles are a little scratchy, however a bonus is that the site can be searched by subject like any other search ending. A search of 'tobacco' and 'cigars' reveals plenty of newspaper clippings about the early days of the Australian cigar trade.

As the clipping below from page 9 of the Brisbane Courier on 27 June 1896, reveals my namesake was involved in smuggling 2 pounds of non-duty paid tobacco and faced a hefty fine of 1 Pound 16 Shillings. Over a century later and one Samuel Spurr also occasionally tries to dodge paying duty on my cigars at Sydney Airport! It's nice to know that over the course of a century or so, the same issues still apply!

click on the image to enlarge

Cigar Review: Davidoff Puro d'Oro Deliciosos

2010-10-22T18:28:00.003+11:00

Davidoff's newest line, the Puro d'Oro hasn't been released in Australia yet, but Swedish Match Australia were kind enough to give me a sneak peek at these new cigars. The range will come in 4 sizes, and last night I lit up the Deliciosos from the range, a 43 x4 3/4 corona. The Puro d'Oro cigars are made entirely with tobacco from the Dominican Republic and features the new Yamasa wrapper leaf, grown exclusively for this cigar.

Davidoff have done very well on the presentation. The cigar, band and box are all first class. A pigtail cap sets off the cigar, while a sole golden band on the foot has the cigar name inscribed into it and I'm told the sticks come bundled into boxes of 25 cigars, something Davidoff apparently hasn't done since the 1940s. This Delicioso came in a 'Collection' box featuring the three other sizes.

Pre-light draw was a bit too light for my liking and I was concerned that the cigar would burn too quickly, however those fears were allayed pretty quickly.There was some nice give in the cigar with a couple of hard points, but nothing too scary.

Upon lighting the cigar, the first few puffs were very very smooth and it exhibited great balance. It left a long finish on the back of the mouth and from the firstt few puffs I thought it would be a heavy to full-bodied cigar. It wasn't overly spicy nor overly complex and after the first third I was beginning to lose interest. There was a sense that it was building to somthing (or perhaps that was just my wishful thinking).

Thank goodness it wasn't just my wishful thinking, because at the half way mark the Delicioso hit its stride like a Bart Cummings trained odds-on favourite coming around the bend at Flemington. There was a rich espresso taste and underlying hints of vanilla bean on the palate. It reminded me of an affogato dessert where espresso is poured over vanilla ice cream. Thank god for this second-half' come back because it didn't look promising there for a while.

The Puro d'Oro is a medium-bodied cigar, best suited to the late afternoon. I'd pair it with an espresso, or an aged rum if the mood suits. It's a thin cigar that packs a punch, you just have to wait until the middle rounds for this fighter to start showing its class.

The 'Collection' box of Puro d'Oro cigars will be available in Australia from select retailers leading up to Christmas. A nice stocking filler.

Tale of the Tape:
Format Corona
Length 12,4 cm / 4 7/8 inches
Diameter 1,7 cm / RG 43
Wrapper leaf Davidoff Yamasá wrapper
Binder & filler a blend of different matured premium tobaccos
from the Dominican Republic

New Cigars - Juan Lopez Seleccion No 4 Asia Pacific Regional Edition

2010-10-20T18:49:00.003+11:00

The Pacific CIgar COmpnay annouces the recent arrival of the 2010 Regional Edition Cigars for Asia Pacific from Habanos SA - the Juan Lopez Seleccion No. 4. The cigars have just touched down and should be available from all premium cigar retailers in the next fwe weeks if not already.

For 2010, the 2 Regional Edition cigars are: Juan Lopez Seleccion No.4 and Por Larranaga Encantos.

From the Pacific Cigar Company:

Juan Lopez is a brand that was established in 1876 in Havana and the cigars are made of fine tobacco leaves from Vuelta Abajo. One of the true Habanos brands, Juan Lopez cigars are now made in small quantity and handmade with full leaves. Juan Lopez cigars give a pleasing woody flavour and a nice, delicate herbal aftertaste. The tobacco blend is considered mild by Cuban standards.

Presented in a Piramides format, this Seleccion No. 4 from Juan Lopez has a ring gauge of 52 with a 156mm length. Available in box of 25 sticks, this shape and size of cigar (piramides) is not found in the regular portfolio of Juan Lopez. This is a unique size specially produced by Habanos SA for Asia Pacific smokers.

Cigar Review: Padron 1926 No 35 Natural

2010-10-19T20:17:00.005+11:00

In my last post I mentioned my quick visit to CigarWorld located on Australia's Gold Coast. Trent Firmin suggested I pick up a Padron Serie 26 No. 35. Its a small cigar (4x48) but as I would soon find out, it packs a lot of flavour into the leaves rolled within its wrapper. With leaves in the blend aged for a full five years, you would expect a great smoke and this Padron didn't dissapoint.

This box-pressed cigar is classed as a 'natural' as opposed to the 'maduro', but is one of the darkest natural cigars I've ever seen. It's wrapper is immaculate and even the tobacco veins that are visible are smooth to the touch. The pre-light draw was perfect and hints of sweet cocoa were tasted.

Upon lighting, the first few puffs left an intense cinnamon and brown sugar taste on my palate. The first third produced great smoke and was very well-balanced with a nice slow burn. The second half of the cigar lost some of its sweetness, with cracked pepper edging out the cinnamon taste, however I noticed a slight chocolate taste lingering on my lips after each puff.

The No 35 came highly recommended and didn't dissapoint. Perfect for an occasion requiring a small cigar that over-delivers on flavour.

A visit to CigarWorld - Gold Coast, Australia

2010-10-10T14:55:00.003+11:00

Last week I was up on the Gold Coast for a few days with the family for a few days R and R. While I was there I had the opportunity to pop in on Trent Firmin, sales manager at CigarWorld. Located a 5 minute drive away from downtown Surfers Paradise, Cigar World is home Australia's largest selection of Padron cigars and many other non-Cuban and Cuban cigars.

It's a shame that the closest thing Australia has to a 'Las Vegas' there aren't any dedicated cigar venues, let alone outdoor ones!

At CigarWorld I picked up a Padron 1926 Serie No 35 natural 4 x48, Padron 3000 natural 5 1/2 x 52, and Padron Executive 7 1/4 x 46 - an impressive looking Double Corona. I also took home a Graycliff Crystal PG Robusto 5 1/4 x 50, which Trent advised has Greek tobacco in the blend. Stay tuned, Padron reviews to come...

If you are holidaying on the Gold Coast, I strongly recommend jumping in a cab to the Q SuperCentre in Mermaid Waters to support a local retailer and enjoy your cigars back at your hotel .

Padrons on display, soon to be hidden behind blackened glass.

CigarWorld Sales Manager Trent Firmin with some selected Padrons.

Sydney cigar event review

2010-09-27T20:20:00.004+10:00

On Friday night, Sydney cigar lovers enjoyed a balmy night enjoying Patron cocktails and Macanudo 1968 cigars at Bogart's cigar event at Verandah Bar.

Host Norman Stein with Charlie 'El Comandante' Rios

Siglo announces new 'Chrome' cigar lighters

2010-09-20T19:33:00.005+10:00

Siglo Accessory announced recently the launch of their newest lighter range: Siglo Chrome. Electroplated with silver chrome and black enamel, these cigar lighters are formed from the simplest of shapes with strong clean lines.

The cap of the lighter is cut to an angle for smooth and easy opening, while it also has a gas window and a cigar punch located on the side. Siglo Chrome lighters are available in four designs - Obsidian Black, Crisscross, Obsidian Chrome and Electro Stripes.

The Siglo Chrome lighters will be available in Australian Pacific Cigar stores Havana Express in Sydney and La Casa del Habano in Melbourne by the end of September and other stockists shortly thereafter.

for more info: http://www.sigloaccessory.com/

A taste of luxury - Melbourne event

2010-09-15T20:59:00.002+10:00

Alexanders Cigar Merchants recently announced their next event; 'A Taste of Luxury' to be held on Friday the 8th of October.

Under the guidance of Suntory Ultrapour Brand Ambassador Dom O'Brien, guests will sample a range of Remy Martin cognacs, from VS, VSOP, XO and Louis III. A Cohiba Siglo VI is included in the $75 ticket price.

To book telephone Alexanders on 03 9827 1477.

Just over a week until Sydney cigar event

2010-09-14T19:18:00.002+10:00

There is just over a week until Bogart's Spring event 'Dinner @ Verandah', and Norman Stein just announced that there are only a limited number of tickets still available for those who are keen, but haven't bought their tickets yet.

Another great cigar night is promised for Friday 24 September. Cocktails, drinks, three course meal, amazing dance floor show and of course cigars will all be part of the night. Tickets are $135.

This is the first event to be held at Verandah Bar which is located in the heart of Sydney.

To book tickets head to Bogart's or call the shop on 02 9235 0788

Inlumino Cigar News Aust. featured on Perdomo Vision Episode 9

2010-09-09T20:34:00.006+10:00

Two weeks ago, I assembled the country's premium cigar retailers for a historic conference to discuss a range of issues affecting the industry. Cameron Reilly, Marketing Manager for Perdomo Cigars Australia, was a delegate at the conference and brought along his camera for an interview with yours truly.

I'm more used to being on the other side of the lens, but check out the latest episode of Perdomo Vision to get my thoughts on cigars.

I highly recommend checking out the new Cigars Australia website that contains this PerdomoVision video along with a number of other cigar-related videos, forum, twitter tracker and polls. It is a great place to discuss all cigars and all issues, so get amongst it.

Cohiba Behike 52 cigar review: Twitter #BHK52

2010-09-07T20:14:00.005+10:00

Life moves pretty fast and so after letting the Behike 52 rest for a while in the humidor, and acknowledging that cigars weren't made to be looked at, I decided that Father's Day Eve was an opportune time to light up one of the most anticipated cigars of this year.

The Behike proved to be one of the most interesting cigars I've ever smoked. I was expecting a strong, powerful, blow-your-palate-off cigar but instead found it to be a medium-bodied, well-balanced cigar. The flavour profile was intriguing to say the least. It tasted unlike any other Cohiba I've ever had. Perhaps this was the medio tempo leaf making its mark, but whatever it was it left me asking more questions than I had answers for.

I usually write down notes, but thought I'd enter the 21st century and so I tweeted my thoughts, using #BHK52 to track my ideas. I've included them below which will give you an idea of how the cigar progressed.

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1st tweet was at 9.36pm, last tweet was at 11.13pm

- cut beautifully, some nice give, light cocoa, vanilla flavour on pre-light draw. #BHK52

- smoking conditions: light breeze, temp in high teens (celcius) occassion - life is short. plus father's day tomorrow. Proud dad #BHK52

- great draw so far, medium body so far, no overwhelming spice but a nice hint #BHK52 #cigars #Cohiba

- Surprising, nothing too overwhelming yet. well rounded and smooth. fantastic burn. #BHK52 #cigars #review

- faint white pepper notes on nose. Underlying citrus flavour. #BHK52 cigar review

- So far the Behike 52 stands out fromm any other Cohiba I've had. Medio Temp leaf is def doing something there! #BHK52 cigar review

-Anybody remember Kramer's 'The Beach' cologne episode of Seinfeld. This #BHK52 is taking me to the beach. salt water, sand between your toes

- wow, interesting first third of Cohiba Behike 52. smooth, medium bodied, slight pepper and citrus notes unlike any other Cohiba #BHK52

- Second third of #BHK52 - intensity lifted slightly, earthy flavour coming through. #cigars

- detecting some saltiness in this #BHK52. mixing it up with earthy flavours... #cigars

- gotta say the band w hologram on the Cohiba Behike 52 is very very nice. Def a keeper. #BHK52

- enjoying the final nub of the #BHK52 next time will pair with a Earl Grey tea, definite citrus/tea profile there to match with cigar

- Cohiba Behike 52 is a finger burner alright! #BHK52 #cigars #Habanossa

Get Ready - Consumer Action Group coming your way

2010-08-31T17:17:00.004+10:00

On Saturday I hosted the first meeting of Australia's independent premium cigar retailers. The meeting which lasted 6 six hours addressed some of the issues currently affecting Australia's premium cigar retail sector.

Those present agreed to establish an association, and supported, in principle, an independent consumer action group. Without giving too much away, I urge all cigar lovers to stay up to date with news from their retailer about ways you can help their businesses remain viable in the short and long term.

Saturday was the start, and there is plenty of work ahead.

Whisky Live Sydney 2010 - Cigar Friendly

2010-08-18T21:05:00.005+10:00

Cigar lovers who enjoy pairing their favourite stick with a dram of single malt or two could do worse than getting along to the second Whisky Live Sydney Event on 28 August. The innaugural event last year was a good start and this year promises to be an even better event for whisky lovers.

The Whisky Live Tasting Expo is being held next Saturday the 28th of August at Randwick Racecourse. For $85 guests receive a tasting glass and coupons to taste a range of whiskies from around the globe. There are two sessions, one during the day (12pm-4pm) and an evening session* (5pm-9pm).

After discussions, with the Barmania management, the team behind Whisky Live, cigars are more than welcome at the event. There is an awning at the front of the building that will be cigar friendly, allowing cigar lovers to enjoy a wee dram or two with their BYO cigars.

*The evening session will be attended by myself and other cigar lovers so if you're free book your ticket and I'll see you there.

For those on twitter follow Whisky Live Sydney for all the latest news @whiskylivesyd

Inlumino Cigar News Australia has no commercial interest or link with Whisky Live or Barmania - just spreading the news!

Sydney cigar event: Dinner @ Verandah

2010-08-12T19:01:00.004+10:00

Norman Stein and the Bogart's team just announced their Spring event 'Dinner @ Verandah'. Norman promises another great cigar night on Friday 24 September. Cocktails, drinks, three course meal, amazing dance floor show and of course cigars will all be part of the night. Tickets are $135.

This is the first event to be held at Verandah Bar which is located in the heart of Sydney.

To book tickets head to Bogart's or call the shop on 02 9235 0788

Melbourne Perdomo Cigar Event

2010-07-28T12:39:00.003+10:00

Perdomo Cigars Australia have just announced their first Melbourne Event.

On Wednesday 18 August, An 8 course degustation menu will be served at One Fitzroy Restaurant St Kilda.

Perdomo cigars will of course be featured and Pyrenees Ridge wine and Buffalo Trace Bourbon will be supporting the evening.

To book ph 03 9593 8800.

Cigar Review - Partagas Serie D Especial 2010 Edicion Limitada

2010-07-27T19:28:00.004+10:00

I'm glad it is warming up cause after sundown the patio last week was damn cold. However in pursuit of a great cigar review I took one for the team!

The Partagas Serie D Especial is another of this year's EL release. I cut it and the pre-light draw was terrible. Not a lot of air flow and I was concerned it may be lights out before I even got started. I had serious concerns for this cigar; tough pre-light draw, a massive vein could be felt running down the side and there wasn't a lot of give in it.

I must admit that this was one of the hardest cigars I've had to review. After lighting up I didn't get any stand-out flavours and couldn't even find a hints of spice or pepper. Besides the obvious 'tobacco' flavour the Partagas wasn't giving much away. Towards the end of the first third, it started to slowly come to like and showed some very very very subtle citrus notes.

The second third opened up a lot more and the draw improved markedly. There were heavy, muted pepper notes and you could almost taste the rich Cuban soil the tobaco was grown in. OK - so I'm not 100% sure of what Cuban soil tastes like, but it did exhibit an 'earthy' flavour.

This primary 'earthy' or Cuban Soil flavour continued throughout the rest of the cigar. After worrying signs at the start, the Partagas did dvelop into a good smoke. It is definitely a full-bodied cigar and one that I'd like to pair with a stout or heavy lager. More time in the humi is a must.

Brand: Partagás
Comercial name: SERIE D ESPECIAL
Factory name: .Gordito
Measures: Girth 50 ( 19,84mm) x 141 mm de largo
Presentation: SBN box in a single layer of 10 units

The Partagas Serie D Espeical 2010 Edicion Limitada is available where all good cigars are sold. Cigar reviewed courtesy of Baranows Melbourne

Matt Booth's flying Room 101 cigars visit downunder

2010-07-24T15:27:00.006+10:00

Earlier this year, Matt Booth, creator of Room 101 Cigars, was in Sydney on a flying visit and got a chance to catch up with some of Sydney cigar lovers through an last minute event organised by Inlumino Cigar News Australia. All in attendance will attest to a great night of camraderie and great cigars.

Matt Booth, Edgar G Hoil, Dave Richardson and the Room 101 crew proved to be great company and gave all an insight into the Room 101 'Conspiracy'.

Below is a short piece published in the recently re-branded European Cigar Journal. The magazine, published in German AND English, dropped the 'cult' from thier title and continue to focus on the cigar world, not just Europe and the Americas.

Happy Reading!

Published in ECJ 02/2010. Click on story for larger version.

All the best Mr Ho.

2010-07-23T08:05:00.003+10:00

Sydney cigar lovers who haunt the GPO/Westin Hotel in the city would need no introduction to Duy Ho. Duy was manager of the Havana Express cigar divan for a number of years and recently took up a wholesale role with Pacific Cigar Company. Last week I bumped into Duy who announced that he was leaving PCC and heading back to his home town of Melbourne. Duy is looking for more time with extended family and his girlfriend, hence the move.

Those who visited Duy when he was stationed in the city can appreciate what a true cigar man he is. He is always keen to discuss the latest cigar news, the slickest humidors and lighters, but more importantly was always inquiring about family and was a genuine person to deal with. He helped host many a fun cigar night bringing Habanos cigar lovers together.

I'm sure all those who have ever met Duy wish him all the best for whatever the future holds. Melbourne cigar people should keep an eye out for him at any one of Melbourne's many cigar establishments. No doubt Duy will be there enjoying a cigar.

Cheers Duy. All the very best.

Melbourne Cigar Event - The end of a Legend

2010-07-21T21:29:00.004+10:00

Baranows Cigar lounge recently announced their next cigar event. 'The end of a Legend' will be held on Wednesday 18 August. The 'Legend' being farewelled is the 2009 Limited Edition Romeo y Julieta Duke.

Tix are $60 for two Cuban cigars, (one being the Duke) canapes and Cuban Rum. Get in Quick. Contact Baranows for more info http://www.baranows.com/

Bob Hawke...Australia's Winston Churchill?

2010-07-19T20:57:00.008+10:00

Bob Hawke enjoying a cigar on a chartered VIP flight

Just out of curiosity, I tuned in to Channel Ten last night to watch the Hawke telemovie. For international readers and Gen Ys who may not know, Bob Hawke was Australia's Prime Minister from 1983-1991. He was Australia's second longest serving Labor Prime Minister and a former Australian Council of Trade Unions President. Although based on a somewhat biased Blanche D'Alpuget biography (Blanche is Bob's second wife) and not giving poor old Hazel (Bob's first wife) a decent run, the movie was bearable ...just. However, I was of course more interested in Bob's cigar consumption and its portrayal in the movie.

I had some idea that Bob was a cigar lover but I am glad that the producers were historically accurate and portrayed Bob's love of cigars at least 7 times during the film - and much more often than Bob getting intimate with Blanche (praise the Lord for that).

At the beginning we see Bob enjoying a cigar at functions and by his pool with drink in hand but once he assumed power, Bob is shown enjoying a cigar with Kim Beazley in his office, clipping a cigar when Kim comes wandering onto The Lodge's lawn, smoking a cigar on the lawns of Kirribilli House, and smoking a cigar just before his long-serving secretary divulges that she is dying of cancer. Thank God the revisionists hadn't influenced this portrayal of a political figure's love of cigars unlike the recent portrayal of Winston Churchill sans cigar.

I did wonder what Bob was smoking though. No bands were on the cigars, I suspect they were Cuban though. I wonder what Bob thinks of the curent state of anti-smoking legislation? But back to my title: 'Bob Hawke... Australia's Winston Churchill?' Well Bob achieved some great things while in office, but perhaps didn't enjoy such glamour as waging war against the Nazis. Despite this, I'm putting ol' Hawko up there as Australia's answer to Churchill - a political leader who loved his cigars and wasn't scared to being shown with one (check out the front cover of his first biography above!). I propose that Hawke should become Australia's pin-up cigar man. Up there with Churchill representing England, Kennedy or Clinton for the USA, or Fidel for Cuba or Che for Aregentina/Cuba. Regardless of the politics he is a legendary Aussie cigar man through and through.

Puff Green

2010-07-05T14:15:00.002+10:00

I'm sure there are many of us who have been accosted by greenies attempting to tell us that we are polluting the air with our cigar smoke and indeed contributing to global warming etc. I found the following in the paper the other day and think it is a great point to make when those holier than us try to blame us for the world's problems.

...it may well be 'greener' to light up pure tobacco leaf, which is essentially carbon neutral because you're emitting no more carbon dioxide than the plant has plucked out of the sky...

I can't quantify the energy use of rolling cigars, storage and transportation but could argue that it is indeed less then our cigarette smoking cousins. Next time you enjoy a cigar, bask in the knowledge that you are not putting anything back into the environment that wasn't there before.

Puff Green

Bogart's Poker and Cigars event review

2010-07-03T16:58:00.005+10:00

A cold night couldn't keep Sydney cigar lovers away from a night of great cigars and three tables of Texas Hold'Em Poker. Southtrade provided ample tastings of Buffalo Trace bourbon to complement Dunhill Signed Range cigars.

Host Norman Stein (far right) with guests.

Southtrade Interntional's Blake Kramer pouring Buffalo Trace Bourbon

Some of the poker stars

The BAT boys

Trinidad Short Robusto T 2010 EL review

2010-06-29T20:29:00.003+10:00

Trinidad’s signature pigtail cap is always a sight to behold. I’ve smoked a few regular production Robusto Ts that hit the market last year and was overwhelmingly impressed. The 2010 EL is a short version – yes another ‘short’ version! Does no one have the time anymore for a full version of a cigar anymore? But I digress - although the size fits in well between my young son’s waking periods!

This is just the second cigar on my new patio at the newly renovated casa. There has been some blogging silence from my end as we have been moving and setting up our new home. With my tongue firmly in cheek I can highly recommend spending 5 months with your parents after you have lived out of home for 10 years. It was sheer delight moving back into our own space. The first cigar I had was a 2004 Ramon Allones Specially Select – a personal favourite – however back to the Trinidad!

A great pre-light draw that tasted of cafe latte struck me at first and upon lighting the cigar the first third is a treat. Strong white pepper hits the palate and the cigar burns smoothly and consistently. Before I know it I’m onto the second third - the white pepper is still there however a citrus twang does start to come through. The final third mellows into a creamy smoke, losing the pepper notes.

A nice ‘short’ cigar for when you find a spare 40 minutes – but do yourself a favour and get hold of some regular production Robusto Ts.

Cigar courtesy of Baranows Cigars Melbourne*

Tale of the Tape:
Comercial name: SHORT ROBUSTOS T
Factory name: Short Del Valle
Measures: 50 ring gauge x 102 mm length
Presentation: SBN box in a single layer of 12 units

*If you’re in Melbourne or travelling there soon, head into Baranows for a ‘nice’ surprise.

Sydney Event Reminder

2010-06-23T12:51:00.000+10:00

Bogart's next cigar event 'Jazz, Poker and Fine Cigars' is coming up on Friday 2 July. Limited tickets are still available for this event and Norman Stein urges those who haven't got tickets yet to be quick.

The evening will commence at 6.30 with the poker tournament beginning at 7pm sharp. Priscilla Gauci will be providing the jazz to set the mood for what will be a great night to enjoy cigars with fellow aficionados.

Where: Vibe Hotel, Rushcutters Bay
When: Friday 2 July
$80 ticket includes cocktails, drinks and 1st cigar.

Click here to buy tickets online.

Event Review - Tabacaria Cigar event

2010-06-22T12:40:00.002+10:00

In late May Tabacaria held another successful cigar event. That event was held at Port Bar and Restaurant located on the banks of the Parramata River just opposite the Rivercat ferry terminal.

Despite a torrential downpour during the day, the evening was well attended and guests were spared from the worst of the elements enjoying cigars on Port Bar's covered deck. Entertainment was of course Brazilian themed and featured drums, music and Carnivale and Capoeira Dancers than more than matched the Dona Flor robustos offred on the night.

Sydney Event: Jazz, Poker and Fine Cigars, 2 July

2010-05-27T21:47:00.002+10:00

Sydney cigar merchant Bogart's just announced their next cigar event 'Jazz, Poker and Fine Cigars' for Friday 2 July.

The evening will commence at 6.30 with the poker tournament beginning at 7pm sharp. Priscilla Gauci will be providing the jazz to set the mood for what will be a great night to enjoy cigars with fellow aficionados.

Where: Vibe Hotel, Rushcutters Bay
When: Friday 2 July
$80 ticket includes cocktails, drinks and 1st cigar.

Click here to buy tickets online.

Tabacaria Sydney Event: Saturday 29 May

2010-05-16T06:51:00.005+10:00

After the success of Tabacaria's Shisha event last month, Mario Saade director of Tabacaria and Tony Gittany of Port Bar and Restaurant Parramatta, announce another cigar night. Port Bar's wine deck overlooks the Parramatta river and is a superb cigar venue.

When: Saturday 29 May, from 7pm
Where: Port Bar and Restaurant Parramatta
How Much: $100 - to book contact Tony at Port Bar on 02 9867 8823
Included: Tabacaria cigars, canapes, wine, beer

As always Brazilian entertainment will be a huge part of the evening's festivities.

Perdomo Cigars announce BNE, SYD, MEL Events

2010-05-12T17:12:00.004+10:00

Today Perdomo Cigars Australia announced events for Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

Tickets are very limited - Book online at Perdomo Cigars Australia

Brisbane:
Baguette Bar and Bistro, 150 Racecourse Road Ascot, Brisbane.
Monday 31st, May 2010, 7:00PM - 10:00PM
Includes: Beer, wine or softdrink on arrival
Includes: Glass of Cognac or Single Malt Whisky
Includes: Selection of Canapes
Includes: 2 x Perdomo cigars
$90.00

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Sydney:
Cohibar, Darling Harbour, Sydney
Wednesday 2nd, June 2010, 7:00PM - 10:00PM
Includes: Beer, wine or softdrink on arrival
Includes: Glass of Cognac or Single Malt Whisky
Includes: Selection of Canapes
Includes: 2 x Perdomo cigars
$100.00

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Melbourne:
RA Lounge Melbourne, 1 Pink Alley (off Little Collins St)
Thursday 3rd, June 2010, 7:00PM - 10:00PM
Includes: Beer, wine or softdrink on arrival
Includes:Glass of Cognac or Single Malt Whisky
Includes: Selection of Canapes
Includes: 2 x Perdomo cigars
$100.00

Melbourne Event Notice: Cigar and Bakery Hill Whisky night

2010-05-11T08:47:00.003+10:00

Last night Baranows annoucned their next cigar event.

'Cigars, Australian single malt whisky, and chocolate' will be held on Tuesday 18th May from 6.30pm. To book contact Wal or Ben on 03 9819 6699 or email info@baranows.com

Baranows comment on the excise increase

2010-05-05T11:23:00.000+10:00

A recent newsletter from Baranows discusses the latest tobacco excise and clarifies the impact the 25% excise increase will have on the price of cigars:

Last Thursday, we awoke to some disturbing news that Mr. Rudd had increased the tobacco tax by 25%. This alarming news was not welcomed by many, yet we had no opportunity to voice our concerns.

The media and government have once again neglected to explain the situation thoroughly and left many cigar lovers panicking and unsure of what ramification this tax increase has had on their passion for cigars.

The 25% increase is on the tax component of your cigars. Therefore, you will see a slight increase of approx $1 - $2 per cigar over the next few weeks / months. It is not a 25% increase on the end price of cigars.

For an example, the very popular Partagas Series D No.4 which currently sell for AUD $23.24 will increase to AUD $24.19.It is unfortunate that cigars are thrown into the same catagory as cigarettes when the government is concerned. The cigar industry has had enough of this and we will be teaming up with other retailers, wholesalers and industry professionals to form a group which will fight to protect the rights and cigar culture in Australia. I will be sure to keep you informed of any progress made.