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La Guarida - the finest restaurant in Havana

La Guarida - the finest restaurant in Havana

by Nick HendryPhotography by Monica MoltoModel: Jhayna Duarte There is no question that Cuban Cigars are the pinnacle of tobacco craft, but they are by no means the only area in which Cuba excels.  Havana is a capital like no other in many regards, but one thing it shares with...
The Mareva - the unsung hero of Cuban Cigars

The Mareva - the unsung hero of Cuban Cigars

by Nick Hendry. Some Cuban Cigars are made in a size and shape that is popular across all marcas and all smokers.  All aficionados will be familiar with the slim and elegant Laguito No 1, known as the Cohiba Lancero or El Rey del Mundo La Reina, and the sturdy,...
Two classic Cognac houses

Two classic Cognac houses

Article by Richard Duckworth - Photography by Julia Duckworth   “Claret is the liquor for boys; port for men; but he who aspires to be a hero must drink brandy.” Samuel Johnson Any cigar aficionado is invariably aware of the classical paring of cognac and cigars. Unfortunately, the cocktail revival that took hold...
Cuban Cigar Website: Q&A with Co-Founder Alex Groom

Cuban Cigar Website: Q&A with Co-Founder Alex Groom

There is no doubt that Cuban Cigar Website is, and has been for many years now, the reference point for most cigar aficionados around the globe. Never has a website been more helpful when trying to remember the name of a vitola, the specific ring gauge of a specific cigar, the year...
Cigar Style - why is our cigar considered stylish?

Cigar Style - why is our cigar considered stylish?

By Nick Hendry. Most, if not all, of us who enjoy Cuban Cigars will at one point or another been asked to explain what it is they find so endearing about the practice.  The question may come from a fellow smoker, looking to bond over a shared inspiration, or it...
Brand Spotlight - The New Guards of Havana

Brand Spotlight - The New Guards of Havana

by Nick Hendry The 500 years of history and tradition associated with Cuban Cigars is often discussed, and is likely an important factor in the trust afforded to Cuban puros by smokers worldwide.  Many of the tales and legends behind the most famous, and oldest, brands are as well-known as...
The Entreacto - a brief moment of Cuban brilliance.

The Entreacto - a brief moment of Cuban brilliance.

by Nick Hendry photography by Monica MoltoModel - Malena Rivalta The fashion for Cuban Cigars in the modern age tends towards large cigars, perfect for an hour or more of relaxation and reflection.  The world moves at such a pace these days it can easily leave us stressed, tense and...
Icons of Cigars: Jay-Z

Icons of Cigars: Jay-Z

By Nick Hendry. The world of hip-hop is one where luxury and the finer things in life are prized, and where being seen enjoying fine Cuban Cigars is a symbol of taste and success.  It is a world where opulence is celebrated and excess sought.  In only 50 short years...
How to cut your Cuban Cigar

How to cut your Cuban Cigar

By Nick Hendry One of the most important steps to enjoying a fine Cuban Cigar is the cut.  The simple act of removing the cap from the closed end of the cigar may seem inconsequential, a mere snip ahead of the serious business of lighting, but it can affect the...
Cigar Sanctuary - How to create the consummate home smoking lounge

Cigar Sanctuary - How to create the consummate home smoking lounge

By Nick Hendry The past 12 months have seen devotees of Cuban Cigars, like the majority of society, across the world spending a lot more time at home than we are used to.  This can present many new challenges, from maintaining our businesses to keeping in contact with friends and...
Icons of Cigars - Rihanna

Icons of Cigars - Rihanna

by Nick Hendry When one discusses Cuban Cigars and their famous proponents the same names can often dominate the conversation.  These names – Churchill, Freud, JFK – belong to some of the most famous men in modern history, men who have accomplished great things and ensured they will be remembered...
How to light your Cuban cigar - tools and techniques...

How to light your Cuban cigar - tools and techniques...

By Nick Hendry.   When beginning a journey of enjoyment with a Cuban Cigar, the first steps are the most important. They choose the direction the rest of the trip will take so it is vital they are taken with care and attention. The lighting of our cigar is perhaps...
Sherry and Cigars: A Versatile Pairing

Sherry and Cigars: A Versatile Pairing

By Richard Duckworth    /   Photography: Julia Duckworth These endless winter days and the ongoing gloom in the world can wear one down. It can be somewhat edifying to reflect, think back to more pleasant times, and look forward to their imminent return. Andalucia, the sun-drenched south-west corner of Spain...
Cigar Style: The perfect accessories for the stylish smoker

Cigar Style: The perfect accessories for the stylish smoker

By Nick Hendry   The smoking of a fine Cuban Cigar should always carry with it a sense of occasion.  It is a reward to the smoker for hard work done and a chance to reflect on challenges to come – you’ve earned it, so you deserve every aspect of...
On The Light Side

On The Light Side

By Rikesh Chauhan My first cigar experience was quite picturesque. My father and I were on the rooftop of a restaurant in Singapore just before sunset, drinking Old Fashioneds, when the waiter handed us a cigar menu. Knowing absolutely nothing about cigars at the time, I asked him to recommend...