Alec Bradley Family Blend GS 57 Review

Alec Bradley GS 57 Review - 6 X 60. Wrapper - Honduras )Trojes), Binder - Indonesia, Filler - Honduras & Nicaragua. Medium bodied.

Initial taste - Leather.

First third - Leather, spice, slight sweetness and some nuts.

Second third - Very nice leathery spice, continued sweetness and nuts.

Last third - The spice picks up to become more of a zesty spice, leather and the nutty notes. The sweet flavor is now gone. Long wonderful finish of spicy leather.

Construction - Veins and a somewhat bumpy brown wrapper. Burn was razor sharp all the way through with a salt and pepper colored ash that holds on. Draw was perfect with a generous amount of billowy smoke.

The Family Blend has been one of my favorite Alec Bradley lines to date and this size does not disappoint. Great balance and complexity as you would come to expect with Alec Bradley cigars. I was impressed how flavorful this cigar was having such a big ring gauge. A fantastic smoke that lasted a couple of hours. MSRP on this vitola is $7.50 which makes this a great value and at that price point, It would be in my regular rotation - A must try.

Quesada Seleccion Espana Short Robusto Review

Quesada Seleccion Espana Short Robusto Review - 4 X 50. Wrapper - Ecuadorian Arapiraca, Binder - Dominican, Filler - Nicaragua, Dominican and U.S. Broadleaf. Medium - full bodied.

Initial taste - Oak wood.

First third - Leathery spice, wood, chocolate and cinnamon notes.

Second third - Leathery spice, cinnamon, wood. A nice citrus flavor emerges with the continuation of the chocolate notes.

Last third - Spice, citrusy leather and chocolate. The cinnamon and wood are now in the background. Long finish of citrus, leather and spice.

Construction - a beautiful smooth brown wrapper with an oily sheen. Burn was sharp with a slight flaky ash that held on. Draw was very good.

A fantastic cigar with great complexity and balance. The flavor profile is exactly what I like and what was really interesting, was the way the various flavors would jockey back and forth for dominance throughout the cigar. Another enjoyable facet of this cigar, was how it started off as a solid medium body smoke and then became full bodied somewhere during the last third. MSRP for this size is $4.95 (Euros). I really hope that this line becomes available here in the United States because this cigar is a must-try for someone looking for a very complex and balanced cigar that keeps your interest throughout the smoking experience.

Canimao Torpedo Review:

Canimao Torpedo Review - 6 X 52. Ecuadorian Sumatra, Binder - Ecuadorian Sumatra, Filler - Dominican & Nicaragua. Medium bodied. Aged one year.

Initial taste - Cedar & spice

First third - Cedar, spice and cinnamon notes.

Second third - Now the cedar takes on a creaminess along with the spice and cinnamon.

Last third - Very nice creamy cedar, spice and cinnamon. Long finish of creamy cedar and spice.

Construction - smooth light-brown wrapper with no major veins. Burn - razor sharp with a light gray solid ash that holds on. Draw was perfect producing plenty of smoke.

An excellent cigar with a very enjoyable creaminess. The complexity and balance were very good. I think the extra year of age gives this cigar more of a creamy flavor. MSRP for this vitola is $6.80 which is a very good price point. Canimao is making some great cigars - definite recommend.

PRESS RELEASE: TORANO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY READY TO UNVEIL ITS NEWEST BRAND "LOYAL" AT 2011 IPCPR IN LAS VEGAS

TORAÑO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY READY TO UNVEIL ITS NEWEST BRAND “LOYAL” AT 2011 IPCPR IN LAS VEGAS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Miami, FL) June 20, 2011: Toraño Family Cigar Company is proud to announce the launch of the family’s newest brand: Loyal, which will be hitting the shelves this July. The Toraño family will unveil its newest creation at the upcoming 2011 IPCPR in Las Vegas.

"Carlos Toraño Sr. has always maintained that anyone who enjoys a cigar deserves to smoke a great Toraño blend at an affordable price. For decades, Carlos and his son, Charlie, have remained loyal to this philosophy of providing outstanding value to cigar lovers. Loyal provides value, quality, consistency, and most importantly, an abundance of flavor."

“Our new brand Loyal is dedicated to my father’s long standing commitment to provide exceptional quality cigars without breaking the bank. To him cigars were never a far reaching luxury, but one of life’s simple pleasures”, said Charlie Toraño president, Toraño Family Cigars. Loyal will be available in a 5x56 Robusto, a 6 1/8 x52 Torpedo, a 7x47 Churchill, and a 6x60 BFC, all with an MSRP between $4.95-$5.50.

Displayed in attractive 21 count boxes, the Loyal blend features fillers from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, combined with a Nicaraguan binder and dressed in an oily Ecuadorian Sumatra seed wrapper. Loyal is a solid, medium bodied smoke, that intrigues the palate with a spicy, peppery start and then transitions to a variety of rich flavours with notes of coffee and brown sugar.

The announcement of Loyal comes on the heels of recent exciting news from the Toraño Family Cigar Co. In the past 30 days Toraño announced distribution agreements with Graycliff and the Sam Leccia Cigar Co. The Toraño’s see no slowing down till the IPCPR in Las Vegas as they are putting the final touches on yet another brand which will be announced in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!

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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:

Forcade Cigars

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

Forcade Cigars will launch its new cigars “Forcade Robusto Gordo” and “Forcade Cañonazo” at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR) this July 2011

at The Venetian Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada
The new extension line will be pre-released during the cigar show and will be available in September 2011

MIAMI, FL. - (16 June 2011). Forcade Cigars will pre-release its two new cigars “Forcade Robusto Gordo” and “Forcade Cañonazo” at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR) this July 2011 at The Venetian Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada to satisfy the expectations of cigar connoisseurs who are looking for cigars of considerable ring gage, who will be able to enjoy them starting on September 2011.

The “Forcade Robusto Gordo” will be 5 x 54 and the “Forcade Cañonazo”, 6 x 60 and will be presented in boxes of 20 cigars with gracious “windows in the front”, allowing the smokers to take a quick view of the cigars. Their intense aroma and exceptional flavors, position them between the medium to full body range. Both formats will join the successful “Forcade Toro”, in the market since August 2010. Jaime García blends all the Forcade Cigars, which are made by hand in Nicaragua at My Father Cigar Factory.

“I am really excited about these two sizes, we were looking forward to release them since months ago and now we’ll do it at the show” said Chistrian Forcade, President of Forcade Cigars. “Two new sizes extending the Forcade line, they are two perfect blends for big ring gages delivering an intense smoke. Aficionados will be surprised by the power of the flavors in them” added Claudio Sgroi, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing.

The launch of these new lines is part of a complete renovation of the image of the Forcade brands and their packaging, which started in April 2011, with the appointment of Claudio Sgroi as Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, in order to meet the needs of the most exigent smokers in the market.

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 made by hand 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. They dedicated their lives to the manufacture of quality cigars. 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. For more information about the “Forcade Robusto Gordo” , the “Forcade Cañonazo” and all the Forcade Cigars claudio.sgroi@forcadecigars.com.

La Aurora "Para Japon" Robusto Review

La Aurora "Para Japon" Robusto Review - 5 X 50. Wrapper - Nicaragua, Binder - Dominican, Filler - Cameroon, Brazilian and Dominican. Medium bodied.

Initial taste - Dry oakiness.

First third - Peppery spice, wood, cinnamon and a creaminess emerges.

Second third - Pepper spice, a creamy woodiness & cinammon.

Last Third - Continued peppery spice with the creamy wood, cinnamon and a slight nuttiness. Long finish of a spicy, creamy woodiness.

Construction was very good - a smooth light-brown wrapper with a couple of visible veins. Burn - nice burn producing a solid light-gray ash that holds on. Draw - very good with plenty of smoke.

A very good cigar with a flavor profile that I really enjoyed. I particularly enjoyed the spice and creaminess and of course the nutty notes. MSRP for this cigar is $10.00 or $96.00 for a box of 12 cigars with proceeds going to the victims of the Japan earthquake. A cigar definitely worthy of the price especially when you consider it helps the earthquake victims. Definite recommend.

PRESS RELEASE: TORAÑO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY TO DISTRIBUTE SAM LECCIA CIGARS

TORAÑO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY TO DISTRIBUTE SAM LECCIA CIGARS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


(Miami, FL) June 13, 2011- The Toraño Family Cigar Company is proud to announce that they will be the exclusive distributor for the newly formed Sam Leccia Cigar Co. effective June 14, 2011. This distribution agreement brings together two entities with different styles and looks, but that nonetheless share the same enthusiasm and innovation in producing the highest quality cigars.

“We are excited about working with one of the industry’s most creative minds. Sam Leccia has a unique energy and approach to the cigar industry. We look forward to the collaboration between our two companies,” said Charlie Toraño, president of Toraño Family Cigar Company.

“I have always had great respect and admiration for the Toraño family. Their expertise and history in growing tobacco and manufacturing great cigars is well known. Since their announcement last year whereby they took back control of the distribution of their brands, it’s clear that Toraño is focused on expanding its distribution company and providing tobacconists with the service and cigars they deserve. I strongly feel that this team will play an invaluable role for the growth of Sam Leccia Cigar Co,” said Leccia.

The newly formed Sam Leccia Cigar Co. (www.samlecciacigarco.com) was formally announced via press release to the world this past May 27, 2011. Leccia’s innovative style sets him apart from most, but his dedication to crafting handmade cigars with the finest tobacco is what drives him. Sprinting out of the starting blocks, the first creation for the new company is appropriately named “Debut.” The cigars are a twist of Nicaragua, Honduras, Ecuador and Santo Domingo tobaccos blended together, to give a unique smoking experience. Leccia is proud of his company’s first brand, and excited about working with this team. Retailers, if interested in Sam Leccia Cigar Co. products should contact their Toraño Family Cigar sales rep for pre-ordering.

After taking back their own distribution in August 2010, the Toraño Family Cigar Company underwent several changes, to include a successful rebranding effort, new ad campaign, several key hires, the introduction of three new brands, and a partnership with Graycliff Cigar Company. This new agreement with the Sam Leccia Cigar Co. continues the recent trend of aggressive moves by the Toraño Family.

The Toraño Family Cigar Company will be present at this year’s upcoming IPCPR trade show in Las Vegas, Nevada, unveiling two new brand launches that will be announced in the coming weeks.

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.

PRESS RELEASE: SAM LECCIA'S NEW CIGAR “DEBUT”

For Immediate Release

May 24, 2011

Sam Leccia “Debut”

It is with great pleasure we announce the return of one of the most creative minds thecigar industry has known. Sam Leccia is back with his newest creation and what looks tobe the years most anticipated cigar. The Sam Leccia Cigar Company(www.samlecciacigarco.com) proudly presents Sam’s “Debut”, a fitting name forLeccia’s solo release.

The cigar nation embraces Leccia like a rock star for the passion and originality he bringsto the business.“This is the most exciting time of my life. I look forward to sharing with you, myDebut.”- Sam Leccia

Advertisement
Sam Leccia’s “Debut” is a twist of Nicaragua, Honduras, Ecuador and Santo Domingotobaccos blended together to give a unique smoking experience. Sam’s “Debut” will beavailable in 3 sizes: Double Rob 5x60, Double Church 7x60, Figurado 6 ½x52.

The marketing genius and mad science approach of Sam Leccia has audiences excited

about his newest creation the “Debut”.

For pre-orders and general inquiries contact SamsDebut@SamLecciaCigarCo.com

www.samlecciacigarco.com

PRESS RELEASE: GENERAL CIGAR ROLLS BACK PRICE OF MACANUDO 1968

GENERAL CIGAR ROLLS BACK PRICE OF MACANUDO 1968

Richmond, VA—General Cigar announces today that the company is reducing the price of all Macanudo 1968 cigars, representing an average price savings of more than $3.33 per cigar, and an average cost savings of more than $32.00 per box.

The new pricing of Macanudo 1968 is currently being made available exclusively at brick and mortar retailers across the U.S.

Bill Chilian, director of marketing commented, “Since the debut of Macanudo 1968 in August of 2008, the brand has enjoyed critical acclaim and has received high praise from brick and mortar retailers across the country. We recognize that Macanudo 1968 is a strong product with tremendous potential and decided to revise the pricing structure to make the brand accessible to a broader range of cigar enthusiasts.”

Under the new pricing structure, Macanudo 1968 Churchill (7” x 49) will now be available for $7.69 per cigar or $153.80 per 20-count box (previous price was $10.00 per cigar or $200 per box). Macanudo 1968 Toro (6” x 54) will now carry an SRP of $7.49 or $149.80 per box (previous price was $9.50 per cigar, or $190.00 per box).
At 5” x 50, the Robusto frontmark (5” x 50) will now retail for $6.49 per cigar, with a box price of $129.80 (previous price was $8.50 per cigar and $170.00 per box). Rounding out the collection is Macanudo 1968 Gigante (6” x 60) which will now cost $7.99 apiece or $159.80 per box (previous price was $11.00 per cigar, or with a box price of $220.

About Macanudo 1968
Macanudo 1968 is made completely of tobaccos which are either grown by General Cigar or cultivated for the company under an agreement of exclusivity. Harvested one sun-ripened leaf at a time, aged in tercios and charcoaled wooden barrels to further enrich its flavor, the blend marries proprietary Dominican and Nicaraguan tobacco to a tobacco cultivated solely for General Cigar in the remote Nicaraguan island of Ometepe. These tobaccos were developed expressly to complement the hearty Connecticut Habano binder and flawless, lustrous Honduran San Agustin wrapper.

Macanudo 1968 is aesthetically pleasing, with the brand’s characteristic round head and immaculate construction evident at the first glance. From the first draw to the last, deeply complex yet balanced flavor envelops the palate with a freshness that celebrates inherent natural sweetness from the soils that bore each tobacco.

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.

® Macanudo, Cohiba, La Gloria Cubana, Punch, CAO, Partagas, Hoyo de Monterrey, Excalibur and Club Macanudo are registered trademarks of General Cigar Co. Inc.

PRESS RELEASE: FORCADE CIGARS CELEBRATES CLAUDIO SGROI’S 10TH CAREER ANNIVERSARY!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:

Forcade Cigars
10665 SW 190 St, Suite 3117
Miami, FL 33157

FORCADE CIGARS CELEBRATES CLAUDIO SGROI’S 10TH CAREER ANNIVERSARY!

The party dedicated to Forcade Cigars’ Vice-President of Sales & Marketing
was a night among tobacco industry personalities, cigar connoisseurs and great friends in honor of Claudio Sgroi’s 10 years of continuous passion and devotion to cigars

MIAMI, FL. - (23 May 2011). Claudio Sgroi’s 10th Career Anniversary Party celebrated this past Friday May 20 at El Clique Cigar Lounge, Miami FL, turned out to be a momentous evening of friendship and cigar passion. Cigar connoisseurs and friends reaffirmed their esteem to Sgroi as they enjoyed the night among notable tobacco industry figures who attended the event, becoming part of this very special moment. Giralda Natural Churchill cigars with a special 10th Anniversary Edition ring and festive tropical music preceded Claudio Sgroi’s speech, who warmly thanked those in attendance for their permanent support and took them back to his first steps into a tobacco plantation in the Dominican Republic in 2001 and then to Switzerland, Italy and now the United States, specifically Miami, city that he refers to as “The Cigar Capital of the United States” where he now holds the title of Vice-President of Sales & Marketing at Forcade Cigars.

Refreshing drinks, fun conversations and many photographs served to transition to the impressive cigar box-shaped cake enjoyed by guests from all around the world. Chistrian Forcade from Forcade Cigars, Willy Herrera Master Blender for El Titan de Bronce, Erik and Jamilet Calvino from Cigar Snob Magazine, Victor Calvo from Tabacalera Tambor de Nicaragua, the legendary Billy Singer from SmokeShop II downtown Miami FL and many others, enjoyed a stunning ambiance while Sgroi danced the night away inviting all the guests to celebrate with him for many years to come in his tobacco career.

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. One of his daughters, Bienvenida Elena Novales, married Manolo Forcade and they dedicated their lives to the manufacture of quality cigars. 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 this company please call: 305 233 5104.

ABOUT CLAUDIO SGROI
With a diverse professional portfolio highlighting previous work experience in diverse territories such as France, Turkey, Italy, and the Caribbean, Sgroi began his career in the tobacco industry in Dominican Republic in 2001 under the direction of the internationally renowned tobacco expert Henki Kelner from the Oettinger-Davidoff Group. After gaining valuable knowledge about tobacco production and cigar manufacturing, he was relocated to Geneva, Switzerland where he was Cigar Stock Manager & Sales Assistant at the world famous store Davidoff & Cie. In 2006, was promoted to "Davidoff Brand Manager" at the International Tobacco Agency in Treviso, Italy, title that he held until 2009 when he decided to move to the United States. In the States, he worked as an independent consultant for various local cigar brands, expanding sales efforts nationally and increasing brand exposure and he was recently named Vice-President of Sales & Marketing at Forcade Cigars.

PRESS RELEASE: ALEC BRADLEY CIGARS WELCOMES A NEW ARRIVAL TO THE FAMILY

5/20/2011

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*
Alec Bradley Cigars Welcomes a New Arrival to The Family
6" x 60 GS57 joins the ranks of Alec Bradley Family Blend cigars

DANIA, FL – May 16, 2011 - Pass out the cigars! The Alec Bradley Family Blend selection has a new arrival. Weighing in at 6 inches by a 60 ring, the GS57 will be on its way to cigar retailers this week. The GS57 is handcrafted at Raices Cubanas with its critically-acclaimed blend of Honduran & Nicaraguan long-filler, Indonesian binder and a Honduran Trojes wrapper, finished in a Cuban fantail. Presented in boxes of 20 cigars, the GS57 will retail at $7.50 per cigar.

Alec Bradley Family Blend cigars were released in 2009 in honor of the fathers of the company's three principal executives: Alan Rubin (President), Ralph Montero (Executive Vice President), and George Sosa (Vice President of Sales). In 2010 the Family Blend T11 received an "outstanding" 94 rating in Cigar Aficionado. The addition of the GS57 takes the number of sizes in the Family Blend series to six front marks, and like its siblings, is presented cabinet style in a box that bears the signatures of David Rubin, Miguel Montero and Reinaldo Sosa. Moreover, the letter/number combination names attributed to each Family Blend front mark have a special significance.

Alec Bradley Cigars are also quite familiar with marketing wide-body cigars, as evidenced by the success of their predominantly large-ring-size Maxx and Maxx Connecticut cigars editions.

"We know there is a market for 6"x 60, but production and scheduling will only allow us to make 1,000 boxes for the first issue of the GS57 for this year," said Alan Rubin President of Alec Bradley Cigars.

For more information on Alec Bradley Family Blend cigars, visit the Alec Bradley Fan Page on Facebook.

About Alec Bradley Cigars Founded by Alan Rubin in 1997, Alec Bradley Cigars has been acknowledged as one of the world's leading producers of fine, handmade premium cigars. Alec Bradley has received the cigar industry's highest critical acclaim for its Family Blend, Maxx, Tempus, Select Cabinet Reserve, Vice Press and Prensado premium cigars. Their commitment to satisfying cigar enthusiasts worldwide is demonstrated by their passion for excellence, creativity, and the highest quality standards.

My Father Le Bijou Special Edition Corona

My Father Le Bijou Special Edition Corona - 5 5/8 X 46. Wrapper - Double Oscuro Nicaraguan Habano, Binder - Nicaragua, Filler - Nicaragua. Full bodied. Rolling team 2. Only 300 signed and numbered boxes were made exclusively for Puff 'N' Stuff Cigars. Blended by Jaime Garcia and owner Alan Tybor.

Initial taste - Dry cedar and spice.

First third - Strong spiciness, leather, some woodiness and notes of raisin.

Second third - The cigar really opens up with flavors of spice, citrus, leather, chocolate and a raisin fruitiness. Very nicely balanced.

Last third - Spiciness continues with the tangy citrus leather, chocolate and the raisin fruitiness. Very long wonderful finish of spice citrus leather and chocolate. This finish lasted a long time.

Construction was excellent - gorgeous silky-brown, smooth wrapper. This has to be the thickest and strongest wrapper that I have seen on any My Father/Pepin Garcia cigar. Burn was sharp producing a light gray solid ash that held on. Draw was perfect with plenty of billowing smoke.

A fantastic smoke bursting with robust flavors. Complexity and balance was superb especially for such a full bodied smoke. If you like the regular My Father Le Bijou line, you will love these - think of it as a Le Bijou on steroids. MSRP is $190.00 for a box of 23 or $47.00 for a 5 pack which is a very good value for such an exceptional cigar. You can get them at Puff 'N' Stuff Cigars website or by calling 1-770-908-9388. Definitely a top ten for 2011 nominee for my blogs - great job Jaime and Alan!

PRESS RELEASE: TORANO ANNOUNCES NEW SIZE FOR THE EXODUS 1959 50 YEARS

TORAÑO FAMILY CIGAR COMPANY ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF NEW 6x60 SIZE EXODUS 1959 50 YEARS WHILE DROPPING HINTS OF MORE TO COME


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Miami, Florida) May 12, 2011 - Toraño Family Cigar Company, makers of some of the finest cigars in the world, is excited to announce the upcoming launch of the Exodus 1959 50 Years BFC 6x60 that will be unveiled at this year’s IPCPR trade show in Las Vegas, NV.

The BFC 6x60 is the fifth vitola to be introduced by the family in this line, which has become a true staple of the Toraño portfolio. The Exodus 1959 50 Years has received many accolades, including being awarded a 93 rating by Cigar Aficionado and ranked number 12 on their list of top 25 cigars of the year in 2010.

“The popularity of larger ring gauges continues and we felt that the Exodus 1959 50 Years blend worked very favorably in a 6x60,” said Charlie Toraño, President of Toraño Family Cigar Company.

The Exodus 1959 50 Years is dressed in a Brazilian Arapiraca sun-grown wrapper, that is accompanied by a Honduran binder with fillers from Estelí and Pueblo Nuevo Nicaragua. The blend offers a unique and flavorful profile which provides sweet, creamy notes that dominate the palate with subtle hints of spice, dark chocolate, and raisin. This line is also available in a 5x50 Robusto, 51/2x52 Torpedo, 6x48 Short Churchill and a 5x55 Box Press. For those still unclear what “BFC” stands for, the Toraño’s have left that up to the creative minds of cigar smokers…

The new line extension for the Exodus 1959 50 years isn’t the only new product Toraño is working on for the upcoming IPCPR. Charlie Toraño and the gang are currently putting finishing touches on two new exciting brands which are sure to turn heads in Las Vegas. When asked to elaborate on the new brands Charlie Toraño can hardly hide his grin and simply says, “Would love to talk about it but all I can say is that they are currently under lock and key”.

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.

PRESS RELEASE: TEAM LA GLORIA DEBUTS “EL PERRITO WAR OF FLAVORS”

TEAM LA GLORIA DEBUTS “EL PERRITO WAR OF FLAVORS”

Richmond, VA--Team La Gloria® presents El Perrito War of Flavors, an innovative new cigar handcrafted entirely by hand and shaped without a cigar mold.

The cigar’s distinctive name is derived from a term coined at the El Credito® Cigar Factory in Santiago, DR. El Perrito (translation: little dog) was created by two cigar factory supervisors (Robert Batista and Juan Almonte) who brought their concept for a small, powerhouse cigar to El Credito’s Michael Giannini (director of marketing) and Yuri Guillen (director of manufacturing). The supervisors came to Michael and Yuri, raving about how they made the cigars and describing the taste experience as a battle of flavors in the mouth. Michael and Yuri sampled the prototypes and the rest, as they say, is history.

According to Michael Giannini, “El Perrito is a prime example of how Team La Gloria operates. We’ve empowered all of our employees, from rollers and bunchers to supervisors, to bring forth ideas for new products. When Yuri and I were approached with the concept of an entirely handmade cigar with incredible flavor, we almost instantly became excited. El Perrito continues our platform of innovation by allowing us to bring a unique and value-priced offering to market and we’re confident it will be a fast favorite among premium cigar consumers.”

Handcrafted with two filler leaves (Nicaraguan and Dominican), bound with Connecticut Broadleaf and wrapped with Ecuadoran Habano, El Perrito cigars are shaped entirely by hand, using the index finger to achieve a torpedo-like head.

Sized expressly to maximize the flavor of the blend, the 5 1/2” x 38 cigar is bundled and packed in a rustic wooden box which hints at the cigar’s humble beginnings. El Perrito War of Flavors is currently debuting at tobacco shops across the U.S. for a suggested retail price of just $2.50 per cigar, or for $125.00 for a 50-count, boxed bundle.
El Credito El Perrito War of Flavors continues the tradition of innovation that has garnered acclaim for Team La Gloria, the new product development team for La Gloria and El Credito cigars.

About La Gloria Cubana

La Gloria Cubana cigars are produced by General Cigar Co. Inc., a division of Scandinavian Tobacco Group, which 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.

® La Gloria Cubana, El Credito, Macanudo, Cohiba, Punch, Partagas, Hoyo de Monterrey, Excalibur and Club Macanudo are registered trademarks of General Cigar Co. Inc.

Immediate Release
May 2, 2011
Contact: Victoria McKee Jaworski
General Cigar Co. Inc.
www.victoria.mckee@st-group.com

MACANUDO AND EXCALIBUR TEE UP FOR GOLF PROMOTION

Richmond, VA—Macanudo® and Excalibur® are teaming up to make hitting the links even more enticing during spring golf season with the “Pick Your Favorite Foursome Promotion."

Consumers of legal smoking age who visit www.golf.cigarworld.com/retail-locator are encouraged to “pick their favorite foursome” by purchasing their choice of any three Macanudo or Excalibur cigars. With the three-cigar purchase, consumers will receive a complimentary Macanudo Cru Royale cigar, plus a premium Excalibur-branded scorecard wallet/cigar holder containing special golf and cigar accessories, while supplies last.

To sweeten the deal, General Cigar, parent company of Macanudo and Excalibur, is also giving consumers an opportunity to win the ultimate, custom cigar golf bag by Callaway Golf®. Two custom golf bags will be given away each week between now and May 31, 2011. No purchase necessary. For more information, visit www.cigarworld.com/golf

According to Rick Chandler, director of marketing for Excalibur, “We created the ‘Pick Your Favorite Foursome’ promotion to answer the golf lover’s need for a convenient and portable way to access their favorite cigars on the course. By pairing Macanudo with Excalibur and in allowing consumers to customize the cigars in the pack, cigar smokers have a wide variety of tastes to choose from while they indulge in their passion for cigars and golf. And in giving consumers a complimentary Macanudo Cru Royale cigar in the four pack, we’re making it easy for them to sample one of our best-selling new blends.”

The joint promotion between Macanudo and Excalibur will continue through the summer, with in-store putting events and sponsorship of national and regional golf events such as the Phoenix Open. A complete event listing can be found on www.cigarworld.com/golf.

Macanudo and Excalibur cigars are produced by General Cigar Co. Inc., a division of Scandinavian Tobacco Group, which manufactures and markets handcrafted cigars for the premium market. Committed to delivering cigars of the finest quality, General Cigar’s skilled artisans also produce Cohiba®, La Gloria Cubana, Punch®, CAO, Partagas® and Hoyo de Monterrey®, 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

® Macanudo, Excalibur, Cohiba, La Gloria Cubana, Punch, Partagas, Hoyo de Monterrey and Club Macanudo are registered trademarks of General Cigar Co. Inc.

® Callaway Golf is a registered trademark of Callaway Golf Company.

Alec Bradley American Classic Blend Toro Review

Alec Bradley American Classic Blend Toro - 6 X 50. Wrapper - Honduras (Connecticut Shade), Binder - Nicaragua (Jalapa), Filler - Nicaragua (Esteli & Condega). Mild - Medium bodied.

Initial taste - Dry cedar.

First third - Pepper, woodiness and cinnamon notes.

Second third - Pepper tones-down to a mild spice with a bready woodiness and continued notes of cinnamon.

Last Third - mild spice, bready, woodiness and cinnamon notes. Long finish of breadiness and cinnamon.

Construction was very good - beautiful light-brown wrapper with no major veins and a somewhat dry texture. Burn was razor sharp producing a solid light-gray ash. Draw was perfect with copious amounts of smoke.

This is a flavorful morning smoke that delivers good balance and complexity. Best enjoyed early in the day. MSRP for this size is $4.75 which makes this an excellent value.

PRESS RELEASE: Forcade Cigars names Claudio Sgroi Vice-President of Sales and Marketing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Forcade Cigars names Claudio Sgroi Vice-President of Sales and Marketing

Sgroi brings 10 years of international tobacco industry experience to the cigar brands

MIAMI, FL - (25 April 2011). Forcade Cigars announced today the appointment of Claudio Sgroi as its new Vice-President of Sales and Marketing. Sgroi will be responsible for developing, implementing and managing sales and marketing strategies necessary to reach the company’s goals for each of its three cigar lines: Forcade, Giralda Natural and Giralda Maduro.

"Forcade Cigars is pleased to bring Claudio Sgroi on board. He is a key addition to our team; he brings deep knowledge, dedication and strong passion to our company." said Chistrian Forcade, President of Forcade Cigars. "We could not have found a more qualified individual who knows this industry so well and who has such a solid tobacco background; his work will strengthen our company and definitely benefit our products and our clients." Forcade said.

Claudio Sgroi brings with him a diverse professional portfolio highlighting previous work experience in diverse territories such as France, Turkey, Italy, and the Caribbean. The 34-year old executive began his career in the tobacco industry in the Dominican Republic in 2001 under the direction of the internationally renowned tobacco expert Henki Kelner from the Oettinger-Davidoff Group. After gaining valuable knowledge about tobacco production and cigar manufacturing, he moved to Geneva, Switzerland where he was Cigar Stock Manager & Sales Assistant at the world famous store Davidoff & Cie. In 2006 Sgroi was promoted to "Davidoff Brand Manager" at the International Tobacco Agency (ITA) in Treviso, Italy, a title that he held until 2009 when he decided to move to the United States. In the States, Sgroi worked as an independent consultant with various local cigar brands, expanding sales efforts nationally and increasing brand exposure. Now joining Forcade Cigars, as Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, Sgroi will not only continue to market the company’s brands nationally, but he will also oversee the international sales and marketing operations, expanding the company’s business abroad.

Continue reading on Examiner.com: Forcade Cigars names Claudio Sgroi Vice-President of Sales and Marketing - Long Island Cigar | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/cigar-in-long-island/forcade-cigars-names-claudio-sgroi-vice-president-of-sales-and-marketing#ixzz1KYuY57vI

With Sgroi Forcade Cigars will undergo a complete renovation of its brand image without forgetting the tradition that has always made the cigars brands synonymous with high quality and exquisite taste, Claudio Sgroi has already met with Jaime García from My Father Cigars, makers of the lines Forcade, Giralda Natural and Giralda Maduro, to begin working on a new extension line that will be launched at the International Premium Cigars & Pipes Retailers (IPCPR) convention in Las Vegas, Nevada this July 2011.

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. One of his daughters, Bienvenida Elena Novales, married Manolo Forcade and they dedicated their lives to the manufacture of quality cigars. 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 this company please call: 305 233 5104.


CONTACT:
Forcade Cigars
10665 SW 190 St, Suite 3117
Miami, FL 33157

PRESS RELEASE: INTRODUCING THE NEW & HIGHLY ANTICIPATED PERDOMO RESERVE CHAMPAGNE NOIR SUPER TORO 6 X 60

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: APRIL 2011

INTRODUCING THE NEW & HIGHLY ANTICIPATED PERDOMO RESERVE CHAMPAGNE NOIR SUPER TORO 6 X 60

MIAMI, FL ‐ Tabacalera Perdomo is proud to announce the release of the new and highly anticipatedPerdomo Reserve Champagne Noir cigar line. The Perdomo Reserve Champagne Noir is blended withdark, oily triple‐fermented Cuban‐seed Maduro wrappers meticulously aged in bourbon barrels. Filledwith hints of chocolate and dark roasted coffee, this medium to full‐bodied blend offers a sweet aromawith a smooth satisfying finish. The initial size, an impressive 6 x 60 Super Toro, has been released and iscurrently available in stores nationwide.

“After carefully fermenting these thick Cuban‐seed Maduro wrappers for well over 14 months in anatural pilon, we age them an additional 6 months in oak bourbon barrels. This process helps to ensureparallel colors, a clean even burn, and rich, complex flavors,” states Nick Perdomo, President ofTabacalera Perdomo.

The Perdomo Reserve Champagne Noir is comprised of all Nicaraguan grown tobaccos making it a“puro.” The Cuban‐seed secos, visos, and ligeros are similar to those used in the popular PerdomoReserve Champagne blend. The combination of the higher priming Cuban‐seed Maduro wrappers andthe smooth, flavorful Nicaraguan fillers, makes the Champagne Noir a vibrant and well‐balanced smoking experience.

The Perdomo Reserve Champagne Noir is packaged in 25 count boxes which are individually handcraftedin Tabacalera Perdomo’s state of the art box factory. Each Spanish cedar box is stained in blackwith the brand’s logo, size, and dimension prominently silkscreened in gold on the outside of the box.

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 cigarbrands include Edicion de Silvio, Perdomo Patriarch, Perdomo Reserve 10 Year Anniversary, Perdomo Habano, Perdomo Grand Cru, Perdomo2 (Squared), Perdomo Lot 23, Nick's Sticks, Cuban Bullet, andPerdomo Fresco.

For more information, please visit: www.perdomocigars.com

Nestor Miranda Day - Friday May 6, 2011

PRESS RELEASE

April 14, 2011

Miami, FL,

Miami Cigar & Company is back at it again, always willing to show their gratitude to the cigar smoking community, they have decided to bring back the heralded National Nestor Miranda Cigar Day. On Friday, May 6th, all authorized Nestor Miranda Collection retailers will participate and enjoy all of the perks that only a day named after “The Most Interesting Man In The Cigar Industry” could include.

Similarly to the original holiday, Miami Cigar will be awarding consumers that enter any of the authorized retailers with a Nestor Miranda Collection cigar at no charge. All the smoker has to do is buy a cigar – any cigar, made by any cigar maker. Again, that’s any cigar; made by any cigar maker. The twist to this year’s festivities is that the consumer will have the opportunity to smoke the newest addition to the Nestor Miranda Collection, the Art Deco (5.5 x 54).

The ‘National Nestor Miranda Cigar Day,’ is Miami Cigar & Company’s way of thanking the smokers for their enthusiastic support of the company’s brands for the past twenty-two years, and to reassert Miami Cigar’s commitment to bringing you great cigars in the years to come.

To locate your Authorized Retailer, go to www.miamicigarcompany.com and follow the instructions on the site. (New enhanced authorized retailer search engine to launch, April 18th)

“Finally, the best holiday of the year has returned,” said Nestor Miranda, “I am very excited to once again show our customers and consumers our appreciation for their loyalty and support”.

Tampa Humidor will be hosting Nestor Miranda for this year’s festivities. 1418 East Bush Blvd, ste. 105 Tampa, FL 33612

NOTE: The cigars will be available at each Nestor Miranda Collection Authorized Retailers as long as supplies last.

Miami Cigar & Company distributes Tatiana© flavoured cigars, Nestor Miranda Collection cigars©, La Sirena© as well as La Aurora©, Leon Jimenes©, Ducados© which are trademarks of other companies.

LA AURORA RELEASES LIMITED EDITION CIGAR TO HELP JAPAN CALLED "PARA JAPON"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

On March 11, 2011, an 8.9-magnitude earthquake hit the island of Japan -- the biggest earthquake in Japanese official record. The tsunami that followed caused unprecedented devastation on a level unseen by the Japanese people since WWII.

The voices and images of desperation have struck deeply in the hearts and
souls of the Dominican people whom, for many decades, have built a close
bond with Japan. La Aurora Cigar Factory has echoed the expressions of
solidarity of its employees and suppliers, and is glad to announce the creation of a special edition cigar to help the humanitarian response to this disaster. “We are very pleased to lay our helping hand to our brothers of Japan by supporting the humanitarian assistance to this great nation,” says Guillermo Leon, President of La Aurora. “When hurricanes have struck the Dominican Republic, Japan was there for us,” Leon added. Proceeds from the sales of this cigar will be donated to the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief fund through JAPAN TOBACCO IMEX CO. LTD.

The cigar named “Para Japón” or “For Japan” is a 5” x 50 medium bodied
vitola, made with selected premium tobacco leaves. These cigars have been
aged during three years and its blend is something really unique with an
exquisite Nicaraguan wrapper. Its package of 25 Sumo Robustos is decorated
with special artwork by Mario Takeyama and Dan Reeve, the design team of
CigarExplorer.com. Being involved in this project was important and personal to Cigar Explorer, as founder Mario is a native of Japan and still has many friends and family living there.

The “Para Japón” cigar will be available thru La Aurora distributors on April.

Pedro Martin "Ruby" Robusto Review

Pedro Martin Ruby Robusto - 5 X 50. Wrapper - Corojo, Binder - Nicaragua, Filler - Nicaragua. Medium - full bodied. Blended by Maria Martin formerly the National Sales Manager for Camacho Cigars but has now returned to her family business of her father Pedro Martin.

Initial taste - Cedar.

First third - Spiciness, leather and a nice tea-like flavor.

Second third - Spice, leathery tea, some cedar notes and a slight sweetness.

Last third - Spice, leather, tea and hints of sweetness and cedar. Long finish of leather & tea.

Construction was very good - reddish-brown wrapper, slight oily sheen with a couple of visible veins. Burn was razor sharp with a light gray solid ash. Draw was perfect with a good amount of smoke.

A very good cigar with a nice smooth balance and complexity. I particularly enjoyed the tea-like flavor with the leather and spice - very nice. MSRP on this size is $6.66 which is a very good value in my opinion. Two thumbs up for this cigar.

Punch Rare Corojo 10th Anniversary Review

Punch Rare Corojo 10th Anniversary - 5 X 50. Wrapper - Connecticut Corojo, Binder - Connecticut Broadleaf, Filler - Honduran, Nicaraguan, Dominican. Medium bodied. A limited supply cigar featuring a proprietary Connecticut Corojo wrapper commemorating 10 years of Punch Rare Corojo.

Initial taste - A dry hay-like flavor.

First third - Peppery spice, wood and a bready quality. Some mineral notes as well as a sweetness is detected.

Second third - Pepper and a creamy sweet bread flavor. The woodiness is fading into the background at this point.

Last third - Peppery spice, continuation of the sweet creamy, bready flavors with woody notes. Long finish of pepper and sweet cream.

Construction was good - a smooth brown wrapper with a slight oily sheen and a bumpy cap. Burn was very good - dark gray ash with a sharp burn. Ash holds tight. Draw was very good as well producing plenty of smoke.

Although this is not my typical favorite flavor profile, I actually enjoyed this cigar very much. I found the flavor combination to be somewhat unique as compared to the other cigars that I smoke - a nice change of pace. Complexity was good and balance was decent - there were a couple of instances where the pepper was a bit on the strong side affecting the balance. MSRP for this cigar is $6.50. I suggest trying this cigar but act soon as these cigars will last until the limited supply is depleted.

PUNCH RARE COROJO RETURNS WITH NEW FRONTMARK

Immediate Release

March 30, 2011
Contact: Victoria McKee Jaworski
General Cigar Co. Inc.
732 721 0317 or 732 580 5215
victoria.mckee@st-group.com

PUNCH RARE COROJO RETURNS WITH NEW FRONTMARK

Richmond, VA—The highly-anticipated 10th anniversary edition of Punch Rare Corojo is about to be made even more exciting with the release of a new, limited edition frontmark which will debut at tobacconists nationwide beginning in late March.

Called Rare Corojo 10th Anniversary, the 5" x 50 frontmark is unique in that it will feature a proprietary Connecticut Corojo wrapper. The new cigar will begin selling in late March for a suggested retail price of $6.50 per cigar until the limited supply is depleted. The cigars will be packed in eye catching cabinet style red wooden boxes and can be easily identified by a secondary red-and-gold band that bears the Rare Corojo distinction.

Rick Chandler, director of marketing for Punch cigars commented, "For ten years, cigar enthusiasts have looked forward to the annual return of Rare Corojo, a brand that features a unique reddish-brown wrapper and epitomizes the best of what Punch cigars offer – a spicy no-nonsense blend at a reasonable price. This year, we’re pleased to have upped the ante by offering the classic Punch Rare Corojo along with the standout new taste of the 10th Anniversary frontmark."

Punch Rare Corojo 10th Anniversary joins the seven existing Rare Corojo frontmarks, which made their annual return to tobacco retail shops across the country earlier this month.

Punch Rare Corojo® are produced by General Cigar Co. Inc., which manufactures and markets handcrafted cigars for the premium market. Committed to delivering cigars of the finest quality, General Cigar also produces Macanudo®, Cohiba®, Partagas® Hoyo de Monterrey®, Excalibur®, La Gloria Cubana® and several other leading premium brands. In addition, the company grows its own premium Connecticut Shade wrapper tobacco, as well as natural and candela wrapper in the Dominican Republic. General Cigar also operates Club Macanudo®, a cigar bar in New York City. Based in Richmond, VA, General Cigar sells through tobacconists nationwide. For more information, please visit http://www.cigarworld.com.

® Punch Rare Corojo, Macanudo, Cohiba, Partagas, Hoyo de Monterrey, Excalibur and Club Macanudo are registered trademarks of General Cigar Co. Inc.

La Gloria Cubana Artesanos de Tabaqueros 652 Belicoso Review

La Gloria Cubana Artesanos de Tabaqueros 652 Belicoso - 6 X 52. Wrapper - Connecticut Shade/Ecuadorian Sumatra, Binder - Company secret, Filler -Dominican/Nicaraguan/Honduran Proprietary/Secret. Medium - Full bodied.

Initial taste - Cedar.

First third (Ct. wrapper portion)- Cedar, spice, citrus and leather.

Second third (Ecuadorian Sumatra portion of the cigar)- Earthy sweetness, spiciness and some black coffee notes.

Last third - Spicy Earthiness, black coffee with a hints of oak wood. Long finish of this cigar of a wood spice on the Connecticut wrapper and spicy earthiness on the Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper.

Construction was very good - attractive two-tone wrapper with a somewhat coarse texture and a little dry to the touch. Slight bumpiness with some veins. Burn was spot on producing a sharp light gray solid ash. Draw was perfect.

A wonderfully tasty cigar that really keeps your interest with plenty of complexity and balance. According to General Cigar Company, the blend consists of proprietary tobaccos, that are aged five years or more. MSRP for this vitola is $9.50. Give one of these a try, you won't be disappointed.

PDR 1878 Reserva Dominicana Capa Oscura Robusto Review

PDR 1878 Reserva Dominicana Capa Oscura Robusto - 5 X 52. Wrapper - Habano/Oscura Dominican, Binder - Habano Dominican, Filler - Corojo/Habano/Criollo '98 Dominican. Medium - Full bodied.

Initial Taste - Dry wood and cinnamon.

First Third - Cedar, spice and cinnamon. Nicely balanced.

Second Third - Woodiness continues but now the cinnamon increases followed by the spice.

Last Third - The cigar continues to progress with flavors of cedar, nuts, spice and some slight sweetness emerging. Nicely balanced. Long finish of spice and cinnamon.

Construction, burn and draw was good. No veins on the wrapper.

This cigar had good balance and complexity but it did tend to smoke a bit hot. 2,000 boxes are being pre-released for Christmas , full release at IPCPR 2011. MSRP is $5.55 for this size which is a great value. Recommend fully.

E. P. Carrillo Elencos Series "Don Rubino" Robusto Review

E. P. Carrillo Elencos Series "Don Rubino" Robusto - 5 1/4 X 50. Wrapper - Brazilian Habano, Binder - Dominican, Filler - Nicaragua. Full Bodied.

Initial Taste - Cinnamon spice & cedar.

First third - Spice, Cinnamon, cedar and an earthiness with some fruity notes.

Second third - Spiciness, earth and a fruity/raisin sweetness. The cinnamon and cedar has now faded out at this point.

Last third - Continuation of the spice along with the earthiness and raisin-like sweetness. Long enjoyable finish of earthiness and spice.

Construction was very good - wrapper had no major veins, brown in color and dry in appearance. Burn was very good as well - light gray, solid ash that did not want to fall off. Draw was perfect producing the right amount of smoke.

I thoroughly enjoyed this cigar, the balance was perfect and the flavor profile had a great combination of interesting flavors. As a side note, the E.P. Carrillo Elencos Series will have the same exact blend as the E.P. Carrillo Edición Limitada 2010. They will be released in late March or early April 2011. MSRP for this vitola is $ 9.50. I have to give this cigar a definite recommendation for a full bodied smoke that I think you will enjoy.

2nd Annual Nicaraguan Cigar Festival April 5th-8th 2011

The 2nd Annual Nicaraguan Cigar Festival: “Sensations of my country”; is to be held in April 5th, 6th, 7th & 8th, 2011. They have prepared an unforgettable journey through the cities of Managua, Masaya, Granada, Estelí and Jalapa.

The Nicaraguan Cigar Festival offers an opportunity to all its participants to enjoy and discover, not just the flavor of the first class tobacco, but to learn about the roots, passion & culture. A carefully chosen a splendid itinerary where you will take pleasure in admiring the beauty of Nicaragua's natural resources, through visiting the magnificent National Park “Volcán Masaya”, navigating the distinctive Nicaraguan Lake (Isletas de Granada), walking on the rich soils of the tobacco farms and visiting the premium cigar factories.

The 2nd Nicaraguan Cigar Festival “Sensations of my country” Package includes:

The exclusive “ANP Collector’s Edition Cigar Box 2011″: including a mix of 22 cigars manufactured by all our members
-Premium cigars throughout your journey in Nicaragua
-Welcome cocktail at the VIP Managua Airport lounge upon arrival
-Transportation to all hotels, cities & events
-National Park Volcán Masaya Tour
-Granada City tour and boat ride
-Farm & Factory tours
-All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinners)
-Admission to all events
-2 hotel nights in Estelí

NOTE: This package does not include your AIRFARE or the Hotel nights in Managua (the nights of April 5th & 8th) Information of suggested Hotels and their special rates given for the festival can be found by clicking on this link:
http://nicaraguancigarfestival.com/hotel-info/

The festival is open to everyone that wishes to attend
Must be 18 or over to register & participate

Festival coordinators:
Nicaraguan Cigar Association (ANP), The National Free Trade Zone Commission, The Institute of Tourism (INTUR), The City Council of Estelí, Cigar Zone, & Subculture Art & Design Studios.

STUDIO TOBAC ENTERS FIRST JOINT VENTURE WITH THE PADILLA CIGARS COMPANY

STUDIO TOBAC

PRESS RELEASE
03.18.11

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

STUDIO TOBAC ENTERS FIRST JOINT VENTURE WITH
THE PADILLA CIGARS COMPANY

STUDIO TOBAC/PADILLA FIGURADO WILL BE LIMITED TO 10,000 CIGARS

MIAMI, FL – March 18, 2010 - Today Studio Tobac’s Jose Oliva announced that The Studio will make a cigar for The Padilla Cigars Company. The cigar will be a full bodied, Nicaraguan puro. It will be a figurado shape grown from Habano seed. Production will be strictly limited to 1000 boxes of 10 cigars each.

“I’ve closely watched Studio Tobac’s work for the last few years; going all the way back to the launch of Nub in 2008” said Ernesto Padilla. “I’ve been very impressed with Nub, Cain, and Studio Tobac’s general ability to bring real, lasting innovation to the premium cigar industry.”

Studio Tobac’s Jose Oliva commented: “Ernie Padilla approaced the Studio Tobac Executive Board to collaborate on a limited release Nicaraguan Habano. After much deliberation, The Board approved the release of a figurado limited to 10,000 cigars.”

Oliva continued “I’m excited to work with Padilla. I consider him to be one of the pioneers of the full-bodied, Cuban style cigar. Padilla has shown the same type of innovation that is prevalent at Studio Tobac.”

Studio Tobac’s John Gazerro states “Even though we’ve existed for the last few years, Studio Tobac just became know to the public; so we’re very protective of the brand. This type of joint venture isn’t something we take lightly, and we’re not getting in the business of making private label cigars for anyone. Working with Ernie (Padilla) makes sense because he has been a friend of Studio Tobac for years. Ernie assured us that he will treat this project with integrity and respect.” Gazerro added: “We’ve got some interesting ideas for the blend. I’m sure Padilla does, too. I’m excited to smoke the cigars. They should be pretty damn good.”

Prototypes of the Studio Tobac/Padilla cigars will be presented to the Studio Tobac Executive Board as soon as April. Once a final blend is chosen, the goal is to have the cigars released by August of 2011. Expect pricing to be about $14 per stick. As with all Studio Tobac brands, the cigars will be maufactured by The Oliva Family Of Cigars. For this project only, distribution will be handled by The Padilla Cigars Company.

*********

Studio Tobac is the research and design group within The Oliva Family Of Cigars. Studio Tobac’s goal is to provide excitement and innovation to premium cigar smokers worldwide.
*********
All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

*********

For more information please go to:

http://studiotobac.com

Or contact:
John Gazerro
Oliva Family Of Cigars
305-343-1881
jgazerro@olivacigar.com

Pedro Martin Corojo Robusto Review

Pedro Martin Corojo Robusto - 5 X 50. Wrapper - Nicaraguan Corojo, Binder - Nicaraguan Corojo, Filler - Nicaraguan Corojo. Medium - Full bodied.

Initial taste - Cedar.

First third - Cinnamon spice, cedar and leather.

Second third - Spice, cinnamon and the leather flavor is now becoming a tangy, citrusy leather. Some sweet notes as well. Cedar has pretty much faded away at this point.

Last third - Spice, tangy leather and some hints of a sweetness. Long finish of citrusy leather and spiciness.

Construction - Nice looking wrapper, slight oily sheen with no major veins. The wrapper however, is very delicate. Burn - Very good burn with a salt & pepper colored ash that really holds on and doesn't want to fall off. Draw - draw was good.

A wonderful cigar with the flavor profile that I really like (spice & tangy leather) The balance and complexity was very good as well. Maria Martin who blended this cigar, was formerly the National Sales Manager for Camacho Cigars but has now returned to the family business of her father Pedro Martin. Although a Nicaraguan puro, the leaf for the wrapper, binder and filler come from different regions in Nicaragua. The MSRP for this vitola is $6.80. A definite recommend.

LA GLORIA CUBANA SERIE N DAY MARKS FIRST VIRTUAL CIGAR TASTING

Immediate Release
March 16, 2011
Contact: Victoria McKee Jaworski
General Cigar Co. Inc.
732 721 0317 or 732 580 5215
EMAIL: victoria.mckee@st-group.com

SERIE N DAY MARKS FIRST VIRTUAL CIGAR TASTING

Richmond, VA— Team La Gloria Cubana ® has designated Friday March 25, 2011 as www.lagloriacigars.com/serien Serie N® Day and will commemorate the occasion with the premium cigar category’s first-ever national virtual cigar tasting which will be broadcast on www.lagloriacigars.com/serien

On March 25, 2011, Team La Gloria members Michael Giannini (director of marketing), Rick Rodriguez (cigar master in training), Yuri Guillen (director of manufacturing) and Leo Peraza (master cigar maker) will host a virtual tasting broadcast from the El Credito Cigar Factory in Miami’s Little Havana district. Live streaming video of the tasting will be available beginning at 6:00 PM (EDT) on the Team La Gloria website and will continue throughout the evening, with additional interactive broadcasts featuring Serie N Day retail events at 6:00 PM Central and 6:00 PM Pacific.

Select retailers across the U.S. will participate in a live, open forum chat on Skype which will be part of the virtual broadcast. Participants watching live on the website will be able to communicate directly with Team La Gloria members and with fellow Serie N enthusiasts through tweets and Facebook updates which will be addressed by Team La Gloria members during the broadcasts.

Director of Marketing Michael Giannini commented, “Serie N is a very unique cigar, both in taste and appearance, so we created an innovative event to capitalize on the buzz that’s been generated for the product within the digital media space. By including the retail community and in welcoming questions and comments from our existing consumers and those who may be enjoying the product for the first time, we will be able to ride the groundswell by capturing increased interest in the product.”

To get in on the excitement surrounding Serie N cigars, consumers of legal smoking age are invited to pick up the March issue of Cigar Aficionado which contains a coupon for a free Serie N cigar, redeemable by accessing the list of participating cigar retail shops across the U.S. available on the Team La Gloria website: www.lagloriacigars.com.

About La Gloria Cubana
La Gloria Cubana cigars are produced by General Cigar Co. Inc., a division of Scandinavian Tobacco Group, which 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 HYPERLINK "http://www.cigarworld.com/" www.cigarworld.com .

La Gloria Cubana, Serie N, Macanudo, Cohiba, Punch, Partagas, Hoyo de Monterrey, Excalibur and Club Macanudo are registered trademarks of General Cigar Co. Inc.

Fonseca CXX (120 Years) Corona Review

Fonseca CXX (120 Years) Corona - 6 X 46. Wrapper - Dominican (Habano Vuelta Arriba from a microfarm in the Navarrete region) , Binder - Dominican, Filler - Dominican & Nicaraguan. Medium - Full bodied. This line is a tribute to its 120 year history.

Initial taste - Dry woodiness & spice.

First third - Spiciness, wood, smooth leather and a touch of sweetness emerging.

Second third - Now the cigar is really getting good - a caramel-like sweetness and spice. The leather takes on a citrus flavor. Hint of nuts.

Last third - Caramel sweetness along with the spice, citrus leather and nuts. Nice long finish of spice, citrus and leather.

Construction - as with all Matasa cigars, the wrapper is beautiful - an oily brown flawless wrapper with a nice sheen. I did notice that the cigar was slightly soft and spongy but it did not affect the smoking experience. Burn - in the first third, the cigar burned a bit crooked but corrected itself quickly to burn sharp with a dark gray ash that held on. Draw was very good.

A fantastic cigar with a flavor profile that I absolutely love. Balance was excellent with plenty of complex, exciting flavors. Matasa/Quesada Cigars are really turning out some great lines and with an MSRP of $6.95 for this vitola, this is a must try. A true finger burner.

ALEC BRADLEY CIGARS REVEALS NEW CORPORATE BRAND IDENTITY

DATE: MARCH 10, 2011

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

ALEC BRADLEY CIGARS REVEALS NEW CORPORATE BRAND IDENTITY
New logo will emphasize the company's direction and future

DANIA, FL – March 10, 2011 – Alec Bradley Cigars is pleased to announce the debut of their new corporate look and feel. The new Alec Bradley brand identity boasts a simple, yet easily identifiable logo exhibited by a strong monarchial red crest and four spired crown.

“Our new identity is dynamic," said Alan Rubin, President and CEO of Alec Bradley Cigar Company. "As we evolve as a company, we feel there is an emotional disconnect between our traditional styled cigar lines and our current contemporary logo. Our new look is more identifiable to the consumer.  For our company to build an emotional connection with cigar smokers worldwide, they must feel comfortable with who we are as a company and confident with where we are heading.  It is in this context that we feel our new look portrays more of who we are as we move forward."

The new logo will be displayed on the company's corporate letterhead, as well as on Alec Bradley cigars packaging, promotional gear, & in store marketing materials.

“Our focus groups have given us tremendous feedback,” added Rubin.

For more information on Alec Bradley products, visit Alec Bradley Cigars online at www.alecbradley.com

H. Upmann Sungrown Short Churchill Review

H. Upmann Sungrown Short Churchill - 4.5 X 54. Wrapper - Ecuadorian Sungrown, Binder - Broadleaf, Filler - Honduran & Nicarguan. Medium - Full bodied.

Initial taste - Cedar & spice.

First third - Spice, cedar, leather & clove.

Second third - Spice continues and now a lemony citrus flavor builds its way in along with the leather, cedar and clove. A slight sweetness also emerges.

Last third - Spice, lemony citrus, leather, clove and the subtle sweetness. The cedar flavor has faded out at this point of the cigar. Long finish of spice, citrus and leather.

Construction was excellent - nice smooth brown wrapper with slight veins. Burn was razor sharp with a light gray color ash. Draw was just right.

This is an impressive cigar. It has plenty of complexity and the balance was outstanding. I normally do not like clove flavor, but the way in which this cigar was balanced, it actually was very good. It really enhanced the flavor profile and made for a fantastic cigar. MSRP on this vitola is $6.75 which is a great value. A definite recommend.

XIKAR Announces New Prices on HC Series Cigars

March 2011 For Immediate Release:



XIKAR Announces New Prices on HC Series Cigars


· XIKAR Becomes First Major Brand to Reduce Cigar Prices in 2011

· US Retailers Embrace XIKAR's Dramatic Price Reduction

Kansas City, MO. - March 8, 2011 - XIKAR, Inc., a leading cigar and accessory company, announced a bold new pricing strategy for its highly rated HC Series Cigars. This dramatic price reduction re-emphasizes XIKAR's long-standing commitment to value and fair price. According to Jerry Dear, EVP Sales & Marketing, "the most common encounter in this age of inflation is a price increase driven by rising costs and increasing taxation. XIKAR wanted instead to broaden our appeal and offer a wonderful cigar to everyone." Consumers will enjoy an average cost savings of 18% per cigar repositioning the HC Series line to a compelling price range of $6-8 per cigar.

"We realize this decision is unprecedented in the midst of many competitive price increases, but XIKAR's core values and culture demand that we listen carefully to our consumers and respond accordingly," said Kurt Van Keppel, XIKAR's President.

XIKAR will continue to produce all HC series cigars to the same exacting quality standards from boutique factories in Nicaragua and Honduras. "The blends and the quality will not change," said Scott Almsberger, Vice-President of Product Development. "I personally guarantee that XIKAR HC Series cigars will continue to be produced using the highest quality aged tobacco, so consumers can continue enjoy they same great HC Series Cigars.

Today, XIKAR HC Series cigars are available in over 500 cigar shops around the country, and plans are in place to increase U.S. distribution and expand overseas.

XIKAR's new lower prices will make it even easier for customers to enjoy a great cigar at a price point that is more affordable in today's economy.

XIKAR is once again kicking off the cigar season with innovative accessories, featuring the 3D Mayan Collection, the Cloisonné Collection, and limited edition gift packs. "It's been a great 15 years of constant growth for XIKAR", says Van Keppel. "With this bold action, this should be the best year ever!"

Additional Resources

For additional information, including HC Series Cigars and accessory information, please visit www.xikar.com.

For Media Enquiries:

XIKAR, Inc.
816-994-7154
Email: rmoreno@xikar.com

La Aurora Gran 107 Review

La Aurora Gran 107 - 7 X 58. Wrapper - Ecuador, Binder - Dominican, Filler - Nicaragua & Dominican. Medium bodied.

Initial taste - Dry cedar.

First third - Spice, rum, leather & cedar. A pleasant sweetness also emerges. I'm really liking the flavors.

Second third - Rum, spice, a leathery sweetness and cedar wood. Great complexity and balance.

Last third - Rum picks up followed by the ever present spice, the leathery sweetness and the cedar. Very nice long finish of spice, rum and leather.

Construction - Pretty brown wrapper, nice sheen to it. No major veins visible. Burn - good straight burn producing a light gray ash. Draw was perfect.

Usually I shy away from big ring gauge cigars because of the muted flavors I get, but this cigar was loaded with distinctive flavors. I love the flavor profile - particularly the unique rum flavor, love the smooth balance and love the construction as with all La Aurora products. Apparently this is the vitola that the rollers & blenders for La Aurora smoke and now I can see why. MSRP on this size is $9.00 which is an excellent value. I highly recommend trying.

Casa Magna Lancero Review

Casa Magna Lancero - 8.25 X 40. Wrapper - Nicaragua (Cuban Seed), Binder -Nicaragua (Cuban Seed), Filler - Nicaragua (Cuban Seed). Medium bodied.

Initial Taste - Earthy woodiness.

First third - Spice, earthy leather and sweet nougat.

Second third - Spiciness continues, earthy leather and the very enjoyable nougat sweetness. Very nicely balanced.

Last third - More of the same, spice, earthy leather and sweet nougat. Long finish of spice, earth and leather.

Construction was excellent - beautiful dark brown wrapper with a slight oily sheen. No major veins were visible. Burn was razor sharp producing a dark gray ash that held on. Draw was perfect.

A fantastic cigar with excellent balance and complexity. I really liked this flavor profile - smooth and tasty. The Lancero is available in boxes of 7 cigars. MSRP is $12.95 for this size. Easily a consideration for my Top 10 for 2011.