Southern Draw Cigars & Famous Smoke Shop Partner for the New Cigar Release

AUSTIN, TEXAS - Two American, family-owned cigar businesses have partnered for an exciting new cigar release.

Southern Draw Cigars, a Veteran-owned premium cigar brand, proudly announces a new addition to their QuickDraw line of cigars: a Corona Gorda (5x46), now available in 25-count boxes protected by Boveda Inc.’s two-way humidification. Built on a relationship that’s as much business as it is brotherly, Famous Smoke Shop - the largest American-owned distributor of premium cigars online – “committed on the spot” for the exclusive opportunity to collaborate on the new QuickDraw, now available at famous-smoke.com.

“Famous Smoke Shop and Southern Draw Cigars are coming off a wonderful Veterans Day Appreciation event, which was highlighted by our mutual commitment to Cigars for Warriors and our active duty military personnel. This partnership has provided an ideal opportunity to join forces again to distribute the first release of this exciting new line extension of our QuickDraw blends,” said Robert Holt, Chief Evangelist of Southern Draw Cigars.

“Connoisseur-Size” Cigars.

The QuickDraw line from Southern Draw Cigars has satisfied cigar smokers since their release in 2014, with three unique blends: a mild body/medium flavor Connecticut, the medium-plus body & flavor Dark Habano and their rich, complex and medium-full body/full flavor cigar clad in a Pennsylvania Broadleaf wrapper. Hailed as “connoisseur-size” cigars, the QuickDraw trilogy was carefully blended to be enjoyed in Petit Corona (4.5x44) and Short Panatela (5.5x40) sizes, and savored over the course of 30 - 45 minutes. 

A Commitment to Fair Pricing.

Since their debut, these complex “little cigars” have remained fairly priced in spite of mounting tobacco regulations; with Famous Smoke Shop driving the launch of this new Corona Gorda option, both cigar maker and retailer are determined to keep the new QuickDraw’s cost friendly to cigar smokers: “Both Sharon and Robert, along with our team at Famous, expect the new QuickDraw Corona Gorda to deliver the strength and flavor of its smaller ring gauge counterparts. And now that we’re doing it in this classic and popular size, we want to keep it around the same price,” added Jim Charnley, Famous’ Director of Purchasing.

Expertly handcrafted in Nicaragua with only aged, premium tobaccos, “each QuickDraw blend provides for the perfect Morning (Connecticut), Noon (Dark Habano) & Night (Pennsylvania) smoking experience that fits a busy lifestyle,” suggests Southern Draw’s Sharon Holt. “Especially,” she says,“for cigar lovers who only have a shorter break that might benefit from a smaller sized cigar.”  

Act fast or please have patience.  

Because of high demand and enthusiasm for Southern Draw cigars, and the exclusivity of these proven blends in this popular, desirable size – coupled with the holiday giving season – it’s likely that the new QuickDraw Corona Gorda cigars will sell out fast. This initial release will only be available at Famous Smoke Shop, with wider availability at a later date. For best and most immediate service, visit famous-smoke.com to purchase from this limited allotment of cigar stock.

About Famous Smoke Shop

Famous Smoke Shop is the #1 American-owned discount cigar retailer, home to the lowest prices on the largest selection of premium cigars, humidors and cigar accessories in the country. With over one thousand cigar brands in stock, including Southern Draw, Acid, Davidoff, Macanudo, Romeo y Julieta, Ashton, Padron, Oliva and Perdomo cigars, cigar smokers shop at Famous Smoke Shop with confidence: every purchase is backed by the Famous Freshness Guarantee and award-winning customer service.

About Southern Draw Cigars

Southern Draw Cigars - A Veteran Owned and Operated premium cigar brand that offers only hand crafted cigars from patiently aged, naturally fermented tobaccos.  Produced in Estelí, Nicaragua and distributed from our home state of Texas.  More information may be found at www.southerndrawcigars.com or Southern Draw Cigars on Facebook, @sdcigars on Instagram and Twitter.

Nashua, NH, July 3, 2017– “What this country needs is a really good five-cent cigar.” Thomas Marshall

The days of the five-cent cigar may be long gone, but the latest announcement from United Cigar Group regarding their
famed Dos Hombre brand keeps with the spirit of that iconic quote in today’s financial environment. The company is
bringing back what they call “a great five-dollar cigar” and is helping retailers with their state’s tobacco tax burden at the
same time. 

Dos Hombre Cabinet cigars come in boxes of 20, retailing between $5.00-$5.89. United Cigar Group is offering the Dos
Hombre Cabinet Dominican and Honduran lines the 2017 IPCPR Show in Las Vegas, NV. At the show, these brands will
have a very retailer-friendly offer attached. United Cigar Group will offer each retailer bonus goods in quantities that
correspond to their state’s tobacco tax percentage, essentially “giving back” the tax to the retailer. United Cigar Group
crafted this promotion with the goal of setting a precedent by once again finding a way to support brick & mortar retail
cigar shops. 

“We cannot stand idle as multiple states are being individually taxed heavier than others.” Stated
Oliver Nivaud, Director of Sales for United Cigars. “We want to ‘level the playing field’ for retailers to
compete against other states and online tobacco giants.” 

Dos Hombre Cabinet Dominican and Honduran are available in six vitolas each and the cigars offered in compensation of the state tobacco tax will be distributed with every order of ten box increments. For example, retailers in states that
have a 60% tobacco tax will receive 120 cigars with every 10 boxes that are ordered. 

United Cigar Group works with top cigar manufacturers throughout the world in order to create unique cigars, built
exclusively for the premium cigar retailer. The brands of United Cigar Group are all Exclusive Cigar Products that were
in demand but unavailable… so they were created.

If you would like more information about United Cigar Group, please contact Oliver Nivaud at 603-404-0016 or email at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or www.UnitedCigarGroup.com

SABOR HAVANA TO HOST THE 15th ANNUAL CIGAR EVENT, “SMOKE THIS”

Pre-event Ruth Chris Steak Dinner hosted by Villiger Cigars on the eve of the big event!

(Miami, Florida) November 8, 2017— Sabor Havana Cigars is ready to host their 15th annual end of year event, which brings together cigar aficionados, industry notables, and influencers. The annual “Smoke This” event has become a Miami tradition hosted by Sabor Havana Cigars, which is known for being the premier cigar shop in Miami.  Music, premium cigars, catered food, and premium open bars await guests this Saturday, December 2rd, from 2PM to 6PM at Sabor Havana located at 2600 NW 87th Ave Suite #3 Doral, Fl. 33172.

Jorge Valdes and Aquiles Legra, owners of Sabor Havana, create the perfect setting at the event. The festivities will take place under an oversized tent, featuring cigars from the top brands in the industry, open bars and food courtesy of Sushi Saki, Divietto Italian Cusine, Christy’s Coral Gables, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse Coral Gables, Diced, Chef Paella, and dessert by Kissie’s Cakes. The event will also feature a dedicated Villiger Cigars-Rum Zafra Lounge and a Davidoff Cigars-The Macallan dedicated area for those who enjoy a perfect cigar and spirit pairing. Other spirits in attendance: Rum Abuelo, The Tank Brewery, Jack Daniels, Woodford Reserve, Highland Park, and Russian Standard.

On the eve of the “Smoke This” event, Sabor Havana, together with Villiger Cigars will host the pre event; “Cigars Under the Stars” dinner event catered by Ruth’s Chris Steak House. The event will feature Villiger’s La Flor De Ynclan Cigar which recently attained a 93 rating paired with The Macallan and a showcase of specially selected wines by Mega Wine & Spirits. This pairing will only highlight Ruth’s Chris signature steak dinner.

The Smoke this event will feature the who’s who in the industry to include, Arturo Fuente Cigars, Villiger Cigars, Padron Cigars, Davidoff, My Father Cigars, Rocky Patel Cigars, Miami Cigars & Co. , Perdomo  Cigars, Oliva Cigars, Tatuaje/L’atalier  Cigars, C.L.E. Cigars, Espinosa Cigars, Atladis, Aladino Cigars, Plasencia , Toraño Family Cigar Co., Quesada , A.J. Fernandez Cigars, Gurhka  Cigars, Ashton Cigars, Drew Estates, E.P. Carrillo, Cadwell Cigars, D’Crossier Cigars, and Xikar.

For Jorge Valdes and Aquiles Legra, cigars were once just a hobby that slowly turned into a side business. After retiring from their respective industries, Jorge and Aquiles finally decided to dive into his true passion, cigars. Open since 2002, Sabor Havana has had a distinguished existence in the city of Doral. Receiving the key to the city in 2012, Sabor Havana has played an important part in the city’s growth. 

Tickets for “Smoke This” and “Cigars Under the Stars” Dinner can be purchased at Sabor Havana Cigars located at 2600 NW 87th Ave Suite #3 Doral, Fl. 33172.

Springfield, VA (June 16, 2017) – Omar de Frias is proud to announce Fratello Navetta debut at the IPCPR 2017. Translated shuttle in Italian, Fratello Navetta is a dream project de Frias envisioned while at NASA.

“Blending Fratello Naveta was special as I wanted to translate the ultimate celebration our men and women of the space program felt after a successful mission”. “After being part of over 21 missions nothing beats the feeling of getting our astronauts home safe to their families” said de Frias.

“Colleagues of mine would get together and smoke a very special cigar to commemorate the occasion. This very special blend carries the ultimate feeling of innovation, duty, honor and success” said de Frias.

Blended with an Ecuador oscuro wrapper the blend will be featured in 4 vitolas.

• Robusto Discovery (5 x 50) 10.50

• Toro Endeavor (6 ¼ x 54) 11.25

• Gordo Enterprise (6 x 60) 12.00

• The Boxer Atlantis (6 ¼ x 52) 12.50

Fratello Navetta will be manufactured at Joya de Nicaragua and will be available for shipment in September. Omar de Frias worked at NASA for 12 years prior to leaving to focus full time on Fratello.

General Cigar recently held a private reception at the IPCPR trade show to honor cigar industry legend Benji Menendez for his many contributions to the company and to thank him for his ongoing support.

General Cigar President Régis Broersma said, “Our relationship with Benji Menendez has continued long after his retirement from the company. To this day, he is a trusted advisor, mentor and friend to all of us in the General Cigar family. It was truly an honor to have Benji and his lovely wife Margarita with us at IPCPR this year and we look forward to continuing to work with him, to soak up the wisdom he so freely shares.”

“General Cigar is my extended family and I am grateful that they have never forgotten me. I am looking forward to doing more things with the company. I hope I can help in some small way to spread the word about the fantastic cigars they make,” said Benji. 

In Spring, 2018, Benji Menendez will appear in a very special event series for Partagas. Additional details including event dates will be announced in early 2018.

Benji Menendez retired from his position as General Cigar’s vice president of premium cigars in 2014. His career spans more than 60 years in the handmade cigar business and his contributions to the category are too numerous to mention.

June 26, 2017 (Miami, FL) —Crux Cigars has announced the 2017 Limitada PB5 third release. The company will increase the production for 2017 of this highly rated cigar from 750 to 1,000 10-count boxes made available for order with the beginning of the IPCPR Show in Las Vegas, July 10-14.

Each of the first two productions of the PB5 sold out quickly while earning high praise from many, including the 2016 NUMBER 2 CIGAR OF THE YEAR honor from Halfwheel. The Limitada PB5 features a 10 year aged Nicaraguan Engañoso wrapper leaf.

Crux Cigars had secured a limited supply of the Engañoso wrapper in 2012, two years before the company debuted at the 2014 IPCPR show. The tobacco had already been aging 7 years when acquired and was available in limited supply.

“We are humbled by the response we have received for the PB5, and will continue to develop unique limited release blends as part of our overall effort of building premium cigars,” said Crux Cigars owner Jeff Haugen.

Like the previous releases, the Limitada PB5 2017 is 5.75 x 54 with a Cuban box-pressed finish. Available in 10-count boxes that will carry the retail price of $119.90.

For questions or additional details, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

TAMPA, Florida - July 23, 2017 - Galano Cigars announced today the official launch of their new cigar collection: EVO XZ. The EVO collection represents the evolution of the Galano Group’s brands into a new market.

“Some say that manufacturing in the United States is dead.” said Joshua Candamo, President of Galano Group LLC.

Sadly, in a large number of industries, manufacturing in the US has significantly declined during the last 50 years. This fact is evident for those who grew up in a country where about 1 in 4 jobs were manufacturing jobs.

Today, fewer than 1 in 10 jobs are manufacturing jobs.

“At Galano Cigars, we are not about producing more, but producing the best, and we believe the United States is the country to do that. As our brand’s awareness has increased, we are now in a great position to enter a new market.”

However, producing almost anything locally comes with a challenge. Labor and raw materials are simply just more expensive in the US compared to other countries. No wonder why a lot of cigar manufacturers have moved their operations or production to other countries like Nicaragua and Dominican Republic to reduce costs.

EVO XZ is the first Galano Cigar sold under US$10. “With a $6.85 price tag, we invite all cigar aficionados to try a great American product. We still use the best tobacco from around the world, but everything else you see in EVO was made with excellence in the US. Our cigars are 100% hand rolled in Ybor City by Cuban artisans. The label, the beautiful Spanish Cedar box, the packaging accessories, everything is done here at home.”

The first cigar under the EVO XZ lineup is a Toro Rosado, standing at 6 inches tall and 54 ring gauge. This beauty will deliver a medium-to-full, rich smoking experience that will delight cigar aficionados all over the world.

Galano Cigars invites you to be a part of the evolution, and order EVO XZ singles or a 20-count box directly from their online store. Use the code OVER100 at checkout to get free shipping anywhere in the US for orders over US$100.

ABOUT GALANO CIGARS

Galano Cigars is a brand of cigars owned by Galano Group LLC, a privately held company based out of Tampa, Florida. Galano Cigars offer a variety of premium cigars hand rolled in Ybor City and shipped worldwide.

Island Lifestyle Importers is proud to premier the new Tommy Bahama® “Regatta Collection” of accessories at the 2017 International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR) Convention in Las Vegas. 

The “Regatta Collection” is the newest theme of cigar accessories from Tommy Bahama®.  Drawing inspiration from the classic nautical colors of the sailing world, these accessories possess a sense of ageless style and design.  They are the perfect complement to a Tommy Bahama® lifestyle filled with adventure, accomplishment and fun.

The “Regatta Collection” consists of a tabletop quad-torch cigar lighter ($99.95), pocket dual-torch cigar lighter ($85.00), cigar cutter ($75.00) and leather cigar carry case ($68.00) in four colors - nautical blue, red, orange, and yellow.  The bodies of the lighters and cutters feature the exclusive Accu-Body-Cast-Design and are made to showcase the bright colors of the nautical racing world.  These colorful bodies feature Tommy Bahama® racing stripes along with an embossing that mimics the sailcloth material used in sails.

Completing the Collection is the two-tone telescopic leather case with contrast stitching and the Tommy Bahama® Marlin & Signature prominently stamped into the leather.  Perfect for the cigar enthusiast who loves adventure and travel as it will safely and easily accommodate two 60+ ring gauge cigars.  It is colorful, relaxed and always appropriate.

Island Lifestyle Importers is the exclusive designer and manufacturers of Tommy Bahama Luxury Cigar Accessories & Island Lifestyle Cigars.  They were the recipient the 2016 IPCPR “Best in Show – New Exhibitor” award at last year’s convention.  They can be visited at Booth 531 at this year’s IPCPR. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ryan Frailing or Rick Louis at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (941) 378-3200.

Drew Estate announced today that the company will begin shipping Florida Sun Grown “FSG” Cigars nationally to DDRP accounts.  This brand features tobacco grown in Clermont, Florida, by Jeff Borysiewicz, owner of Corona Cigar Company and the Florida Sun Grown Farm. The brand will be displayed in Drew Estate’s booth (Booth #2608) at the IPCPR Convention and Tradeshow, which will be held July 10 – 14, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The “FSG” by Drew Estate project began in 2011 and debuted in 2016 at the Florida Barn Smoker. The core FSG blend features Florida Sun Grown filler as an accent tobacco to select Nicaraguan fillers which adds an authentic Florida agricultural nuance to this unique and captivating blend. The binder is a Habano seed tobacco from Honduras and the cigar is finished off with a lush Brazilian Mata Fina wrapper.

In addition to four core sizes, Drew Estate is releasing a Limited Edition Trunk-Pressed Toro. This prized cigar features its own unique blend which utilizes a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, Mexican binder, and Florida Sun Grown filler tobacco, along with fillers from Nicaragua and Honduras.

The Florida Sun Grown “FSG” by Drew Estate is available for purchase in the following vitolas from Drew Diplomat Retailers:

• Robusto (5 x 54), MSRP $230.00/20 CT Box
• Toro (6 x 52), MSRP $260.00/20 CT Box
• Belicoso (6 ½ x 54), MSRP $280.00/20 CT Box
• Sixty (6 x 60), MSRP $300.00/20 CT Box
• Limited Edition Box-Press Toro (6 x 54), MSRP $150.00/10 CT Box

From the Florida Sun Grown Farm in Clermont, Florida Jeff Borysiewicz said, “Drew Estate’s commitment to the American tobacco movement is unmatched. From the Connecticut River Valley, to barns in Kentucky, and to my farm in Clermont, Florida, nobody supports American leaf farmers like Drew Estate. Since 2010 I’ve pioneered the resurgence of Florida tobacco believing that consumers in the United States would be excited to bring American tobacco agriculture back to the forefront. When I purchased the land for our farm, I spent countless hours analyzing the temperature, sun-light, wind, humidity, and altitude that would bring my farm as close to the conditions of Pinar del Rio, Cuba as possible. These are very exciting times for this farm and for American tobacco.”

From his Wynwood Safehouse, President and Founder of Drew Estate, Jonathan Drew said, “My friendship with Jeff spans almost 20 years. When Jeff first approached me about his idea to bring Florida tobacco back to the premium cigar industry I promised him that Drew Estate would stand by his side, just as we have done with the farmers in Connecticut and Kentucky. Pioneering anything is never easy, but what Jeff and his entire company have done is a truly breakthrough innovation. Drew Estate is genuinely committed to American tobacco.”

The Florida Sun Grown line will begin shipping to Drew Diplomat Retailers at the end of July.

Fans of Florida Sun Grown by Drew Estate are encouraged to download Drew Diplomat the official mobile application of Drew Estate – The Rebirth of Cigars which is now available in the App Store for iPhone®, and iPod Touch® and on Google Play™ for Android™. For more information head to http://drewdiplomat.com
 
Florida Sun Grown Farm
Founded in 2012, Florida Sun Grown is the first farm in Florida to grow long filler cigar tobacco in many years; a tradition that ended in 1977 as many tobacco farms closed shop and relocated  to other regions.  Located in beautiful Clermont Florida, Florida Sun Grown is the latest enterprise of president and founder of Corona Cigar Company, Jeff Borysiewicz.  The farm is dedicated to growing premium tobacco that will be utilized in the production of fine cigars worldwide.  The first test crop was planted in March 2013 and yielded roughly 800 pounds of Criollo and Corojo tobacco.  FSG has since increased production and is well on its way to reestablishing a culture of premium tobacco farming in Florida.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Pappy Van Winkle (being my favorite bourbon and rye whiskies) has an extremely limited distribution--mostly within a small radius from the distillery in Kentucky--has a tremendous following, made moreso by it's repeated appearance in the FX Network's hit series Justified. In most other places, the waiting list for a bottle is five to ten years deep and costs in the hundreds (sometimes thousands) of dollars. That makes this desirable cigar from Drew Estates even more desirable, and from the look of it, available in very limited quantities.

Drew Estate announces the formal release of Pappy Van Winkle “TRADITION”. This extremely limited supply brand will be displayed in Drew Estate’s booth (Booth #2608) at the IPCPR Convention and Tradeshow, held July 10-14, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Pappy Van Winkle Tradition will be exclusively available for sale through Drew Diplomat Retailers.

From Kentucky, Julian Van Winkle President of Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, “I was invited to Cigar Aficionado’s A Night to Remember by Jonathan Drew in 2016 and was presented with a non-banded, wooden box of cigars with white bands on it that just read “Exclusively for my Friend Julian by Willy Herrera Sincerely Jonathan Drew”.  I loved this blend because of its balance, shortly thereafter, my family and I visited La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate in Nicaragua and I smoked the same blend most of the trip. By the end, I knew this would be the Pappy Van Winkle Tradition.”

Drew Estate is honored to represent the Van Winkle Family with an ultra-premium cigar that reinforces the legacy for one of America’s true living icons, Julian Van Winkle. The Pappy Van Winkle Tradition features an Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro wrapper, Indonesian Binder and aged fillers from Nicaragua and Dominican Republic. From his Wynwood Safehouse, Jonathan Drew President and Founder of Drew Estate notes, “The Pappy Van Winkle Tradition features an ultra-complex combination of extensively aged fillers from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic that are blanketed with a flawless Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro wrapper. Availability is limited. I am humbled to extend the Drew and Van Winkle friendship, time tested honor, and craftsmanship to Drew Diplomat Humidors across the United States.”

The Pappy Van Winkle Tradition features the following expressions:

• Coronita (4 x 46) MSRP $146.00/10ct Box
• Robusto Grande (5.5 x 54) MSRP $216.00/10ct Box
• Toro (6 x 50) MSRP $236.00/10ct Box
• Belicoso Fino (5 x 50) MSRP $246.00/10ct Box
• Churchill (7 x 48) MSRP $236.00 / 10ct Box Exclusively available at Drew Diplomat Spirits Retailers
• Lonsdale (6.5 x 44) (Not for Sale) / 10ct Box Exclusively at Drew Diplomat Rewards Events in October, November and December 2017
• Corona (5.5 x 44) MSRP (Not for Sale) / 10ct Box  Exclusively available from Jonathan Drew and Julian Van Winkle

The creation of the Pappy Van Winkle Tradition has a special significance to the Drew Estate Family, as the blend has a story behind it that reads like craft folklore, taking cigar aficionados back to the days before Willy Herrera became the Master Blender of Drew Estate. From Little Havana, Willy Herrera notes “I remember it like yesterday. In 2010 when JD and I talked about me joining Drew Estate, we flew down to La Gran Fabrica to test my blending style in two days of non-stop creating. I ultimately produced 3 blends, one of which eventually became the Herrera Estelí. When I heard the news that Julian Van Winkle had selected one of my three original blends from my first trip to Nicaragua, I was humbled to say the least.”

The Pappy Van Winkle Tradition will begin shipping in October in coordination with when Old Rip Van Winkle releases their annual batch of the highly sought after Bourbon and Rye.

About Van Winkle Bourbon: The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery has a four generation history. The Van Winkle family’s involvement in the bourbon industry began in the late 1800s with Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle, Sr. He was a traveling salesman for the W.L. Weller and Sons wholesale house in Louisville. Pappy and a friend, Alex Farnsley, eventually bought the wholesale house and also partnered with Mr. A. Ph. Stitzel on the purchase of Mr. Sitzel’s distillery. The three of them merged the two companies and became the Stitzel-Weller Distillery. 

In May of 1935 at the age of 61, Pappy opened the newly completed Stitzel-Weller Distillery in South Louisville. Its prominent brands were W.L. Weller, Old Fitzgerald, Rebel Yell, and Cabin Still. Pappy had a heavy influence on the operations there until his death at the age of 91. His son, Julian, Jr. took over operations until he was forced by stockholders to sell the distillery in 1972. The rights to all of their brands were sold to Norton Simon, Inc. Later, United Distillers, who eventually ended up with the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, sold off all of the original labels around 1999. 

After selling the distillery, Julian Jr. resurrected a pre-Prohibition label, the only one to which the Van Winkles kept the rights, called Old Rip Van Winkle. He used whiskey stocks from the old distillery to supply his brand. Julian Jr.’s son, Julian, III took over in 1981 when Julian, Jr. passed away. Julian III has continued with the Van Winkle tradition of producing high-quality wheated bourbon. His son, Preston, joined the company in 2001 and the Van Winkles look to continue that tradition for generations to come. 

In 2002 the Van Winkles entered into a joint venture with Buffalo Trace Distillery in Franklin County, Frankfort, Ky. All of the Van Winkle’s whiskey production now takes place at Buffalo Trace Distillery under the same strict guidelines the family has always followed. For more information on the Van Winkle family of bourbon please visit www.oldripvanwinkle.com.

Dunbarton, NH – Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust^® will be showcasing its newest Todos Las Dias^® brand and blend of fine handmade cigars at this year’s 85^th Annual Convention of the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association in Las Vegas, Nevada, July 10^th through July 14^th, 2017.

“Todos Las Dias is my personal Spanglish translation meaning “All the Days.” The workers at Joya de Nicaraguan often cringe at my casual butchering of their mother tongue, but in my opinion cigars are far more than a grammar lesson to abide, they are the physical manifestation of a feeling and of an experience. TLD embodies the classic bold flavors that represent the heart of their soil’s peppery tobaccos and the labor of their always working hands. For me, this spicy Nicaraguan puro reflects no pretentious airs or any of that “notes of pencil lead with a hint of fennel” nonsense. It is an honest, hardworking cigar intended to be smoked by men who know what it means to be a cigar smoker and never give a damn about what others think,” states the creator, Steve Saka.

He continues to add, “It is a supple, sungrown Cuban Seed capa which encapsulates its intricate tripa recipe of rich Jalapa and Esteliano tobaccos. From the first puff, there is no doubt of the origin of this cigar or that it is intended solely for the seasoned cigar smoker. What I love about this liga is that it builds; so many stronger blends start off super peppery and robust only to mellow out as you smoke them. Whereas the Todos Las Dias does just the opposite; it begins smooth and then escalates in strength and body, it almost lulls you into false sense of security. It is a much heavier liga than you will have realized until you go to stand up afterwards.”

Todos Las Dias will be offered to Select Purveyors and like all DTT’s cigars, it will be limited in its production. Initially it will be available in four formats: Half Churchill – 4.75 x 48, Robusto – 5.00 x 52, Toro – 6.00 x 52 and the Double Wide Belicoso – 4.75 x 60. Packed in 10 count boxes, the MSRP ranges from $10.45 to $12.45 per cigar.

The anticipated ship date to those Select Purveyors who order at this year’s tradeshow is August 2017.

About Steve Saka

Regarded as a cigar expert throughout the industry, he is credited as being an experienced cigar blender and maker, a prolific author regarding cigars and black tobaccos, a forefather within the online media segment and a dynamic tobacco industry executive. In 2000, he worked directly for Lew Rothman, the former owner of JR Cigar, as an executive consultant for four years and he subsequently served as the President, then CEO of Drew Estate from 2005 through 2013. In 2015, he established the family held Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust to craft and distribute traditional handmade puros. For more information, please visit: www.dunbartoncigars.com.

Drew Estate debuts new initiative to its complete brand portfolio with a series of 4x32 products in 10-count tins to be displayed in Drew Estate’s booth (Booth #2608) at the IPCPR Convention and Tradeshow, held July 10 – 14, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The 4x32 initiative debuts for the following brands:

• ACID Krush Blue Connecticut (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• ACID Krush Red Cameroon (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• ACID Krush Gold Sumatra (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• ACID Krush Morado Maduro (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• ACID Krush Candela (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• Liga Privada No. 9 "Coronet" (4x32) MSRP $125.00/50ct Sleeve (DDRP Exclusive)
• Liga Privada T52 "Coronet" (4x32) MSRP $125.00/50ct Sleeve (DDRP Exclusive)
• Tabak Especial "Cafecita Dulce" (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• Tabak Especial "Cafecita Negra" (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• Undercrown Maduro "Coronet" (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• Undercrown Shade "Coronet" (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• Herrera Estelí "Club" (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• Herrera Estelí Norteño "Club" (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• Kentucky Fire Cured "Ponies" (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve
• Larutan "Dirties" (4x32) MSRP $110.00/50ct Sleeve

If you’ve lived in  New York City than you are familiar with the Water Towers gracing the top of nearly every building. They are a fixture to the skyline, but often overlooked by visitors but are an optical canvas for many urban artists making their mark on the world. Escaping to the rooftops for a quick smoke under a water tower is in our DNA, away from prying eyes and with a view that is worth a trillion bucks.

Drew Estate created a 6-foot tall Water Tower retail merchandising display with a limited initial production run of 250 units. The custom display has configurable wire racks designed to hold 27 sleeves of 4x32 tins. The Drew Estate Water Tower is modular and allows retailers flexibility in displaying options and placement. It also features storage underneath for additional inventory. In addition, Drew Estate created two options of custom countertop display, which holds nine sleeves of 4x32 tins.

From his Wynwood Safehouse, Jonathan Drew Founder and President of Drew Estate, “I remember looking out at the skyline of New York when we were based in DUMBO Brooklyn and seeing the Water Towers, something so constant in my daily life, yet so overlooked. I presented to the Drew Estate Marketing Team the concept of creating today's modern day wooden indian to disrupt the typical tin racks behind the counter and provide the brick & mortar retailer an additional point of visibility for a high velocity product.”

In addition to these merchandising solutions, Drew Estate is unveiling the Drew Estate 4x32 Rebate Program to Retailers across the United States. Qualifying retailers have the opportunity to receive an annual incentive rebate on all 4x32 direct purchases provided they meet facing and volume requirements. This rebate is in addition to the annual rebate that Drew Diplomat Retailers receive on 4 x 32 products.

Dunbarton, NH – Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust is currently taking pre-orders for the second liga in their very Limited Production Muestra de Saka series of cigars. The deadline for pre-orders is July 14^th, 2017.

“Muestra is the humble, common word for “sample” in Spanish, however it takes on much more important, sometimes reverential, meaning when used in a handmade cigar factory. A muestra is the vision of the ligador and torcedor realized, it is the promise of a new experience and possibly the key to financial success for the fabrica. Muestras are hoarded and coveted by not only their makers, but by the cigar smokers who seek to catch a glimpse into the cigarmaker’s soul within their smoke” states Founder and Master Ligador, Steve Saka

To which he adds, “Muestra de Saka is just that. A line of unique blends and vitolas made in extremely limited quantities that reflect the blending machinations of myself. To smoke a Muestra de Saka is to embark upon a journey with me in which I greatly welcome your companionship.”

He continues to share, “The Nacatamale is the second frontmark in the line. What made this cigar a unique blending challenge was I went "viejo granja" style with it. For over a century most cigars’ entire filler recipes were comprised of just one farm's tobacco and any complexity was introduced by extremely careful leaf processing, selection and positioning within the bunch. Whereas these days as we have hundreds of ingredients to work and blend with to create interesting and satisfying ligas. So, the challenge was to see if I could make an “old farm" style liga that could hold its own with the modern blends created today. This cigar is considerably more robust than the Exclusivo and since this puro's tripa are all from just one small, independent farm in Jalapa, Nicaragua, I will not be disclosing the name of the vega. However, I will say it is simply sublime.”

All Muestra de Saka are packed in individual cedar coffins in a 7-ct box and will be $111.65 per box.

Muestra De Saka Nacatamale
6 x 48 Parejo
MSRP: $15.95 p/coffin
Capa: Ecuador Habano
Capote & Tripa: Nicaraguan Jalapa Valley - all the same farm
Limited Production: 2,250 boxes in 2017

The anticipated ship date to those Select Purveyors who pre-order is late October 2017.

About Steve Saka

Regarded as a cigar expert throughout the industry, he is credited as being an experienced cigar blender and maker, a prolific author regarding cigars and black tobaccos, a forefather within the online media segment and a dynamic tobacco industry executive. In 2000, he worked directly for Lew Rothman, the former owner of JR Cigar, as an executive consultant for four years and he subsequently served as the President, then CEO of Drew Estate from 2005 through 2013. In 2015, he established the family held Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust to craft and distribute traditional handmade puros. For more information, please visit: www.dunbartoncigars.com.

July 7, 2017, Richmond, VA -- General Cigar is pleased to announce that José de Castro will join the company as vice president of marketing, assuming his new role on August 1, 2017.

A marketing veteran with nearly 20 years of experience, José will play an integral role in strategic planning, business development and brand building. As such, he will oversee General Cigar’s consumer and trade marketing, social media, innovation and event platforms including the brand ambassador team. 

“José has proven leadership abilities and an enviable record of success in implementing consumer and trade marketing programs and business development initiatives. His experience and vision will help further define our brands, deepen engagement and maximize the talent of our marketing team. We look forward to the contributions he will make toward meeting the evolving demands of the premium cigar category,” said Régis Broersma, president of General Cigar.

“This is an exciting time in General Cigar’s history and a critical juncture for the handmade cigar industry,” said José. “I am excited for the opportunity to work with such passionate people in such a dynamic category, and look forward to increasing demand, delivering boldface innovation and driving significant growth for the company.”

José joins General Cigar from Bertoni Gelato Holdings in Miami, where he held the position of managing director. Bertoni Gelato is a manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer of premium gelato. During his tenure at Bertoni, José dramatically increased the company’s revenue and expanded distribution.   

Prior to Bertoni, José held brand and marketing positions at Altria Group in Richmond, culminating in his role as head of sales, marketing and business development for the company’s non-cigarette portfolio. Earlier in his career, José held leadership positions with companies including Procter & Gamble and American Cyanamid in both the U.S. and South America.

As Vice President of Marketing, José joins the company’s management team and will report directly to President Régis Broersma. José and his family will relocate to Richmond, VA.

José holds an MBA from the University of Texas. In addition, he received a Master’s degree from Rutgers University and a Bachelor’s degree from Brown University.

Island Lifestyle Importers is proud to premier the new Tommy Bahama® “Back Nine Golf Series” of accessories at the 2017 International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR) Convention in Las Vegas.  The “Back Nine Golf Series” is the newest theme of cigar accessories from Tommy Bahama®.  Inspired by the great golf crests from around the world, this Tommy Bahama Golf Crest celebrates the passion, fun and frivolity around the game of golf.  These accessories are perfect for on the course and gathering afterward at the “19^th Hole” for story-telling. 

The “Back Nine Golf Series” consists of a tabletop quad-torch cigar lighter ($99.95), pocket dual-torch cigar lighter ($85.00), cigar cutter ($75.00) and 610 All-Purpose Cigar Carry Case ($39.98).  The bodies of the lighters and cutters feature the exclusive Accu-Body-Cast-Design and are designed to highlight the fine artistic details of the Tommy Bahama Back Nine Golf Crest.  As an added feature, the background embossing mimics the dimples of a golf ball!

Completing the “Back Nine Golf Series” is the 610 All-Purpose Cigar Carry Case.  Perfect for the golf enthusiast who loves to enjoy his favorite cigars throughout the round.  It will safely and easily accommodate six 7x54 Churchills front to back or ten 5x50 Robustos side-to-side.  It is built for the challenges of a round of golf - crush proof, air/water-tight and floats!  The exterior of the case is rubberized for additional durability.  A handy lanyard is included for security.  The case includes a removable humidifier just in case you forget and leave it in your golf bag!

Island Lifestyle Importers is the exclusive designer and manufacturers of Tommy Bahama Luxury Cigar Accessories & Island Lifestyle Cigars.  They were the recipient the 2016 IPCPR “Best in Show – New Exhibitor” award at last year’s convention.  They can be visited at Booth 531 at this year’s IPCPR.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ryan Frailing or Rick Louis at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.   

(941) 378-3200.

Drew Estate announces today the newest extension to the prized Undercrown Brand, the Undercrown Sun Grown. The new Sun Grown is the third Undercrown expression, complimenting Undercrown Maduro and Undercrown Shade. The Undercrown Sun Grown will be displayed in Drew Estate’s booth (Booth #2608) at the IPCPR Convention and Tradeshow, held July 10 – 14, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The new Sun Grown features an Ecuadorian Sumatra seed, Sun Grown wrapper. The binder is a Connecticut River Valley Stalk Cut/Cured Sun Grown Habano, complimenting a powerhouse blend of Nicaraguan premium fillers. One leaf of extensively aged Ligero from the Nueva Segovia region along the border of Honduras has been selected to enhance the strength of the blend.

The Undercrown Sun Grown will be available in the following Vitolas:

Corona (5 5/8 x 46) MSRP $205.00/25ct Box
Robusto (5 x 54) MSRP $212.00/25ct Box
Gran Toro (6 x 52) MSRP $225.50/25ct Box
Belicoso (6 x 52) MSRP $246.00/ 25ct Box
Gordito (6 x 60) MSRP $280.00/25ct Box
Corona Doble (7 x 54) MSRP $259.50/ 25ct Box
Flying Pig (3 15/16 x 60) MSRP $152.64/12ct Box
From his Wynwood Safehouse, Jonathan Drew President and Founder of Drew Estate, “Returning to Drew Estate as the Fourth President is immensely inspiring and satisfying. The collaborative consortium of creative talent at every level is our core competency. Challenging Willy Herrera and the Undercrown Blending Team to create the new expression after finally securing Sun Grown Tobacco is extremely exciting, as we have tried to secure this Sumatra Ecuador tobacco for over 15 years. The new Sun Grown continues the legacy of “Blended on the Factory Floor.”

From Little Havana, Willy Herrera Master Blender of Drew Estate, “The people of Estelí, Nicaragua opened their hearts to me and my family ever since I joined Drew Estate. Creating cigars from the ground up with the Undercrown Blending Team challenges my comfort zone and pushes the company to more impactful blends.”

Released at the 2011 IPCPR Tradeshow, the Undercrown Maduro is a blend developed on the factory floor utilizing primings not used in the Liga Privada blends by the rollers of Liga Privada for their own smoking pleasure. Featuring a Mexican San Andres Negro Wrapper, a Connecticut River Valley Stalk Cut & Cured Sun Grown Binder, as well as Brazilian Mata Fina and Nicaraguan Fillers.

Released at the 2015 IPCPR Tradeshow, the Undercrown Shade is a collaboration between Willy Herrera and the Undercrown Maduro Factory blending team to develop a Connecticut Shade blend to the standards of the team palate. The Undercrown Shade features an Ecuadorian Connecticut Wrapper, a Sumatran Binder, as well as Dominican Criollo 98, Nicaraguan Criollo, and Corojo Fillers.

Fans of Undercrown Cigars are encouraged to download Drew Diplomat the official mobile application of Drew Estate – The Rebirth of Cigars which is now available in the App Store for iPhone®, and iPod Touch® and on Google Play™ for Android™. For more information head to http://drewdiplomat.com

CRUX CIGARS EPICURE IS CELEBRATED WITH THE RELEASE OF AN ADDITIONAL SIZE AT IPCPR 2017.

June 30, 2017 (Miami, FL) — While it’s release has admittedly been a long time coming, the much anticipated Crux Epicure is ready for launch – and with an additional size, a 5.375 x 46 Corona Gorda.

Originally announced at the 2016 IPCPR Show, few have had an opportunity to sample the Crux Epicure. It’s promise of a sophisticated creamy experience with notes of crème brulee has been tempting premium cigars smokers for the past year. So where have they been?

“We have always promised ourselves not to cut corners or compromise in our efforts to blend the best quality and consistent premium cigars,” said Crux Cigars VP Casey Haugen, “we understand people are anxious to smoke the Epicure, but there have been circumstances that have held up the release. However, we are happy to announce the Epicure is ready to launch and will include an additional size.”

Crux Cigars Retail Partners who have already ordered the Crux Epicure will get the first opportunity to purchase the new Corona Gorda that will debut at the IPCPR Show July 10-14.

The Crux Epicure is available in 10-count boxes in the following sizes and SRP:

5.375 x 46 Corona Gorda   $92.50

5 x 50 Robusto $100.00

6.25 x 52 Toro $107.50

5.75 x 54 Robusto Extra $115.00

For questions or additional details, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.