Cigar Magazine by JR Cigar Summer 2024

Summer 2024

J.C. NEWMAN TALKS TRADITION, LEGACY, LEAF & LEGACY

FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE CELEBRATE IN STYLE

& GREAT CIGARS.

TAKE A JOURNEY INTO THE CAMP CAMACHO EXPERIENCE THE HEART OF HONDURAS: WARM WEATHER CALLS FOR THESE PAIRINGS OF PERFECT TUNES, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, AND PREMIUM CIGARS SUMMER CIGAR PLAYLIST SCOPE OUT THE SHOW FLOOR AND INDUSTRY WITH OUR PCA '24 RECAP SEEN & HEARD

1875 Crafted with Love

“Summertime and the livin’ is easy” as they say. This time of year seems almost tailor made for cigar enthusiasts, as some of the most enjoyable and popular summer experiences are made even better while enjoying a good smoke. From lighting up the grill, to that much-deserved vacation, or even something as simple as taking a hike on your local trail, your favorite premium cigar is always a welcome addition to the moment. With such a plethora of brands and highly rated cigars on the market these days, choosing which one to smoke can be a challenge. Fear not, as it’s hard to make a bad pick. However, the Cigar Magazine team is here to be your summer cigar guide and will help you enjoy perfect cigar moments all season long. After all, we have a few experts on staff. Earlier this year, our team took a trip to Honduras to take part in the Camp Camacho experience. In this issue, we invite you to come along for the ride as we learn about the intricate tobacco-growing process, tour the factory where the epic Camacho cigars are rolled, and even try our hand at our blending and rolling skills. It was an adventure that definitely gave us a deeper appreciation for how premium cigars come to life, and we hope that you’ll feel inspired enough to make the trip to Camp Camacho yourself one day. However, if you prefer to stick a little closer to home, we have you covered there as well. Within these pages, you will find features on everything from expert cigar reviews to exciting new arrivals. We even took one for the team and explored which cigars pair perfectly with your favorite summer activities. From golfing to brewery-hopping to the backyard BBQ, no matter what you choose to do this summer, we’re here to make sure you’ll have that perfect cigar in hand.

So, let’s toast to summer and all the fun experiences that await you. And most of all, cheers to all the cigars you’ll enjoy along the way.

Sincerely,

The Cigar Magazine Team

SCAN TO SHOP CAMACHO

CM TEAM

CEO Brad Winstead

EDITOR IN CHIEF Nick Libretti

PCA Round-Up

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Rachel McKnett Jim Charnley Chanice Parchment WRITERS / CONTRIBUTORS Nick Libretti Conor Orr Brian Rodak Warren Dubell Christopher Orangeo Robert Galfo Andy DeAngelo Jeff Brody Anthony Infante Dave Lafferty Jack Heyer

Inside scoop on the four-day cigar and business event, featuring celebrity collaborations, exclusive products & more!

Summer Cigar Playlist

Embrace summer with our curated playlist & premium cigars for your favorite activities.

Brewery Tour Summer ‘24

Our team explored breweries in New Jersey and Brooklyn, savoring excellent beers, lively atmospheres, and perfect cigar pairings.

Top-10 New Arrivals

Discover this summer's hottest new cigars with our curated list of 2024's top releases, perfect for enjoying in the warm weather.

The Heart of Honduras

A journey into the Camp Camacho Experience.

Joseph Holtman Eduardo Guerra

What About the Blend?

DESIGN Dawn Husser

Explore the innovative spirit and bold heritage of Camacho Broadleaf.

Grilling & Chilling

PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Hornaday Steven Darius PRODUCTION Sasha Infante Dawn Husser

The perfect union of grilling and cigar smoking this summer with expert guidance on pairing premium blends.

Cigaroscopes

Your new favorite cigar, written in the stars.

EXCLUSIVE

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

Round-Up

BY BRIAN RODAK

Long days, handfuls of cigars and stronger relationships are memories we all will walk (or hobble) away with after four days of PCA. A time for the industry to come together in one city and reconnect with colleagues, partners, good friends, and even our competitors; PCA may be about cigars and business, but a bigger piece of the experience is the partnerships. No matter what side of the fence you’re on, from manufacturing to buying, to sales and marketing, handshakes and laughter are always present. Of course,

there are the dinners, drinks, and darn good cigars, but this type of camaraderie in the midst of such a solid community and industry really makes all the difference. Taking a step back – This was my first trip to PCA which was preceded by my first week in my new role within the Purchasing and Merchandising team with JR Cigars. I've attended other industry trade shows, such as TPE, but PCA has always been on my to- do list. I’ve always wanted to see what all the buzz and talk was about.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

PCA ROUND-UP

Over the past few years, we as an industry have seen the growth of collaborations between celebrities and manufacturers. This was evident at the show with the likes of: Guy Fieri with Knuckle Sandwich by Espinosa, James Hetfield with Blackened by Drew Estate, and Mike Tyson with Tyson 2.0 by Gurkha. What I like about these pairings of celebrity and cigar is that everyone involved seems to truly enjoy the end result. This isn’t just another promo gig or obligation for them. They appreciate cigars and are an actual part of our community. With the opportunity to hit the show floor as a buyer for JR, I was excited to check out all the new offerings and look for great additions to the JR portfolio. First stop on my journey was Altadis U.S.A.'s booth, where a crowd had already gathered. One of AUSA’s showstoppers was their partnership with luxury hat maker, Wild Hats. To help celebrate H. Upmann’s 180th Anniversary cigar, those who made qualifying show orders were able to receive a custom-made H. Upmann cowboy/fedora hat which was made right on the show floor. While visiting their booth, I was lucky enough to try the Montecristo 1935 Anniversary Edición Doble Diamante. This was everything you’d expect

• FEATURED: ALTADIS U.S.A. BOOTH

• FEATURED: ALTADIS U.S.A. BOOTH - MONTECRISTO LIMITED EDITION 1935 ANNIVERSARY EDICIÓN DOBLE DIAMANTE

• FEATURED: ALTADIS U.S.A. BOOTH - WILD HATS

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

PCA ROUND-UP

• FEATURED: DUNBARTON BOOTH - COURTESY OF DAVE LAFFERTY

from a Montecristo cigar and more. It was an exquisite smoke. The cost of a box of 20 cigars is pretty expensive, but the box has a beautiful piano finish and doubles as a humidor which is pretty cool. Another stop on the show floor was made to the Dunbarton booth, where they were holding drawings for luxury watch prizes for qualified show floor orders. Unfortunately, we didn’t win. However, our visit to the booth was still a big win for JR and me, as I walked away with a new favorite cigar, the Umbagog Bronzeback. This cigar checks all the boxes,

including its low price point. This cigar was so good and the demand for orders so high, I'm very glad we placed our order early in the day. A few booths over was E.P. Carrillo, which I was excited to visit after hearing about the release of their new Essence series. While sitting in their comfy red chairs and catching up on some business, I was given the E.P. Maduro to try. Incredibly smooth, clean draw, and full of awesomeness, this was another cigar added to my list. The Maduro, one of six different wrappers used for E.P., is being released later this year.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

PCA ROUND-UP

• FEATURED: IRON THRONE LENT BY COURTESY OF WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY

Another fun mention from the show is S.T. Dupont, a company known for its high- end lighters and accessories. This year they partnered with Warner Bros. to create a line of accessories inspired by the blockbuster "Game of Thrones" series. Helping to create lots of interest was a replica of the Iron Throne available for attendees to take a seat

and feel the power of the steel. I survived my first PCA, with lots of great cigars to try, long-lasting partnerships, and maybe a little hobbling to the airport. As I’m looking forward to next year’s show, there are a lot of new and great cigars coming this year and I’m happy to say that you’ll be able to get them here at JR Cigars. •

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

ERIK ESPINOSA Choose

Your Fate

An exploration into the deepest, darkest and heaviest depths of the mystical Maduro leaf.

Pushing the very limits of ultra-rich and balanced blending within a creamy, shimmering shade leaf.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

SUMMER PLAYLIST

BY CONOR ORR / PRODUCT PHOTOS BY CHRIS HORNADAY

We’ve dreamed all winter long about what we’ll do on endless summer days full of sunshine. For the staff here, that means a lot of hiking, fishing, golfing, and traveling—with a good cigar at our side and the best tunes blaring over our Bluetooth speaker, of course. In celebration of the good days ahead, here’s a curated playlist of the best music for your favorite summer activities, along with a premium cigar to enjoy along with it.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

SUMMER PLAYLIST: HIKING

HIKING An adventurous hike deserves an equally robust cigar to go along with it. The Decade celebrates 10 incredible years in the cigar business for the innovative Rocky Patel brand and features an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper cloaking a proprietary blend of filler tobacco. The resulting flavors range from coffee and spice all the way to the very woodsy tones that will also be surrounding you throughout the journey! ROCKY PATEL DECADE LONSDALE CODE: RPDECL

I’LL KEEP CLIMBING BY DOLLY PARTON

An uplifting, meditative and spiritual jam from the undisputed queen of country that will fill your earbuds with unlimited hope and positivity for the journey ahead. Sometimes, you just need one of the world’s most famous singers to encourage you to “keep climbing” on your way up that mountain. Nothing will stop you now!

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

SUMMER PLAYLIST: FISHING

FISHING The first economy line of smokes produced by the Dunbarton brainchild Steve Saka, this cigar takes delectable but blemished wrappers from the premium Mi Querida line and coils it around exquisite Nicaraguan binder and filler to create a peppery and spicy-sweet tasting experience. Out on the boat, a little bit of rugged will do you good, though the only imperfection in this moment will be a small mark on the wrapper that you won’t even think about while under the warm sun, rocking with the waves. UMBAGOG TORO TORO CODE: UMGTT

FISHING FOR FISHIES BY KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD

Irreverent, silly but undoubtedly groovy, this song by the Australian-based psychedelic pop and rock band has a delightfully low-fi video that celebrates this love letter to the fishermen who end up letting their catches roam free. As the refrain at the end of the song goes: “I have been fishing / I don't want to catch none / I've let them swum.’’

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

SUMMER PLAYLIST: GOLFING

GOLFING Just like you wouldn’t be caught out on the golf course with any old clubs, you’re not going to spark up just any old cigar when grabbing a pack for your foursome. The Davidoff Signature Series is a luxury smoke with hints of cedar, spice and vanilla housed inside a medium-bodied Ecuador Connecticut wrapper. Davidoff is the Rolls Royce of cigars, and the mellow vibes will ensure you hit the ball straight all afternoon. DAVIDOFF SIGNATURE SERIES NO. 2 CODE: DAC2

STRAIGHT DOWN THE MIDDLE BY BING CROSBY

This crooning, old-school tune celebrates the glory of one great shot, which is what most of us hackers get per round of 18. While none of us can be Tiger Woods, we can enjoy the humbling nature of the ultimate leisure sport with a dose of humility. Crosby sings about how, sometimes, that little white ball is never found.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

SUMMER PLAYLIST: TRAVELING

TRAVELING One of the most sought-after smokes of the last five years, the El Gueguense— translated to “The Wise Man”—is based on a legendary Nicaraguan folktale of perseverance in the face of long odds, which you may need to conjure if you’re bringing kids along on this summer trip. In this 7 x 48 Churchill size, you’ll be able to enjoy a slightly longer burn time, but with a relatively moderate flame creating an opportunity to experience the breadth of its flavor profile that ranges from woodsy notes to toffee and spice. FOUNDATION EL GUEGUENSE CHURCHILL CODE: FCEGCH

TRAFFIC JAM BY JAMES TAYLOR

If you’re going to be piled hundreds of cars deep on the freeway, you might as well enjoy it. James Taylor wrote a satirical masterpiece about the amount of time we spend in our cars, which was also an early harbinger for our concern over carbon emissions long before the electric vehicle movement. The money moment in this song is when a gospely Taylor says: “Now when I die, I don't want no coffin / I thought about it all too often / Just strap me in behind the wheel / And bury me with my automobile.”

INTRODUCING COHIBA RIVIERA TAKE IT ALL IN

The newest addition to our collection represents new territory for Cohiba. It’s the only box-pressed offering in our portfolio, as well as the only Cohiba to feature an exquisite Mexican San Andrés wrapper.

Bask in luxury with the all-new Cohiba Riviera.

SURGEON GENERAL WARNING: Tobacco Use Increases The Risk Of Infertility, Stillbirth, And Low Birth Weight.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024 EXPERIENCE LUXURY SCAN FOR BLEND DETAILS

Brewery TOUR SUMmer'24

W ARREN

D UBELL

N ICK

L IBRETTI O RANGEO D E A NGELO

C HRIS A NDY

T o be completely transparent, I have never written an article in my life. As one of the main buyers for our company, my life is much more Excel and data driven than creative writing. If you need someone to set up an X-lookup… I’m your guy. However, when I’m not putting together Purchase Orders or checking inventory, I do love a great beer. So, when Nick asked me to do this brewery trip with him and write a piece on it, I didn't even hesitate. Our trip started in Atlantic Highlands, NJ at Carton Brewing, where I arrived about 15 minutes late. Nick made me mention that. The brewery is a modest, orange, brick building on the corner of a side street and the main road through town. They had a few tables outside with umbrellas and cornhole, making it a great place to spend a nice summer day. One of the first cool features I noticed was a sliding garage door, right next to the main entrance. They threw this door open to reveal a cart with four taps, where they serve beer in plastic cups to customers who are siting outside. We walked in right as they opened and were greeted warmly by two of their associates, who could not have been nicer. After shopping around the merch on the first floor, we were taken upstairs by Charles, who was our unofficial guide for the day. The main lounge and tap room had a very cozy atmosphere, more in line with a cool coffee shop than a brewery. As we began to look through the menu, it was then that Charles’s love and passion for the product began to shine through.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

BREWERY TOUR SUMMER '24

He spoke about each beer the same way we talk about cigars, discussing the different ages, fermentations, and processes that make each one special. He possessed incredible knowledge of each beer and spoke of beer being the “intersection of art and science”, which really struck home for us. Before we even picked out beers for our flight, he offered us a sample of a special Polish style smoked Pilsner call Bicz, that was fantastic. Each beer we tried was even better than the last, offering us something unique and complex. From milky stouts to heavy IPAs, they really had something for everyone. The Blunt Ale was a real treat, as its smell and aroma had that perfect mix of fruit and tobacco. While Nick was a big fan of their East Coast Double IPA, I really fell for their special limited edition barleywine called “Waiting for My Eyes to Adjust”. This complex delight was aged in bourbon barrels and infused with blueberries, cinnamon, vanilla and maple syrup. With each sip, I was thinking how well this would pair with our special Baccarat Barber Pole Rothschild. The blend of sweet notes, and a smooth complex profile would make this a pairing for the ages. After our final tasting, we sat outside to eat some delicious pizza from Julio's before moving on to our next destination, Kane Brewing company. Kane is a bit more well

• FEATURED: CARTON BREWERY TAP ROOM, COURTESY OF NICK LIBRETTI

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

BREWERY TOUR SUMMER '24

• FEATURED: KANE BREWERY, HEAD HIGH IPA

known and was about a half hour away, in beautiful Ocean, NJ. The interior was much more of a modern/rustic aesthetic, with nice wooden tables and and emptied aging barrels placed throughout. It was also dog friendly, which makes it even more appealing. Kane is a place that if it was down the street from me, I would go to all the time. While it didn’t have the cozy feeling of Carton, it was a great place to hang out, especially with a group. They have a large selection, but we knew we had to start with the essentials. We were told that the Head High IPA was the perfect beer to start with and they weren’t wrong. It was complex and nuanced, with a touch of citrus and a crisp finish. They did offer a wide variety, but if I had to say what they specialized in, it was IPAs. There were

For our last beer of the day, we each chose something different to make it a bit more interesting. Nick was raving about their Small Batch German Style Hefeweizen, calling it a smooth and intricate expression. I thought this was a bit pretentious, but then again… you know Nick. I did take a sip of the Hefeweizen, and I have to say it was really good. It would be a great partner for something like a Dunbarton Sobremesa… medium bodied and flavorful with a clean finish. We hit the road once more to stop for some dinner, where I decided to change things up and order a pizza. While it was a long day, I would do it again in a heartbeat. It was great to explore these fun and engaging breweries right in the heart of my own homestate.

several different variations, each one with something new and unique.

Warren Dubell

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

LIVE LIFE FROM A TO

SOME PEOPLE ARE HAPPY BEING A TO B. AND OTHERS WANT THE WHOLE A TO Z VIA ANYWHERE THEY LIKE THE LOOK OF. WHEREVER YOUR LIFE TAKES YOU, TAKE A ZINO NICARAGUA HALF CORONA FOR THE RIDE. HANDMADE, PRE-CUT QUALITY FOR YOU – ANYTIME, ANYWHERE.

A UNIQUE BLEND OF FLAVOURS FROM A–Z

#zinocigars zino.com

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

BREWERY TOUR SUMMER '24

• FEATURED: DEPARTED SOLES BREWING CO. COURTESY OF CHRIS ORANGEO

For this piece, our team planned on a divide and conquer strategy. While Nick and Warren headed south to enjoy some of the best New Jersey breweries, Andy and I were on our way to enjoy the many wonderful brews of Brooklyn. However, our first stop on the route was a local brewery, just 10 minutes from Andy's home. Departed Soles Brewing Company in Jersey City has been around since 2015 and offers a plethora of gluten-free beer options for its customers. Besides their gracious gesture to their customers who prefer gluten-free beer, the entire theme of the brewery was 90s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, mixed with references to the New York Knicks and

the graffiti scene. After having a delicious Red Lager from their menu and friendly conversations with one of the owners, Andy and I decided to make our way to the beautiful East Side River location for our second stop on our Brewery tour. In the heart of Domino Park, Other Half Brewing Company is a bustling hub of delicious beer and lively conversation amongst friends. First opened in Williamsburg in 2014, Other Half has two other locations in New York City and one in North Philadelphia. It was founded by three friends whose mission for their business is crystal clear; to create beer that they’d want to drink from the company they want to be

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

BREWERY TOUR SUMMER '24

a part of. With over 170 offerings throughout their four locations, their work ethic and simple mission have been executed to perfection. The aesthetic of Other Half Brewing wasn't the typical brewery style we expected, but their vibe fits right in with Williamsburg's flair for the eclectic. With a large neon sign of the company's logo illuminating the interior, there are more than a dozen tables inside that accommodate large parties. The brewing tanks have a prominent presence the moment you walk inside, yet they did not take away from the brewery's ambience. They had one long bench-style seating section outside for their customers to enjoy the beautiful weather all summer long. On top of the spacious seating and pet-friendly

environment, Other Half Brewing allows for their customers to take their beverages across the street and enjoy the sights and atmosphere of the East River. This specific location along the river would be an ideal area to pair a cigar with one of their beers, wines, seltzers or coffees! Our first beverage of choice was their imperial stout “Deep Orbit: Cygnus” which had notable flavors of caramel and chocolate. A medium-bodied cigar such as the Foundation Charter Oak would pair perfectly with the strong profile of the imperial stout. Another beer we tried from Other Half Brewing was their brown “London Ale”. Smooth and not as dominant on the palate as their imperial stout, it would pair beautifully with a Montecristo 1935 Anniversary Nicaragua.

• FEATURED: OTHER HALF BREWING COMPANY

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

• FEATURED: BROOKLYN BREWERY

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

BREWERY TOUR SUMMER '24

Once we wrapped up at Other Half Brewing, we geared up for the one mile walk to our final location, or so we thought! Upon our walk-through of Brooklyn, a bar caught our eye, and sparked a memory for Andy - he had been there before! Jackbar, located on the outskirts of South Williamsburg, has the best of both worlds with the vibe and prices of an affordable dive bar featuring modern-day pinball machines in every space available. Although we didn’t take the time to play on a pinball machine, just sitting at the bar, taking in its character and clientele, I can tell why it was packed at capacity in the middle of the afternoon. After our pitstop at Jackbar, we continued to our final stop of the day, which has been brewing beer in Brooklyn for forty years. Beer produced by the Brooklyn Brewery have more of a nationwide notoriety and historical background than most other breweries. Yet when you set foot into the industrial-style establishment, the mood and character of Brooklyn Brewery felt very homegrown and comfortable. As you enter this 80,000-square-foot location, you are met by four massive brewing tanks with a small gift shop to the left of you. Beyond the gift shop is where the magic seemingly takes place! Sounds of old-school hip hop fill the atmosphere and can drown out your thoughts if you let it. The main area for consumers to sit and enjoy their beer can initially seem intimidating with at least four dozen tables filled with beer lovers who are all taking in this historical company's cool ambiance.

As you make your way toward the bar, your attention is drawn to walls filled with New York City-inspired graffiti artwork. Brooklyn Brewery does a great job of capturing the essence of New York City from the early 90s to the present day. The crowd at Brooklyn Brewery wasn’t as different as I assumed it would be. We even encountered some familiar faces at the Brooklyn Brewery who recognized us from Other Half Brewing! Good beer and spirited surroundings can indeed bring people together! We didn’t venture too far off the beaten path when it came to trying their beer selection. With over 40 selections brewed at their historical location, we went with their flagship beer, the Brooklyn Lager. The beer that started it all for them was sleek and stunning in visuals as the dark brown lager filled their signature bottle sporting their logo that is recognizable far and wide. Due to my past pairing experiences of a Brooklyn Lager and a cigar, I can vouch that a medium to full-bodied cigar sprinkled with Nicaraguan tobacco either in the wrapper, binder, or filler is ideal. Two cigars I currently can’t get enough of are the Trinidad Espiritu Series 3 and the Crowned Heads Le Patissier. The blends on those two cigar lines pair perfectly with this delicious amber lager. •

Chris Orangeo

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

TOP 10 NEW ARRIVALS OF 2024

BY JEFF BRODY / PRODUCT PHOTOS BY CHRIS HORNADAY

The days are long, the weather is warm, and it’s the best time of the year to enjoy a fine premium cigar. With the slew of new releases that we’ve seen around the cigar world this year, , now is the perfect time to check out our favorites of 2024. From classic brands such as Romeo y Julieta to up-and-coming boutiques like HVC, you are certain to find your next obsession with some specially curated assistance.

Crafted by JR: Aganorsa Leaf This exceptional treat is blended by the team here at JR with a helpful hand from the folks at Aganorsa Leaf. Using Aganorsa’s top-shelf Nicaraguan Criollo and Corojo tobaccos at the center with a silky and dark San Andres wrapper, the result is downright decadent and rich. Crafted by JR: Aganorsa Leaf delivers a hearty medium-full bodied smoke with complex flavors of chocolate, zesty spices, leather, earth, tobacco sweetness, and touches of coffee.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

Foundation Wiseman Corojo/Maduro El Gueguense was one of the first blends released by Nick Melillo’s Foundation Cigar Company, and it, along with its follow-up, The Wise Man Maduro, are some of the most popular cigars Foundation offers. However, this year, the brand is going through some changes. Now made at My Father Cigars S.A. in the heart of Nicaragua, both blends make use of masterfully aged Nicaraguan long fillers from Condega, Esteli and Jalapa. El Gueguense’s rich Nicaraguan Corojo wrapper delivers intense flavors of spice, cedar and toffee, while the dusky San Andres wrapper on The Wise Man Maduro offers added dimensions of chocolate and sweetness.

RoMa Craft CroMagnon PA Broadleaf In 2024, RoMa Craft Tobac also shook things up, altering its famous CroMagnon line with an all-new blend highlighted by a top-shelf Pennsylvanian Broadleaf maduro wrapper. This PA Broadleaf wrapper obscures a unique Sumatra hybrid binder and a blend of choice Nicaraguan and Dominican long fillers, differing from the original’s Cameroon binder and all-Nicaraguan core. Offered in several sizes, you can expect the RoMa Craft CroMagnon PA Broadleaf to coat your palate with a full-bodied tapestry of dark chocolate, earth, white pepper, cinnamon, and sweetness.

Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Nicaragua Midnight Twist This summer you can add some flair to your nights with the Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Midnight Twist! This decadent, barber-pole blend comes in two sizes, a 6x54 Toro and 4.25x46 Love Story Perfecto. Both options feature two wrappers flawlessly intertwined. Crafted with only the finest Nicaraguan tobaccos and highlighted by a dark streak of Nicaraguan maduro, the Midnight Twist will provide you with a medium-full bodied medley of coffee, cinnamon, wood and cocoa.

Kristoff Tres Compadres Next we have the Kristoff Tres Compadres. A truly special new cigar from the popular boutique brand Kristoff Cigars, it celebrates the lives of owner Glen Case’s closest friends. To pay homage, Case pulled all the stops. Offered in three sizes, Tres Compadres is crafted with only the finest leaves Nicaraguan leaves. The result is a complex and refined medium- bodied smoke presenting a medley of creaminess, cedar, cinnamon, toasted bread, vanilla and hints of pepper that build in intensity as the burn progresses.

Crowned Heads Mil Dias Maduro It took 1,000 days for Crowned Heads’ famous Mil Dias blend to attain perfection, and 1,000 days after its release, we saw the introduction of its sequel – the Mil Dias Maduro. Once again, a collaboration with Eradio Pichardo and his TacaNicsa factory in the heart of Esteli Nicaragua produced a stellar cigar. This is not your run-of-the-mill line extension with just a new wrapper slapped on. Mil Dias Maduro is blended from the ground-up with an all-Nicaraguan core, Ecuadorian Habano binder, and a luscious Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. Dense and rich yet perfectly balanced, its medium-bodied flavors feature hints of dark chocolate, peppery spices, roasted nuts, leather and tobacco sweetness.

Crux Epicure Habano The Crux Epicure Habano may be the best line yet from Crux. Coming out of the famous Plasencia Cigars S.A. in Nicaragua, Crux Epicure Habano is a Nicaraguan puro of the highest order. Masterfully aged Nicaraguan long fillers and a Nicaraguan binder join with a silky Ecuadorian Habano Seco wrapper for a more refined experience. Balanced and flavorful, complex notes of pepper, cedar, earth, cocoa, roasted nuts and sweetness will envelop your palate without overwhelming even the most novice aficionados.

Dunbarton Umbagog Bronzeback Umbagog is a bundle brand based on the coveted Mi Querida – not every wrapper leaf is good enough for the beloved Mi Querida, so those more rustic-looking, rough-around- the-edges wrappers get a second life with Umbagog. This rich, spicy 5x48 cigar wears a slightly different wrapper from lower on the plant than the rest of the Umbagog lineup, offering additional nuances of earth and pepper with just a dash of that delicious broadleaf sweetness. Paired with a zesty Nicaraguan core for a bold, medium-full bodied smoke, the Umbagog Bronzeback is the perfect choice as this summer’s daily driver.

Gurkha Treinta Toro Anniversaries are an occasion worth celebrating for anybody, but in the cigar world, brands always have something special in store for milestone years. For the 30th anniversary of Kaizad Hansotia’s Gurkha ownership, the brand celebrated with one of its finest cigars yet, the Gurkha Treinta Toro. Truly exceptional, the celebratory cigar features a co-mingling of extensively aged Nicaraguan Corojo with Criollo long fillers and binder all cloaked in a beautiful reddish-brown Ecuadorian Habano Rosado wrapper. Medium-bodied and bursting with flavor, one will experience a flurry of notes including roasted nuts, creaminess, earth, white pepper and tobacco sweetness throughout.

HVC Pan Caliente CT Bundle Here’s a real sleeper hit from one of the most underrated boutique brands on the market – the HVC Pan Caliente Connecticut. These cigars are crafted in the “Cuban sandwich” method where Nicaraguan short fillers are mixed with long fillers, making them exceptionally affordable. The finishing touch is a silky Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper to deliver a mellow-medium bodied medley of espresso, cedar, cream, baking spices, and touches of sweetness.

WRITTEN BY NICK LIBRETTI PHOTOS BY STEVEN DARIUS THE HEART OF HONDURAS

A JOURNEY INTO THE CAMP CAMACHO EXPERIENCE BY NICK LIBRETTI / PHOTOS BY DAVIDOFF AND NICK LIBRETTI

THE HEART OF HONDURAS: A JOURNEY INTO THE CAMP CAMACHO EXPERIENCE

O ver the course of 15 years in the cigar industry, I have had the privilege of participating in some truly remarkable experiences. At the age of just 23, I was able to visit the Dominican Republic and witness for the first time the intricacies and complexities of what it takes to make a premium cigar. On the rolling floors of the world’s largest factory, I remember being overcome with a sense of amazement at the sheer breadth of the operation. The attention to detail, the modern techniques combined with the old-world knowledge, and the logistics needed to make everything come together gave me a much deeper appreciation for a product that up until that point, I perhaps had taken for granted. In the many years since, I’ve been able to experience just about everything a cigar nerd like myself would like to check off of their bucket list. From visits to the fields of Jalapa and Esteli in Nicaragua to the curing barns of Connecticut, and even to Kentucky, home of that potent fire cured tobacco, I believed I had finally soaked in all of the knowledge necessary to understand this aspect of the cigar industry. At the age of 34, I find myself yet again left in a state of amazement and wonder after being able to travel to a country that many believe gets overlooked in this industry…Honduras. My team and I were asked this year to join a group experience with the team from Camacho cigars at their facility in Danli,

Honduras. It was going to be a 5-day excursion, where we would be able to observe every step in the process of making a Camacho cigar. We were told we would not only observe but have the chance to be active participants in the process, which was a first for many of us. What we thought was going to be yet another tour of a factory and fields quickly turned into one of the most fun, engaging, and memorable experiences any of us have ever had. Our group was met in Miami by three members of the Camacho/Davidoff team which consisted of Joe, our accounts manager, George, the senior manager and content creator, and Jack, the Camacho brand ambassador. They made us feel incredibly welcome and for the duration of the trip made sure we wanted for nothing. That night in Miami was spent at a delicious Cuban restaurant followed by a visit to a cigar lounge where we discussed the itinerary and prepared for our journey the next day. The flight was only about 2 hours, and the route allowed us to witness breathtaking scenery, particularly over Cuba. Our entry into Honduras was simple and easy, and we packed ourselves onto a bus to make the 4-hour ride to Danili. As we entered the bus, we were greeted with drinks, snacks and of course a plethora of delicious cigars from Camacho. While the trip was long, it seemed to fly by as we spent our time enjoying cigars and taking in the picturesque scenery of the country.

• FEATURED: FRONT ENTRANCE TO CAMACHO FACTORY / CAMACHO BROADLEAF WITH CAPPACOCINO / DANLI MARIMBA BAND

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

THE HEART OF HONDURAS: A JOURNEY INTO THE CAMP CAMACHO EXPERIENCE

When we arrived at our destination, we were greeted by a few more members of the Camacho team and got to settle into the top- of-the-line facility known as the Camp Camacho compound, which sits next to the factory. While a few of us have stayed at nice hotels in Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, I don’t believe any of us expected the facility to be so nice. We each had large rooms with queen sized beds and brand-new sheets and pillows, many embroidered with the Camacho logo. The living area featured a small kitchen, a nice wooden bar as well as a large leather couch. Outside, they had adorned the grounds with fire pits and Adirondack chairs that were actually made in their own box factory. After settling in, the first night’s festivities began. We were served some amazing food, consisting of various pork, beef and bean dishes and were entertained by a three-man Marimba group. It felt much more like a vacation at a luxury resort than a compound next to a factory, which is exactly what Davidoff wanted to achieve when planning the experience. We lit up a few cigars and after what I felt was an adequate amount of fun, I retired for the evening, eagerly anticipating the next day’s adventure. The mornings at the compound were serene and calm. Instead of a normal pot of coffee, Camacho hired a local barista to come in each morning to specially craft whichever caffeinated beverage you desired. I don’t believe I have ever had more cappuccino in my life as I enjoyed the sunrise over the mountains with a smooth yet robust Camacho Connecticut. After a nice breakfast, we all put on our matching Camp Camacho t-shirts and set off on the bus to visit the tobacco fields, where Camacho grows their legendary Corojo tobacco.

• FEATURED: GROUP TOURING COROJO TOBACCO FIELDS

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

• FEATURED: JACK HEYER IN CAMACHO FIELD

• FEATURED: ROBERT GALFO IN CAMACHO FIELD

THE HEART OF HONDURAS: A JOURNEY INTO THE CAMP CAMACHO EXPERIENCE

Upon arrival, we were greeted by Manuel who would be our main tour guide for the next two days. The vast tracts of land covered with growing tobacco was an outstanding sight. What I found impressive about this stage of the operation was the irrigation. Our visit was during the dry season and most of the foliage was brown and dry. The tobacco, however, which is watered through a drip irrigation system, was green and lush. The tobacco is grown in stages, and each stage takes up about 17 acres of land. Being able to see and touch and smell that amazing Corojo 2012 tobacco is something you cannot truly appreciate until you experience it. Some of our team was given the chance to gather leaves in the fields, a task that one of my coworkers seemed incredibly proficient at. Once the tobacco is picked, it is taken to one of several curing barns. Unfortunately, several of these barns had been severely damaged a few weeks earlier due to bad weather, but they were already well on their way to rebuilding. I have to say, there is nothing quite like the smell of walking into a curing barn full of tobacco. As the plants turn from bright green into a rustic brown, the barn fills with an enticing aroma of natural sweetness. The workers, wearing helmets and tied into harnesses, were working to hang and rotate the tobaccos from the high rafters and can completely fill a curing barn in one day. The tobaccos are rotated through the barn for a period of 6-8 weeks before they are ready to be sent to the factory for fermentation. Manuel explained that they keep the different priming’s separate, as they each require a different level of heat and humidity. After a quick stop in the greenhouses to view the seedlings, we loaded back on the bus for a rather fun and adventurous lunch. We stopped at a park that was fully equipped with a grill, a lovely gazebo, a pool and several furnished huts complete with air conditioning. It also offered

• FEATURED: TOBACCO HANGING IN CURING BARN / SEEDLING BED IN GREEN HOUSE CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

THE HEART OF HONDURAS: A JOURNEY INTO THE CAMP CAMACHO EXPERIENCE

a tremendous view of the mountainous landscape that surrounded us. After a lunch of, in my case, too many tacos, the team was offered the chance to explore the area on ATVs. While I chose instead to enjoy an ice cold Salva Vida and a cigar, the rest of the team eagerly shot off on the ATVs. It was these fun side excursions that elevated the whole journey and transformed it from a simple business trip to a fully engaging and exciting experience. We then returned to the compound where we engaged in one of my favorite parts of the trip, our own blending seminar. They brought in a tray filled with various filler tobaccos as well as sheets explaining the origins of each one. We then lit up each tobacco and documented our thoughts. At the end, we were asked to mark off which tobaccos we enjoyed and if we were to make a blend for a cigar, which would we choose. It was incredibly insightful and gave us a first-hand look into how a blend is chosen. They then informed us that the next day, we would have a chance to actually taste our own blends. We will discuss later how understated that comment was. That evening, we ventured into the city of Danli for dinner at a restaurant that transforms into a night club during the weekends. This is where we were first introduced to one of my new favorite dishes…Anafre. It is a bean and cheese dip that is served in a clay pot, similar to what you would find with fondue. Underneath the main bowl is a second chamber, where

fiery coals keep the dip boiling hot and delicious. I am not afraid to say, I finished almost an entire pot myself and would do so again. Cigars were then brought out as a DJ began to fill the room with dance music. Eventually, we were convinced to partake in karaoke, and I will say my rendition of “Sweet Caroline” was only surpassed by the sultry cover of “Party in the USA” by another team member. After another joyous night of comradery, laughs and what I would categorize as a more than moderate amount of fun, it was back to the compound to prepare for the next day. I again woke early to enjoy a cigar, catch up on some work, and drink far too many cappuccinos. The long, strenuous journey to the factory took about 15 seconds, as we simply walked around a wall to the left of the compound to the gated entrance. We were once again greeted by Manuel, who, before taking us into the building, showed us an empty lot to the rear of the building and explained it would be the location for their new aging facility. One of the most difficult logistical hurdles when it comes to managing a cigar factory is to have enough aging tobacco stored to maintain full production and quality should any shortages arrive. Camacho’s plan is to store enough tobacco to have at least 5 years of full production on all of their lines.

Upon entering the factory the group was instantly greeted with the harsh aroma

• FEATURED: CAMACHO FACTORY ROLLING FLOOR / NICK FAILS AT ROLLING CIGAR

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

• FEATURED: TOBACCO BEING REHYDRATED AND SORTED

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

THE HEART OF HONDURAS: A JOURNEY INTO THE CAMP CAMACHO EXPERIENCE

of the fermentation room. The release of ammonia from the tobacco creates a pungent, chemical aroma. The tobaccos are brought into the room from the curing barns and placed into pilones, giant piles of tobacco that can reach up to 4,000 pounds. The combination of the volume and pressure of the tobacco plus the humidity of the room creates heat, which is the cause of the fermentation. After 40 days of the tobaccos being rotated throughout the pilone, the filler tobacco is taken to be dried out slightly more, while the binder and wrapper tobacco is taken to a room where more moisture is added back into it to regain elasticity. After a short stop in the sorting room, we entered the most impressive room in the facility. The rolling room is is large, modern and clean. Approximately 150 pairs of rollers were at work in this massive space, where on that day alone, they rolled over 77,000 cigars. The bunchers carefully place all the filler tobaccos inside of the binder with speed and accuracy. The tobacco roll was then placed into a mold to form overnight. The rollers use the previous day’s bunch and place it in the elastic wrapper. The team was given the chance to try our hand at bunching and wrapping cigars. While some were more successful than others (I really stunk), none of us came close to the quality seen from the seasoned rollers. It was a humbling experience. While the banding and packing area was impressive, the next part of the tour was the most memorable for me and I think one of the highlights of the entire journey. On a large table, the company had laid

out custom boxes of 10 cigars. Next to each person's cigar box was their blending sheet from the day before and inside was 10 cigars with their signature blend along with a custom sticker with their name. While we had anticipated some version of the individual blends we made, none of us thought it would be this elaborate. It was again one of the small, thoughtful touches that made the experience that much more meaningful and personal. Following the incredibly insightful tour, we then ventured to Danli for lunch at a lovely rooftop café and once again I overindulged with the anafre bean dish. After lunch, instead of our usual bus ride back to the compound, we were surprised to see a long trolley waiting for us on the street. While music played, this trolley drove around the city, offering us a unique tour of the bustling town. We made a few stops, including at Oscar Valladares coffee shop, before we headed back to the compound for our final night. The final evening, which many of us thought was going to be a quiet and relaxing night, turned into the most unforgettable of the whole trip. We were all given matching tuxedo t-shirts and were told that as a final surprise, they had arranged for a tattoo artist to be our personal artist for the night. At first, we were a little hesitant, but after seeing his Instagram page, we could tell that Tony Tony Tattoo was a legitimate artist, whose work in the U.S. would cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Tony brought everything he needed and was one of the most professional tattoo artists I’ve ever worked with.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

THE HEART OF HONDURAS: A JOURNEY INTO THE CAMP CAMACHO EXPERIENCE

For the next 6 hours, while we ate a feast fit for a king and were entertained by an amazing mariachi band, Tony was stationed in his own little corner, working tirelessly on the designs we had chosen. I went with a compass design I had been wanting for a while, and Jack received the Baccarat logo. Several other team members also had the pleasure of getting inked up, with one of our team getting not only his first ever tattoo, but the Camacho scorpion logo on his leg. This led to the creation of one of the many catchphrases on the trip…“You Got Scorped”. The next morning, we set off on one final excursion before we returned to the capital city for our flight home. We had the pleasure of visiting the Cerro Azul Distillery, in the town of Jacaleapa. We were not only given a tour of this immensely impressive and modern facility but were able to sample several of their special in-house spirits. My favorite was El Sabroson, a sweet yet potent liqueur which we each received as a parting gift. After a quick lunch, we loaded up on the bus for what should have been a 2-hour trip to Tegucigalpa, the capital, for an overnight stay before before departing the next day. Due to traffic, the trip took over 5 hours, 3 of them within miles of our destination. While the group was tired and eager to rest in the hotel, the constant laughter and storytelling from our host Jack kept our spirits going the whole way. We arrived early in the evening, checked into our rooms and had a lovely rooftop dinner. Before heading to bed, I sat for a few minutes on the balcony of my room that overlooked the entire city. From there, while taking in yet another stunning view of this amazing country, I reflected on all we had experienced the previous few days. While I have traveled quite a lot for work over

the last few years, I must admit I am not a great traveler. I get very anxious while flying and I have a tendency to be a rather boring homebody. What the Camp Camacho experience offered was much more than a factory tour and some free cigars. It showcased the wonders and beauty of a country that many in this industry overlook. The hospitality, kindness and passion of the Honduran people was on full display and humbled me from the moment I arrived. It brought our team much closer together and helped forge a bond that we will carry with us as we navigate the wild world of the cigar industry. It wasn’t just a business trip, or an excursion or even a vacation… it was the Camp Camacho Experience and it was one we shall all remember for the rest of our lives. •

CAMACHO BROADLEAF

BIG FLAVOR, BOLD PERSONALITY

In the quest for excellence, no corners were cut. The result is an oversized Honduran Broadleaf packed with giant flavor and crafted with precision and passion. A cigar with an“ALL OR NOTHING” attitude. No compromises. No settling. This bad boy is tailored just for you - no questions asked.

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

BY JACK HEYER / JOSEPH HOLTMAN / EDUARDO GUERRA PHOTO SUPPLIED BY DAVIDOFF

Camacho has long been known for its disruptive attitude and bold, flavorful cigars coming out of Honduras, so it was no surprise when the company released the new Camacho Broadleaf in the fall of 2024. What was surprising though was the blend itself and the strength and character of the cigar. The Camacho Broadleaf features a rich, dark chocolatey wrapper that would give the impression that it is a full-bodied banger Camacho is known for. However, the wrapper appears to differ in more ways than one. Boasting the tagline "Big Leaf, Big Smoke," the Broadleaf is a Honduran Broadleaf wrapper, a departure from many of the tobaccos from Pennsylvania and the Connecticut River Valley that most consumers might think of when they picture a broadleaf wrapper. This wrapper also provides a smooth, mellow- bodied smoke that satiates the lover of full- bodied flavors with an approach that is also suitable for lovers of mellow cigars. The Camacho Broadleaf is not just about its unique blend. It’s a testament to the level of craftsmanship of the Camacho Factory in Danli, Honduras. Its composition presents a Honduran binder that encases filler tobaccos from Honduras and the Dominican Republic, creating a distinctly Honduran blend. Dressed

to the nines, the metallic copper band adds a final touch of elegance to the sleek Honduran Broadleaf wrapper. This blend showcases Camacho's commitment to promoting and preserving the rich, full-bodied and full- flavored Honduran taste it is known for. The Broadleaf has a strong smell of wood and a pungent aroma that displays its age and time in fermentation. On a pre-light draw, a smoker of the Camacho Broadleaf is greeted with a slight sweetness that is a precursor for things to come. Upon lighting, the cigar has notes of cedar and a full-bodied flavor but does not overwhelm. Camacho is well-known for changing the status quo, with offerings like their Camacho Corojo, an all-Honduran Corojo Puro blended from the same leaf that manages to be complex and challenging. Another instance, The Camacho Triple Maduro, one of the first of its kind and a crowd favorite, that offers a bold smoke to lovers of Camacho. Or, even the Camacho Connecticut, a mellow but not meek offering that appeals to both the avid Connecticut smoker, the novice, and devotees of bold in-your-face cigars that Camacho is known for. The Camacho Broadleaf is no exception, and customers can agree that Honduran Broadleaf is here to stay. •

CIGAR MAGAZINE BY JR CIGAR-SUMMER-2024

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