Sunday, July 31, 2011

Perdomo Exhibicion Maduro Double Robusto Review


Perdomo Exhibicion Maduro Double Robusto - 5 X 54. Wrapper - Nicaragua (Aged 6 years before being aged an additional 14 months in bourbon barrels, Binder - Nicaragua (Cuban seed), Filler - Nicaragua (Cuban Seed). Full bodied.

Initial lighting taste - Earthy woodiness.

First third - Spicy Earthiness, wood and a raisin sweetness.

Second third - Spice continues with an Earthy, sweet raisin taste with woody notes. Very good balance.

Last third - Spice, Earth, sweet raisin/fruit and underlying woodiness. Long finish of Earthiness and spice.

Construction was excellent - beautiful dark brown maduro wrapper with no major veins. Smooth texture with a silky sheen. Burn was razor sharp with a solid gray ash that did not want to fall off. Draw was perfect,

Another fantastic cigar from the Perdomo camp. Plenty of complexity and wonderful balance. I really enjoyed the Earthiness and the raisin-like flavors balance with the spice and wood. This is a full bodied smoke so it would be best enjoyed after a full meal. MSRP is an amazing $6.50 which makes this another consumer friendly price point and a great value. I have to give this cigar a high recommendation to try.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011


CARLOS TORAÑO SR. HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD PRESENTED BY
CIGAR JOURNAL MAGAZINE


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


(Miami, Florida) July 28, 2011 - Toraño Family Cigar Company was bestowed a great honor as the patriarch of the family Carlos Toraño Sr. was presented with the Lifetime Achievement award by Cigar Journal Magazine to commemorate his service and dedication to the tobacco industry.

The Cigar Journal Magazine’s annual award ceremony took place on July 19, 2011 at Lavo Italian Restaurant located inside The Palazzo Hotel during the 2011 IPCPR Trade show. The ceremony was attended by leading figures of the tobacco industry, Grammy winner Arturo Sandoval, Hollywood producers, and other notables. The ceremony featured awards for 17 different categories. This year’s ceremony featured a twist as the trophy awarded to the winners was redesigned to resemble a crystal chaveta. In the words of the Cigar Journal the chaveta is the symbol of the cigar-maker’s art.

The ceremony was hosted by the Cigar Journal’s Chief Editors Reinhold Widmayer and Colin Ganley. After awarding 16 awards for categories such as best brand, best cigar, etc. there was only one crystal chaveta left. After a short introduction Widmayer announced Carlos Toraño Sr. as the lifetime achievement award winner. Too much applause, Carlos Toraño Sr. walked on stage and graciously accepted the award from Widmayer. Carlos Toraño’s first words were that he was humbled to receive such an honor. After a short speech he walked off stage to pose for pictures with his son and current president of Toraño Family Cigars Co. Charlie Toraño. Charlie was heard whispering in his father’s ear, “Congratulations, you deserve this dad”.

On winning the award Carlos Toraño Sr. stated, “I am truly honored to receive this award from Cigar Journal Magazine. This industry has been very special to my family and I, and we look forward to continuing the Toraño tradition for years to come.”

Founded in 1916 by Santiago Toraño, the Toraño Family Cigar Company is recognized as one of the oldest tobacco families in the cigar industry. Carlos Toraño, at the age of 16 was part of the nationalization of Cuba in 1959, where his family’s tobacco fields were taken away and were forced to leave the island. The family however continued to seek out the finest quality tobaccos from many countries around the world. After being educated in the United States, Carlos Toraño Sr. joined the family business and followed in his father’s footsteps by continuing the tradition and legacy of his grandfather in buying and distributing tobacco. In 1997, the family owned and operated its first factory in Nicaragua and launched the Carlos Toraño brand.

A leader in the cigar industry, Toraño Family Cigar Company is a four generation company currently based in Miami, FL. It enjoys a rich heritage and history in tobacco growing and manufacturing. For more information: www.torano.com. Please also follow Toraño on Face book: Toraño A family Cigar Company or on Twitter: @TORANOFAMCIGARS.

Creativas Group Public Relations Inc. provides public relations and marketing counsel to South Florida-based businesses, nationally recognized special events and leading non-profit organizations. For more information, please log onto www.creativasgroup.com or email info@creativasgroup.com.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Davidoff Maduro Toro Review


Davidoff Toro Maduro - 6 X 48. Wrapper - Nicaragua, Binder - Dominican, Filler - Dominican. Medium - Full bodied.

Initial lighting taste - Dry woodiness, slight charcoal and spice.

First third - Spicy earthiness with sweet fruit-like notes. A wonderful citrus flavor emerges almost at the end of the first third.

Second third - Spice with an Earthiness, tangy citrus and sweet fruit. Very smooth and well balanced.

Last third - More of the same - Spice, tangy citrus, Earthiness and a fruity sweetness. Long finish of tangy spice and Earth.

Construction - Dark brown coarse wrapper with some moderate veins. Wrapper is somewhat dry. Burn was good producing a solid dark gray ash. Draw was perfect.

I fantastic tasting cigar that had very good complexity and balance. Those that follow my reviews know that I love a citrus spice flavor in my cigar and this one had it. The sweet fruitiness was also very enjoyable. MSRP for this vitola is a whopping $18.50 which makes this cigar very expensive and not the best value even though I really like the cigar. For me at this price point, it would be a special occasion cigar. Definite recommend if you willing and able to spend the money

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Forcade "Canonazo" Review


Forcade "Canonazo" Review - 6 X 60. Wrapper - Ecuador, Binder - Nicaragua, Filler - Nicaragua. Medium bodied.

Initial lighting taste - Pepper & cedar.

First third - Spice, cedar, leather and nearing the end of the first third, a nutty flavor emerges.

Second third - Spice continues but now there is creaminess with the cedar flavor along with leather and nuts. Excellent balance and very smooth.

Last third - Spice, creamy cedar, leather and nuts. Nice long finish of spice and cedar.

Construction is excellent as you would expect from a Garcia-made cigar - attractive light-brown wrapper, smooth texture with a slight oily sheen that is triple capped Cuban style. Burn was razor sharp producing a light-gray solid ash that would hold in for a couple of inches at a time. Draw was perfect with plenty of smoke.

A fantastic cigar that is very flavorful and enjoyable. It had great complexity and smooth balance. I personally found the creamy, woody flavor and the nutty notes to be very appealing. MSRP for this vitola is $7.30 which is a great price point for a cigar of this size and taste. Definite recommend for when you have a couple of hours to enjoy a complex medium bodied smooth cigar.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

IPCPR 2011 New Release Review - Flor De Gonzalez "90 Miles Gordo"


Flor De Gonzalez "90 Miles Gordo" - 6 X 60 Wrapper - Ecuador (Habano Rosado), Binder - Nicaragua, Filler - Nicaragua. Medium bodied.

Initial lighting taste - Oak wood and nuts

First third - Spice, leather, nuts and oak - very nicely balanced.

Second third - More of the same wonderful flavors - spice, leather the nuts and oaky woodiness.

Last third - Spiciness continues with the tasty leather and nuttiness. Oak flavor is still present. Long finish of spice and leather.

Construction - Attractive light-brown wrapper with a slight sheen. Smooth without any major veins. Burn was very good with a solid light-gray ash. Draw was perfect with just the right amount of smoke.

I have been a big fan of the 90 miles line since I first tried and reviewed the robusto size. Although this vitola is much larger, I found it to be just as flavorful with excellent complexity and balance. I really enjoyed the nutty flavor which I did not get with the robusto size. MSRP is $6.80 for this size which is a great value. A cigar that can be enjoyed from midday on. Absolutely recommend.

Friday, July 15, 2011

Wayne Newton to Accept Donation to the USO Las Vegas


* * * MEDIA ALERT * * *

Wayne Newton to Accept Donation to the USO Las Vegas
at IPCPR Tradeshow at Sands Expo

WHAT: Wayne Newton will be on hand to accept a $20,000 donation to the USO Las Vegas from General Cigar Company on behalf of the International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers Association (IPCPR).

The donation supports the “$1k a Day” campaign created to help fund the USO Las Vegas facility in McCarran Airport.

General Cigar and the IPCPR are making the donation as a way of giving back to the City of Las Vegas, which will host the 79th Annual IPCPR Trade Show from July 18-21, 2011. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the USO and its mission to lift the spirits of America’s troops and their families.

WHERE: Sands Expo Booth 412 at Exhibit Halls B and C.

WHEN: Monday, July 18 at 2:00 PM

WHO: Interviews and photo ops are available with Wayne Newton, as well as representatives of the USO, General Cigar and IPCPR.

CONTACT: Doug Bradford, USO Las Vegas (702) 513-1362

PARKING: Please use The Venetian self-parking garage

MEDIA ACCCESS: Kindly RSVP to Sidra Kain, Denny Weddle & Associates, (702) 810-6253; Contact The Venetian | The Palazzo Las Vegas Public Relations Dept. at (702) 414-0338 for on-property access


About General Cigar
General Cigar Co. Inc., a division of Scandinavian Tobacco Group, manufactures and markets handcrafted cigars for the premium market. Committed to delivering cigars of the finest quality, General Cigar’s skilled artisans produce Macanudo®, Cohiba®, La Gloria Cubana®, Punch®, CAO, Partagas®, Hoyo de Monterrey®, Excalibur® and several other leading premium brands in the company’s Dominican, Honduran and Nicaraguan factories. In addition, the company cultivates proprietary tobacco which is used exclusively in its blends. General Cigar also operates Club Macanudo®, a cigar bar in New York City. Based in Richmond, VA, General Cigar sells through tobacconists nationwide and also exports select products to 62 countries. For more information, please visit www.cigarworld.com.

About IPCPR
With more than 2,000 members throughout the U.S. and 31 foreign countries, the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association is the leading non-profit industry organization representing retailers, manufacturers and distributors of hand-made cigars, pipes and accessories.  Stores displaying the IPCPR logo are recognized as premier purveyors of premium tobacco products. Members of IPCPR have access to IPCPR market research, trade shows, services, publications, and participation in community, constitutional and legislative action programs.

About the USO
The USO (United Service Organizations) lifts the spirits of America’s troops and their families millions of times each year at hundreds of places worldwide. We provide a touch of home through centers at airports and military bases, top quality entertainment and innovative programs and services. We also provide critical support to those who need us most, including forward-deployed troops and their families, wounded warriors and their families and the families of the fallen.

The USO is a private, non-profit organization, not a government agency. We rely on the generosity of our volunteers and donors. In addition to individual donors and other corporate sponsors, the USO is supported by Worldwide Strategic Partners: American Airlines, AT&T Inc., BAE Systems, The Boeing Company, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca-Cola Company, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Procter & Gamble and TriWest Healthcare Alliance. We are also supported through the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-11381). To join us in this patriotic mission and to learn more about the USO, please visit www.uso.org

IPCPR 2011 Pre-Release Review Casa Magna Domus Magnus Limitada "Optimus".


Casa Magna Domus Magnus Limitada "Optimus" - 5.75 X 52. Wrapper - Nicaraguan Sun grown from Jalapa, Binder - Nicaragua, Filler - Nicaragua. Medium bodied.

Initial lighting taste - Leather and wood.

First third - Earthy leather with an underlying spice. Notes of fruit and cocoa.

Second third - More of the earthy, leather and spice along with the raisin fruitiness and cocoa notes.

Last third - Continuation of these wonderful flavors - earthy leather, spice, raisin/fruitiness and cocoa. Smooth and balanced so nicely that the flavors coat the palate with a very long finish of spice with the leathery earthiness.

Construction - Excellent - does anybody out there today have better wrappers than the Quesadas? A gorgeous brown colored box press with a slight oily seen and a pigtail. Smooth texture without any veins. Burn was sharp producing a dark gray ash that held on inches at a time. Draw was perfect with ample amounts of smoke.

A fantastic cigar that has such a smooth richness to it that before you know it, you are down to the nub - it's that good. Complexity was very good and the balance was outstanding. You can tell that this is a Limitada by how good it is. MSRP is $8.95 which is very good for a Limited cigar that delivers so much. IPCPR 2011 has another strong contender in the house! Definite recommend.

IPCPR 2011 Pre-Release Review - Casa Miranda Robusto


Casa Miranda Robusto - 5 X 50. Wrapper - Ecuadorian Habano, Binder - Nicaragua, Filler - Nicaragua. Between medium and full bodied.

Initial lighting taste - A cedary spice

First third - Peppery spice, cedar and leather.

Second third - The pepper spice settles down to a spiciness and now the leather becomes a sweet creamy leather which is very enjoyable. I am also noticing a slight nutty flavor as well.

Last third - Spice continues with that wonderful sweet, creamy leather and the slight nut flavor. The flavors blend together very nicely. Long finish of leather and spice.

Construction - This cigar is made for Miami Cigar & Company by Willie Herrera of El Titan De Bronze so the construction is top notch. A very attractive oily brown wrapper with no major veins and triple capped - beautiful. Burn was razor sharp producing a white colored ash that did not want to fall off. Draw was perfect with plenty of smoke.

You know you are smoking a great cigar when you are in the moment, enjoying every last draw and wishing the cigar would never end - this is that kind of cigar. Very good balance and complexity with a wonderfully long finish. MSRP for this vitola is $10.00 and it's worth every penny of it. This might just be the best Nestor Miranda cigar to date - definite recommend.

REINADO® Receives a 91 Rating from Smoke Magazine and Introduces Two New Sizes at the 79th Annual IPCPR Convention and International Trade Show


REINADO® Receives a 91 Rating from Smoke Magazine and Introduces Two New Sizes at the 79th Annual IPCPR Convention and International Trade Show

REINADO® receives a 91 rating from Smoke Magazine and announces two new sizes, the Habanito and El Emperador, to further broaden the choices available to cigar smokers.

Oradell, NJ, July 14, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Experiencing tremendous success as a new premium boutique cigar brand, the REINADO® Torpedo, 6 1/8 x 52, has received a coveted 91 rating in the most recent edition of Smoke Magazine.

"We are deeply honored to receive such a distinguished rating from Smoke Magazine, and are pleased that our customers enjoy the REINADO blend," said Antonio Lam, CEO of Cubanero Enterprises and REINADO. "The all Nicaraguan construction and smooth flavors produced by our unique fermentation process have exceeded our collective expectations," said Lam.

This month REINADO will introduce two highly anticipated new sizes at the 2011 Las Vegas IPCPR -- the Habanito and El Emperador.

Habanito
The Habanito, 4 x 38, is ideal for the cigar smoker who seeks full flavors in a convenient, short format. The Habanitos use a luscious habano rosado wrapper. Keeping with the REINADO blend, the Habanitos are a Nicaraguan puro of premium, select tobacco aged up to 5 years using REINADO's signature, unique fermentation.

Emperador
El Emperador (the Emperor), 6 x 60, delivers the maximum experience of the distinguished REINADO blend for the hearty smoker. A carefully constructed Nicaraguan puro with a habano rosado wrapper, El Emperador maintains the smooth, rich flavors derived from REINADO's acclaimed fermentation process.

"Our blend has been exceptionally well received, and we are delighted to be available in nearly 50 retail establishments across 15 states in less than one year and retailers are pleased," said Lam.

"We've been in business for 31 years and the quality of REINADO is great. The cigar burns well, smokes well, is very smooth, and has a very nice flavor. It's on our front table," said Gary Kolesaire owner of The Tobacco Shop in Ridgewood, NJ.

Attractively priced, REINADO cigars are available at $7.95 to $9.95 per cigar in boxes of 20. REINADO cigars are available at fine tobacconists across the United States.

Please visit them at booth 1495 at this year's IPCPR in Las Vegas.

More Information:
To learn more, obtain samples, or carry the REINADO brand, visit us at http://www.reinadocigars.com/ or contact Cubanero Enterprises at:

REINADO Cigars
201.893.1953
info@reinadocigars.com

About Cubanero Enterprises
Cubanero Enterprises, LLC develops premium boutique cigars delivering a sophisticated smoking experience. Leveraging the Cuban heritage of its founders, Cubanero Enterprises incorporates passion and innovation to deliver the highest quality cigars.

TORAÑO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY TEAMS UP WITH DWAYNE WADE TO HELP KIDS


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TORAÑO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY TEAMS UP WITH DWAYNE WADE TO HELP KIDS

(Miami, FL) July 14, 2011— Toraño Family Cigar Co. had the honor of being asked to be the official cigar partner at “The Party with a Purpose” event hosted by Miami Heat superstar Dwayne Wade at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel &Casino to benefit the Kids2Camp fund.

Taking place on Wednesday July 13, 2011 the red carpet event was a spectacular affair where event goers mixed and mingled with NBA Champion Dwayne Wade and other athletes to include current Miami Dolphin wide receivers Devon Bess and Brian Hartline. Also in attendance was former Miami Dolphin tight end and current voice of the Miami Dolphins Joe Rose. The event which took place poolside at the Hard Rock Hotel featured cocktails and pork cooked in “La Caja China” which is a traditionally Cuban way of roasting pork. Continuing with Cuban tradition Toraño Family Cigar Co. was well represented as Master Roller Felipe Sosa and Carlos “Llaca” Toraño were in attendance as they cut and lit some of Toraño’s finest cigars for event goers.

Dwayne Wade stood on stage to thank sponsors and event guests for helping raise awareness and funds for the Kids2Camp fund which provides scholarships to disadvantaged or disabled youth as well as the opportunity to attend camps. As he was finishing his speech the “voice” of the Miami Dolphins Joe Rose announced that the Toraño Family had a special surprise for Wade as Carlos Llaca-Toraño presented Wade with a box of Limited Edition Carlos Toraño 2008 Tribute Churchill Cigars. A gracious Dwayne Wade thanked Carlos as he opened the box with excitement.

President of Toraño Family Cigar Co. Charlie Toraño was unable to attend the event but stated, “As a cigar company in Miami we are proud to take part in functions to help the less fortunate in our home city. We felt privileged to be asked to take part in such a special event”.

A leader in the cigar industry, Toraño Family Cigar Company is a four generation company currently based in Miami, FL. It enjoys a rich heritage and history in tobacco growing and manufacturing. For more information: www.torano.com. Please also follow Toraño on Face book: Toraño A family Cigar Company or on Twitter: @TORANOFAMCIGARS.

Creativas Group Inc. provides public relations and marketing counsel to South Florida-based businesses, nationally recognized special events and leading non-profit organizations. For more information, please log onto www.creativasgroup.com or email info@creativasgroup.com.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

IPCPR 2011 Pre-Release Review - Torano "Loyal" Robusto


Torano "Loyal" Robusto - 5 X 56. Wrapper - Sumatra seed grown in Ecuador, Binder - Nicaragua, Filler - Pueblo Nuevo, Nicaragua and Dominican Piloto Cubano. Medium bodied.

Initial lighting taste - Woody and nutty.

First third - Woody, nutty, spicy with a smooth creaminess emerging towards the end of the first third of the cigar.

Second third - The woody and nutty flavors continue in the forefront, but now the creaminess is more prevalent and takes on a sweet quality with an underlying spiciness. Very smooth and well balanced.

Last third - Woodiness continues with the nutty flavor, sweet creaminess and the underlying spice. Long smooth finish of a creamy woodiness.

Construction - is perfect as I have come to expect with all Torano products. The wrapper is a light brown smooth color with a couple of small veins visible. Burn was sharp with a strong, light gray solid ash that did not want to fall off. Draw was perfect with plenty of billowy smoke.

An excellent cigar with a very complex and balanced profile. I particularly enjoyed the nut and sweet cream balanced with the other flavors. This cigar is super smooth and perfect for after a moderate meal. MSRP for this size is a very consumer friendly $4.95 and at that price point along with the flavor profile, I will now be a "Loyal" fan. IPCPR 2011 - Torano is in the house! Highly recommend.

Rocky Patel Premium Cigars announces release of EO Brands 601 Connecticut and 601 LaBomba


Immediate Release:


For More Information Contact:
Bo Young – 239-593-1833 x105
Eddie Ortega – 954-822-9485



Rocky Patel Premium Cigars announces release of EO Brands 601 Connecticut and 601 LaBomba


June 29, 2011 (Bonita Springs, Florida) The Rocky Patel Premium Cigar Company announced today the release of two new premium cigar lines from EO Brands – 601 Connecticut and 601 La Bomba.

“We are very proud of the 601 brand,” said EO Brands President Eddie Ortega. “The 601 Red, Green and Blue offer distinct, different styles of full bodied cigars, and we wanted to round out the 601 product portfolio with a milder cigar – but still offer something with a little kick. The 601 Connecticut has a nice, spicy start and finishes smooth and creamy. The consumer that wants 601 quality in a milder cigar is going to love 601 Connecticut.”

The 601 Connecticut comes with a beautiful Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper and Binder/Filler from Cuban seed from Estelí and Jalapa regions of Nicaragua.

The Connecticut comes in four shapes: Robusto – 5x50, Toro – 6x50, Torpedo – 6 1/8x52 and Churchill – 7x48. These cigars are currently available at retail, and they cost between $7.50 and $8.00.

“With the introduction of 601 La Bomba, we wanted to deliver a cigar that had an extreme level of flavor and taste for the fans of 601,” added Ortega. “We’ve worked on this blend for over a year, and we’re very happy with the explosive power that La Bomba delivers.”

La Bomba comes in four shapes: Atom-5 1/2x46, Napalm 5x52, Nuclear 6x50 and Atomic-6x60. These cigars will be available at retail on July 1st, and they cost between $8.00 and $9.00, and they come in boxes of 10.

In other EO Brands news, EO is launching a new shape in their very popular Murcielago brand. The new Toro Grande is 6 ½ x54, and can be found where ever the Murcielago brand is sold.

Located in Bonita Springs, Florida, the Rocky Patel Premium Cigar Company began producing high quality premium cigars in 1995, based on Rocky’s passion for cigars, and his desire to share his unique cigar blends with cigar connoisseurs around the world. Rocky is also very active in raising money for underprivileged children in Honduras, with his RP Foundation. Current Rocky Patel cigar brands include: Decade, 1961, Olde World Reserve, Edge, 15th Anniversary and the Vintage Series. For more information visit their Website at www.RockyPatel.com. For more information on EO Brands, visit their website at www.EOBrands.com.

Davidoff Appoints New President for North America

Media Release


Davidoff Appoints New President for North America

Basel/Switzerland, July 14th 2011. The President and Chief Executive Officer of the Oettinger Davidoff Group, Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard, announced today the appointment of James (Jim) Young, as the new President North America of Davidoff of Geneva Distribution, Inc. effective September 1st.

After 11 years at the helm of Davidoff’s US Operations, Peter Baenninger,
will relocate to corporate headquarters in Basel, Switzerland, to take up a new role as Head of Global Retail effective January 1st 2012. Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard says: “I am delighted to welcome Jim to Davidoff at this exciting time for our company. The US is of critical importance to our strategic growth plans and Jim is uniquely suited to lead our businesses in the future. With his broad, cross functional, US and international experience, I am convinced he will only add to his track record of success. Our strong portfolio of Davidoff, AVO, Camacho, Cusano, Griffin’s, Zino Platinum and Winston Churchill is a compelling platform for Jim and the team to take our US business to the next level”.

Mr Hoejsgaard continues: “It is Peter’s success in building our retail stores in the US that makes him ideally positioned and particularly qualified to take on this new and important global retail role”.

Jim Young was most recently President Guinness USA and prior to that he was
with Diageo in London. From 1985-2001 he was with Joseph E. Seagram &
Sons in a range of senior Finance and General Management positions in the
US, Asia and Europe, lastly as General Manager Seagram Spain & Portugal.
Jim holds an MBA in Finance & Accounting from Columbia University and a BS
with highest honors in Marine Transportation from the U.S. Merchant Marine
Academy.

The CHF 1.3 billion Oettinger Davidoff Group with almost 4,000 employees
around the world, traces its roots back to 1875 and remains family owned to
this day with two distinctly different businesses: one that is focused on FMCG distribution in the Swiss market and one dedicated to the core business of producing, marketing and retailing premium branded cigars, tobacco products and accessories. The premium branded cigar business include Davidoff, AVO, Camacho, Cusano, Griffin’s, Private Stock, Zino, Zino Platinum and Winston Churchill Cigars. The Oettinger Davidoff Group is anchored in a strong “cropto-shop” philosophy, having pursued a vertical integration from its tobacco fields in the Dominican Republic and Honduras to its world wide network of 65 flagship stores.

For further information:
Oettinger Davidoff Group
Corporate Communications
Paloma Szathmáry
Nauenstrasse 73
CH- 4002 Basel
Phone: +61 279 36 24
E-mail: paloma.szathmary@davidoff.ch

Misti Cigar Company opens high-end ultra-premium Crown Jewel Cigar Bar and Lounge in North Florida.

Press Release: M. Misti Cigar Company, Inc. / Crown Jewel International


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

M. Misti Cigar Company opens high-end ultra-premium Crown Jewel Cigar Bar and Lounge in North Florida.

Palm Coast, Florida - (July 12th, 2011) M. Misti Cigar Company announced today the opening of its first ultra-premium luxurious Crown Jewel Cigar Bar and Lounge at the world renowned Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Florida.

“M. Misti Cigar Company is both pleased and excited to be part of Northeast, Florida’s premier Ocean Front Resort, the Hammock Beach Resort. It epitomizes the good life in every manner. The Crown Jewel Cigar Bar and Lounge is the perfect addition to this Resort venue”, stated Mark Mistie Jr., Corporate Director for M. Misti Cigar Company. The Resort offers over 300 spacious luxury suites, an enticing choice of dining options with 6 award winning restaurants, ballrooms, and function rooms which provide over 80,000 sq. feet of meeting space, multi-level water oasis featuring pools for adults and families, eight lighted Hydro-Grid tennis courts which overlook the scenic Intercostal, a 117 foot custom event yacht which is available for private parties and events. In addition, the Resort hosts golfing amenities which include 36 holes of championship golf, including 6 holes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on Jack Nicklaus’ Signature Ocean Course and Tom Watson’s challenging Conservatory Course that boasts the highest slope rating in Florida. The Resort is the recipient of the prestigious Four Diamond (AAA) award for 5 years in a row, among countless others. It is truly a World Class Resort (www.hammockbeachresort.com).

Mr. Jeffrey Sacchet, Director of Food and Beverage stated “We are delighted to have an association with Crown Jewel Cigars. We have great anticipation and we are confident that Mark Mistie Jr. and his team will create and build the cache’ and identity for our new Crown Jewel Cigar Bar and Lounge that can only be provided by a boutique Cigar Company with high standards of product quality and integrity.”

The exclusive Crown Jewel Cigar Bar and Lounge is a private club for cigar aficionados. The lounge will feature the complete line of the exclusive Crown Jewel Boutique Cigars as well as other notable cigar brands. Our guests will enjoy the luxury of deep leather furnishings, a fully stocked humidor, and a bar that boasts some of the finest single malts, ports, and cognacs around, all in a carbon filtered air environment reminiscent of the 19th Century London cigar bars. Guest will be entertained with live music, (5) flat panel televisions and a full night club venue located at the bottom of the spiral staircase from the lounge. The Crown Jewel Cigar Bar and Lounge truly is a connoisseur's haven.

M. Misti Cigar Company, Inc. / Crown Jewel International is a privately held Premium Cigar Manufacturer and Distribution Company. The company currently has product distribution in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Nevada, Virginia, Washington D.C., Maryland, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania.

The Crown Jewel Cigar Bar and Lounge is located on the 2nd floor of the Hammock Beach Resort at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Palm Coast, FL 32137. Visit (www.crownjewelcigars.com) for more details. For Crown Jewel site evaluation and consideration please contact Mr. Mark Mistie Jr. at (386) 338-5962.

Corporate Contact: Ms. Kim Rotunno - (386) 338-5804

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

La Flor Dominicana to introduce new items at IPCPR trade show in Las Vegas this year.


La Flor Dominicana
123 San Lorenzo Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33146
www.laflordominicana.com

Phone- (800)543-7131
Fax - (305)443-7985
Lfd123@bellsouth.net

PRESS RELEASE


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


La Flor Dominicana to introduce new items at IPCPR trade show in Las Vegas this year.

Coral Gables, FL July 13, 2011 - La Flor Dominicana will introduce the following items at this year's IPCPR trade show in Las Vegas next week, July 17 - July21.

Casa de Tabaco featuring "Airbender Maduro" - A unique cigar box/humidor made in the style of a true Dominican curing barn. This beautiful package will house 24 of our limited Airbender Maduros, made with a Brazilian maduro wrapper and Dominican filler and binder. Production of these will be limited to orders taken at the IPCPR trade show in Las Vegas.

After releasing 2 successful Salamones, Litto Gomez has blended the Diadema Duo Natural & Maduro - A single coffin will house two different diademas measuring 9.25 inches long! The natural has a Nicaraguan Habano wrapper, while the maduro diademas has a Nicaraguan Habano Ligero wrapper. They both have Dominican fillers and binders grown on our farm in La Canela, Dominican Republic, and will be a limited production item.

With the success of the "Digger" maduro, we will be introducing the "Digger Natural" - The 8.5 inch by 60 ring Digger natural will have an Ecuadorian Sun Grown wrapper with our Double Ligero Blend.

Finally, we will be introducing Colorado Oscuro, a limited production that will be released twice a year. This new blend will be available in 4 sizes released in 50 count cabinets. They have an Ecuadorian Ligero Sumatra wrapper with a Dominican Sumatra binder and Dominican and Nicaraguan filler. The No. 2 will be a 48x4.25; No. 3 50x5; No.4 54x5.25; and the No. 5 is 60x5.75.

La Flor Dominicana is a vertically integrated premium cigar company, where we proudly control the process from the seed to the final grading, inspecting and packing process. Our tobaccos are grown at our farm in La Canella, Dominican Republic. Our factory is located in Tamboril.

For further information, please contact our office at (800) 543-7131.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JULY 2011 ‐ IPCPR

PERDOMO’S NEWEST EXHIBIT ‐ PERDOMO EXHIBICIÓN

MIAMI, FL ‐ Tabacalera Perdomo is proud to exhibit the new and highly anticipated Perdomo Exhibiciónat the 2011 IPCPR trade show in Las Vegas. Perdomo Exhibición is a true testament of Tabacalera Perdomo's dedication to the art of blending factory aged tobaccos into world class premium hand‐made cigars. The Perdomo Exhibición blends include a mild to medium bodied Exhibit Connecticut offering acreamy smoke with a velvety finish; a medium to full flavored Exhibit Sun Grown with a core of earthy flavors and subtle hints of spice; and a full bodied Exhibit Maduro layered with rich, decadent flavors ofdark cocoa and roasted coffee.

Each Perdomo Exhibición is meticulously blended with factory aged Cuban‐seed Nicaraguan fillers,including 4 year aged seco leaves from the renowned Condega region, 5 year aged viso leaves from thefamous Jalapa Valley, and 6 year aged ligero leaves from the powerhouse valley of Esteli. These Cubanseedtobaccos have been carefully aged to perfection using time‐honored methods passed down through the Perdomo family from generation to generation.

Achieving the perfect Perdomo Exhibición requires wrappers that have been carefully hand‐selected and well aged for 6 years prior to qualifying for Perdomo’s bourbon barrel aging process. The Connecticut wrappers are barrel aged for an additional 6 months, the Sun Grown wrappers for an additional 10 months, and the Maduro wrappers for an additional 14 months. These barrel aged wrappers are at their peak color and flavor, making each Perdomo Exhibición a beautifully balanced masterpiece.

“Perdomo Exhibición is the culmination of our factory’s hard work and dedication to quality and consistency,” states Nick Perdomo. “Our team continues to work in unison to provide new and exciting blends to a world audience.”

Perdomo Exhibición is packaged in elegant 20 count boxes in the following sizes: Double Robusto (5 x 54), Toro Grande (6 x 54), Churchill (7 x 54), and Torpedo (7 x 54). The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices are $6.50 to $8.00 per cigar (excluding local and state taxes), reflecting Perdomo's continued dedication to providing premium hand‐made cigars at affordable prices.

“We will completely absorb the SCHIP tax on Perdomo Exhibición as we do on all of our other brands,” states Nick Perdomo, Jr. “We are committed to providing the very best cigars at great price points for both retailers and consumers as we continue experiencing these tough economic times.”

Headquartered in Miami Gardens, Florida, with manufacturing and agricultural facilities in Esteli, Nicaragua, Tabacalera Perdomo is a closely held, family run company, whose highly acclaimed cigar brands include Perdomo Edición de Silvio, Perdomo Patriarch, Perdomo Estate Selección Vintage 2002, Perdomo Exhibición, Perdomo Habano, Perdomo Reserve 10 Year Anniversary, Perdomo Reserve Champagne Noir, Perdomo Grand Cru, Perdomo2 (Squared) 2008 Limited Edition, Perdomo Lot 23, Nick's Sticks, Cuban Bullet, and Perdomo Fresco. For more information, please contact us at 305‐627‐6700 or visit our website http://www.perdomocigars.com.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Forcade Cigars will present the new image of its “Giralda” cigars at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR)

F

OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Forcade Cigars
E: claudio.sgroi@forcadecigars.com
P: 305.233.5104

Forcade Cigars will present the new image of its “Giralda” cigars at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR) next Monday July 18th, 2011 at

The Venetian Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV
The new ring and boxes will be pre-released during the cigar show and will be available in
August 2011

MIAMI, FL.- (11 July 2011). Forcade Cigars will proudly reveal new cigar ring and boxes for its “Giralda” brand at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR) next Monday July 18th, at The Venetian Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV, presentation that will be available in the market starting on August 2011.

The company decided to make these changes on the image of its “Giralda” brand after listening closely to the loyal smokers and keeping the eyes on the market. “One of my first requests to Claudio Sgroi, as soon as he was named Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, was to do some modifications to the ring and the look of the “Giralda” boxes, revamping our elegant and attractive image while keeping exactly the same successful blend that our clients enjoy so much. Today, I’m proud to say: “New look! Same great taste!” said Chistrian Forcade, President of Forcade Cigars.

“The new ring is the expression of elegance through simplicity. I love the fact that it highlights the name “Giralda”, considering how meaningful it is for Chistrian and the Forcade family” said Claudio Sgroi. “The redesigned natural wood-color boxes with the windows in the front allow a preview of the renovated “Giralda” cigars that will pre-released next week along with our two brand new extension line: Forcade Robusto Gordo (5 X 54) and Forcade Cañonazo (6 X 60)”, added Sgroi.

The “Giralda” is one of the most emblematic symbols of Spain, country of origin of the Forcade family, that later relocated to Pinar del Río, Cuba where they started their cigar business in 1887. Forcade Cigars produces cigars of indisputable quality and perfect construction. During this time, the company has satisfied the market obtaining a privileged position within the best cigar retailers of the country. Jaime García blends all the Forcade Cigars, which are handmade in Nicaragua at My Father Cigar Factory.

ABOUT FORCADE CIGARS
The current generation of the Forcade family is passionately involved in the creation of wonderful cigars such as: Forcade, Giralda Natural and Giralda Maduro. Jaime García blends all the Forcade Cigars, which are handmade in Nicaragua at My Father Cigar Factory.

The history of Forcade Cigars dates back to 1887 when Thomas Novales migrated from Palma de Mallorca, Spain to Cabeza-Pinar Del Rio, Cuba, where he passed down his knowledge and dedication to the cultivation of tobacco to his four children. The Forcade children and then grandchildren fell in love with the family business and together they were able to continue the company that their ancestors had created, assuring the quality and freshness of their fine cigars. The company is named after the Forcade Family, in memory of Manolo Forcade, who died at sea trying to escape Fidel Castro’s communist regime and to pursue his dream of continuing the Forcade tradition in the United States.

To learn more about Forcade Cigars please call: 305 233 5104 or email claudio.sgroi@forcadecigars.com.

TORAÑO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY UNVEILS BLENDS FROM THE “VAULT”


TORAÑO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY UNVEILS BLENDS FROM THE “VAULT”


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Miami, FL) July 12, 2011: Toraño Family Cigar Company is excited to unleash Vault, the family’s newest cigar creation. The Toraño family will unveil Vault at the upcoming 2011 IPCPR in Las Vegas.
Blends from the Vault originate from the family’s cigar “blend book” which was started by Carlos Toraño, Sr. in 1982. The blend book, which is now almost 30 years old, has a record of every blend concept the Toraño family has ever worked on. The tobacco stained pages of this book include blends that could only come from a family with the history, knowledge and tobacco experience of the Toraño family. Amongst the blends recorded are many which the family has released over the years, together with some blends which were deemed to have tremendous potential, but fell short of the family’s high expectations. This book has come to symbolize the Toraño’s blending expertise, creativity, and is now securely stored in a safety deposit box in a bank vault.

Charlie Toraño, current president of Toraño Family Cigar Co.(and son of Carlos Toraño Sr.) along with VP of Sales and Marketing, Bruce Lewis, revisited the blend book and discovered an intriguing, yet unreleased blend, Liga A-008, which was first recorded in 2000. The original Blend A-008 consisted of heavy filler tobacco from Estelí and Condega, Nicaragua, one single binder from Jamastran and was finished with a shade grown Nicaraguan Colorado wrapper. Charlie and Bruce decided to embark on a project to enhance this special blend.

After numerous attempts to slightly modify the original recorded blend, the missing ingredient was discovered – tobacco from Ometepe, Nicaragua. Ometepe is an island located on Lake Nicaragua. The island is home to two volcanoes and its soil is rich and fertile. Adding Ometepe to the original Toraño blend, specifically as a second ligero binder, brought an added layer of complexity and strength to the blend.

Vault blend A-008 opens instantly to reveal a rich and flavorful base of spice and earth which is quickly rounded and complemented by notes of ripe fruit and a nutty creaminess. Complex and exhibiting a multi-layered taste profile, this full bodied blend coats and satisfies the entire palate. Vault comes in three sizes: 6 x 50 Toro; 6 1/8 x 52 Torpedo and a 5 x 52 Robusto. The MSRP is $7.20 - $7.95.

The Toraño family heads into the IPCPR in Las Vegas boasting two new brands in Vault and Loyal along with the launch of the new 6 × 60 Exodus 1959 - 50 Years BFC. The Toraño Family hopes to see you at the IPCPR in Las Vegas at booth 0584—0693.

A leader in the cigar industry, Toraño Family Cigar Company is a four generation company currently based in Miami, FL. It enjoys a rich heritage and history in tobacco growing and manufacturing. For more information: www.torano.com. Please also follow Toraño on Face book: Toraño A Family Cigar Company or on Twitter: @TORANOFAMCIGARS.

Sunday, July 10, 2011

IPCPR 2011 Pre-Release Review - E.P Carillo Core Maduro "Encantos" Robusto


E.P Carillo Core Maduro "Encantos" Robusto - 4 7/8 X 50. Wrapper - Connecticut Broadleaf, Binder - Ecuadorian Sumatra, Filler - Nicaragua & Dominican Republic. Medium - full bodied.

Initial taste - Spicy dry woodiness.

First third - Peppery spice with a sweet, earthiness accompanied by leather and some woody notes.

Second third - Pepper spice, but now there is a fruity sweet earthiness with smooth leather and nuts.

Last third - Pepper spice continues, earthy fruitiness, leather and nuts. Long tasty finish of spice and earthy leather.

Construction - Dark brown wrapper with a slight oily sheen. No major veins were visible. Burn - the cigar needed one touch-up in the first third but otherwise was good. Light gray ash that was solid and held on for an inch and a half at a time. Draw was perfect and produced a good amount of smoke.

A fantastic smoke with excellent complexity and perfect balance. After the peppery spice hits your palate, there is this wonderfully smooth array of flavors that linger in your mouth. MSRP for this size is $6.45. This is the first cigar that I have tried that will be released next week at the IPCPR in Las Vegas and E. P. Carillo Cigars has just set the bar very high for new releases. Highly recommended.

Friday, July 1, 2011

Don Rosa Cigars Robusto Review


Don Rosa Cigars Robusto - 5 X 50. Wrapper - Nicaraguan Jalapa Sun Grown, Binder - Sumatra, Filler - Panama Viso, Mexico Ligero & Seco Esteli. Medium bodied.

Initial taste - Oak.

First third - Oak wood, leather, spice and cinnamon.

Second third - Now the leather has taken the forefront followed by cinnamon and spice.

Last third - Leather and now the cinnamon picks up followed by spice. Long finish of cinnamon spice and leather.

Construction - Attractive oily brown and smooth wrapper. Burn was straight with a solid gray ash. Draw was perfect with just the right amount of smoke.


An enjoyable cigar that could be an everyday cigar if you really like cinnamon flavor. The complexity was good but the balance was a bit off as the cinnamon spice flavor was too strong at times. A cigar best enjoyed midday. Maybe recommend for an everyday cigar depending on the price.