Half Ashed

Cigar Podcast and Cigar Reviews

Here at Half Ashed, we strive to be a leading provider of industry coverage for the premium cigar industry. We do this through both written editorial commentary, cigar news and reviews – and, of course, a weekly cigar podcast / live internet radio show. Both written content and the broadcast show cover the latest news, industry happenings, and legislative concerns within the world of premium cigars. We welcome you to browse around the site, join us in the forum – and by all means come by and join us during scheduled recordings every Friday night. We provide a live video stream and chatroom so you can participate with the show. Come on in!

Home » Cigar News Archive » Page 10

Press Release: Blessed Leaf Founded

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blessed leaf header

8/27/13 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Kyle Hoover, co-owner of Ezra Zion Cigar Company and CigarFederation.com, announces the launch of a new cigar-themed Christian ministry, Blessed Leaf.  “Blessed Leaf is a unique idea, something that has never been done before. It’s a faith community–or in more basic terms–an “online church” for cigar smokers.” noted Hoover.

On BlessedLeaf.com, aficionados can create a profile page to join the Blessed Leaf community. Members can post content, access media, read faith-based articles and cigar reviews designed to strengthen them in their Christian walk.

“I know two things: The Bible and cigars. This is the culmination of a dream to bring those two passions together. My prayer is that this is a catalyst for cigar enthusiasts to become closer to Jesus, whether they have a relationship with Him now or not.” Hoover continued.

Beginning September 4th at 6pm CST, “Blessed Leaf LIVE!” will air on the BlessedLeaf.com homepage. This hour long show serves as the weekly service and will air every Wednesday evening. It will be hosted by Kyle Hoover and Chris Kelly. Guests will include believers from all around the cigar industry.

“A major part of this vision is the Featured Contributors. I want to create a platform where these guys can share their testimonies and teachings that will bless and encourage the members of Blessed Leaf. These are BOTL that either work professionally in the cigar industry or are avid cigar smokers in full-time pastoral ministry. Guys like Brian Berman, Kip Fisher, Nate McIntyre, The Don Fonseca, and my pastor Niles Holsinger will be posting some life-changing stuff.”

For more information visit BlessedLeaf.com.
Follow on Twitter and Instagram: @Blessed_Leaf

Press Release: Gary Griffith & Bodega Cigars’ Distribution Agreement

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bodega premium blendsFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
IPCPR – July 16, 2013 – Gino Domanico (aka @Cigar_G), Co-Founder and CEO of Bodega Premium Blends (BPB), and Gary Griffith, owner of House of Emilio, announced today they have entered into a distribution agreement.

House of Emilio has a long and successful history in promoting the “Best of the boutiques”. Through this partnership BPB is proud to share their vision of the authentic cigar experience.

 BPB’s signature line – Reunión – is designed around fellowship – gathering, connectedness and friendship.  It features two blends both from Nicaragua, a country that has emerged as the rising star of the cigar world.  Reunión will be available in three vitolas.

 The shared goal of both companies is to bring BPB’s product portfolio to market with a focus on innovation, social media, brand expansion and awareness.

 “We couldn’t be happier partnering with Gary and his team. Gary believes in us and our project”, says Domanico.

 BPB offers blends that embody the company’s passion and commitment to the “cigar experience”.  Their philosophy is to capture how and when people enjoy cigars and reflect this essence in their blends.

“The BPB brand as well as Gino’s involvement is a key addition to the family of House of Emilio” stated Griffith.

Contact:

Emilio Cigars

Gary Griffith: @EmilioCigar

Bodega Premium Blends: @Cigar_G

News: Herrera Cigars & Drew Estate Settle Trademark Dispute

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Herrera Cigars & Drew Estate Settle HERRERA Trademark Dispute

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MIAMI, Florida (July 8, 2013) – Long time friends Frank Herrera of Herrera Cigars and Jonathan Drew of Drew Estate announced today that they have settled a dispute over the HERRERA trademark.

While the terms of the settlement are confidential, the agreement focuses on protecting the HERRERA brand under a license. Hispanic surnames are powerful indicators of quality in the premium cigar industry, and both parties have mutually agreed to protect the trademark HERRERA.

“This is a great example of how disputes can be resolved quickly and efficiently when cigar people get together, and find a mutually agreeable solution,” said Frank Herrera of Herrera Cigars. “I have worked for years in the cigar industry building my name and I believe that the agreement entered into today will serve that purpose and protect it for the future.”  Frank Herrera added.

Jonathan Drew, Co-Founder of Drew Estate adds,

“I believe in the cigar community, the industry personalities, and the subculture that  supports and sustains its very core. Frank Herrera is a dear friend of mine, whom I respect greatly. The difficult circumstance arose when we brought Willy Herrera on board with Drew Estate and both men obviously felt entitled to the Herrera name. It took us a little while to work out the details due to our busy schedules – but in the end we found a solution that allows both men to reach for the stars and achieve their deserved dreams. DE is now comfortable licensing the mark from Frank in this Co-existence agreement. At Drew Estate we have always promoted innovation and creativity within the cigar biz. Legal nonsense just gets in the way”.

Frank Herrera has specialized in cigar law matters for over 12 years, and over the past 5 years has offered cigars under the LA CARIDAD DEL COBRE brand and later under the FRANK HERRERA BIOGRAPHY brand.

Willy Herrera joined Drew Estate in 2011 and will continue to produce HERRERA ESTELI and future products at the Drew Estate factory in Esteli, Nicaragua.

Both Frank Herreraʼs HERRERA Cigars and Drew Estateʼs HERRERA ESTELI will be featured at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (“IPCPR”) Convention and International Trade Show in July.

News: Room101 Master Collection One

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Room101 flower logoSome news concerning the Room101 Master Collection One has been circulating in recent weeks, but some more information has been released today.  The line will be produced at the AgroIndustrias Laepe, S.A. (Honduras) factory, and total production will be approximately 100,000 cigars – 20,000 in each of five vitolas (Papi Chulo 4″X42, Roxxo 4″X48, Mutante 7″X38, Sucio 7″X48, and Monstro 5″X60).  This will include 1,000 boxes of 20 for every size except the Papi Chulo, which will be produced in 50-count boxes.   The blend is composed of a  San Andres Ligero Rosado wrapper, Honduran corojo corte binder, and Honduran/Nicaraguan/Mexican filler blend.  MSRP is set at $8-12 per stick, depending on size.  The line will be available for pre-order at IPCPR 2013, and will begin shipping early to mid-October 2013.  Room101 currently projects the Master Collection Two to launch later this Fall – late November.  The Master Collection One will carry the famliar Cherry Blossom on the packaging, for which the backstory is included below:

This cherry blossom represents the ever-changing seasons that are experienced throughout one’s lifetime as well as the concept of a short, yet beautiful life.  The tattered leaves this blossom bears signify the storms we have weathered together as a family and those we have yet to weather.  Finally, the intact and unblemished core of this blossom represents the unfaltering and un-moveable nucleus of our family unit.

The Mon (or Kamon) is the format in which thie Japanese present their family crest.  Each is simply beautiful yet complex enough to encapsulate the DNA of each particular family unit from inception to present day.

The Room101 Brand implements the Sakura Mon to represent our family unit.  The products that bear this mark will be nothing short of our finest works to date.  Within them we hope that you can experience a small taste of the journey we have endured to bring these pieces of handcrafted art to you.  It is our most humble honor to have the opportunity to have our voice heard and our message received.

room101 master collection one

News: XIKAR Sells HC Series and Defiance Cigar Brands

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[NOTE: The news keeps rolling in, this time from Xikar.  I just received the following from them relating their refocus on cigar accessories and selling of the HC and Defiance cigar brands]

Kansas City, MO – After a thorough review of strategic alternatives, XIKAR, Inc. has entered into a sale agreement with Cigars International for the HC Series and Defiance Cigar Brands. “We have elected to return our full focus and energy to our leading cigar accessory business,” said Kurt Van Keppel, CEO and Founder of XIKAR. “We have significant opportunities that require our complete organization and strategic resources be dedicated to growing our accessory business,” continued Mr. Van Keppel.

Effective July 1, 2013 XIKAR will sell its cigar brands to Cigars International. Cigars International will continue to sell the cigars to brick and mortar retailers through their Meier and Dutch distribution arm. “We encourage our existing customers who have supported our highly rated cigars to continue to source them for our loyal consumers from Meier and Dutch,” said Mr. Van Keppel. “CI has agreed to price protect all existing retailers by not discounting below our existing MAP policy through September 30, 2013,” stated Mr. Van Keppel.

“We have been in the cigar business for eight years, and have concluded that focus on accessories better aligns our resources to our goals. We appreciate the support we have received from retailers and consumers, and commit to rewarding that loyalty through continued innovation and enhanced sales, marketing and customer service behind our leading accessory portfolio. We desire to hold market leadership, and believe a singular focus will enhance the XIKAR brand for the long term,” concluded Mr. Van Keppel.

Questions regarding this announcement can be directed to your Business Development Manager, Kurt Van Keppel, CEO or David Frazier, VP-Sales at XIKAR.

Based in Kansas City, Missouri, XIKAR is the leading cigar accessory company. Creator of the revolutionary and now iconic Xi1 cutter, XIKAR sells cigar accessory products in thousands of retail locations around the world.

News: TL Johnson & La Tradicion Cubana Joint Venture

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TL Johnson La Tradicion Cubana

[NOTE: Many of you who have been following this site for a while know that I am a big fan of both TL Johnson and La Tradicion Cubana (who now produces TL Johnson Cigars for Terry Johnson).  In fact, I have reviewed the TLJ Tempio, the LTC “American Born Cuban,” written a Cigar Spotlight on La Tradicion Cubana, and featured Terry Johnson on a recent Half Ashed Episode.  So, it will come as no surprise that the following news is exciting in my book.  In a move that we discussed on the aforementioned Half Ashed episode, Terry and Luis Sanchez will be partnering in a joint venture cigar brand, of which the name has as yet remained unannounced.]  Read on for full details:

Luis Sanchez of La Tradicion Cigars and Terry Johnson of TL Johnson cigars are excited to debut a new joint venture line of cigars that will release fall 2013. A limited release of the new blend will be available at the 2013 IPCPR in Las Vegas. The name of this blend is currently being withheld until release date.

The new blend will be available thru the Cuban Tradition Cigar Group Appointed Merchant Program only.  Details about the program will be available at the 2013 IPCPR Show.

The first production release will be a 6 x 60 with a genuine African Cameroon wrapper. Other details will be available at the show along with Pre-Purchases that can be made at the IPCPR.

“I am honored to be working closely with Luis Sanchez on our first joint release produced at the La Tradicion Cubana Factory. This is an awesome new blend with a new packaging and marketing format that will stand out in industry. Terry Johnson- TL Johnson Cigars

The Cuban Tradition Cigar Group based out of the 8th Street Miami, Fl. location will house all cigars produced by La Tradicion Cubana including La Tradicion Cubana, Jameson and TL Johnson brands. These current brands make up The Cuban Tradition Cigar Group.

TL Johnson Cigars has begun the transition of moving all operations to the Miami, Fl. location. The main sales office will remain in Colorado and handle sales for the Cuban Tradition Cigar Group.

Sales Contact:
Terry Johnson, President TL Johnson Distributors
[email protected]

2013 IPCPR Booths # 205-206-207-305-306-307

Press Release: Nomad Cigar to Release Nomad S-307

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Nomad LogoEsteli, Nicaragua (July 1, 2013) – Nomad Cigar Company is pleased to announce a new Fall Nicaraguan blend called the Nomad S-307.

The cigar is scheduled to be released in September/October (2013) and will be made available to authorized retailers.

The final production is a box-pressed cigar with an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper called the Nomad S-307.  It will be released in three sizes (Toro (6″ X 50), Robusto (5″ X 50), Torpedo (6.5″ X 52)) and be available for pre-purchase at IPCPR.

“I am honored to have my first full production of a Nicaraguan cigar being blended and manufactured at Tabacalera Fernandez.  The new blend is amazing and I am thrilled to expand the Nomad cigar line to include Nicaragua in a really big way,” said Fred Rewey, Founder.

Nomad Cigar Company launched in 2012 with four sizes of classic hand rolled Dominican cigars and quickly grew the line to seven sizes; not to mention conquering social media (@Godfadr on Twitter)

In spring of 2013 Rewey created Esteli Lot 1386, his first project in Nicaragua, available in limited edition 12 count boxes. Nomad’s next step is this full production of Nicaraguan cigars.

For sales Contact:

Nathan McIntyre, National Sales Director House of Emilio Cigars
Twitter: @CigarNate

Or…

Fred Rewey, Nomad Cigar Company
Twitter: @Godfadr
[email protected]

Press Release: Arandoza to Release White Label

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arandoza cigars logoMany of you may be familiar with Arandoza Cigars, and some may not.  Arandoza has been in the cigar marketplace since 2011, offering cigars made at Erik Espinosa’s La Zona factory in Esteli, Nicaragua.  I recently took the opportunity to buy a few of their Blue Label line (Nicaraguan Habano wrapper; Nicaraguan binder & filler) and enjoyed them immensely.  So, I am excited to learn of the following news in which they announce a new line to be released at IPCPR – the White Label.  Here is the press release:


Arandoza BlueArandoza WhiteThe Evolution of the Arandoza Cigar line has arrived!  Arandoza announces the “rebirth” of the Arandoza Blue with its new bold label representing the strong solid foundation of this Cigar Family.  Its bold taste, yet smooth finish, is a well-known flavor in this industry.

With a solid foundation, comes the opportunity to grow and expand.  Stay tuned for the upcoming launch and unveiling of the Arandoza White Label at the IPCPR this July! This new label provides a well-balanced, full-body smoke, directly from Esteli, Nicaragua with its binder and filler from Nicaragua, Viso from Jalapa and its wrapper in a Dark Habano. This exquisite blend is sure to be the Rolls Royce of the Arandoza Cigar line. Its presentation is as exquisite as its flavor, as the cigars are nestled inside its white box branded with the Arandoza label and lined in black felt. It is sure to be a memorable classic piece to treasure. Both cigars are manufactured at La Zona Factory in Esteli, Nicaragua.

Press Release: Pinar Del Rio Announces New Lines

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 Pinar Del Rio Cigars Announces New Signature Lines

pinar del rioJune 17, 2013: Doral, Florida based boutique cigar maker, Pinar Del Rio (PDR) Cigars is excited to announce the release of two new signature cigar series to debut at this summer’s IPCPR show in Las Vegas, to be held at the Sands Expo Center from July 13-17. The AFR-75 is a rich, full bodied cigar with a balanced blend of Nicaraguan Criollo 98, Connecticut Broadleaf, & Dominican filler enveloped in a beautiful San Andres Maduro wrapper. The AFR-75 will be available in three sizes; the Sublime(5×56), the Edmundo(6×58), and the Inmenso(7×60). There will only be 500 boxes per size made available this year. The AFR-75 marks the second release in a series of signature lines from PDR. AFR-75 references the initials for Master Blender Abraham Flores Rosario and his year of birth, 1975. “I’m really excited about the new lines. We had a lot of success with the A. Flores Serie Privada line and we’re going to be doing more special release small batch projects. As a blender I have a lot of fun creating different blends that we can put out in smaller amounts for the hardcore cigar guys to enjoy”, says Abe Flore of PDR Cigars.

pinar del rioAccompanying the AFR-75 this summer as a new release will be the A. Flores Gran Reserva. As is the AFR-75, there will only be 500 boxes of each size of the A. Flores Gran Reserva made available. Replete with a delicious Corojo 2006 Domican wrapper the Gran Reserva delivers a rich, creamy, medium body smoke. The filler is a complex blend of Corojo Dominican and Habano Nicaraguan tobaccos. The A. Flores Gran Reserva will be made available as a Half Corona(3.5×46), Robusto(5×52), Gran Toro(6×54). The Half Corona will also be available in a 5-count tin as a regular production line. Both the AFR-75 and the A. Flores Gran Reserva will begin shipping in July as this summer is shaping up to be a very exciting one for PDR Cigars. The factory is also producing new releases for El Primer Mundo Cigars with its Costa Fuerte line as well as new lines for Kristoff Cigars and Ortega Cigar Company.

www.pdrcigars.com

Morning Updates from Boutique Cigars (Swag, Aging Room)

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News and Updates from Boutique Cigars / Swag / Aging Room

Activity has begun to increasingly rise as we head into full throttle IPCPR season.  Boutique Cigars (Aging Room; Swag Cigars) is no exception, with company president Rafael Nodal publishing a number of pictures and comments this morning about their upcoming new cigars.  Below are some quick notes and comments regarding those releases:

aging room maduroAging Room Maduro

The highly anticipated Aging Room Maduro is blended using all Dominican grown habano as filler and binder with a beautiful oily and powerful Nicaraguan maduro wrapper, aged for over 5 years using our unique proprietary curing and aging process that has made the Aging Room one of the highest rated cigar brands.  Body: Medium to Full

In further comments, Mr. Nodal additionally noted that this is Aging Room ‘s “top new release for IPCPR, […]in the works for a long LONG time.  This powerhouse of aroma and flavors has a medium to full body with a blend of Dominican Aging Room Tobacco and a wonderful NICARAGUAN Maduro.  Did I hear AMEN!!!  I am a religious person and I must say, this is an spiritual experience.”

Being a fan of Aging Room ‘s products already in the market, I have to say I am anxiously anticipating this release – Dominican tobacco clothed in a Nicaraguan maduro wrapper sounds quite enticing.

swag sSwag S

Cigar Coop reported in an exclusive story that Boutique Blends will also be adding a maduro line to their Swag marque this year as well.  It also will feature Dominican internal components and a Nicaraguan maduro wrapper.  The picture at right was released this morning via Mr. Nodal, with the added information that it would be available in bigger ring sizes (up to a 70 ring).

Aging Room Miniaging room mini

In what seems to be a budding trend at this year’s show, Aging Room will be the third company I know of to release a miniature cigar (Ortega Cigars and La Tradicion Cubana being the other two).  My interest is piqued to see how this pans out in light of the trend toward larger and larger cigars in recent years.  The philosophy and model being that these cigars will fill the need for those who have the desire for a premium, handmade cigar but limited time.  It will be worth watching to see how this niche develops – will there be enough demand for this type of product, or will many cigar smokers simply opt to wait until they have the time to dedicate to a larger cigar?

Aging Room Wild Packaging room wild pack

As was recently reported around the online cigar community, the Aging Room Wild Pack will be another IPCPR release.  It will be a 10-cigar sampler, consisting of 2 each for 5 different previously unreleased small format cigars.  Mr. Nodal indicated this morning that this will be a market test “for consumers to help us find the next Aging Room Cigars blend.”  There will be a rating card included to report notes back to the company and help determine interest in each of the blends for subsequent release to market.

aging room fortissimoFortissimo

On this week’s Half Ashed, we discussed the upcoming Fortissimo to a limited degree.  Notably, the assertion from Aging Room that this may be the strongest cigar ever to come out of the Dominican Republic.  Its composition will feature 100% ” tobacco from famous veteran grower Jose “Joshi” Blanco. Perfection be an understatement.”