CigarWeekly - Magazine & forums - CW-News Cigarweekly.com, the place for every cigar smoker. Share, discuss, and learn about cigars and pipes, and more. Cigars, tobacco, smoking, beverages, and food are just some of the topics discussed. puff.com, cigar magazine, cigar forums, forums.cigarweekly.com https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news 2024-05-03T11:09:32-04:00 Joomla! - Open Source Content Management E.P. Carrillo 2023 TAA Exclusive Shipping This Week 2023-07-15T12:30:49-04:00 2023-07-15T12:30:49-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1015-e-p-carrillo-2023-taa-exclusive-shipping-this-week Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><table style="width: 671px; height: 861px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="width: 100%;"> <table style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td>&nbsp;</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table style="width: 663px; height: 934px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'arial black', 'avant garde';">&nbsp;<img src="images/smb/seanbauer/carillo_logo_2.png" alt="carillo logo 2" /></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 36pt;">Carrillo</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">E.P.&nbsp;Carrillo 2023 TAA Exclusive Shipping This Week</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">MIAMI, FL – July&nbsp;14, 2023 – E.P.&nbsp;Carrillo, internationally renowned for their superb craftsmanship and premium quality cigars, is excited to announce their newest creation:&nbsp;E.P. Carrillo&nbsp;2023 TAA Exclusive.</span></p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1015-e-p-carrillo-2023-taa-exclusive-shipping-this-week">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><table style="width: 671px; height: 861px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="width: 100%;"> <table style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td>&nbsp;</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table style="width: 663px; height: 934px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'arial black', 'avant garde';">&nbsp;<img src="images/smb/seanbauer/carillo_logo_2.png" alt="carillo logo 2" /></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 36pt;">Carrillo</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">E.P.&nbsp;Carrillo 2023 TAA Exclusive Shipping This Week</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">MIAMI, FL – July&nbsp;14, 2023 – E.P.&nbsp;Carrillo, internationally renowned for their superb craftsmanship and premium quality cigars, is excited to announce their newest creation:&nbsp;E.P. Carrillo&nbsp;2023 TAA Exclusive.</span></p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1015-e-p-carrillo-2023-taa-exclusive-shipping-this-week">Read More...</a></p></div> PARTAGAS TO RELEASE VALLE VERDE IN JULY 2023-06-30T19:48:59-04:00 2023-06-30T19:48:59-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1013-partagas-to-release-valle-verde-in-july Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Partagas Valle Verde, a new, full-time collection that ships on July 1 will debut a</span><img src="images/Partagas_Valle_Verde_cigar.png" alt="Partagas Valle Verde cigar" width="69" height="329" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">s the first Partagas blend to be crowned with a Mexican San Andrés leaf. John Hakim, brand manager of Partagas said, “Partagas Valle Verde builds on the Partagas tradition of rich, refined blends and calls upon its rich Mexican wrapper to deliver a unique smoking experience to the brand portfolio. It is the ideal choice for cigar enthusiasts who are drawn to well-aged tobaccos.”</span></p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1013-partagas-to-release-valle-verde-in-july">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Partagas Valle Verde, a new, full-time collection that ships on July 1 will debut a</span><img src="images/Partagas_Valle_Verde_cigar.png" alt="Partagas Valle Verde cigar" width="69" height="329" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">s the first Partagas blend to be crowned with a Mexican San Andrés leaf. John Hakim, brand manager of Partagas said, “Partagas Valle Verde builds on the Partagas tradition of rich, refined blends and calls upon its rich Mexican wrapper to deliver a unique smoking experience to the brand portfolio. It is the ideal choice for cigar enthusiasts who are drawn to well-aged tobaccos.”</span></p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1013-partagas-to-release-valle-verde-in-july">Read More...</a></p></div> E.P. Carrillo Proudly Announces The Release Of Pledge Of Allegiance 2023 Cigar 2023-06-01T15:44:26-04:00 2023-06-01T15:44:26-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1008-e-p-carrillo-proudly-announces-the-release-of-pledge-of-allegiance-2023-cigar Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/carrillo_logo.png" alt="carrillo logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">MIAMI, FL – May 30, 2023 – E.P. Carrillo, internationally renowned for their superb craftsmanship and premium quality cigars, is excited to announce the release of their newest creation: E.P. Carrillo Pledge of Allegiance 2023 cigar. This special limited edition release of 1,776 boxes to be allocated to retailers, not only represents the culmination of the company's dedication to excellence, but also serves as a tribute to America's indomitable spirit and the dream that it embodies.</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1008-e-p-carrillo-proudly-announces-the-release-of-pledge-of-allegiance-2023-cigar">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/carrillo_logo.png" alt="carrillo logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">MIAMI, FL – May 30, 2023 – E.P. Carrillo, internationally renowned for their superb craftsmanship and premium quality cigars, is excited to announce the release of their newest creation: E.P. Carrillo Pledge of Allegiance 2023 cigar. This special limited edition release of 1,776 boxes to be allocated to retailers, not only represents the culmination of the company's dedication to excellence, but also serves as a tribute to America's indomitable spirit and the dream that it embodies.</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1008-e-p-carrillo-proudly-announces-the-release-of-pledge-of-allegiance-2023-cigar">Read More...</a></p></div> SOULS FROM THE EARTH FOUNDATION HOSTS US LAUNCH EVENT IN SOUTH FLORIDA 2023-06-01T15:33:08-04:00 2023-06-01T15:33:08-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1007-souls-from-the-earth-foundation-hosts-us-launch-event-in-south-florida Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Plasencia_Cigars.jpg" alt="Plasencia Cigars" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">SOULS FROM THE EARTH FOUNDATION HOSTS US LAUNCH EVENT IN SOUTH FLORIDA</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The 501c3 organization to hold a kick-off cocktail at The Tank Brewing Co. Thursday June 8, 2023.</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">(Miami, FL) May 31, 2023–This upcoming June 8th, the Souls from The Earth Foundation will launch in Miami. Led by the Plasencia Family, the foundation is focused on proactively engaging and supporting the growth and development of underserved children, in at-risk communities in Nicaragua and Honduras. Along with its founders and Board of Directors, the foundation will host a by invitation cocktail reception Thursday, June 8, 2023, at The Tank Brewing Co. located at 5100 NW 72nd Avenue Bay 1, Miami, Florida 33166</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">WHAT: Souls from The Earth Foundation US Launch Event</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">WHEN: Thursday June 8, 2023, 6:00 PM- 9:00 PM</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">WHERE: The Tank Brewing Co. 5100 NW 72nd Avenue Bay 1, Miami, Florida 33166</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1007-souls-from-the-earth-foundation-hosts-us-launch-event-in-south-florida">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Plasencia_Cigars.jpg" alt="Plasencia Cigars" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">SOULS FROM THE EARTH FOUNDATION HOSTS US LAUNCH EVENT IN SOUTH FLORIDA</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The 501c3 organization to hold a kick-off cocktail at The Tank Brewing Co. Thursday June 8, 2023.</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">(Miami, FL) May 31, 2023–This upcoming June 8th, the Souls from The Earth Foundation will launch in Miami. Led by the Plasencia Family, the foundation is focused on proactively engaging and supporting the growth and development of underserved children, in at-risk communities in Nicaragua and Honduras. Along with its founders and Board of Directors, the foundation will host a by invitation cocktail reception Thursday, June 8, 2023, at The Tank Brewing Co. located at 5100 NW 72nd Avenue Bay 1, Miami, Florida 33166</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">WHAT: Souls from The Earth Foundation US Launch Event</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">WHEN: Thursday June 8, 2023, 6:00 PM- 9:00 PM</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">WHERE: The Tank Brewing Co. 5100 NW 72nd Avenue Bay 1, Miami, Florida 33166</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1007-souls-from-the-earth-foundation-hosts-us-launch-event-in-south-florida">Read More...</a></p></div> C.L.E. CIGAR COMPANY ANNOUNCES THE TAA EXCLUSIVE EIROA DARK 11/18 IS NOW SHIPPING! 2023-05-30T19:19:44-04:00 2023-05-30T19:19:44-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1006-c-l-e-cigar-company-announces-the-taa-exclusive-eiroa-dark-11-18-is-now-shipping Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.jpg" alt="logo" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>May 30, 2023</strong>- <strong>C.L.E. Cigar Company</strong> announces that the <strong>TAA exclusive Eiroa Dark 11/18</strong> is now shipping! The Eiroa Dark originally made its debut in 2019. What separates the TAA Exclusive is that it will come in the Eiroa family’s signature 11/18 size. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Only five hundred boxes were created.</span></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1006-c-l-e-cigar-company-announces-the-taa-exclusive-eiroa-dark-11-18-is-now-shipping">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.jpg" alt="logo" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>May 30, 2023</strong>- <strong>C.L.E. Cigar Company</strong> announces that the <strong>TAA exclusive Eiroa Dark 11/18</strong> is now shipping! The Eiroa Dark originally made its debut in 2019. What separates the TAA Exclusive is that it will come in the Eiroa family’s signature 11/18 size. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Only five hundred boxes were created.</span></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/1006-c-l-e-cigar-company-announces-the-taa-exclusive-eiroa-dark-11-18-is-now-shipping">Read More...</a></p></div> Governor of Montana and State Legislature Approve Cigar Tax Cap 2023-05-19T12:29:45-04:00 2023-05-19T12:29:45-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1003-governor-of-montana-and-state-legislature-approve-cigar-tax-cap Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/pcalogo.jpg" alt="pcalogo" /></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Premium Cigar Association (PCA), in partnership with its member tobacconists of Montana in the Montana Cigar Association, is pleased to announce that Governor Greg Gianforte has signed SB 122 by Senator Greg Hertz, calling for a thirty-five cent tax cap on the sale of cigars.</span></p> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Over a year in the making, a coalition of locally owned small businesses organized an effort with legislative allies of their local cigar shops. After a series of strategy calls with shop owners, legislators, lobbyists, and PCA, SB 122 passed the House of Representatives 70-28 and the Senate 39-10. The bill was then sent to the governor’s desk.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">PCA Director of State Advocacy Glynn Loope stated, “This was a grand example of a coalition of local shop owners that built upon their relationships with members of the legislature, making their case and ushering a bill through the process. PCA welcomed the opportunity to provide committee testimony, grassroots advocacy, and research support. The efforts and sponsorship of SB 122 by Montana Senator Greg Hertz were profound and appreciated beyond words. The local cigar shops of Montana, though, made the difference.”</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Local shop owner and President of the Montana Cigar Association, Ken Weinheimer, along with his lobbyist, Scott Boulanger of Boulanger Associates, who spearheaded efforts in the capitol, stated, “It is amazing to see the fruits of your efforts when the votes are counted. The overwhelming Bi-Partisan margins in the House and Senate proved that our message of tax fairness resonated. The passage of similar legislation in Idaho assisted, and the tax policy of surrounding states allowed us to make our case. We certainly appreciate the governor signing this bill that helps local small businesses.”&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Loope concluded by stating, “Having Montana Governor Greg Giaforte, North Dakota Governor Doug Burghum, and Idaho Governor Brad Little each sign significant premium cigar bills this year is a testament to our industry message being heard. The partnership between PCA and our state retailers and the coalitions that have been built has set an example for others throughout the nation. And we’re not done yet.”&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">PCA has been engaged in nine state tax cap legislative issues during the 2023 sessions and over twenty-six bills in twenty-one states.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div></div> <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/pcalogo.jpg" alt="pcalogo" /></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Premium Cigar Association (PCA), in partnership with its member tobacconists of Montana in the Montana Cigar Association, is pleased to announce that Governor Greg Gianforte has signed SB 122 by Senator Greg Hertz, calling for a thirty-five cent tax cap on the sale of cigars.</span></p> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Over a year in the making, a coalition of locally owned small businesses organized an effort with legislative allies of their local cigar shops. After a series of strategy calls with shop owners, legislators, lobbyists, and PCA, SB 122 passed the House of Representatives 70-28 and the Senate 39-10. The bill was then sent to the governor’s desk.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">PCA Director of State Advocacy Glynn Loope stated, “This was a grand example of a coalition of local shop owners that built upon their relationships with members of the legislature, making their case and ushering a bill through the process. PCA welcomed the opportunity to provide committee testimony, grassroots advocacy, and research support. The efforts and sponsorship of SB 122 by Montana Senator Greg Hertz were profound and appreciated beyond words. The local cigar shops of Montana, though, made the difference.”</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Local shop owner and President of the Montana Cigar Association, Ken Weinheimer, along with his lobbyist, Scott Boulanger of Boulanger Associates, who spearheaded efforts in the capitol, stated, “It is amazing to see the fruits of your efforts when the votes are counted. The overwhelming Bi-Partisan margins in the House and Senate proved that our message of tax fairness resonated. The passage of similar legislation in Idaho assisted, and the tax policy of surrounding states allowed us to make our case. We certainly appreciate the governor signing this bill that helps local small businesses.”&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Loope concluded by stating, “Having Montana Governor Greg Giaforte, North Dakota Governor Doug Burghum, and Idaho Governor Brad Little each sign significant premium cigar bills this year is a testament to our industry message being heard. The partnership between PCA and our state retailers and the coalitions that have been built has set an example for others throughout the nation. And we’re not done yet.”&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">PCA has been engaged in nine state tax cap legislative issues during the 2023 sessions and over twenty-six bills in twenty-one states.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div></div> FRATELLO CIGARS WILL STOP PRODUCING FOUR OF THEIR CIGAR SIZES 2023-05-12T12:14:05-04:00 2023-05-12T12:14:05-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1002-fratello-cigars-will-stop-producing-four-of-their-cigar-sizes Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.png" alt="logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />Ashburn, VA [May 10, 2023]- Fratello Cigars has announced that will be ending production of four of its popular Vitolas. The Bianco I, Oro Shorty, Navetta Enterprise, and Inverso Corona Gorda Vitolas will no longer be manufactured by the company.</div> <p>After a comprehensive assessment of its product lineup, Fratello Cigars has decided to halt the production of these Vitolas. This decision was based on several factors, including the cost of manufacturing and the level of consumer demand.&nbsp;</p> <p>"While it is always difficult to discontinue a product, we believe that this decision is in the best interest of our company and our customers," said Omar de Frias, the founder of Fratello Cigars. "We remain committed to providing our customers with high-quality products and exceptional service, and we believe that this decision will help us achieve that goal."</p> <p>These Vitolas will no longer be produced after the current inventory is depleted. Customers who are fans of these cigars are encouraged to purchase them while supplies last.&nbsp;</p> <p>"We are excited about the future of Fratello Cigars and remain committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and exceptional service," said de Frias. "We appreciate the continued support of our customers and look forward to continuing to serve them for many years to come.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">For more information about the cigars, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fratellocigar.com">www.fratellocigar.com</a></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div class="feed-description"><div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.png" alt="logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />Ashburn, VA [May 10, 2023]- Fratello Cigars has announced that will be ending production of four of its popular Vitolas. The Bianco I, Oro Shorty, Navetta Enterprise, and Inverso Corona Gorda Vitolas will no longer be manufactured by the company.</div> <p>After a comprehensive assessment of its product lineup, Fratello Cigars has decided to halt the production of these Vitolas. This decision was based on several factors, including the cost of manufacturing and the level of consumer demand.&nbsp;</p> <p>"While it is always difficult to discontinue a product, we believe that this decision is in the best interest of our company and our customers," said Omar de Frias, the founder of Fratello Cigars. "We remain committed to providing our customers with high-quality products and exceptional service, and we believe that this decision will help us achieve that goal."</p> <p>These Vitolas will no longer be produced after the current inventory is depleted. Customers who are fans of these cigars are encouraged to purchase them while supplies last.&nbsp;</p> <p>"We are excited about the future of Fratello Cigars and remain committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and exceptional service," said de Frias. "We appreciate the continued support of our customers and look forward to continuing to serve them for many years to come.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">For more information about the cigars, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fratellocigar.com">www.fratellocigar.com</a></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> ROOM101 DELIVERS THE GOODS WITH BIG PAYBACK REDUX 2023-05-10T13:01:55-04:00 2023-05-10T13:01:55-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1001-room101-delivers-the-goods-with-big-payback-redux Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Room101.jpg" alt="Room101" /><br /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Room101 is bringing back the Big Payback in a big way with the highly-anticipated return of the line’s 70-ring gauge option. The format has been out of production since 2016.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Payback brand was created by Matt Booth to repay consumers for their years of support with a premium offering at a monster value price point.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matt Booth said, “It has been my life’s mission to produce a combustible vessel so engorged and far more magnificent than its standard counterpart in cylindrical presentation, and it’s my greatest honor to offer our people such a product that overflows with both girth and grandeur.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Room101 Big Payback 70s are handcrafted in Honduras at HATSA and are, according to Booth, “engorged with premium tobaccos reaching a diameter that only you can handle with a price point that won’t handle you.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Big Payback 70s are made with a blend of Nicaraguan, Honduran and Dominican filler tobaccos, a US-grown Connecticut Broadleaf binder and are wrapped in Honduran Olancho San Agustin. The cigar is medium plus-body, with spice notes, a great retrohale and a clean finish.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Room101 Big Payback 70 measures 7”x 70 and will sell for an SRP of $8.99 per cigar. The hefty smokes are double-banded, come in boxes of 30 and will be a full-time addition to the Big Payback line.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Room101 Big Payback is distributed by Forged Cigar Company and will ship to retailers on June 1.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/BIG_PAYBACK_70s.png" alt="BIG PAYBACK 70s" /></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><strong><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Room101.jpg" alt="Room101" /><br /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Room101 is bringing back the Big Payback in a big way with the highly-anticipated return of the line’s 70-ring gauge option. The format has been out of production since 2016.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Payback brand was created by Matt Booth to repay consumers for their years of support with a premium offering at a monster value price point.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matt Booth said, “It has been my life’s mission to produce a combustible vessel so engorged and far more magnificent than its standard counterpart in cylindrical presentation, and it’s my greatest honor to offer our people such a product that overflows with both girth and grandeur.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Room101 Big Payback 70s are handcrafted in Honduras at HATSA and are, according to Booth, “engorged with premium tobaccos reaching a diameter that only you can handle with a price point that won’t handle you.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Big Payback 70s are made with a blend of Nicaraguan, Honduran and Dominican filler tobaccos, a US-grown Connecticut Broadleaf binder and are wrapped in Honduran Olancho San Agustin. The cigar is medium plus-body, with spice notes, a great retrohale and a clean finish.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Room101 Big Payback 70 measures 7”x 70 and will sell for an SRP of $8.99 per cigar. The hefty smokes are double-banded, come in boxes of 30 and will be a full-time addition to the Big Payback line.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Room101 Big Payback is distributed by Forged Cigar Company and will ship to retailers on June 1.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/BIG_PAYBACK_70s.png" alt="BIG PAYBACK 70s" /></p></div> SOLD OUT PLATINUM BASH IN STORES NOW 2023-05-09T12:20:56-04:00 2023-05-09T12:20:56-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/1000-sold-out-platinum-bash-in-stores-now Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logouseme.png" alt="logouseme" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Miami, FL – May 8, 2023– E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company announces first round of Platinum Bash shipment. Late last year, we sent out a sampler to celebrate Ernesto's 70th birthday. In each sampler there was a QR code that allowed customers to select their favorite blend based off the ribbon color on the cigar. These packs were available either at events or through purchasing a box of E.P. Carrillo cigars.</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">After several months of voting, the winning blend became the latest E.P. Carrillo Limited-Edition. It’s a toro size, 6 inches long by 52 ring gauge, and production is limited to 500 boxes of 10 cigars with a suggested retail price of $15 each. Made with a Mexican wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, and a mix of Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers, the Platinum Bash is a real winner!</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Listen below to Ernesto and Lissette talk about this winner and how Ernesto feels about the winning blend. The other cigars that didn't make the win are still some of Ernesto's favorite blends. The tobaccos used are special to him and that's how they made the cut for the extraordinary celebration.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Shipping began last week and will continue thru May as we get additional inventory from the factory.&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">About E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company:</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">E.P. Carrillo Cigars have always been about innovative and groundbreaking ideas. It is owned and operated by third and fourth generation of cigar makers, the Perez-Carrillo family. Today, each of the E.P. Carrillo lines have a unique and distinct set of characteristics in line with our shared vision: The Endless Pursuit Toward Perfection. The cigars themselves are each based on a greater concept which reflects an aspect of the family’s heritage in tobacco and the authentic pride with which each cigar is made.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Media Contact:</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Lissette Perez-Carrillo</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">lpc@epccigar.com</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">EPCarrillo.com</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">See more: carrillocigars.com</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Instagram: @EPCarrillo_cigars</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Twitter: @EPCarrillo</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Facebook: Facebook.com/EPCarrillo</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/carrillo__cigars.png" alt="carrillo cigars" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/platinum_bash.jpg" alt="platinum bash" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></div></div> <div class="feed-description"><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logouseme.png" alt="logouseme" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Miami, FL – May 8, 2023– E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company announces first round of Platinum Bash shipment. Late last year, we sent out a sampler to celebrate Ernesto's 70th birthday. In each sampler there was a QR code that allowed customers to select their favorite blend based off the ribbon color on the cigar. These packs were available either at events or through purchasing a box of E.P. Carrillo cigars.</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">After several months of voting, the winning blend became the latest E.P. Carrillo Limited-Edition. It’s a toro size, 6 inches long by 52 ring gauge, and production is limited to 500 boxes of 10 cigars with a suggested retail price of $15 each. Made with a Mexican wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, and a mix of Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers, the Platinum Bash is a real winner!</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Listen below to Ernesto and Lissette talk about this winner and how Ernesto feels about the winning blend. The other cigars that didn't make the win are still some of Ernesto's favorite blends. The tobaccos used are special to him and that's how they made the cut for the extraordinary celebration.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Shipping began last week and will continue thru May as we get additional inventory from the factory.&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">About E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company:</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">E.P. Carrillo Cigars have always been about innovative and groundbreaking ideas. It is owned and operated by third and fourth generation of cigar makers, the Perez-Carrillo family. Today, each of the E.P. Carrillo lines have a unique and distinct set of characteristics in line with our shared vision: The Endless Pursuit Toward Perfection. The cigars themselves are each based on a greater concept which reflects an aspect of the family’s heritage in tobacco and the authentic pride with which each cigar is made.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Media Contact:</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Lissette Perez-Carrillo</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">lpc@epccigar.com</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">EPCarrillo.com</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">See more: carrillocigars.com</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Instagram: @EPCarrillo_cigars</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Twitter: @EPCarrillo</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Facebook: Facebook.com/EPCarrillo</span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/carrillo__cigars.png" alt="carrillo cigars" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/platinum_bash.jpg" alt="platinum bash" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></div></div> CALDWELL THE INDUSTRIALIST AVAILABLE AS CIGORA EXCLUSIVE 2023-04-28T12:43:15-04:00 2023-04-28T12:43:15-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/997-caldwell-the-industrialist-available-as-cigora-exclusive Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.png" alt="logo" /></p> <div>Caldwell The Industrialist is now available as a limited-edition release on Cigora, a digital platform that curates special premium cigar offerings for discerning smokers.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Handcrafted at HATSA in Honduras, Caldwell The Industrialist is made with a silky Connecticut Shade wrapper, a Connecticut Broadleaf binder and a blend of Honduran, Nicaraguan, Dominican tobaccos. The experience is layered and rewarding, delivering notes of cream, cinnamon and white pepper.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Robert Caldwell said, “Caldwell The Industrialist represents a commitment I share with Cigora, and that is to bring to life exciting releases that fill a gap in the boutique segment of the market. With the Industrialist, I identified the need for a box-pressed Connecticut that is as complex as it is approachable. I married the blend with a name that speaks to the inspirational nature of cigars, and with imagery that’s meant to spark conversation.”</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The blend’s singular vitola is called “Toro” and measures 6” x 50.&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Caldwell_The_Industrialist_Cigar.jpg" alt="Caldwell The Industrialist Cigar" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Caldwell The Industrialist is available in a five-pack (SRP $52.99) and a 20-count box (SRP $199.99).&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Caldwell_The_Industrialist.jpg" alt="Caldwell The Industrialist" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>About Cigora</div> <div>A digital platform that integrates community and commerce, Cigora represents the future of cigars online. With Cigora, members of the cigar community have a virtual cigar lounge where they can voice their opinions on cigar and non-cigar related topics, give and receive recommendations and engage with their favorite brands. Cigora is like a virtual cigar shop where conversation flows and a curated selection of the hottest cigar brands are just a few keystrokes away.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div></div> <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.png" alt="logo" /></p> <div>Caldwell The Industrialist is now available as a limited-edition release on Cigora, a digital platform that curates special premium cigar offerings for discerning smokers.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Handcrafted at HATSA in Honduras, Caldwell The Industrialist is made with a silky Connecticut Shade wrapper, a Connecticut Broadleaf binder and a blend of Honduran, Nicaraguan, Dominican tobaccos. The experience is layered and rewarding, delivering notes of cream, cinnamon and white pepper.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Robert Caldwell said, “Caldwell The Industrialist represents a commitment I share with Cigora, and that is to bring to life exciting releases that fill a gap in the boutique segment of the market. With the Industrialist, I identified the need for a box-pressed Connecticut that is as complex as it is approachable. I married the blend with a name that speaks to the inspirational nature of cigars, and with imagery that’s meant to spark conversation.”</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The blend’s singular vitola is called “Toro” and measures 6” x 50.&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Caldwell_The_Industrialist_Cigar.jpg" alt="Caldwell The Industrialist Cigar" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Caldwell The Industrialist is available in a five-pack (SRP $52.99) and a 20-count box (SRP $199.99).&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Caldwell_The_Industrialist.jpg" alt="Caldwell The Industrialist" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>About Cigora</div> <div>A digital platform that integrates community and commerce, Cigora represents the future of cigars online. With Cigora, members of the cigar community have a virtual cigar lounge where they can voice their opinions on cigar and non-cigar related topics, give and receive recommendations and engage with their favorite brands. Cigora is like a virtual cigar shop where conversation flows and a curated selection of the hottest cigar brands are just a few keystrokes away.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div></div> MACANUDO GOLD LABEL RETURNS TO RETAIL WITH LIMITED EDITION SIZE 2023-04-28T12:30:32-04:00 2023-04-28T12:30:32-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/996-macanudo-gold-label-returns-to-retail-with-limited-edition-size Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.png" alt="logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span>Macanudo Gold Label is making its annual return next month and will mark the occasion with a new, limited edition size available this year only.</p> <p style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Macanudo_Gold-Label_cigar.png" alt="Macanudo Gold Label cigar" /></p> <div style="text-align: right;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/996-macanudo-gold-label-returns-to-retail-with-limited-edition-size">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.png" alt="logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span>Macanudo Gold Label is making its annual return next month and will mark the occasion with a new, limited edition size available this year only.</p> <p style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Macanudo_Gold-Label_cigar.png" alt="Macanudo Gold Label cigar" /></p> <div style="text-align: right;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/996-macanudo-gold-label-returns-to-retail-with-limited-edition-size">Read More...</a></p></div> Ambassador Fine Cigars to Brand its Flagship Location Into El Septimo Lounge & Bar 2023-04-22T21:45:10-04:00 2023-04-22T21:45:10-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/995-ambassador-fine-cigars-to-brand-its-flagship-location-into-el-septimo-lounge-bar Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.png" alt="logo" style="float: right;" /></div> <div>El Septimo Continues Aggressive Expansion in Building One of the World’s Largest Networks of Global Retail Distribution for its Premium Cigars</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>April 18, 2023 10:00 ET | Source: El Septimo Geneva&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Los Angeles, CA, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- El Septimo, the world’s fastest growing premium cigar companies, has announced a joint cooperation with Ambassador Fine Cigars, which will rebrand their lounge and bar to El Septimo Geneva. Ambassador Fine Cigars is one of El Septimo’s biggest retailers and has had the longest relationship with El Septimo, more than any other U.S. retailer. The lounge is located at 10810 N. Tatum Blvd. Suite 140, Phoenix, AZ 85028 and is serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Phoenix. The owner of Ambassador Fine Cigars is Vartan Seferian.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Zaya Younan, CEO of El Septimo, says “Ambassador Fine Cigars is one of the oldest and largest premium cigar retailers in the U.S. They were El Septimo’s first retailer when we had entered the U.S. market, and they have been very successful in selling El Septimo cigars and accessories over the last year. They know our cigars very well, and El Septimo is a top-selling brand at their store. This agreement to rename their flagship bar and lounge into an El Septimo Lounge is another testament as to how well our cigars have been perceived by their customers.”</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/995-ambassador-fine-cigars-to-brand-its-flagship-location-into-el-septimo-lounge-bar">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/logo.png" alt="logo" style="float: right;" /></div> <div>El Septimo Continues Aggressive Expansion in Building One of the World’s Largest Networks of Global Retail Distribution for its Premium Cigars</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>April 18, 2023 10:00 ET | Source: El Septimo Geneva&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Los Angeles, CA, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- El Septimo, the world’s fastest growing premium cigar companies, has announced a joint cooperation with Ambassador Fine Cigars, which will rebrand their lounge and bar to El Septimo Geneva. Ambassador Fine Cigars is one of El Septimo’s biggest retailers and has had the longest relationship with El Septimo, more than any other U.S. retailer. The lounge is located at 10810 N. Tatum Blvd. Suite 140, Phoenix, AZ 85028 and is serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Phoenix. The owner of Ambassador Fine Cigars is Vartan Seferian.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Zaya Younan, CEO of El Septimo, says “Ambassador Fine Cigars is one of the oldest and largest premium cigar retailers in the U.S. They were El Septimo’s first retailer when we had entered the U.S. market, and they have been very successful in selling El Septimo cigars and accessories over the last year. They know our cigars very well, and El Septimo is a top-selling brand at their store. This agreement to rename their flagship bar and lounge into an El Septimo Lounge is another testament as to how well our cigars have been perceived by their customers.”</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/995-ambassador-fine-cigars-to-brand-its-flagship-location-into-el-septimo-lounge-bar">Read More...</a></p></div> Cigar Caucus Co-Chairs Press FDA for Action on NASEM's Recommendations 2023-04-22T12:42:47-04:00 2023-04-22T12:42:47-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/993-cigar-caucus-co-chairs-press-fda-for-action-on-nasem-s-recommendations Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/PCA_logo.png" alt="PCA logo" style="float: right;" /></span></p> <div>[FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Washington, D.C., Friday, April 21, 2023] The Premium Cigar Association commends Congressman Dan Meuser (R-PA) and Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), co-chairs of the Congressional Cigar Caucus, in their letter to FDA Administrator Dr. Robert Califf and CTP Director, Dr. Brian King. The letter calls on them to account for the agency’s lack of progress in addressing the recommendations made by the 2022 NASEM Report on premium cigars. The NASEM report highlighted that premium cigars are substantially unique and that research needed to distinguish them appropriately from other tobacco products.</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>Congressman Meuser expressed concern about the FDA's lack of action on the 2022 NASEM Report on premium cigars. He stated, "The FDA has a responsibility to ensure that all regulation it promulgates is based on sound scientific evidence and meets Congress’ intent. Unfortunately, they continue to try and regulate without doing proper due diligence. These are predominantly small businesses, many of them in my district, and their supply chain deeply affect our trading partners abroad."</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>Joshua Habursky, Deputy Executive Director of the Premium Cigar Association, echoed the concerns presented in the letter, “We would like to thank Representatives Dan Meuser and Troy Carter for their leadership on this issue and pressing the Center for Tobacco Products for answers on this important research. Two years ago, I presented to the National Academies of Sciences for the report referenced, and the FDA/CTP has yet to give a status update, even while they attempt to promulgate new regulations that would apply to premium cigars.”</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>Rep. Troy Carter pointed out, “The FDA asked for NASEM to study the question of premium cigars. FDA should follow through with the recommended research that NASEM called for before attempting to enact new regulations that would affect this industry.”</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>The 2022 NASEM Report on premium cigars found limited evidence to support the FDA's claims that premium cigars harm public health. The report called for further research to better understand the patterns of use and alleged health effects of premium cigars and to develop appropriate regulations based on scientific evidence.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>Click here to view FDA cigar caucus letter:</strong></div> <div><a href="http://ipcpr.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zOTAyNzExJnA9MSZ1PTM4MDgyNTAxOCZsaT00MDUzNTMxNw/index.html">http://ipcpr.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zOTAyNzExJnA9MSZ1PTM4MDgyNTAxOCZsaT00MDUzNTMxNw/index.html</a><a href="http://ipcpr.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zOTAyNzExJnA9MSZ1PTM4MDgyNTAxOCZsaT00MDUzNTMxNw/index.html"></a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div>ABOUT PCA</div> <div>Founded in 1933, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) is the oldest, largest, and most active trade association representing and assisting retailers, manufacturers and suppliers of premium tobacco products. PCA is a not-for-profit trade association and is recognized as the “Voice of Authority and Reason” on premium tobacco-related issues.</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>PRESS CONTACT</div> <div>Scott Pearce, PCA Executive Director</div> <div>202-849-6042</div> <div>scott@premiumcigars.org</div> </div></div> <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/PCA_logo.png" alt="PCA logo" style="float: right;" /></span></p> <div>[FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Washington, D.C., Friday, April 21, 2023] The Premium Cigar Association commends Congressman Dan Meuser (R-PA) and Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), co-chairs of the Congressional Cigar Caucus, in their letter to FDA Administrator Dr. Robert Califf and CTP Director, Dr. Brian King. The letter calls on them to account for the agency’s lack of progress in addressing the recommendations made by the 2022 NASEM Report on premium cigars. The NASEM report highlighted that premium cigars are substantially unique and that research needed to distinguish them appropriately from other tobacco products.</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>Congressman Meuser expressed concern about the FDA's lack of action on the 2022 NASEM Report on premium cigars. He stated, "The FDA has a responsibility to ensure that all regulation it promulgates is based on sound scientific evidence and meets Congress’ intent. Unfortunately, they continue to try and regulate without doing proper due diligence. These are predominantly small businesses, many of them in my district, and their supply chain deeply affect our trading partners abroad."</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>Joshua Habursky, Deputy Executive Director of the Premium Cigar Association, echoed the concerns presented in the letter, “We would like to thank Representatives Dan Meuser and Troy Carter for their leadership on this issue and pressing the Center for Tobacco Products for answers on this important research. Two years ago, I presented to the National Academies of Sciences for the report referenced, and the FDA/CTP has yet to give a status update, even while they attempt to promulgate new regulations that would apply to premium cigars.”</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>Rep. Troy Carter pointed out, “The FDA asked for NASEM to study the question of premium cigars. FDA should follow through with the recommended research that NASEM called for before attempting to enact new regulations that would affect this industry.”</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>The 2022 NASEM Report on premium cigars found limited evidence to support the FDA's claims that premium cigars harm public health. The report called for further research to better understand the patterns of use and alleged health effects of premium cigars and to develop appropriate regulations based on scientific evidence.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>Click here to view FDA cigar caucus letter:</strong></div> <div><a href="http://ipcpr.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zOTAyNzExJnA9MSZ1PTM4MDgyNTAxOCZsaT00MDUzNTMxNw/index.html">http://ipcpr.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zOTAyNzExJnA9MSZ1PTM4MDgyNTAxOCZsaT00MDUzNTMxNw/index.html</a><a href="http://ipcpr.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zOTAyNzExJnA9MSZ1PTM4MDgyNTAxOCZsaT00MDUzNTMxNw/index.html"></a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div>ABOUT PCA</div> <div>Founded in 1933, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) is the oldest, largest, and most active trade association representing and assisting retailers, manufacturers and suppliers of premium tobacco products. PCA is a not-for-profit trade association and is recognized as the “Voice of Authority and Reason” on premium tobacco-related issues.</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>PRESS CONTACT</div> <div>Scott Pearce, PCA Executive Director</div> <div>202-849-6042</div> <div>scott@premiumcigars.org</div> </div></div> PUNCH CELEBRATES THE DAD BOD 2023-04-21T21:29:45-04:00 2023-04-21T21:29:45-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/992-punch-celebrates-the-dad-bod Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Picture1.png" alt="Picture1" style="float: right;" /></p> <p><strong>Dad bod</strong> <em>noun</em> -- the physique of adult males who prefer to drink from a six pack instead of spending countless hours at the gym obsessing over their abs.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The team at Punch is declaring this the “summer of the Dad Bod” with the launch of <strong>Punch Dad Bod</strong>, a paunchy, limited-edition release that will ship to retail in a cool Father’s Day keepsake that you or your Dad will actually want to hold on to.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Punch Dad Bod comes packed in four, reusable stash cans that each contain five cigars and are complete with Boveda humidification. The keepsake cans can be used as a humidor, a portable ashtray or placed anywhere as a reminder that the Dad Bod is where it’s at.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Punch_Dad_Bod_cigar.png" alt="Punch Dad Bod cigar" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">John Hakim, brand manager for Punch said, “Father’s Day is the perfect time for us to let the world know that we salute dads, the Dad bod and the pleasure of smoking a great cigar. So we created this special expression and packed it in tins that own the soft-in-the-middle physique with pride. Dad Bod is about showing our support for the salt-of-the-earth Punch smokers who continue to make Punch their go-to brand.”</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Handcrafted at HATSA in Honduras, Punch Dad Bod is a six-country blend made with a Cameroon wrapper, a USA Connecticut broadleaf binder and a blend of filler tobaccos that includes Nicaraguan Condega, Dominican Piloto Cubano, Honduran La Entrada and Brazilian Mata Fina. The result is a smooth-smoking, medium-bodied blend that is at the same time sweet, spicy and leathery.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Punch Dad Bod cigars sport a tie-shaped band and are available in a “Champion” size that gives a nod to the reverence Punch has for Dads and Dad bods. Shipping to retailers on May 1, the set contains four metal stash cans, each holding five cigars for a total of 20 Punch Dad Bods per set.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Punch Dad Bod (4.5” x 60); SRP per cigar $6.99</strong></p> <p style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Punch_Dad_Bod_can_open.png" alt="Punch Dad Bod can open" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Picture1.png" alt="Picture1" style="float: right;" /></p> <p><strong>Dad bod</strong> <em>noun</em> -- the physique of adult males who prefer to drink from a six pack instead of spending countless hours at the gym obsessing over their abs.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The team at Punch is declaring this the “summer of the Dad Bod” with the launch of <strong>Punch Dad Bod</strong>, a paunchy, limited-edition release that will ship to retail in a cool Father’s Day keepsake that you or your Dad will actually want to hold on to.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Punch Dad Bod comes packed in four, reusable stash cans that each contain five cigars and are complete with Boveda humidification. The keepsake cans can be used as a humidor, a portable ashtray or placed anywhere as a reminder that the Dad Bod is where it’s at.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Punch_Dad_Bod_cigar.png" alt="Punch Dad Bod cigar" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">John Hakim, brand manager for Punch said, “Father’s Day is the perfect time for us to let the world know that we salute dads, the Dad bod and the pleasure of smoking a great cigar. So we created this special expression and packed it in tins that own the soft-in-the-middle physique with pride. Dad Bod is about showing our support for the salt-of-the-earth Punch smokers who continue to make Punch their go-to brand.”</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Handcrafted at HATSA in Honduras, Punch Dad Bod is a six-country blend made with a Cameroon wrapper, a USA Connecticut broadleaf binder and a blend of filler tobaccos that includes Nicaraguan Condega, Dominican Piloto Cubano, Honduran La Entrada and Brazilian Mata Fina. The result is a smooth-smoking, medium-bodied blend that is at the same time sweet, spicy and leathery.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Punch Dad Bod cigars sport a tie-shaped band and are available in a “Champion” size that gives a nod to the reverence Punch has for Dads and Dad bods. Shipping to retailers on May 1, the set contains four metal stash cans, each holding five cigars for a total of 20 Punch Dad Bods per set.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Punch Dad Bod (4.5” x 60); SRP per cigar $6.99</strong></p> <p style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Punch_Dad_Bod_can_open.png" alt="Punch Dad Bod can open" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p></div> STG Announces Marketing Team Roles for Alec Bradley Brands 2023-04-20T12:22:10-04:00 2023-04-20T12:22:10-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/991-stg-announces-marketing-team-roles-for-alec-bradley-brands Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><div>Richmond, VA (April 18, 2023) -- Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG) announces today that the company has appointed the former Alec Bradley marketing team with new positions in the STG North American Branded marketing organization.&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: right;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/991-stg-announces-marketing-team-roles-for-alec-bradley-brands">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><div>Richmond, VA (April 18, 2023) -- Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG) announces today that the company has appointed the former Alec Bradley marketing team with new positions in the STG North American Branded marketing organization.&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: right;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/991-stg-announces-marketing-team-roles-for-alec-bradley-brands">Read More...</a></p></div> Fuente Don Carlos Eye Of The Bull To Be A PCA Exclusive 2023-04-20T12:10:36-04:00 2023-04-20T12:10:36-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/990-fuente-don-carlos-eye-of-the-bull-to-be-a-pca-exclusive Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The short, fat Cameroon-wrapped cigar will only be offered to those who attend the PCA trade show<img src="images/smb/seanbauer/dc_single.jpeg" alt="dc single" style="float: right;" /></span></p> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">You’ve heard of the Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Eye of the Shark and maybe even Fuente’s OpusX Taurus the Bull, but how about the Eye of the Bull? It’s a short, fat cigar and the newest addition to Fuente’s Don Carlos line. Eye of the Bull will be on display at the upcoming PCA trade show in July and made available only to retailers who attend the convention.&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">At 3 1/2 inches long by 55 ring gauge, the stout little smoke consists of a Cameroon wrapper around Dominican tobacco. Like all cigars from the Don Carlos line, it’s made in the Dominican Republic at the Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia. factory. The cigars come in 20-count boxes finished with an attractive antiqued patina.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Scheduled to ship to retailers shortly after the trade show (though projected shipping dates can easily change), Eye of the Bull will have a suggested retail price of $12.80 per cigar. The head of each of these short robustos is topped with a round circle of dark tobacco for the bull’s eye, or eye of the bull.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/dc_box.jpeg" alt="dc box" style="float: right;" /></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Although the Eye of the Bull was shown at last year’s PCA show, it was a sneak preview for display purposes only and not available to order.</span></div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/dc_end.jpeg" alt="dc end" style="float: right;" /></div></div> <div class="feed-description"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The short, fat Cameroon-wrapped cigar will only be offered to those who attend the PCA trade show<img src="images/smb/seanbauer/dc_single.jpeg" alt="dc single" style="float: right;" /></span></p> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">You’ve heard of the Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Eye of the Shark and maybe even Fuente’s OpusX Taurus the Bull, but how about the Eye of the Bull? It’s a short, fat cigar and the newest addition to Fuente’s Don Carlos line. Eye of the Bull will be on display at the upcoming PCA trade show in July and made available only to retailers who attend the convention.&nbsp;</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">At 3 1/2 inches long by 55 ring gauge, the stout little smoke consists of a Cameroon wrapper around Dominican tobacco. Like all cigars from the Don Carlos line, it’s made in the Dominican Republic at the Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia. factory. The cigars come in 20-count boxes finished with an attractive antiqued patina.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Scheduled to ship to retailers shortly after the trade show (though projected shipping dates can easily change), Eye of the Bull will have a suggested retail price of $12.80 per cigar. The head of each of these short robustos is topped with a round circle of dark tobacco for the bull’s eye, or eye of the bull.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/dc_box.jpeg" alt="dc box" style="float: right;" /></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Although the Eye of the Bull was shown at last year’s PCA show, it was a sneak preview for display purposes only and not available to order.</span></div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/dc_end.jpeg" alt="dc end" style="float: right;" /></div></div> "THE WEST SIDE STORY” BY AMENDOLA FAMILY CIGAR CO. IS NOW SHIPPING 2023-04-14T13:09:36-04:00 2023-04-14T13:09:36-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/988-the-west-side-story-by-amendola-family-cigar-co-is-now-shipping Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><div style="text-align: left;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/rolling_logo.jpg" alt="rolling logo" style="float: right;" /></div> <div>“THE WEST SIDE STORY” BY AMENDOLA FAMILY CIGAR CO. IS NOW SHIPPING</div> <div>THE COMPANY WILL HOST FOUR KICKOFF EVENTS IN NEW YORK CITY</div> <div>.</div> <div>(Miami, Florida) April 13, 2023—Amendola Family Cigar Co.’s new release “The West Side Story” is now shipping! Owners Jefferey Amendola and Christopher Monaco to celebrate by hosting a series of events in New York City at four different tobacconist shops over the course of 3 days.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/988-the-west-side-story-by-amendola-family-cigar-co-is-now-shipping">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><div style="text-align: left;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/rolling_logo.jpg" alt="rolling logo" style="float: right;" /></div> <div>“THE WEST SIDE STORY” BY AMENDOLA FAMILY CIGAR CO. IS NOW SHIPPING</div> <div>THE COMPANY WILL HOST FOUR KICKOFF EVENTS IN NEW YORK CITY</div> <div>.</div> <div>(Miami, Florida) April 13, 2023—Amendola Family Cigar Co.’s new release “The West Side Story” is now shipping! Owners Jefferey Amendola and Christopher Monaco to celebrate by hosting a series of events in New York City at four different tobacconist shops over the course of 3 days.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/988-the-west-side-story-by-amendola-family-cigar-co-is-now-shipping">Read More...</a></p></div> COHIBA RIVIERA TO DEBUT IN MAY AS FULL TIME COLLECTION 2023-04-14T12:36:13-04:00 2023-04-14T12:36:13-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/987-cohiba-riviera-to-debut-in-may-as-full-time-collection Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p><img src="images/cohiba_header.jpg" alt="cohiba header.jpg" width="328" height="69" style="float: right;" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>COHIBA RIVIERA TO DEBUT IN MAY AS FULL TIME COLLECTION</strong></p> <p><a href="https://www.cohiba.com/age-gate/">Cohiba</a> will welcome its first full-time new collection since 2020 with <strong>Cohiba Riviera</strong>, a six-region blend that features the very best of Central American tobacco and is named after the lush San Andrés Tuxtla Valley that bore the cigar’s wrapper.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Cohiba Riviera marks the first time a Mexican San Andrés wrapper has been used in a Cohiba blend and is the first box-pressed offering from the brand.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Cohiba_Riviera_Toro_cigar.png" alt="Cohiba Riviera Toro cigar" style="float: right;" />Cohiba Brand Ambassador Sean Williams said, “Cohiba Riviera is a bold yet balanced blend of the most exceptional tobaccos from Nicaragua with exclusively-grown tobaccos from Honduras. Medium-to-full bodied and adorned with a delectable wrapper from Mexico, Riviera is an elegant selection offering notes of dark chocolate and coffee bean with a hint of leather and subtle cream on the finish.”</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The three-cigar collection is handcrafted in Nicaragua at STG Estelí. The Mexican San Andrés wrapper crowns a Honduran-grown Connecticut binder and filler tobaccos that include proprietary Honduran Jamastran and Honduran La Entrada, as well as Nicaraguan Condega and Nicaraguan Estelí.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">“The experience of Cohiba Riviera is rich and rewarding and befitting of Cohiba’s status as an ultra-premium cigar brand,” noted Williams.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Cohiba Riviera will ship to retailers in May.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Cohiba Riviera Robusto&nbsp;</strong>(5” x 52); SRP per cigar $19.99; 20 cigars per box</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Cohiba Riviera Toro</strong>&nbsp;(6.5” x 52); SRP per cigar $21.99; 20 cigars per box</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Cohiba Riviera Perfecto</strong>&nbsp;(6” x 60); SRP per cigar $23.99; 10 cigars per box&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Cohiba_Riviera_Toro_open.png" alt="Cohiba Riviera Toro open" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p><img src="images/cohiba_header.jpg" alt="cohiba header.jpg" width="328" height="69" style="float: right;" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>COHIBA RIVIERA TO DEBUT IN MAY AS FULL TIME COLLECTION</strong></p> <p><a href="https://www.cohiba.com/age-gate/">Cohiba</a> will welcome its first full-time new collection since 2020 with <strong>Cohiba Riviera</strong>, a six-region blend that features the very best of Central American tobacco and is named after the lush San Andrés Tuxtla Valley that bore the cigar’s wrapper.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Cohiba Riviera marks the first time a Mexican San Andrés wrapper has been used in a Cohiba blend and is the first box-pressed offering from the brand.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Cohiba_Riviera_Toro_cigar.png" alt="Cohiba Riviera Toro cigar" style="float: right;" />Cohiba Brand Ambassador Sean Williams said, “Cohiba Riviera is a bold yet balanced blend of the most exceptional tobaccos from Nicaragua with exclusively-grown tobaccos from Honduras. Medium-to-full bodied and adorned with a delectable wrapper from Mexico, Riviera is an elegant selection offering notes of dark chocolate and coffee bean with a hint of leather and subtle cream on the finish.”</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The three-cigar collection is handcrafted in Nicaragua at STG Estelí. The Mexican San Andrés wrapper crowns a Honduran-grown Connecticut binder and filler tobaccos that include proprietary Honduran Jamastran and Honduran La Entrada, as well as Nicaraguan Condega and Nicaraguan Estelí.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">“The experience of Cohiba Riviera is rich and rewarding and befitting of Cohiba’s status as an ultra-premium cigar brand,” noted Williams.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Cohiba Riviera will ship to retailers in May.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Cohiba Riviera Robusto&nbsp;</strong>(5” x 52); SRP per cigar $19.99; 20 cigars per box</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Cohiba Riviera Toro</strong>&nbsp;(6.5” x 52); SRP per cigar $21.99; 20 cigars per box</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Cohiba Riviera Perfecto</strong>&nbsp;(6” x 60); SRP per cigar $23.99; 10 cigars per box&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Cohiba_Riviera_Toro_open.png" alt="Cohiba Riviera Toro open" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p></div> PCA Testifies Today Before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration 2023-04-13T12:47:23-04:00 2023-04-13T12:47:23-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/985-pca-testifies-today-before-the-u-s-food-and-drug-administration Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><div style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/pca_logo.jpg" alt="pca logo" style="float: right;" /></div> <div>OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS FOR THE PREMIUM CIGAR ASSOCIATION</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>PCA Testifies Today Before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The Premium Cigar Association (PCA), represented by Deputy Executive Director/Head of Government Affairs Joshua Habursky, testified before the U.S Food and Drug Administration Center for Tobacco Products run by CTP Director Dr. Brian King. The association raised several objections against the “Requirements for Tobacco Products Manufacturing Practices .”Habursky’s full remarks are detailed below:</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/985-pca-testifies-today-before-the-u-s-food-and-drug-administration">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><div style="text-align: right;"><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/pca_logo.jpg" alt="pca logo" style="float: right;" /></div> <div>OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS FOR THE PREMIUM CIGAR ASSOCIATION</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>PCA Testifies Today Before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The Premium Cigar Association (PCA), represented by Deputy Executive Director/Head of Government Affairs Joshua Habursky, testified before the U.S Food and Drug Administration Center for Tobacco Products run by CTP Director Dr. Brian King. The association raised several objections against the “Requirements for Tobacco Products Manufacturing Practices .”Habursky’s full remarks are detailed below:</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/985-pca-testifies-today-before-the-u-s-food-and-drug-administration">Read More...</a></p></div> PUNCH TO LAUNCH NEW FULL-TIME LINE WITH GOLDEN ERA 2023-04-07T13:07:10-04:00 2023-04-07T13:07:10-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/983-punch-to-launch-new-full-time-line-with-golden-era Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="images/punch_logo.png" alt="punch logo.png" width="320" height="320" style="float: right;" />PUNCH TO LAUNCH NEW FULL-TIME LINE WITH GOLDEN ERA&nbsp;</p> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Punch invites cigar lovers to take a trip back in time with Punch Golden Era, a new, three-cigar collection that will be a full-time addition to the Punch anthology.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Punch Golden Era celebrates the beauty and versatility of the corojo tobacco that had a starring role in the “golden age” of cigars. Corojo had been used as the wrapper of choice until tobacco diseases and mold brought the tobacco to the brink of extinction.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Today, Punch is bringing Corojo tobacco back to its former glory, thanks to the famous Cuban seeds that have been cultivated on a 650-acre farm in Honduras by the Eiroa family.&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The cigar is made with Honduran-grown, Cuban seed Corojo wrapper and binder, and its filler is comprised of Honduran-grown Habano and Cuban-seed Corojo tobacco.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>John Hakim, brand manager for Punch said, “The Eiroa family has perfected Corojo tobacco and we are excited to bring it to life with Punch Golden Era. This tobacco delivers a silky, golden wrapper, a binder with ideal combustibility and a filler that produces unique spicy notes and a spectrum of nuances. We’re especially pleased to make a true Corojo experience available for cigar lover to enjoy any time the occasion calls for a rich and rewarding smoke.”</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Mellow-to-medium-bodied, Punch Golden Era is elegant and refined. The cigar balances notes of earth, cream and nuts.</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>Punch Golden Era is hand made at Fabrica de Puros Aladino SA in Honduras. The cigars will be presented in 20-count boxes and will ship to retailers on May 1. The line will launch with three sizes.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Punch_Golden_Era_single.jpg" alt="Punch Golden Era single" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Robusto (5” x 50); SRP per cigar $9.99</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Toro (6” x 52); SRP per cigar $10.49</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Churchill (7” x 48); SRP per cigar $10.99</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Punch_Golden_Era_Open.png" alt="Punch Golden Era Open" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="images/punch_logo.png" alt="punch logo.png" width="320" height="320" style="float: right;" />PUNCH TO LAUNCH NEW FULL-TIME LINE WITH GOLDEN ERA&nbsp;</p> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Punch invites cigar lovers to take a trip back in time with Punch Golden Era, a new, three-cigar collection that will be a full-time addition to the Punch anthology.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Punch Golden Era celebrates the beauty and versatility of the corojo tobacco that had a starring role in the “golden age” of cigars. Corojo had been used as the wrapper of choice until tobacco diseases and mold brought the tobacco to the brink of extinction.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Today, Punch is bringing Corojo tobacco back to its former glory, thanks to the famous Cuban seeds that have been cultivated on a 650-acre farm in Honduras by the Eiroa family.&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The cigar is made with Honduran-grown, Cuban seed Corojo wrapper and binder, and its filler is comprised of Honduran-grown Habano and Cuban-seed Corojo tobacco.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>John Hakim, brand manager for Punch said, “The Eiroa family has perfected Corojo tobacco and we are excited to bring it to life with Punch Golden Era. This tobacco delivers a silky, golden wrapper, a binder with ideal combustibility and a filler that produces unique spicy notes and a spectrum of nuances. We’re especially pleased to make a true Corojo experience available for cigar lover to enjoy any time the occasion calls for a rich and rewarding smoke.”</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Mellow-to-medium-bodied, Punch Golden Era is elegant and refined. The cigar balances notes of earth, cream and nuts.</div> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>Punch Golden Era is hand made at Fabrica de Puros Aladino SA in Honduras. The cigars will be presented in 20-count boxes and will ship to retailers on May 1. The line will launch with three sizes.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Punch_Golden_Era_single.jpg" alt="Punch Golden Era single" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Robusto (5” x 50); SRP per cigar $9.99</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Toro (6” x 52); SRP per cigar $10.49</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Churchill (7” x 48); SRP per cigar $10.99</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img src="images/smb/seanbauer/Punch_Golden_Era_Open.png" alt="Punch Golden Era Open" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company is Proud to Announce its second Pledge98 Campaign to Benefit Els for Autism Foundation 2023-04-06T19:13:47-04:00 2023-04-06T19:13:47-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/982-e-p-carrillo-cigar-company-is-proud-to-announce-its-second-pledge98-campaign-to-benefit-els-for-autism-foundation Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></p> <p><img src="images/carrillo_logo.png" alt="carrillo logo.png" width="348" height="256" /></p> <table style="width: 676px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</p> <p><strong>E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company is Proud to Announce its second Pledge98 Campaign to Benefit Els for Autism Foundation®.</strong></p> <p>Miami, FL – April 6, 2023– E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company announces The Pledge98 campaign benefitting Els for Autism. This campaign is set to raise awareness and funds for the non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of people with autism and those who care for them through lifetime services and collaborative partnerships. This is the second Pledge98 campaign this year for E.P. Carrillo, the first raising over $46,000.</p> <p>In the spirit of the Pledge Prequel earning a 98 rating when it was selected as the Cigar of the Year in 2020, E.P. Carrillo is donating $9.80 per every Pledge Prequel (5x50) box sold in April 2023 which is World Autism Month and as part of the Carrillo Cares initiative. E.P. Carrillo will also be hosting Pledge98 events throughout the country and participating in Els for Autism golf tournaments throughout the year. "Our first Pledge98 campaign with Els for Autism surpassed all of our expectations," said Lissette Perez-Carrillo, Co-Owner of E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company. "We hope our 2nd campaign will engage the retailers and consumers just as much.”</p> <p><strong>About Els for Autism:</strong></p> <p>Els for Autism Foundation®&nbsp;was established in 2009 by Liezl Els, Ernie Els, and Marvin R. Shanken. The Els' son, Ben, is impacted by autism spectrum disorder, which effects&nbsp;<strong>1 in 36</strong>&nbsp;children in the United States. The Foundation offers innovative, evidence-based programs for families and individuals across the lifespan in six focus areas: Education, Research, Global Support, Recreation Services, Adult Services and Therapy Services.&nbsp;Els for Autism Foundation serves families around the world and offers in-person programs and services at The Els Center of Excellence®&nbsp;in Jupiter, Florida.</p> <p><strong>About E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company:</strong></p> <p>E.P. Carrillo Cigars have always been about innovative and groundbreaking ideas. It is owned and operated by third and fourth generation of cigar makers, the Perez-Carrillo family.&nbsp;Today, each of the E.P. Carrillo lines have a unique and distinct set of characteristics in line with our shared vision:&nbsp;<em>The Endless Pursuit Toward Perfection</em>. The cigars themselves are each based on a greater concept which reflects an aspect of the family’s heritage in tobacco and the authentic pride with which each cigar is made.</p> <p><strong>Media Contact:</strong></p> <p>Lissette Perez-Carrillo</p> <p><a href="mailto:lpc@epccigar.com"><strong>lpc@epccigar.com</strong></a></p> <p>EPCarrillo.com</p> <p><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EZgYmKnsM79RT-Pj4z34nkkA-te-n2xQFfTtTRHTL5yZ-2N2fpk_3aqUJnwiZe9iYZAySlGQ1qtvcP0hsbEWvv17EI3P9W6kxTpiwNvz0zJkyRY2khdZFPthbxhI2xiOA1GPsFDeQPhK9N5rHhGogjJ3VWJKoo-O2MJQffWj3Js=&c=4HYflh-ehywvNsUl3d3c0v04_HunU7cO5cYuduo188gdB4Bnb-JTjw==&ch=1pPOplB6YNM7ZceOKrtFfMbg_EKsshR4UmgVRxMHvmk4RE4462K33w=="><strong>Pledge98 - EP Carrillo - Cigar Company (carrillocigars.com)</strong></a></p> <p>See more:&nbsp;<a href="http://carrillocigars.com/"><strong>carrillocigars.com</strong></a></p> <p>Instagram: @EPCarrillo_cigars</p> <p>Twitter: @EPCarrillo</p> <p>Facebook: Facebook.com/EPCarrillo</p> <p><img src="images/carrillo_check.jpg" alt="carrillo check.jpg" width="345" height="276" /></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Pictured from left to right: Skye McPhillips; Lissette Perez-Carrillo; Dr. Erin Brooker Lozott</p> <table style="width: 678px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>&nbsp;<img src="images/pledge_cigar.jpg" alt="pledge cigar.jpg" width="345" height="229" /></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>&nbsp;</td> </tr> <tr> <td> <table style="width: 686px; height: 35px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>Special Els for Autism decals on all Pledge Prequel boxes and cigars during the month of April</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table></div> <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></p> <p><img src="images/carrillo_logo.png" alt="carrillo logo.png" width="348" height="256" /></p> <table style="width: 676px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</p> <p><strong>E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company is Proud to Announce its second Pledge98 Campaign to Benefit Els for Autism Foundation®.</strong></p> <p>Miami, FL – April 6, 2023– E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company announces The Pledge98 campaign benefitting Els for Autism. This campaign is set to raise awareness and funds for the non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of people with autism and those who care for them through lifetime services and collaborative partnerships. This is the second Pledge98 campaign this year for E.P. Carrillo, the first raising over $46,000.</p> <p>In the spirit of the Pledge Prequel earning a 98 rating when it was selected as the Cigar of the Year in 2020, E.P. Carrillo is donating $9.80 per every Pledge Prequel (5x50) box sold in April 2023 which is World Autism Month and as part of the Carrillo Cares initiative. E.P. Carrillo will also be hosting Pledge98 events throughout the country and participating in Els for Autism golf tournaments throughout the year. "Our first Pledge98 campaign with Els for Autism surpassed all of our expectations," said Lissette Perez-Carrillo, Co-Owner of E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company. "We hope our 2nd campaign will engage the retailers and consumers just as much.”</p> <p><strong>About Els for Autism:</strong></p> <p>Els for Autism Foundation®&nbsp;was established in 2009 by Liezl Els, Ernie Els, and Marvin R. Shanken. The Els' son, Ben, is impacted by autism spectrum disorder, which effects&nbsp;<strong>1 in 36</strong>&nbsp;children in the United States. The Foundation offers innovative, evidence-based programs for families and individuals across the lifespan in six focus areas: Education, Research, Global Support, Recreation Services, Adult Services and Therapy Services.&nbsp;Els for Autism Foundation serves families around the world and offers in-person programs and services at The Els Center of Excellence®&nbsp;in Jupiter, Florida.</p> <p><strong>About E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company:</strong></p> <p>E.P. Carrillo Cigars have always been about innovative and groundbreaking ideas. It is owned and operated by third and fourth generation of cigar makers, the Perez-Carrillo family.&nbsp;Today, each of the E.P. Carrillo lines have a unique and distinct set of characteristics in line with our shared vision:&nbsp;<em>The Endless Pursuit Toward Perfection</em>. The cigars themselves are each based on a greater concept which reflects an aspect of the family’s heritage in tobacco and the authentic pride with which each cigar is made.</p> <p><strong>Media Contact:</strong></p> <p>Lissette Perez-Carrillo</p> <p><a href="mailto:lpc@epccigar.com"><strong>lpc@epccigar.com</strong></a></p> <p>EPCarrillo.com</p> <p><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EZgYmKnsM79RT-Pj4z34nkkA-te-n2xQFfTtTRHTL5yZ-2N2fpk_3aqUJnwiZe9iYZAySlGQ1qtvcP0hsbEWvv17EI3P9W6kxTpiwNvz0zJkyRY2khdZFPthbxhI2xiOA1GPsFDeQPhK9N5rHhGogjJ3VWJKoo-O2MJQffWj3Js=&c=4HYflh-ehywvNsUl3d3c0v04_HunU7cO5cYuduo188gdB4Bnb-JTjw==&ch=1pPOplB6YNM7ZceOKrtFfMbg_EKsshR4UmgVRxMHvmk4RE4462K33w=="><strong>Pledge98 - EP Carrillo - Cigar Company (carrillocigars.com)</strong></a></p> <p>See more:&nbsp;<a href="http://carrillocigars.com/"><strong>carrillocigars.com</strong></a></p> <p>Instagram: @EPCarrillo_cigars</p> <p>Twitter: @EPCarrillo</p> <p>Facebook: Facebook.com/EPCarrillo</p> <p><img src="images/carrillo_check.jpg" alt="carrillo check.jpg" width="345" height="276" /></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Pictured from left to right: Skye McPhillips; Lissette Perez-Carrillo; Dr. Erin Brooker Lozott</p> <table style="width: 678px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>&nbsp;<img src="images/pledge_cigar.jpg" alt="pledge cigar.jpg" width="345" height="229" /></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>&nbsp;</td> </tr> <tr> <td> <table style="width: 686px; height: 35px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>Special Els for Autism decals on all Pledge Prequel boxes and cigars during the month of April</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table></div> Idaho Retail Tobacconists and PCA Announce Passage of New Cap 2023-04-06T15:31:05-04:00 2023-04-06T15:31:05-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/980-idaho-retail-tobacconists-and-pca-announce-passage-of-new-cap Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><div><strong><span>&nbsp;</span></strong></div> <div><strong><span>&nbsp;<img src="images/pcalogo.jpg" alt="pcalogo" /></span></strong></div> <div><strong><span>&nbsp;</span></strong></div> <p><strong><span>Idaho Retail Tobacconists and PCA Announce Passage of New Tax Cap</span></strong></p> <p><span></span><strong>H.B. 330, Passes the Legislature, and is Signed by the Governor</strong></p> <p>Today, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) in partnership with its member tobacconists of Idaho, are pleased to announce that Governor Brad Little has signed legislation calling for a fifty-cent tax cap on the sale of cigars.</p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span>Over a year in the making, a coalition of locally owned small businesses organized an effort with legislative allies of their local cigar shops. After a series of strategy calls with shop owners, legislators and PCA, bills were filed this session. H.B. 330 passed the House of Representatives 61-10 and the Senate, 25-8. It was then sent to the Governor’s desk.</p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/980-idaho-retail-tobacconists-and-pca-announce-passage-of-new-cap">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><div><strong><span>&nbsp;</span></strong></div> <div><strong><span>&nbsp;<img src="images/pcalogo.jpg" alt="pcalogo" /></span></strong></div> <div><strong><span>&nbsp;</span></strong></div> <p><strong><span>Idaho Retail Tobacconists and PCA Announce Passage of New Tax Cap</span></strong></p> <p><span></span><strong>H.B. 330, Passes the Legislature, and is Signed by the Governor</strong></p> <p>Today, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) in partnership with its member tobacconists of Idaho, are pleased to announce that Governor Brad Little has signed legislation calling for a fifty-cent tax cap on the sale of cigars.</p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span>Over a year in the making, a coalition of locally owned small businesses organized an effort with legislative allies of their local cigar shops. After a series of strategy calls with shop owners, legislators and PCA, bills were filed this session. H.B. 330 passed the House of Representatives 61-10 and the Senate, 25-8. It was then sent to the Governor’s desk.</p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/980-idaho-retail-tobacconists-and-pca-announce-passage-of-new-cap">Read More...</a></p></div> DIESEL DISCIPLE ADDS NEW SIZES 2023-04-05T14:46:36-04:00 2023-04-05T14:46:36-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/979-diesel-disciple-adds-new-sizes Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/smb/diesel_logo.jpg" alt="diesel logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span><strong>DIESEL DISCIPLE ADDS NEW SIZES</strong></p> <p>Diesel Disciple will welcome two new sizes as permanent additions to the brand’s growing lineup.</p> <p>The soon-to-be-released Toro and Torpedo vitolas will mark the second and third sizes in the line and will begin shipping this week.</p> <p>Justin Andrews said, “We decided to launch two new sizes of Diesel Disciple this year because the blend has gotten such a strong endorsement from the retail community. They love the blend and the packaging and often tell us that Disciple smokes like a $20 cigar for half the price. We’re looking forward to rolling out the new formats and will continue to expand the line according to demand from retailers and cigar smokers.”</p> <p>Handcrafted at Tabacalera AJ Fernandez in Estelí, Nicaragua and developed in collaboration between AJ and STG’s Justin Andrews, Diesel Disciple is a robust and balanced cigar blended to stand out in the medium-full spectrum.</p> <p>Made with a Mexican San Andreas wrapper, an Ecuadoran Sumatra binder and a filler exclusively comprised of Nicaraguan Habano from Esteli, the cigar exemplifies blending expertise with an unexpected layer of sweetness that creates intrigue against Disciple’s bold and peppery notes.</p> <p><strong>Diesel Disciple Toro (6.25” x 52); SRP per cigar $9.99</strong></p> <p><img src="images/smb/Diesel_Disciple_toro.jpg" alt="Diesel Disciple toro" /></p> <p><strong>Diesel Disciple Torpedo (6.5” x 54); SRP per cigar $10.49</strong></p> <p><img src="images/smb/Diesel_Disciple_torpedo.jpg" alt="Diesel Disciple torpedo" /></p> <p>Both new Diesel Disciple sizes come in 10-count boxes. The line is distributed by Forged Cigar Company.</p> <p>Originally released to the top US brick and mortar retailers as a TAA exclusive in 2021, Diesel Disciple became a full-time line in 2022 when the brand’s sole frontmark a Lancero (7” x 38) became available in all channels.</p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/smb/diesel_logo.jpg" alt="diesel logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span><strong>DIESEL DISCIPLE ADDS NEW SIZES</strong></p> <p>Diesel Disciple will welcome two new sizes as permanent additions to the brand’s growing lineup.</p> <p>The soon-to-be-released Toro and Torpedo vitolas will mark the second and third sizes in the line and will begin shipping this week.</p> <p>Justin Andrews said, “We decided to launch two new sizes of Diesel Disciple this year because the blend has gotten such a strong endorsement from the retail community. They love the blend and the packaging and often tell us that Disciple smokes like a $20 cigar for half the price. We’re looking forward to rolling out the new formats and will continue to expand the line according to demand from retailers and cigar smokers.”</p> <p>Handcrafted at Tabacalera AJ Fernandez in Estelí, Nicaragua and developed in collaboration between AJ and STG’s Justin Andrews, Diesel Disciple is a robust and balanced cigar blended to stand out in the medium-full spectrum.</p> <p>Made with a Mexican San Andreas wrapper, an Ecuadoran Sumatra binder and a filler exclusively comprised of Nicaraguan Habano from Esteli, the cigar exemplifies blending expertise with an unexpected layer of sweetness that creates intrigue against Disciple’s bold and peppery notes.</p> <p><strong>Diesel Disciple Toro (6.25” x 52); SRP per cigar $9.99</strong></p> <p><img src="images/smb/Diesel_Disciple_toro.jpg" alt="Diesel Disciple toro" /></p> <p><strong>Diesel Disciple Torpedo (6.5” x 54); SRP per cigar $10.49</strong></p> <p><img src="images/smb/Diesel_Disciple_torpedo.jpg" alt="Diesel Disciple torpedo" /></p> <p>Both new Diesel Disciple sizes come in 10-count boxes. The line is distributed by Forged Cigar Company.</p> <p>Originally released to the top US brick and mortar retailers as a TAA exclusive in 2021, Diesel Disciple became a full-time line in 2022 when the brand’s sole frontmark a Lancero (7” x 38) became available in all channels.</p></div> C.L.E. CIGAR COMPANY ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF THE ASYLUM APRIL FOOLS 2023 2023-04-03T21:30:28-04:00 2023-04-03T21:30:28-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/978-c-l-e-cigar-company-announces-the-release-of-the-asylum-april-fools-2023 Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/asylum_logo.jpg" alt="asylum logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></div> <div style="font-size: 12.16px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">April 3, 2023- C.L.E. Cigar Company announces the&nbsp;release of the Asylum April Fools’ 2023. The Asylum April Fools’ 2023is the third in a series of cigars that are released yearly on April Fools’ Day April 1st, 2023). Asylum, known for its bold and edgy cigars, promises to stay true to its reputation with this latest version of the April Fool’s Day cigar blend. Updated packaging and a nod to the Chinese Zodiac separates this from the previous two versions.</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/978-c-l-e-cigar-company-announces-the-release-of-the-asylum-april-fools-2023">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div> <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/asylum_logo.jpg" alt="asylum logo" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></div> <div style="font-size: 12.16px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">April 3, 2023- C.L.E. Cigar Company announces the&nbsp;release of the Asylum April Fools’ 2023. The Asylum April Fools’ 2023is the third in a series of cigars that are released yearly on April Fools’ Day April 1st, 2023). Asylum, known for its bold and edgy cigars, promises to stay true to its reputation with this latest version of the April Fool’s Day cigar blend. Updated packaging and a nod to the Chinese Zodiac separates this from the previous two versions.</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/978-c-l-e-cigar-company-announces-the-release-of-the-asylum-april-fools-2023">Read More...</a></p></div> EL REY DEL MUNDO NATURALS FIVE PACK COMING IN APRIL 2023-03-31T22:12:01-04:00 2023-03-31T22:12:01-04:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/975-el-rey-del-mundo-naturals-five-pack-coming-in-april Sean Bauer smbauerllc@gmail.com <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><img src="images/ElReyDelMundo_5PACK.jpg" alt="ElReyDelMundo 5PACK" style="float: right;" /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">El Rey del Mundo Naturals, the Honduran-made line that launched in March 2022 will welcome a five pack featuring its fan-favorite toro.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The bold, red “Locked-In Humidity” pack includes a Boveda humidification pouch to keep the cigars fresh outside of a humidor for on-the-go smoking experiences.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Handcrafted by artisans at the HATSA factory in Danli, Honduras, El Rey Del Mundo Naturals is a mellow-to-medium-bodied smoke featuring an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Honduran binder and a Honduran and Nicaraguan filler. The cigar delivers a smoking experience that is richly layered, with a subtle note of white pepper, surrounded by deeper notes of cedar and graham cracker.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Steve Abbot, director of marketing for STG said, “El Rey del Mundo is loaded with complexity, versatile when it comes to pairing and accessibly priced. These factors have earned the brand a devoted following over the last year. With this five pack, we’re making it convenient for cigar lovers to enjoy the popular Reserva Salado frontmark anytime that calls for a great cigar.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Reserva Salado </strong>(6” x 54); $29.99 per five pack</span></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><img src="images/ElReyDelMundo_5PACK.jpg" alt="ElReyDelMundo 5PACK" style="float: right;" /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">El Rey del Mundo Naturals, the Honduran-made line that launched in March 2022 will welcome a five pack featuring its fan-favorite toro.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The bold, red “Locked-In Humidity” pack includes a Boveda humidification pouch to keep the cigars fresh outside of a humidor for on-the-go smoking experiences.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Handcrafted by artisans at the HATSA factory in Danli, Honduras, El Rey Del Mundo Naturals is a mellow-to-medium-bodied smoke featuring an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Honduran binder and a Honduran and Nicaraguan filler. The cigar delivers a smoking experience that is richly layered, with a subtle note of white pepper, surrounded by deeper notes of cedar and graham cracker.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Steve Abbot, director of marketing for STG said, “El Rey del Mundo is loaded with complexity, versatile when it comes to pairing and accessibly priced. These factors have earned the brand a devoted following over the last year. With this five pack, we’re making it convenient for cigar lovers to enjoy the popular Reserva Salado frontmark anytime that calls for a great cigar.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Reserva Salado </strong>(6” x 54); $29.99 per five pack</span></p></div> MACANUDO INSPIRADO YEAR OF THE RABBIT COMING SOON 2022-12-01T23:03:34-05:00 2022-12-01T23:03:34-05:00 https://www.cigarweekly.com/cw-news/973-macanudo-inspirado-year-of-the-rabbit-coming-soon BigO jason@Clabaugh.org <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/inspiradologo.jpg" alt="inspiradologo" style="float: right;" />Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG) will release a special blend of Macanudo Inspirado to&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">commemorate The Chinese New Year which begins on January 22, 2023. Called Macanudo&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Inspirado “Year of the Rabbit,” the limited-edition release will be sold exclusively in select</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">markets in Europe and Asia.</span></p> <p><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Mark Renard, international marketing manager for STG said, “While Lunar New Year&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">celebrations are gaining in popularity, the demand for Macanudo Inspirado continues to grow&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">globally as the blends are particularly appealing to a range of palates. With Macanudo Inspirado</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Year of the Rabbit, we are unifying the Lunar New Year celebrations with a unique blend that&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">will be enjoyed by our clients in European and Asia who have requested a cigar for this&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">important occasion. As the Year of the Rabbit embodies elegance, peace and luck, we extend</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">those wishes to our clients across the world.”</span></p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/973-macanudo-inspirado-year-of-the-rabbit-coming-soon">Read More...</a></p></div> <div class="feed-description"><p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="images/inspiradologo.jpg" alt="inspiradologo" style="float: right;" />Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG) will release a special blend of Macanudo Inspirado to&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">commemorate The Chinese New Year which begins on January 22, 2023. Called Macanudo&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Inspirado “Year of the Rabbit,” the limited-edition release will be sold exclusively in select</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">markets in Europe and Asia.</span></p> <p><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Mark Renard, international marketing manager for STG said, “While Lunar New Year&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">celebrations are gaining in popularity, the demand for Macanudo Inspirado continues to grow&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">globally as the blends are particularly appealing to a range of palates. With Macanudo Inspirado</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Year of the Rabbit, we are unifying the Lunar New Year celebrations with a unique blend that&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">will be enjoyed by our clients in European and Asia who have requested a cigar for this&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">important occasion. As the Year of the Rabbit embodies elegance, peace and luck, we extend</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">those wishes to our clients across the world.”</span></p> <p class="feed-readmore"><a target="_blank" href ="/cw-news/973-macanudo-inspirado-year-of-the-rabbit-coming-soon">Read More...</a></p></div>