Justin is joined by Sean and Doug to talk about some of the crap surrounding cigar smoking.

This episode we talk about moving ratings, the CRA, the Big Smoke, the Oliva vs Sam Leccia lawsuit and much more.

Warning this does contain ample uses of the “f” word.

By:  Doug Wilgar

For CAO International, makers of cigars such as the Brazilia, the Italia, the La Traviata and the famous Sopranos line, the last 12 months have been quite a ride.  They dropped Carlos Torano from their brand and were themselves taken over by General Cigars.  This connection could be as magical and enduring as Disney/Pixar or as destructive as Enron.  The first release from this new collaboration was unveiled at this year’s IPCPR convention: The CAO OSA Sol.  OSA is an acronym for the Olancho and San Agustin Valley in Honduras, where the tobacco blends for this cigar were grown.  The blend is an OSA wrapper, Connecticut broadleaf binder and a blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos for the filler.  This cigar blend is considered to be medium to full-bodied.  There are three sizes in the initial offer of this cigar, which will be available in retail shops in September: The Lot 50 (5 x 50), the Lot 54 (6 x 54) and the Lot 58 (6 1/2 x 58).  For this review, I smoked the Lot 50.

The Look and Light:

The cigar’s appearance is very appealing, despite the lime-green cigar ring.  The cigar had a nice dark and oily appearance and felt well rolled.  With a standard straight cut, I lit the cigar and found the foot to be very earthy and woody.  I also found the draw to be very tight, which I hoped would loosen as the cigar burned.  The aromas from the smoke were very nice, and there was a decent amount of smoke coming off of the stick.  Throughout the first third of the cigar, I experienced the same earthy, wood flavor that never seemed to develop any complexity.  The burn was very even and smooth.

The Middle:

The cigar did begin to develop some nicer coffee flavors, but did maintain the earthiness on the back of the palate.  The burn continued to be even, however the draw is the true concern.  It could be due to the fact that this is the first batch of the cigar and perhaps there was a push to get the cigars ready for the show so not as much care was taken in the rolling process as would normally be given.  Whatever the reason, the draw of this cigar started tight and seemed to only degrade from there.  Despite the draw issue, the cigar itself had a much fuller, bolder flavor than what CAO generally (pardon the pun) puts out. 

The Finish:

The last third of this cigar became peppery, but continued the earthiness throughout.  The draw did finally loosen a bit, but never developed into any consistency or ease.  The cigar maintained a very even burn and remained so even at the end of the smoke.  I am always impressed with the burn consistency of CAO cigars, and it is good to see that tradition continue after the General Cigar takeover.  Even if this was a cigar that I wanted to nub, however, I wouldn’t have been able to due to the extreme heat coming from the interior of the cigar even at the point where the band was located.  The second picture shown below was taken just before putting it down for fear of setting fire to my fingers.  Commonly, if a cigar has a hard draw, the cigar will tend to burn much hotter due to the amount of force used to draw.  This is most likely the reason for the heat and possibly the lack of true flavor development of this cigar.

Final Thoughts:

The CAO OSA Sol is an interesting cigar that I would like to try again once it is released to the public to see if some of the draw issues are improved.  If it does not improve, I would not recommend this cigar.  The work it takes to maintain the smoke is not worth it when there are many other fine cigars out there to enjoy.  If the draw issues are just an anomaly, this cigar could be quite nice with a little time in the humidor.  If this is an indication of the types of cigars that General will be releasing under the CAO banner, this could be a disastrous marriage, likened to taking vows with Snookie. 

This years show was great. I was able to get quite a few cigars to review, many that I have never had or seen in Vegas. I let them sit in the humidor for about a week now and it will be time to light them up and see how they are.

I have at least 20 news cigars to check out and I am looking forward to trying them and getting some reviews/videos up again.

Sean and I are attending IPCPR this week. Today is day 2 and the first day the exhibitor floor is open. It looks to be a great show. Will update more later.

Make sure to sign HR 1639 to keep the FDA away from cigars. Visit IPCPR.org

By: Doug Wilgar

In the world of premium cigars, very few things “surprise” me anymore. There are many new blends and blenders, but generally they are shaped in the traditional methods. Robustos, Torpedos, Belecosos, etc. are generally the norm, and all that truly distinguishes a cigar is by the blend and the flavors. Enter the Berger & Argenti Entubar line. This cigar’s shape is very unique, and quite surprising. You will immediately notice the “nipple” on the foot of the cigar, which at first glance is very catching. The reason for this shape is the style in which this cigar line is rolled. The name “Entubar” is derived from the rolling style, which is an old-world method in which the filler leaf is actually rolled into itself, and then the Nicaraguan Ligero filler is bunched independently and then re-bunched directly in the middle of the other entubar filler blend. This creates a spear of ligero that runs all the way through the cigar and comes out the top, creating what I term as the “nipple”.

The cigar line is blended with Nicaraguan Ligero filler and binder, and an Ecuadorian Desflorado Connecticut sun-grown wrapper. The line sizes consist of a Corona Macho (4 5/8 x 48), Robusto (5 3/8 x 54), Double Corona (7 5/8 x 54), Torpedo (6 7/8 x 56) and Gran Toro (6 5/8 x 64). As you can see, these are not small ring gauge cigars. For this review, I smoked the torpedo.

At the light (in which it is recommended and labeled to light the entire foot, including the nipple) the cigar gives off nice leather and earthy notes. I also noticed a bit of spice on the back of the smoke. The draw is surprisingly hard, and seemed to stay that way throughout the first two-thirds of the cigar. This was very disappointing, as one of the claims to fame for this cigar rolling technique is to provide a much better draw. This is not unique to this particular cigar, as I have smoked a few of these same shape and found them all to be the same.

As I smoked the cigar, I noted some very concerning construction issues (as you can see from the photos). The cigar was stored properly in my humidor at 71% humidity, which for my climate is perfect for all of my sticks. I would also like to think that I got a bad few from a bad box, but these cigars were purchased at different times from different shops. For some reason, this cigar just seems to like to bloom. I never noted any canoeing issues (which is where a cigar burns unevenly, giving the look of a canoe) but the wrapper itself began cracking not an inch into the smoke of the cigar and continued to audibly crack as I continued to smoke. The flavors of the cigar continued with leather, light spice and earthy notes all the way through the cigar, although at the end of the smoke I did pick up a bit more spice and a hint of coffee.

I would love to recommend this cigar as the shape alone is very unique, but due to the nature of the draw, construction and lack of flavor development and complexity, this is a medium-bodied cigar that I would avoid.

Tags: Argenti, Berger, Entubar, Review

By: Frank T Flores III

March is here and its that time of year when the cigar festivals begin. Of course last month in February was the XIII Festival Habano in Cuba, but I don’t think I will ever make that one. There seem to be more and more popping up across the US, with them starting in Spring and then another bunch ending in the Fall. Fall is a long ways off so not talking about any of those here, so going to talk about one I attend and one I hear a lot about.

The biggest one that I know of in Spring is the CIGARfest run by Cigars International and help in Split Rock, PA. on April 30th http://www.cigarfest.org/index.asp
They call it “America’s Mega Herf” and with 3000 tickets sold I can’t disagree with them. I hear just as many complaints about this event as I do good things. This year the first complaints I heard where about the ticket sells. You had to pre-register to be able to order them, and there was three different types of tickets. The General Admission $110, VIH (Very Important Herfer) $150, and Cigar Nut Auction. My understanding is the different tickets have different times on them so they can keep the 3000 people crowd staggered and they are not there all at the same time. I heard the the General and VIH tickets sold out in like 20 seconds leaving many other to auction on what was left, auction tickets got as high as $270!

According to the CIGARfest website, with the price of the ticket you get a package of 20 cigars as you get there, an ashtray and other goodies along with 40 tickets to collect cigars during the event. The cigar tickets is similar to what they do at the Big Smoke, at first the idea sounds like fun and doing it once myself at the Big Smoke it was cool, but also a crazy rat race and didn‘t really get to talk to the cigar makers and manufactures there. After doing this one time and then being at a cigar festival where they don’t have cigar tickets I think I prefer to not do it that way. Also included are beer and liquor samples, live bands, BBQ, cigar deals and raffle prizes.

The “also included” has been another source of complains from the beer and liquor set up to the bands being to loud to enjoy the company you are with. But with a crowd of 3000 no mater how you stager them it’s going to be crowed. I’m sure it is still the time of the year for some people and given the chance I would go.

The other festival I want to talk about is the Texas Cigar Festival held by Serious Cigars in Houston, TX. On April 16th http://www.seriouscigars.com/texas_cigar_festival
This is the 2nd year for this festival while the CIGARfest is in it’s 8th year. While it can’t call itself the largest herf, it is still one hell of a good time. Last year there where a little over 500 tickets sold and the number this year will be 600. The tickets are $100 and after being on sell for a couple weeks there are still tickets to be had, for how long I’m not sure.

The Texas Cigar Festival includes 20 plus manufacturers and cigar related exhibitors, raffle prizes, a great buffet, and open bar that includes fine wine, spirits, and beer. And just like all events some great cigar deals. The buffet and drinks are top notch and all you can handle. As you walk in you get your bag with a cigar from every manufacturer there and goodies from the other exhibitors. I love the goodie bag, I have done the cigar tickets at the Big Smoke and while it is cool the first time I don’t think it is the way to go. It’s a rat race and you just don’t get to talk to the manufacturers like you do when you start out with the cigars and don’t have to hunt them down.

The set up is out side in one of the biggest tents I have ever seen, its spaced out nicely and last year I didn’t never get the feeling that it was over crowed. Although I did miss seeing some people that where there in the crowd I wanted to see. I almost didn’t get to go last year, but now that I have been this is for me the can’t miss event of the year.

It is awesome they way cigar manufacturers come together during the year in different festivals and events so their fans get to great and meet them. I know that for a lot of cigar smokers like myself it is more then a hobby but a passion and I for one love it.

Some of the top manufacturers and cigar makers at these two festivals include Ashton, 601, Studio Tobac, Xikar, Torano, Nester Miranda, Boveda, Tatuaje, Rocky Patel, Alec Bradley, Camacho, My Father Cigars, and Drew Estate. There are some at one and not the other for example at CIGARfest but not in Texas are La Aurora, Padilla, and Davidoff. But it swings both was, at Texas Fest but not CIGARfest are Arturo Fuente, EP Carillo, Illusione, J Fuego, Padron and Cigar Rights of America.

If anybody is going to the Texas Cigar Festival, leave a comment so hopefully we can meet.

I was asked by a few friends if I would blog about the construction of my closet humidor. I thought that it was a great idea and that it might be of some help to others. So here goes:

After researching and making serveral calls across the county. And speaking with friends who own cigar shops and walk in humidors in there homes. My dream is happening , my very own closet humidor.

My first call was to the David at Habitat Monitor to order my Habitat Monitor and Evaporative Humidifier. I chose the HM-HAC-XL(R) . I chose Habitat Monitor after hearing nothing but great things. I decided on putting in a Evaporative Humidifier, model HM-HAC-XL(R), because it has a 6 gallon reservoir and I wanted to fill it up by hand rather then using a RO system .

My second call was to order my Breezaire WKL 2200 unit. This unit is made for wine coolers and is also perfect for a cigar walk in/closet humidor for tempature control. I believe tempature/humidity control is one of the most important things for aging cigars.

My third call was to the electrician to wire up plugs in the closet in different areas and to set up some lighting. I would recommend hiring a licensed electrician to do any electrical work in your house.

My fourth call, and also one of the most important things is insulation. After speaking with my dad, Glenn Sorrention, of Lord Chesterfield Constuction he recommended that I use closed cell insultation. This stuff is amazing !!!! Here is some info on the difference between close cell insulation and open cell insulation. Take a look at this video. Part 1 http://goo.gl/CUEBX , Part 2 http://goo.gl/dJIEG .. The videos should explain everything needed to know.

My fifth call was to ordering some spanish cedar. After speaking with David of Habitat Monitor he recommended that I speak to Fabiola of Wood Projections, Inc . With the help of my dad we presented some measurements to Fabiola and asked for some recommendations. Well after talking and deciding on what to order we came up with this:

3/4″ X 4′ X 8′ Spanish Cedar Plywood for the walls and Solid Spanish Cedar shelfs. Pictures coming soon .

Sixth Call: Sliding glass doors . Not a big deal. Pictures will also be posted soon will some more info.

There is plenty more info to add, so stay tuned. I will be updating this with pictures and updating info as it happens. If you have any questions please leave a comment.

Update:
1) Ordered Spanish cedar switch plates.
2) Painted all exposed studs with white mold/mildew proof paint. (Pics Below)
3) Installed mold/mildew resistant drywall. (Pics coming)
4) Called and ordered Granite for the floor. (Pics coming)
5) Granite installed and Spanish cedar has been delivered. (Pics coming)
6) Spanish cedar walls installed and shelving installed. (Pics Coming)
7) Final pics coming soon!!!!

I want to take this time to thank people who gave me some amazing ideas to make my dream come true.
Glenn Sorrentino owner of Lord Chesterfield Construction
Bill & Lynn Davies owners of Tobacco Locker www.tobaccolocker.com
Matt Uebelacker owner of Granite Enterprises of S.W. Fl., LLC
Jason Wager owner of JW Insulation

Will be adding more soon.

-Joel Sorrentino

Tags: Breezaire, Close cell insulation, Closet, Closet Humidor, Glenn Sorrentino, Habitat Monitor, Humidor, Instulation, Lord Chesterfield Construction, Spanish Cedar, Walk-in Humidor, WKL 2200, woodprojections

I have lived in Vegas for almost 6 years and I have been lucky to make some great friends. One of those guys was George Nikols, a fellow cigar smoker and Chicagoan. Over the years I have become friends with him and his wife. He introduced me to his priest, Father John, a very nice man. I did some consulting work for the church, mainly taking care of their website. Those that had the honor of knowing George always knew that he was a very open, giving and honest person. He accepted everyone and had a huge heart.

Its hard to write any kinds of words to describe your friend and the emptiness that they leave behind. I enjoyed the times I got to hang out with him and enjoy a fine cigar. The last time I was able to see him was at Rhumbar during the Big Smoke. Its odd to think that he will no longer be around. He is truly a great guy and its a huge loss to no longer have him around. His family is going to have a service for him in Chicago with a memorial to follow here in Vegas. Remember to always cherish those around you since we can lose them with no warning.

UPDATE: There will be a memorial service, open to the public, for him at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25, at Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, 5300 El Camino Road. Donations in George’s memory can be made to AHEPA, Chapter 314 and will be used to fund a scholarship in his name.

Obituary

by: tx_tuff

Well everybody is talking about their top cigars of 2010 today on twitter so that made me decide to go ahead and do my own top cigar list. This is a list of my top 20 cigars I have smoked in the last year, keep in mind these are not all new smokes for 2010 but just the best of what I smoked last year. I didn’t put to much thought into it or take a lot of time, I know what I like and will normally smoke them over and over.

I’m sure there will be some new cigars from last year that are not on the list. For one I didn’t hunt down every new cigar or limited cigar that came out last year, and two there where some new stuff or limited stuff that just didn’t make the cut. I will leave that to myself. If you see your favorite cigar not on the list you will just have to guess.

So here is my top 20, starting at 20 and going down to 1. Hope you enjoy. Keep in mind that unlike a blind taste test or review price does count when picking the cigars.

20. Ashton VSG Illusion

19. E P Carrillo Short Run Populares

18. 7 20 4 Robusto

17. Don Pepin Blue Invictos

16. Casa Fernandez Arsenio Maduro Robusto Grande

15. La Aroma de Cuba Mi Armor Robusto

14. La Flor Dominicana Air Bender Masetro

13. Avo Heritage Robusto

12. Padilla Dominus Robusto

11. 601 Green Tronco

10. Tatuaje Pork Tenderlion

9. Los Blancos NINE Maduro Lancero

8. Casa Fernandez Aganorsa Leaf Robusto

7. Illusione ~hl~ Maduro

6. CAO La Traviata

5. La Aurora 107 Corona

4. Don Pepin My Father Le Bijou 1922 Petite Robusto

3. Illusione Singulare Phantom

2. Tatuaje T 110

1. Illusione ~cg:4~

As with any year, many new cigars are released. What is a cigar smoke to do? We smoke them!

I have a few that really stood out for me. Here they are in no particular order.

Guillermo León
I really enjoyed this cigar. This is certainly a box worthy purchase. It is a medium bodied smoke with some great flavors and an excellent burn. Prices in Vegas are around $10 each

La Aurora 107
There is no doubt that Jose Blanco is a master cigar maker. I have yet to smoke anything he is apart of that has not be enjoyable. My all time favorite is still the 1495 series. This year we got the 107 and thanks to twitter, we got it in a lancero. I don’t normally smoke them, but after having one, I bought a box that same day. An all around great cigar.

La Traviato Maduro
One of the last cigars that were released under the original crew at CAO, this is an excellent extension to the La Traviata line. With a price point near $5, you cannot go wrong with either the natural or maduro. Thank you to Jon Huber and crew for a great cigar.

Cain F Lancero
You have yet to have one? They are a very limited release. I first smoked one thanks to Ian Hummel at the Big Smoke. He told me I was the first person outside of the company to have one. This is a very powerful little cigar. Don’t be fooled by its small size, this cigar packs a lot of punch. Look for a wider release in 2011.

These are just a few of the new stuff that really stood out for me this year. I look forward to see what is coming in the next year.

There will be video reviews posted of this in Jan 2011.