Recently, I had an opportunity to take a trip to Cuba. My purpose of going to Cuba was a combination of fact-finding and education. The signs are pointing toward the U.S. Embargo against Cuba ending. With that, this could lead to the Cuban cigar market being opened in the United States (although under current FDA regulations, […]
On September 22, 2016, it was confirmed that Michael Giannini, Creative Director and Director of Innovation had departed General Cigar Company. Over the past decade, Giannini one can make the argument that Giannini became the face of General Cigar. Giannini brought a dynamic, flamboyant, and unconventional approach to the cigar business. Whether you agreed or disagreed with […]
For many years, Drew Estate has always been one of the most active booths at the IPCPR. In 2015, Drew Estate went into its first IPCPR Trade Show as a subsidiary under Swisher International. As we observed, Drew Estate very much remained Drew Estate at that trade show – namely there still was hip-hop music and […]
The 2016 IPCPR Trade Show saw the debut of Cattle Baron Cigars, a line launched by Montana-rancher Bryan Mussard earlier this year. While it was a small booth at the 2016 IPCPR Trade Show, there was no doubt the big heart that represents of the State of Montana was very much present. Front and center […]
2015 was the first IPCPR for Steve Saka’s new company Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust (DTT). Without taking any samples of his first release Sobremesa into the trade show, Saka exceeded expectations selling much more product than he anticipated. Even this year, with more product, and samples on hand, Saka seemed a little cautious on whether he […]
At the 2016 IPCPR Trade Show, when I looked at La Flor Dominicana’s strategy, I found it to be one of the most interesting ones of any company. This year the company showcased a combination of cigar artistry and innovation while at the same time preparing to do business in the new world of regulations […]
At this year’s 2016 IPCPR Trade Show, Duran Cigars unveiled three new blends, including two of them as the company’s first Connecticut Shade offerings. In addition the company announced it will be handling distribution for a brand known as Meirelles y Acevedo. Azan Blue Connecticut Azan was the brand that started it all for Duran Cigars. It […]
The last 12 months have seen a lot of momentum and growth for Mel Shah’s Bombay Tobak brands. At this year’s IPCPR, Shah showcased his new Gaaja brand as well as a new addition to the Vintage Reserve line. Gaaja Prior to IPCPR, Shah launched a new brand called Gaaja. The cigar is Bombay Tobak’s […]
2016 was the fourth IPCPR Trade Show for MoyaRuiz Cigars. With the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) August 8th deadline that followed this year’s show, MoyaRuiz used the opportunity to introduce some new offerings. While this year, the company probably introduced more products than originally planned, it offered a chance to offer some exciting […]
It’s been almost two years since Nick Syris brought his LH Premium Cigars brand stateside. This year Syris was at theIPCPR Trade Show showcasing some new line extensions and some new packaging options. Syris, along with his partner Omar Nasr started offering cigars to Lavida Habana lounges in the Middle East. The brand quickly grew in […]
