Cigar & Spirits Magazine's July / August 2022 Issue by Cigar & Spirits Magazine

JULY / AUGUST 2022

J UL Y / AUG US T 2022

LINCOLN SALAZAR RANDY MASTRONICOLA BREAHNA WHEELER JOE REDMOND VAN HUGH C. DE WEEVER III RICK SOTO CHRIS GOLDSHOLL MARY JANE CLARK AUDREY PAVIA CODY CHO KEVIN KIM ELISA JORDAN KEVIN KENNEY ELLIS AUGUSTINUS SHAHID GHANI CARLY SCHEUER

Founder, CEO & Publisher Executive Editor Corporate Director Events & Administration Creative Director Director of Brand Management Director of Sales Account Executive Events & Administration Consulting Editor Consulting Media Director Digital Media Senior Writer Senior Writer Administrative Assistant Chief Financial Officer Accounting

PHOTOGRAPHY FOR OSCAR DE LA HOYA & HOLLY SONDERS by Tas Limur

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sean Chaffin, Nick Hammond, Elisa Jordan, Greg Mays, Matt Randolph

A TO P H AT M E D I A P U B L I C AT I O N Editorial, Production and Sales Office

Headquartered at: 72 Argonaut Suite 130 | Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 (949) 599-2760 Cigar & Spirits is published bi-monthly by Top Hat Media Group. Please send address changes to Cigar & Spirits Magazine, PO BOX 92675, Long Beach, CA 90809. ©2022 by Top Hat Media Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. For subscription inquiries or changes of address: Cigar & Spirits Magazine, PO BOX 92675, Long Beach, CA 90809 (you may email us at cigarandspirits@pfsmag.com) (888) 881-5861, or fax (714) 226-9789. Subscription rate is $19.99 for 6 issues; $32.99 for 12 issues. Canadian and foreign surface, add $6 extra per year payable in U.S. funds. Single copy price is $5.99. Please allow up to 8 weeks for mailing of first bi-monthly issue to new subscribers. When changing address, give 12 weeks notice, and include address label from latest copy as well as new address. Occasionally, we make our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services that we believe would interest our readers. Please view our Privacy Policy at tophatmediagroup.com/privacypolicy.html. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40612608, Registration No. R126851765. Return undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: IMEX Global Solutions, P. O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2, CANADA. Printed in the U.S.A. July 2022 Volume 12/Issue 4 For Advertising: Advertising@CigarandSpirits.com To Contact Us for Questions & Comments email: CustomerService@CigarandSpirits.com Letters to the Editor: Feedback@CigarandSpirits.com For subscription customer service: cigarandspirits@pfsmag.com Cigar & Spirits Magazine

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CONTENTS ON THE COVER

OSCAR DE LA HOYA & HOLLY SONDERS THE GOLDEN COUPLE

LIFESTYLE

THE LOWDOWN WHAT’S OUT THERE NOW

Tutima X Esquivel Compass Collection Cool Out With Linen Shirts Barclay Rex Keeps on Thrivin’

FEATURES

THE SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE FESTIVAL

A Fairy-tale Whisky and Cigar Castle of Dreams

SPECIAL SUMMER ISLAND TRAVEL SECTION

Beautiful Belize Fantasy Islands Tahiti and Bora Bora

THE CIGAR SOMMELIER

First Class Service or Smoke and Mirrors?

INTERVIEWS

ICONIC BRAND SPOTLIGHT

Hennessy Cognac Julien Pepin Lehalleur

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ON THE COVER

OSCAR DE LA HOYA & HOLLY SONDERS 6

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BEHIND THE LEAF

The Architect of La Aurora Cigars Master Blender Manuel Inoa

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THE CIGAR SOMMELIER

COCKTAIL CORNER

ICONIC BRAND SPOTLIGHT

THE LOWDOWN

REWARDS

FEATURED PAIRINGS

THE SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE

Perfecto Pairings to Expand Your Palate

FOR YOUR HUMIDOR

Summer Cigar Buyer’s Guide

FOR YOUR HOME BAR

Summer Vodka Spotlightt

BEHIND THE LEAF

SUMMER ISLAND TRAVEL

TOM DYER’S COCKTAIL CORNER

Our resident cocktail expert shares his flair…

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

THE TEN LAWS OF CHIVALRY OVER THE YEARS I have written about camaraderie, love, loss, what it

takes to be a gentleman and being good to our fellow man. The last one is the most important one to me. I’ve always hoped to stay committed to bringing back chivalry in our modern world.

Humility Be humble in life. A lion does not need to announce it is a lion. You are no better than anyone, and no one is better than you. We all have strengths and weaknesses in different areas of life.

Gratitude The only humble response to the ongoing gift of life is gratitude. Each day is a gift. The time we have left is borrowed.

Generosity Give ten times to the universe. The universe will repay you a hundred more times in blessings.

Discipline Excellence lives in the attention to detail. Anything that comes easy is never built on solid brick. It is built on a foundation of straw.

Faith You must have faith even when it is blind, but always have faith within yourself with divine righteousness.

Equality Be fair to your fellow man and woman. Stand up for those who need assistance.

Courage You must have the courage to do right. Courage is shown when it is not in line with the popular majority. The courage to fight and endure for the truth is most important.

Leadership You must always lead by example, and you should always try to be selfless. We succeed when we lead others to love, freedom and joy.

Manners Good manners are the action of respect.

Love Everything in life must be done with love, humility, selflessness and kindness. Unconditional love is the hardest to give especially when it’s not returned. I hope over the years my Publisher’s Notes have touched even just one person. I have been touched by our readership many times. I hope I have done a small amount to lead us to a kinder and more loving world.

Cheers, Lincoln Salazar Founder, CEO & Publisher Follow on Instagram

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Cigar & Spirits Magazine publisher Lincoln Salazar

LOS ANGELES NYC

SAN FRANCISCO TO K YO

SEOUL

NEWPORT BEACH SYDNEY

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All photos courtesy of Gigantem PR

WHAT’S OUT THERE NOW TUTI M A X ESQU IVEL CO M PA SS COLLEC TI ON CO OL OUT WITH LIN EN SHIRTS BA RCL AY R E X K EEPS ON THR IVIN’

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TUTI M A X ESQU IVEL CO M PA SS COLLEC TION

ecently, independent German watchmaker Tutima and Southern Californian leather craftsman George Esquivel collaborated on the Compass Collection Travel Set. Their efforts clearly demonstrate their common appreciation for fine craftsmanship, precision, and elegant, durable pieces. Tutima is highly regarded for its devotion to the technical perfection of watchmaking. Esquivel has been equally lauded for uniquely designed leather goods that are hand-made and finished by elite craftsmen. The Compass Collection is sold as a six-piece set. It features the coveted mechanical timepiece Tutima Patria Dual Time, a dark leather NATO strap, a double burnt-camel-colored NATO strap, a leather travel watch holder, a pair of hand-crafted Esquivel Zipper Chelsea boots and a natural leather vachetta overnight duffle bag. The Tutima Patria Dual Time offers 65 hours of power reserve and an in-house, hand-wound Caliber 619 movement ensconced in a 43 mm stainless steel case. It’s an ideal watch for frequent travelers as it displays “local time” and “home time," giving the ability to track different time zones simultaneously. Tutima’s toptier craftsmanship invites wearers to appreciate the mechanics of the watch, with the sapphire caseback featuring two winding wheels and the special click with its refined steep spring. The Esquivel Chelsea boots kick the collection into higher gear. They are meticulously hand-stitched, pulled and hand-stained in a process that takes over 100 steps—making each pair of shoes unique and personalized. This coloring technique has also been used to create a distinctive patina on every leather piece in the Tutima X Esquivel Compass Collection. Each piece in the set is not only labelled with logos of Tutima and Esquivel, but also engraved with a compass emblem to celebrate the artisanal spirit of both brands. The Compass Collection retails for $16,900, and it’s limited to only 25 sets. They are available online at Tutima USA and Esquivel shoes websites. tutimausa.com -Matt Randolph

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Bushnell Tour V5 Shift

ZEGNA Linen LongSleeve Shirt ($450)

COOL OUT WITH LINEN SHIRTS

hen speaking of ultimate summer-weight fabrics, linen sits at the top of the list. Linen is the perennial choice for its superior strength, soft feel and, of course, its unmatched breathability. So if you’re looking for some new shirts that help you keep your cool when the weather’s heating up, check out these fab choices.

Taylor Stitch Short Sleeve Western ($128)

Corridor Jungle Cat Linen Shirt ($225)

ZEGNA Linen Long-Sleeve Shirt ($450) A blue button down is an essential shirt to have for suiting up. And having one in linen is luxury you won’t want to miss. This ZEGNA shirt has a spread collar and barrel cuffs for dressing up and tucking in, but it also sports a curved hem for dressing down untucked. It’s a must-have shirt. zegna.com

Taylor Stitch Short Sleeve Western ($128) Taylor Stitch has striking Western shirts in their line, and this short-sleeve version is made with a 5-ounce linen fabric. It has all the standard western shirt fare, bone button snaps and shoulder yokes, but it’s now new and improved for the summer heat. taylorstitch.com

Emporio Armani Button-Front Linen Shirt ($345)

Wills Wrinkle Free Linen Short Sleeve Shirt ($78)

Corridor Jungle Cat Linen Shirt ($225) Made from hand-loomed, breathable linen from Madras, India, this shirt skirts the line between casual button down and Hawaiian shirt, but with a ferocious look. corridornyc.com

Emporio Armani Button-Front Linen Shirt ($345) This Armani shirt has the look of a dress shirt, but it’s enhanced with its alllinen construction. Emporio Armani continues to define the modern look, and now you won’t have to sacrifice comfort to wear something sharp with this linen winner. armani.com

Wills Wrinkle Free Linen Short Sleeve Shirt ($78) This Willis is made with a blend of linen and a synthetic fiber, making it just as breathable as pure linen, but with the added bonus of avoiding pesky wrinkles. It’s a great casual, short-sleeve button down. emmawillis.com

Billy Reid Tuscumbia Linen Shirt ($168)

Billy Reid Tuscumbia Linen Shirt ($168) The Tuscumbia long-sleeve button down features a relaxed look, and a rich dark navy color. Who said linen should be bright white? When your denim shirt is too warm, this is perfect alternative for that laid-back outfit choice. billyreid.com -Dave Johnson

Alex Crane Sun Linen Tee ($55)

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Alex Crane Sun Linen Tee ($55) With a focus on sustainability, Alex Crane has made their 100 percent linen tee easy on the eyes and easy on the planet. Soft and lightweight, this t-shirt is a versatile, casual shirt that you will reach for often. It’s soft as a baby’s bottom as well. alexcrane.co

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hooten young

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All photos courtesy of Barclay Rex

BA RCL AY R E X K EEPS ON THR IVIN’

ocated in Manhattan’s Financial District, Barclay Rex first opened its doors in 1910. The eclectic shop was named for Barclay Street, and after Rex, a Great Dane belonging to the store’s first owner, Vince Nastri. Vince was an artisanal pipe maker who immigrated to New York from Salerno, Italy. After moving to several locations in Lower Manhattan over the years, the shop settled on Pearl Street in the Wall Street area, where it’s currently located. Still owned by the Nastri family, the Barclay Rex tobacco shop is situated on the ground floor of a four-story building constructed in 1920, and features elite brands of handmade pipes, and a walk-in humidor filled with premium cigars—including the shop’s signature cigar, the Y.O. by Yaxel Ortiz, from Nicaragua. Below street level, a smoking lounge is accessible to visitors, and on the second floor, a modern cigar club called Rex New York makes for one of the premier lounges where you can smoke and revel in a unique tradition. barclayrex.com -Matt Randolph

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THE REBIRTH OF CIGARS | DREWESTATE.COM | #DE4L

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FEATURED PAIRINGS PERFECTO PAIRINGS TO EXPAND YOUR PALATE by Greg Mays

MONTECRISTO SIGNATURE ESPADA EL CRISTIANO EXTRA AÑEJO TEQUILA The Montecristo Signature Espada was introduced in late 2021, and it’s like a song from a supergroup: Rafael Nodal headed up the blending along with Nestor Placencia and the “Grupo de Maestros.” These master craftsman are some of the most skilled and experienced cigar-makers in the world. The Signature Espada is a bold-looking cigar, with three bands and a stout vitola. It’s bigger than both a toro and a robusto. The pre-light nose is sweet with finely aged tobacco and a touch of tingly spice. On light, fruit and spice take the forefront, burning perfectly with large smoke output. As you smoke through, honey and cedar become more apparent, and the strength holds at medium throughout. I paired the Signature Espada with El Cristiano Extra Añejo Tequila, which brought in some similar wood and spice notes, along with an ocean-saltiness that helps to round out the flavor profile of each. As the Signature Espada approaches the nub, the cedar that blends with the woody-saltiness of the tequila is sublime. Overall, this pairing is in the medium category as both cigar and spirit are not overpowering or overwhelming. It’s a soothing pairing that delivers big time as an after-lunch pairing, and offers a crisp refresher to your midday. Size: 6 x 55 Valiente | Wrapper, Binder, Filler: Nicaraguan | Strength: Medium MSRP (cigar): $15 | MSRP (tequila): $125

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SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE

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PUNCH RARE COROJO MARQUE RESERVE EXTRA AÑEJO RUM Punch has made some interesting moves with their cigar lines in recent years, including the Egg Roll, King Pow and Chop Suey annual blends. The cigars have received good notices because of their quality, and for the innovative packaging as well. Punch uses classic vitolas that have been dropping in favor of the robusto and toro “safe space.” A more unique vitola, however, can give an artisanal blender a much larger canvas to work with. And frequently that produces an edgier outcome. I smoked the Aristocrat vitola of the Rare Corojo, a perfecto shape that bulges to a 54-gauge on the cigar’s “hips.” With an assortment of tobaccos in the blend, the initial light is paprika and dry spice, then quite nutty from there. The burn on this shapely cigar is excellent, particularly considering its unusual form, and the spicy profile holds. This cigar has medium to medium-plus strength, and it’s perfectly suitable for any-timeof-day smoking. I paired the Rare Corojo with Marque Reserve Extra Añejo Rum. It’s a fine Caribbean blend of Barbados, Panama and Dominican rums aged at least eight years in ex-bourbon casks. This rum delivers a tasty vanilla ice cream note most of the way, and it has a joyously smooth finish. It’s bottled at 45% ABV–the Marque Reserve is both drinkable and refreshing. I’m eager to test it out in a daiquiri soon. The spices of the Rare Corojo coupled with the vanilla cream of the Marque Reserve make for a rich, smooth and tasty pairing experience that’s truly unique. Size: 6 x 54 Aristocrat Perfecto | Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra | Binder: U.S.A. Connecticut Broadleaf Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan, Honduran | Strength: Medium MSRP (cigar): $11 | MSRP (rum): $50

DREW ESTATE UNDERCROWN 10 BROTHER'S BOND STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY Cigar & Spirits Magazine’s 2021 Cigar of the Year is a good place to kick-off any pairing. The Drew Estate Undercrown 10 is modeled after the standard line of maduro Undercrowns, but it sports a golden vertical ribbon over the cap. Drew Estate celebrated the success of the line with an eye-catching presentation to mark the Undercrown’s 10th anniversary. On light, the Undercrown 10 provides exactly what I’ve come to expect from Drew: aromatic smoke output. Billows of smoke accompanied by a milder-than-expected flavor profile that initially made me think of blueberries. This stick is understated, complex and flavorful. The cigar holds a strong, salty and buttery profile that’s definitely a step up in complexity from the standard line of Undercrowns. I paired this celebration cigar with a celebrated bourbon: Brother’s Bond Bourbon. Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley of The Vampire Diaries fame are the architects of the spirit. Brother’s Bond Bourbon is a cornheavy mashbill consisting of 65% corn, 22% rye and the remainder is wheat and barley. It’s a well-rounded, smooth and tasty bourbon. The tasting notes I experienced in Brother’s Bond Bourbon are spice and charred oak, with finessed sweet and nutty finish notes—like peanut butter and honey. Because the Undercrown is complex, a subtle and sweet bourbon like this is a stellar fit. The spirit mellows and marries the earthiness of the Undercrown, and helps round out a strong cigar smoking experience. I quickly developed a strong bond with this pairing. Size: 6 x 52 Toro | Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés | Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf Filler: Nicaraguan | Strength: Full MSRP (cigar): $12 | MSRP: (whiskey): $44

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PARTAGAS CORTADO CEDAR RIDGE QUINTESSENTIAL SINGLE MALT WHISKEY The Partagas Cortado is brand new to the market, but it will be available to the masses by the release date of this issue. I always look forward to new Partagas blends. This Partagas is the first to be blended and rolled in Nicaragua, and it’s the first time a shade-grown wrapper has been used in a profile for the brand. It’s extremely complex with Honduran/Nicaraguan tobacco, a Mexican filler leaf, Indonesian binder and a vintage Ecuadorian Connecticut-seed wrapper. The Cortado delivers a pleasant and delicious smoking experience. The complexity is evident, and it’s easy enough to pair with your morning coffee. That said, you’ll find it flavorful any time of day. The Cortado’s flavor profile is cream and sweet tobacco, very “classic,” with some flavor similarities to Cuban cigars. The Mexican tobacco in the filler adds a sweet cinnamon profile. It smokes evenly with an impressive ash. The cigar remains tasty throughout, perfectly mild and you’ll encounter stone fruit flavors past the halfway point. Cedar Ridge Quintessential Single Malt Whiskey is a blend hailing from Swisher, Iowa. The evident tasting notes of this malt couldn’t fit any better than with the Cortado. There are some parallels here to the cigar: stone fruit, a touch of sweet spice and a dry, creamy finish. The Quintessential is quite a versatile spirit, and a match made in heaven for the new Cortado. I plan on adding this combo into my rotation. Size: 6 x 52 Toro | Wrapper: Ecuadorian, U.S.A. Connecticut Shade | Binder: Indonesian Filler: Mexican, Nicaraguan, Honduran | Strength: Mild/Medium MSRP (cigar): $10 | MSRP (whiskey): $60

ROOM 101 FARCE DOC SWINSON ALTER EGO TRIPLE CASK WHISKEY Room 101 has a wide variety of cigars to choose from, whether they are in the core line or collaborations with other blenders (like the Robert Caldwell release we paired in last issue). The Farce is a core Matt Booth stick through and through, delivering a tasty profile that makes for a quality spirit pairing. Pre-light offers a bittersweet chocolate note. That chocolate meshes with toasted bread notes as we begin to work our way through the smoking session. As the smoke goes on, the chocolate becomes distinctly Hershey’s, though there are touches of fruit and spice to enjoy as well. It’s these quiet, quality fruit highlights that led me to pair the cigar with Doc Swinson’s Alter Ego. Alter Ego is a bourbon whiskey that’s finished in three casks: Oloroso sherry, Pedro Jimenez sherry and Cognac. For those who enjoy sherry-finished spirits, you know that there’s a complex fruit note that reveals itself from those casks. The cognac added a refined touch of spice. The Alter Ego is a zippy spirit with a quick hit of tangy citrus followed by a long and fruity finish. The journey from the chocolatey cigar through the spice and fruit of Alter Ego ultimately leads to a rich and filling pairing, one I most enjoyed after a festive dinner with friends. Size: 5 x 52 Robusto | Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut | Binder: Indonesian Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan | Strength: Medium/Full MSRP (cigar): $11 | MSRP (whiskey): $70

Greg Mays is a Certified Consumer Tobacconist (CCT) and the Executive Editor of SimpleCocktails.net.

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C&S All photos courtesy of Rothes Glen

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THE SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE FESTIVAL A FAIRY-TALE WHISKY AND CIGAR CASTLE OF DREAMS by Nick Hammond

THERE IS SUCH A THING AS A BREAKFAST DRAM, YOU KNOW. Hell’s Bells, I’m still trying to see off the effects of last night’s uisge beatha. If ever there was a time to indulge one’s taste for Scotch whisky, it’s during the Spirit of Speyside Festival; several days of educated debauchery to celebrate all that’s great and good about this incredibly fecund region of smooth, subtle, fruity whiskies. And, if ever there was a place to enjoy them, it’s here at Rothes Glen House. In this fairy-tale castle equipped by a hedonist, you’re never more than a few steps away from a reviving drop of the stuff, wherever you happen to wander in the rooms and grounds.

>> Aerial view of the majestic castle at Rothes Glen House

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>> The Speyside Malting Season produces Benriach’s best.

>> Visitors received the finest in Scotch tastings and education.

>> The glorious entryway greets visitors and sets the tone for the festival.

I’M

here as a guest of owner Damian Riley-Smith— himself a lover of the finer things in life, and possessor of a darkly comic sense of humor, which is drier than a mothballed mash tun. After forming Whisky Magazine and subsequently Whisky Live in the early late 1990s, he bought the former hotel between Inverness and Aberdeen and set about a return to its former glory—with added bells and whistles such as the whisky tasting room and beautifully appointed cigar courtyard.

>> An inviting Rothes Glen tableau >> Opportunities for tastings were welcomed by one and all.

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“There should be at least three points in each room at which you can access whisky,” Damian announces on my arrival. “And we have a menu here from which you can browse and try a dram from any of the hundreds of bottlings we have in our cellar, should you so wish. In the grounds, you will

notice small wooden casks every few paces—you’ll find glasses and a refreshing bottle of something in each of them.” It's like an Easter Egg hunt for adults. Adults who like cigars and whisky. Rothes Glen is designed as a plaything for those serious about making the most of every minute. What is refreshing about it—and Damian himself, for that matter—is that everything is in impeccably good taste and nothing taken too seriously. There are scores of distilleries within a short drive of Rothes Glen; names you may in the past have rolled around your palate in wistful appreciation; Knockando, Benriach, Glenfiddich, Aberlour, Balvenie, Macallan, Tomintoul and many, many more. With the Rothes Glen team behind you, every door is open.

NAT CICCO

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>> The Benriach vault stores the finest of the finest

>> The drawing room at the castle is elegance par none.

kickstart my flying visit from a dull and chill southern England to a warm and sun-splashed North Eastern Scotland by landing in Inverness and taking a car straight to Benriach, where I’m just in time to see some traditional (and these days, rare) floor malting in full swing. Here, selected strains of Scottish barley are encouraged to germinate before being dried to capture their precious, newly released sugars. If you’ve never visited a whisky distillery, you are missing out on one of life’s great pleasures. Whether you’re a technical nerd and want to know about the model and issue date of the worm tub condensers or, like me, more interested in the terroir, unique flavors and romance of each dram, there’s something so happy about exploring these places, redolent as they are of the ghosts of former master blenders and their remarkable creations. Most distilleries are also wonderfully Wallace and Gromit, too, complete with contraptions, pulleys, switches and levers, warm glowing furnaces and dank, spirit-heady old warehouses. Benriach is a classic example. We can be inclined, one feels, to look back on the past with a sort of patronizing sentimentality for out-of-date ways, but here you have to wonder at the foresight of the architecture and planning that went into creating this distillery in 1898. Much of the original infrastructure and machinery remains to this day and still performs the job as well as, if not better, than anything we could muster now. Dr. Rachel Barrie is the Master Blender and somehow, by alchemy and physical senses, she creates an extraordinary palate of flavor from the mind-blowing variety of options available from the liquid, wood and time at her disposal.

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RUGGED COUNTRY

EL ARTISTA CIGARS www.el artista cigars.com

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>> Owner Damian Riley-Smith was the master of the malt for the group.

ack at Rothes Glen, a professional chef and staff prepare an intricate and flavorful dinner and I at last have time— in-between hilarious games of snooker in the billiard room—to sit by a roaring firepit and match the umpteenth dram of the day with a handrolled cigar. Riley-Smith loves a smoke, too, and you’ll find a humidor in the vaults and a soon-to-be-completed bespoke cigar room atop one of the towers. An old whisky wash back has been lovingly rebuilt within the room, and visitors will be able to sit inside it and smoke to their heart’s content.

>> Writer Nick (left) Hammond and Owner Damian Riley-Smith (front/center) made memorable moments with the group and their Speyside experience.

This turns into one of these evenings I simply don’t want to end. It’s nearing 3:00 a.m. by the time I drag myself away with “one more for the road” before collapsing into the palatial suite to while away a few hours before we go again. The festival spins past in a blur. The Glenfiddich opening dinner is riot of taste and tartan; and then I’m off to atmospheric Tamdhu, an ugly but nevertheless remarkable distillery which glories in its exclusive sherry bottlings. We start with a steadying dram, a whistle-stop and humorous tour of the distillery and into the warehouses where, joy of joys, a valinch is produced and we taste straight from the barrel. We then head to the old waiting room next to the now defunct railway sidings where barley, casks and precious spirit were once transported. Here, we are treated to a talk and taste test of the finest Belotta Iberico Jamon and a superbly delicate lunch— cooked by the wife of a Tamdhu staff member, no less—while enjoying more of the distillery’s redolent spirit. There’s even time for a Tamdhu Cigar Malt paired with a Cuban Partagas Capitol as the sun shines, and the burn babbles. And then it’s back to Rothes Glen for more mischief. This castle is the ultimate cigar and whisky lover’s destination. I couldn’t have done it better, myself. rothesglenspeyside.com @rothesglenhouse

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Nick Hammond is the UK’s premier cigar writer, a winner of the inaugural Spectator Cigar Writer of the Year Award and a regular contributor to cigar publications around the world. He also writes extensively on travel, luxury, food, drink and the good life. His new book, Around the World in 80 Cigars: The Travels of An Epicure, is a must read for every cigar lover and world traveler.

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PAPPY VAN WINKLE’S FAMILY RESERVE CIGARS IS A CLOSE COLLABORATION BETWEEN JONATHAN DREW, FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF DREW ESTATE, AND THE VAN WINKLE FAMILY TO PAY TRIBUTE TO JULIAN “PAPPY” VAN WINKLE AND THE UNPARALLELED BOURBON LEGACY HE BEGAN CREATING MORE THAN A CENTURY AGO . FOR USE IN

JONATHAN

PERSONALLY SELECTS THE LEAVES

P A P P Y V A N W I N K L E ’ S F A M I LY R E S E RV E

CIGARS.

THE BARREL FERMENTATION PROCESS AGES TOBACCO UNDER PRESSURE TO CAPTURE THE SMOKY COMPLEXITY OF FIRE-CURED KENTUCKY TOBACCO AS WELL AS GIVE IT ITS DARK AESTHETIC. METICULOUSLY CRAFTED COMPLETELY BY HAND AT

LA GRAN FABRICA DREW ESTATE

USING THE FINEST PREMIUM TOBACCO TRADITIONS OF

KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA AND NICARAGUA.

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THE SPIRIT OF A MASTER DISTILLER IN EVERY CIGAR

THE REBIRTH OF CIGARS DREWESTATE.COM

EXCLUSIVE ONLINE RETAILER WWW.PAPPYCO.COM WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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C&S SPECIAL SUMMER ISLAND TRAVEL SECTION

Beautiful Belize by Sean Chaffin

Victoria House Resort & Spa Belize Ambergris Caye has long been a favorite spot for travelers and expats looking to leave the hustle and bustle behind. Belize’s largest of about 200 islands traces its roots back to the Mayan and authentic pirates of the Caribbean. The island is located just south of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and checks in at 25 miles long and a little over a mile wide. Thankfully, the area is known more for white sand beaches and brilliant blue water than the pillaging and plundering of legendary pirates. The island offers numerous opportunities for blissful relaxation. You’ll find unique nooks and crannies to smoke cigars, ample island cocktails to sample and breathtaking island beauty to behold. Belize is also the only Central American country in which English is the official language and it’s relatively easy to get to—making it a favorite for many American travelers. Victoria House Resort & Spa, located in the historic town of San Pedro, stands out for those seeking a getaway to the tropics. From brilliant beaches to topnotch cuisine, visitors won’t be disappointed with a few days—maybe even more—at this award-winning luxury property. A trip south of the border doesn’t have to stop in Mexico.

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All photos courtesy of Glodownead PR/Victoria House Resort & Spa

SUMMER ISLAND TRAVEL

Victoria House features immaculately manicured grounds offering an endless collection of palm trees and a sublime garden atmosphere. It’s truly Zen-scape at its finest. Be sure to wear your shades because the sun shines bold and bright each summer day. You’ll have no shortage of time to take a jaunt with sunlit serenity, and drawing from your favorite habano or sipping a cocktail will enhance your stroll. The accommodations at Victoria House range from thatched-roof casitas all the way up to beachfront suites. Guests can kick back on their own private verandas, loll about in hammocks, and amaze at the stunning views of the Caribbean. The outdoor infinity pools offer the perfect oasis to get away from the daily grind—as does a trip to the luxe spa, located among coconut palms and ample bougainvillea. Plenty of adventure awaits. You should check in at the dive shop to schedule a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Belize Barrier Reef for some underwater exploration. Divers can even embark on a trip to experience the world-famous Great Blue Hole. This giant sinkhole measures 1,043 feet across and 407 feet deep. Legendary marine pioneer Jacques Cousteau himself declared the site as one of the top five scuba diving locations in the world. Adventurers will find crystal-clear waters and fish ranging from parrotfish to reef sharks. If fishing is more your interest, there are numerous opportunities to put out a line and reel in a memorable catch. For visitors hoping to bring those Indiana Jones dreams to life, head to the jungle for a zip-line tour or join in a rainforest expedition. To take in some history, book a trip to explore ancient Mayan temples, marveling at the relics of an ancient civilization—no bull whip or fedora required.

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Dining, Cocktails and Cigars Whether visitors have worked up an appetite on one of those adventurous outings or simply need a libation to gaze at magnificent sunsets, there are many options not only at Victoria House but also in historic San Pedro. The former sleepy fishing village still retains plenty of charm. No culinary experience in the Caribbean would be complete without some fresh seafood. Victoria House’s Palmilla Restaurant offers some of the finest dining in the region. The restaurant overlooks the magnificent sea, and offers dishes like ceviche, cashew crusted grouper, grilled lobster, fresh snapper and more. Private dinners on the beach are also an option, a perfect way to wind down a romantic evening. For a quick bite and drink, head to Admiral Nelson’s Bar for fish and chips, coconut shrimp or delightfully fresh fish tacos. This is another ideal spot to fire up a stick and indulge in a frigid beer. In town, several other attractive options await. Just getting there can be part of the fun. One of the best ways to travel around San Pedro is via golf cart, which are plentiful along Main Street and available for rent. Leave the road rage behind as you putter from shop to shop or cantina to cantina. For great dinner and drinks, Hidden Treasure is one of the town’s best. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying some time with friends, a signature cocktail and the best in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine adds to what will certainly be a splendid vacation. Looking to cap off the trip with a stick for the road? Almost anywhere offers a picturesque location for a great smoke. Several excellent shops and lounges also cater to fine tobacco enthusiasts, including Havana Cigars and Saul’s’ Coffee and Cigar House. A little coconut rum and pineapple juice only adds to the experience. Tilt one back, light one up and enjoy. A Victoria House vacay will hold a place in your heart for a lifetime.

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C&S SPECIAL SUMMER ISLAND TRAVEL SECTION

All photos courtesy of VKPR/Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts

SUMMER ISLAND TRAVEL

Fantasy Islands

Intercontinental Resorts Tahiti and Bora Bora by Sean Chaffin

he tropical paradises of Tahiti and Bora Bora have long fascinated those seeking adventure, pristine beaches and serenity. Mutineers even sent Vice-Admiral William Bligh adrift in the middle of the Pacific Ocean in 1789 to stay on their Tahitian paradise on earth. Mutiny on the Bounty, indeed.

A visit may explain why it’s tough to leave these exotic locales, whether hopping aboard an 18th Century ship or just touching down for a well-deserved vacation. Modern-day adventurers can satisfy their own wanderlust with a trip to either or both islands. Plentiful palm trees, white sand beaches, crystalline blue waters, unmatched panoramic views—Tahiti and Bora Bora have inspired visitors for generations. Booking a trip to the Intercontinental Resorts on both islands means ramping up the tropical opulence even more.

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Happily Marooned on Tahiti It’s a good bet if you asked a number of island vacationers their opinions on which locale best exemplifies paradise, Tahiti would receive a great number of votes. With good reason. The largest island of the Windward group of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, Tahiti is literally located halfway around the world for most Americans—about 4,100 miles from Los Angeles. The trip is worth it. Officially an overseas country of the French Republic, the island boasts 403 square miles of sun-drenched beaches, mountains, jungle and some of the most majestic scenery one could imagine. Famed French impressionist Paul Gauguin was fascinated with Tahiti and spent time there painting some of his masterpieces. It’s easy to understand why the people and landscape became his muse. A fearless adventurer couldn’t ask for a better base of operations than Intercontinental Tahiti. Visitors can choose from numerous rooming options from an overwater bungalow to simpler accommodations with an ocean view. Whether you’re dreaming of your own seafaring adventure or simply getting lost in a great book in a lounge chair, a stroll to the unbelievable beach is a great way to start the trip. There’s a Mai Tai and a nice smoke calling your name at any given moment as well. After working up an appetite while getting your island jam going, the property features excellent options featuring the surrounding culture of the island. An overwater culinary experience at Le Lotus may be unlike any other as you sample the creations of Michelin Star Chef Bruno Oger. It’s probably about time to grab a drink at the Tiki Bar or experience real Polynesian fare at Te Tiare. Look for regular theme nights as well with the “Te U’i Tapairu” dinner show offering a tasty buffet with a traditional performance by the troupe Hei Tahiti. Those looking to work up a sweat are also in luck—although in a bit of a different setting than one’s daily trip to the gym. Jump in a tennis match or play some volleyball, if the views aren’t too distracting. An amazing jogging track combines recreation and wanderlust, with a trail winding through the property’s tropical gardens. After some physical exertion, be sure to schedule a session at the spa for a massage to soothe away any lingering stress.

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The Lagoonarium offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience as well with guests channeling their inner Jacques Cousteau. This natural aquarium, Fare l’a Reserve, allows you to get up close and personal with the environment. This lagoon houses a reef ecosystem recreating the natural underwater conditions for more than 200 aquatic species. You’ll encounter numerous fish, including parrotfish, Picasso fish and angelfish. There are corals, shells and other tropical sea creatures for your amusement as well. The Intercontinental has plenty of options to keep guests busy on site, but getting away from the hotel allows an even broader Tahitian experience. Scuba diving is sublime on the island as you’ll buddy up with dolphins and other tropical fish. No trip to Tahiti would be complete without a bit of trekking across the island. Hop in a 4×4 and roll off-road or hit one of numerous trails for some hiking through the lush jungle, even taking a dip in a waterfallfueled swimming hole. Nature lovers will enjoy a whale-watching expedition. Maybe some deep-sea fishing or a round of golf is more in order. The list could go on and on. A trip to Tahiti and a stay at the Intercontinental may leave you commiserating with Bligh’s mutineers—never wanting to leave.

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C&S SPECIAL SUMMER ISLAND TRAVEL SECTION

Bora Bora: Pearl of the Pacific When in Tahiti, why not make an unbelievable vacation even better with a trip over to Bora Bora. This French Polynesian sister island seems as if it also got a special nod from the tropical gods. Bora Bora is a smaller island, checking in at about 12 square miles, and is actually made up of several islands. But Motu Piti Aau, meaning “set of two hearts,” is the home to Intercontinental Bora Bora where you can spend some time in Polynesian luxury. Book one of 84 overwater villas for an unmatched experience with views of the open Pacific, beaches, lush green mountains and a panorama unlike most have ever experienced. Relax in your villa or simply dive in the crisp aquamarine waters. The allusions to a real-life paradise just don’t seem to stop and visitors relax on white sand beaches and take in some brilliant surroundings. Maybe grab a stand-up paddleboard for a little exercise. No matter what you do, the scenery that amazed those seafaring explorers so many years ago remains just as intoxicating.

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C&S SPECIAL SUMMER ISLAND TRAVEL SECTION

he Intercontinental Bora Bora also features a Lagoonarium like the Tahiti location, offering visitors a chance to take in an amazing natural setting. This protected area and coral nursery provides an oasis of peace and tranquility. On the other end of the spectrum, enjoy some thrills with a breathtaking helicopter tour of the island or get a bird’s eye view of the lagoon with a parasailing experience. Those more averse to heights may want to slice through the island’s clear water on a kayak or grab a mask and snorkel to take in some of the region's numerous species of fish. A lazy nap in a hammock is always an option. Gazing out in an Adirondack chair and creating your own version of the famous Corona beer commercial will hit the spot as you watch the ocean gently lap the beach. The possibilities are endless for dining options. There’s French dining, barbecue buffets and American-style breakfasts with some of the freshest tropical fruits imaginable. At Le Corail, you

can enjoy delectable gourmet dishes like rack of lamb, duck foie gras, pan fried scallops and so much more to please the palate. Pour a glass from a seemingly endless wine list as you watch the sun go down. Sands Restaurant offers exotic cocktails as well as snacks, sandwiches, grilled items and more on the property’s private beach. Is it time to order a drink and break out a nice Cohiba? Most likely it is. Like Tahiti, Bora Bora has served as inspiration for many visitors from around the world. That includes author Sarah Jio, whose novel The Bungalow is set on the island. “The beauty of the island wasn’t limited to its turquoise waters or green hills,” she writes. “That was mere surface beauty. The real awe of the place was evident in its stories. There was one waiting beyond every curve of the shore.” That’s certainly true. The time is now to book a trip and start creating your own tropical travel tale.

Sean Chaffin is a freelance writer and editor in Ruidoso, New Mexico. His work appears in numerous publications.

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INTERVIEW

OSCAR DE LA HOYA & HOLLY SONDERS

THE GOLDEN COUPLE by Lincoln Salazar & Randy Mastronicola portraits by Tas Limur

any of our readers know Oscar De La Hoya as “The Golden Boy” for being one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters in boxing history. He won Olympic Gold at the 1992 Summer Olympics, and was propelled to even greater heights as a professional boxing champion, a successful entrepreneur with Golden Boy Enterprises, and a philanthropist in the decades that followed. Holly Sonders started her career in the public eye as a professional golfer, and then became an analyst for the Golf Channel and Fox Sports Live. A modeling career followed. Holly uses her social media platforms to entertain her audience in a manner that’s sexy, edgy and fun-loving. As a couple, Oscar and Holly are as genuine as can be while living in the public eye. We were happy to catch up with them in Los Angeles for a memorable photo shoot, and a breezy conversation that capped the day. They are, indeed, The Golden Couple.

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Oscar De La Hoya: Undershirt/Saint Laurent, Shirt/Dior Homme, Pant/Greyscale, Shoe/Christian Louboutin, Watch/ Richard Dubois Holly Sonders: Dress/KAREN SABAG, Shoe/Malone Souliers, Earring/ANAYAH JEWELLERY

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THE INTERVIEW Lincoln Salazar: Did you guys have a good time doing the photo shoot? Oscar De La Hoya: We had a great time. By the way, that was one of the hottest shoots we’ve ever done for the magazine. Holly Sonders: Well, it wasn’t Oscar and Mario this time. I hope they weren’t that hot together. [Oscar De La Hoya and Mario Lopez were the cover stars for the May/June 2018 issue of Cigar & Spirits Magazine.] The energy and connection you both have is unbelievable. How did you guys meet? Holly: Oscar started a new boxing show for Bally’s Sports Network. It’s really cool. He needed someone conduct the interviews. “They need someone who’s edgy and good at their craft.” He reached out to me. It took a little convincing because I’d been done with the broadcasting stuff. My agent was like, “You should really do this. It’ll be a great production.” That was it. I saw Oscar and that was it. Truly, it was just amazing. Oscar: She saw me and she's been regretting it ever since. [laughter] You know, it’s crazy because we have such great chemistry. Ever since we met, it’s like there’s fireworks left and right. I can’t stop looking at her, and I can’t stop thinking about her. It really was love at first sight. That definitely shows. It seems like you guys have a good time together. Holly: This is how we are at home, too. Oscar: It’s me finally coming out of my shell. I’ve been doing this for 30-plus years. In the limelight, in the ring. When I met Holly, it’s like she finally let me be who I am. It’s like a fresh of breath air. People don’t know that I’m silly. I love to laugh. I love being serious when I do business, but when I’m with her, it’s like I can basically just be me. I love that. Oscar: It’s going to be a lot of fun. We’re shooting it in Las Vegas. Because you’re building a home there? Holly: Yes. It’s long overdue. Oscar: The reality show is basically going to show you our real lifestyle. People might think our lives are over the top and glamorous. That’s just not us. It’s a lot of fun. You get a lot of laughs, that’s for sure.

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"Y O U K N O W, I T ' S CRAZY BECAUSE WE HAVE SUCH GREAT C H E M I S T R Y. E V E R SINCE WE MET, FIREWORKS LEFT A N D R I G H T ."

-O. DLH

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Oscar De La Hoya: Shirt/ETON, Pant/Greyscale, Shoe/Christian Louboutin, Watch/Richard Dubois Holly Sonders: Dress/Nookie

IT'S LIKE THERE'S

Sunglasses/DITA Eyewear WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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"H E ' S T H E M O S T F U N, T H E K I N D E S T A N D T H E M O S T T H O U G H T F U L P E R S O N. M A Y B E W H E N H E W A S Y O U N G E R, M A Y B E H E W A S A L I T T L E T O U G H E R T O D E A L W I T H." -H.S.

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"Y O U C A N B U Y S O M E O N E A FERRARI. YOU CAN DO W H A T E V E R Y O U W A N T, B U T T H I S T A T T O O I S N ' T G O I N G A W A Y. I JUST WANTED TO GIVE OSCAR SOMETHING NOBODY ELSE C O U L D E V E R G I V E." -H.S.

Sunglasses/DITA Eyewear

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Do you ever have any kind of drama or a dilemma in an episode? Holly: There’s a lot of work-related stuff. They’ll show Oscar at the office. That’ll be some of the more serious points. Dilemma? We all have some kind of drama in our lives. Holly: I mean there are some things. When you’re dealing with somebody who’s beloved and famous, there are always challenges that come with it. He’s still running a major corporation. I would say a lot of the drama in the show could possibly come from that. Also, you never know what can come up he has six children, and so there’s the family aspect. [laughs] Oscar: That’s another job. Oscar De La Hoya: Shirt/Rag & Bone, Pant/Amiri Holly Sonders: Set/Balenciaga, Shoe/Saint Laurent

Holly: Right. All different ages. A lot of exes on his end. I’m 15 years younger than Oscar, so there’s an age gap. Oscar: We sometimes have a little drama with that because she can’t keep up with me. [laughs] Holly: I’ve lived in Vegas for a couple years. I kind of twisted his arm a bit. I miss Vegas. It’s a party place. But the show will capture the essence of suburbia, and building our own home. The house is actually like a tribute to him. Almost like almost a boxing museum. Holly: He practically built Las Vegas with boxing. Oscar: Thank you. It’s going to be pretty cool. Holly: He’s the most humble person in the world. I wanted a Golden Boy statue outside. He said no. I’m shocked. [laughs] Holly: His title belts will be displayed there. We want to actually have seats from the MGM—like a little boxing ring in the house. We know our roles very well in the relationship, and we both stay in our lane there. I do know how to handle him. Everybody else told me that he would be very difficult and I’m like… Oscar: I’m not! [laughs] Holly: He’s the most fun, the kindest and the most thoughtful person. Maybe when he was younger, maybe he was a little tougher to deal with. Oscar: I think as men, you calm down as you get older. You see what’s more important in life. Holly: You think you’re calm now? Oscar: Ok. I haven’t calmed down. [laughter] You prioritize a little differently as you get older. Oscar: You understand what’s important in life. What makes you happy. Holly: What makes you better, too. Oscar: Yes. And who makes me better.

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Speaking of men, tell us about Masculen. Holly: Yes, it launches in July. Masculen is basically going to redefine performance for men, and health for men. There are five different products that are coming out, and they’ll all do something different. One helps you focus better. One helps you sleep. There’s one to improve sexual performance. Oscar: Very important. [laughter] Holly: There’s one product that I don’t think there’s anything else like it right now. It’s called the Titan. It increases your amount of semen by 167 percent. Now, I’m interested. Holly: Right, see? Oscar: Well, there you go. Holly: So that’s another joke at home. Is Oscar the test? Oscar: It’s in the mail. I can’t wait. Holly: We’ll give it to everyone for Christmas. It’s a Christmas gift. And the reality show? Oscar: Yes, it’s basically the perfect platform to showcase Masculen as well as the fighters I promote. I believe I promote over 75 fighters. Some of the top world champions today. It’s just going to be a real look into our lives, and who we really are. Holly: Yes. I was thinking about that question you asked about drama. Some of the drama comes from the lead-up to showcasing major fight events. I can imagine. Oscar: Yes. Holly, you got a tattoo of Oscar recently? Oscar: Yes. It’s me at 18 years old winning the Gold Medal at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona. Holly: You were looking up at your mom. Oscar: Yes. Holly: It’s a beautiful tribute. Oscar: Absolutely. Holly: His brother-in-law Esteban actually did the tattoo. So it’s like a whole family thing. Oscar: Were you thinking “What can I get him? What gift?” Holly: Yes, I just wanted to show you that I love you. That’s it. That’s certainly it. Oscar: That’s love.

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Yes. That’s love. Holly: You can buy someone a Ferrari. You can do whatever you want, but this tattoo isn’t going away. I just wanted to give Oscar something nobody else could ever give. Oscar can buy anything he wants. Oscar: That is true. That’s why this means so much. Holly: I didn’t know how big it was going to be. When Esteban was doing it, I thought it was big and then I was like, “Oh, shit.” [laughter] Oscar was like, “Bigger! Bigger!” Oscar: Absolutely, yes. My brother-in-law kept saying, “A little bigger.” The internet was all over it like it was the kiss of death to get a tattoo of your significant other anywhere. No way. I think it’s fantastic. Holly: There are so many things to get, and I pick the kiss of death, right? There are so many haters out there on social. Holly: Yes, that’s a whole other part of the drama. There’s always somebody who has an opinion on everything that we do. All you can do is just live your life and be happy, right? Oscar: Just be happy. Holly: That’s it. Live in our bubble, and enjoy the good stuff. Oscar: Exactly. Holly: Exactly. Randy Mastronicola is the Executive Editor of Cigar & Spirits Magazine. Lincoln Salazar is the Publisher & CEO of Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

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C&S

SUMMER CIGAR BUYER’S GUIDE Ratings are based on the average blind tasting scores of each cigar by a panel of ten cigar experts. These connoisseurs possess more than 100 years of combined cigar-smoking experience. To provide feedback on any of the ratings, or to offer your own opinions on any of the cigars featured, write us at: feedback@cigarandspirits.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and leave your comments: facebook.com/cigarandspiritsmagazine

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FOR YOUR HUMIDOR

AJ FERNANDEZ LAST CALL BY AJ FERNANDEZ FLAQUITAS

CIGAR RATING 6 x 46 Torpedo Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: There are distinct leather and earth tastes when you start the Flaquitas. This leads into strong tastes of dark roast coffee and black pepper as you work your way through to the finish.

ALEC BRADLEY BLACK MARKET TORPEDO 6 1/8 x 54 Torpedo Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Sumatran Filler: Panamanian, Honduran Strength: Medium

CIGAR RATING

Notes: The Panamanian tobacco used in the filler leads the pack with flavors of sweet milk chocolate and salty almonds. The cigar is expertly blended and culminates with notes of coffee, leather and hazelnut.

ARTURO FUENTE CHATEAU FUENTE KING T

CIGAR RATING 7 x 49 Churchill Tubo Wrapper: Connecticut/U.S.A. Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican Strength: Medium Notes: This handsome Fuente feels and looks great in the hand. The cigar is aged in cedar vaults leading to the Fuente signature flavorful profile. There are evident tastes of spice, graham crackers, roasted nuts and tangy citrus.

ASHTON AGED MADURO NO. 60

7 1/2 x 52 Double Corona CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf/U.S.A. Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican Strength: Medium Notes: This dark cigar has hints of molasses, minerals, cocoa and raisin. It smokes billowy with an evident scent of cocoa.

ASHTON CABINET SELECTION

Très Petite 4 3/8 x 42 Petit Corona Wrapper: Connecticut Shade Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican Strength: Mild/Medium

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This “White Burgundy” Ashton abounds with tastes of rich soil and aged grapes. It’s shade-grown and undoubtedly creamy. It features aged Dominican tobaccos of four to five years. It has a creamy vanilla finish.

CAMACHO LIBERTY CHURCHILL 2021

7 x 48 Churchill CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Dominican, Honduran Strength: Medium/Full Notes: This Liberty feels elegant in the hand and offers distinct tastes of cocoa, earth and leather throughout. The burn is first-rate.

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CASA MAGNA COLORADO BELICOSO

6 1/4 x 54 Belicoso CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Full Notes: This oily torpedo is loaded with flavor. Aromatic fresh coffee, cinnamon, oak and black pepper are all there for the smoking.

CUABA DISTINGUIDOS

6.4 inches x 52 Perfecto CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Cuban Binder: Cuban Filler: Cuban Strength: Medium/Full Notes: This is a glorious example of the art of cigar blending and rolling. There was a time when all cigars looked like this perfecto—tapered at both ends and bulbous in the middle. A wonderfully retro cigar replete with complexity.

DAVIDOFF ANIVERSARIO DOUBLE R

CIGAR RATING 7 1/2 x 50 Churchill Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican Strength: Mild Notes: The cigar has sweet notes of vanilla, pecan and cherry. The cigar is crafted from four separate tobacco harvests. It’s a Davidoff that pleases with an even burn.

DREW ESTATE 20 ACRE FARM

CIGAR RATING 6 x 52 Toro Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Honduran Filler: Nicaraguan, Florida/U.S.A. Strength: Mild/Medium Notes: The construction on the 20 is impressive, and there’s a lot of billowy smoke throughout. The cigar is on the pleasantly sweet side with tastes of vanilla, graham cracker and hints of cinnamon raisin. The draw is lush.

DÍAS DE GLORIA BY AJ FERNANDEZ

6 x 58 Gordo Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Full

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This resplendent 2019 release with its coffee aromas is a perfect nightcap. Salty, peppery and creamy come to mind when working through the cigar. It finishes a little strong but clean, crisp and delicious.

EL GÜEGÜENSE COROJO TORPEDO

6 1/4 x 52 Figurado CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: This puro offers ample amounts of nutty smoke. Tasty hints of almond and pistachio mingle with spicy touches of salt, white pepper and hints of rich caramel.

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ESCOBAR NATURAL CHURCHILL

7 x 50 Churchill Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This masculine Churchill is a blend of three vintage sun-grown and aged Habano tobaccos grown in the rich volcanic soil of Nicaragua. The majority of aromas and tastes on the palate feature fruit, creamy coffee, cocoa and caramel throughout. The final third offers a little bit of zing with a peppery profile. The draw and burn are superb.

FERIO TEGO TIMELESS SUPREME 749

7 x 49 Churchill CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: The draw on this Timeless is superb, the smoke output is abundant and the medium/full strength hits the sweet spot. There are tastes of wood and spice from the start leading into notes of maple, vanilla cream and sweet cedar as you make your way through the smoke.

HOOTEN YOUNG 2020 SELECTION

6 x 54 Toro Box Press Wrapper: San Andrés Maduro Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full

CIGAR RATING

Notes: The San Andrés Maduro wrapper is deep and dark, features a delicious profile of earth dark chocolate and tasty spice.

HOOTEN YOUNG GOTHIC SERPENT

6 x 50 Toro Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This is an expertly balanced smoke with earth, spice and leather. It’s surprisingly topped off with a creamy pistachio taste.

H. UPMANN NICARAGUA BY AJ FERNANDEZ HERITAGE CHURCHILL

7 x 54 Churchill CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: The dark roast coffee notes work in unison with a unique cherry cola quality. There are significant hints of ginger and clove throughout the cigar. They are finessed, not overbearing. The smoke is aromatic with black licorice and clove scents.

ILLUSIONE ULTRA OP. NO. 8

CIGAR RATING 6 3/4 x 48 Churchill Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: This Churchill offers serious notes of leather, oak and nutmeg at the start. There are subsequent hints of cardamom, roasted peanuts and a pinch of raisin on the finish.

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J.C. NEWMAN DIAMOND CROWN MAXIMUS DOUBLE CORONA NO. 1

CIGAR RATING

8 x 50 Double Corona Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican Strength: Medium Notes: The draw and burn are stellar. The tastes are earthy and woody with touches of white pepper. It smokes through with hints of saffron and cedar.

J.C. NEWMAN PERLA DEL MAR SHADE DOUBLE TORO

CIGAR RATING

6 x 60 Double Toro Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Mild/Medium Notes: The Perla Del Mar series has been a pleasant surprise over the years with its nice price point and quality. There’s a fine mesh of nuts, herbs and botanicals throughout this smoking experience. The sugar cookie and cinnamon backend is unique.

JOYA C ABINETTA CORONA GORDA

5 1/4 46 Corona Gorda Wrapper: Ecuadorian, Nicaraguan CIGAR RATING Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Mild/Medium Notes: Spice, oak and licorice lead the way. The cigar draws and burns evenly. The tastes of hickory and wood meld with creamy coffee and wood from middle to end.

LA SIRENA MEXICAN MERMAID LANCERO 6 1/2 x 42 Lancero Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés Binder: Mexican San Andrés Filler: Dominican, Mexican Strength: Medium-plus

CIGAR RATING

Notes: The Mexican Mermaid Lancero is the newest vitola in this award-winning line. There are distinct notes of oak, salt and leather throughout most of the cigar. The mesquite, sweet clove and pepper finish is sublime.

LEAF BY OSCAR CONNECTICUT SIXTY 6 x 60 Wrapper: Honduran Binder: Honduran Filler: Honduran Strength: Mild/Medium

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This Oscar is a handsomely made cigar. There are evident notes of herbs, spice, dried-fruit and citrus. It’s leans more to the mild side, but there’s a surprising zing as you cap off the smoking session.

MONTECRISTO NICARAGUA SERIES ROBUSTO

CIGAR RATING 5 x 54 Robusto Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: Sweet cinnamon and gingersnap tastes start the smoke out nicely from the first several puffs. This Montecristo Nicaragua is expertly blended with evident tastes of molasses, hickory and oak. It has a lush draw.

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MY FATHER NO. 2 BELICOSO

5 1/2 x 54 Belicoso CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: The smoke wafts with scents of chocolate-covered almonds, dried fruit and buttery toast. There are tastes of creamy coffee, leather and cashews. The draw and burn are consistent from one cigar to the next.

NAT CICCO HHB CLASSIC CONNECTICUT

CIGAR RATING Churchill 7 x 48 Wrapper: Ecuadorian, Connecticut U.S.A. Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Mild/Medium Notes: The taste profile here is elegant. The HHB Classic has a creamy profile accented with a smooth combination chestnuts, maple and cinnamon. The draw is excellent.

PUNCH GRAN PURO NICARAGUA

7 1/2 x 54 Double Corona CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf/U.S.A. Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: This Punch was a bit tarry at the start. Notes of earth, coffee, fruit and spice made for a better finish.

RAMON ALLONES NO.2

CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Cuban Binder: Cuban Filler: Cuban Strength: Medium/Full Notes: Often overlooked, seldom bettered. The RASS is quite possibly the finest Cuban robusto on the market. It’s a perfect after-dinner cigar.

ROCKY PATEL DISCIPLE ROBUSTO

5 x 54 Robusto CIGAR RATING Wrapper: Mexican Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Notes: This oily and smooth Rocky is attractive with tastes of sweet corn, apple and black tea. The almond and surprising black pepper notes lead nicely into a tasty finish.

ROMEO Y JULIETA 1875 CONNECTICUT NICARAGUA MAGNUM

CIGAR RATING 6 x 60 Grande Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Mild/Medium Notes: The initial palate experience hits with wood, hay and herbs. This 1875 features pleasant scent of cedar smoke throughout. The hints of citrus, straw and licorice make for a smooth finish.

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C&S

SUMMER VODKA SPOLIGHT YOUR GUIDE TO SIPPING, ROCKING AND MIXING WITH JUST THE RIGHT VODKAS

70 70 // CIGAR CIGAR&&SPIRITS SPIRITSJULY/AUGUST JULY/AUGUST 2022 2022

Jag_c/Shutterstock.com.

FOR YOUR HOME BAR

ABSOLUT PEPPAR

$20.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Absolut Peppar has warm and spicy tastes of green bell pepper and jalapeno. Its complex and smooth taste is subtly sweet and enhanced with a hint of bold black peppercorn flavor.

AIR VODKA

MSRP: $79.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Air Vodka is sustainably produced. It boasts as being the first carbon-negative spirit created in an effort to promote cleaner air worldwide. It shines best on the rocks or in an “Airtini” as the brand likes to call it.

BELVEDERE SMOGORY FORREST

MSRP: $36.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: This Belvedere expression is rich and mellow with initial impressions of salted caramel, cereal and a touch of honey. Evident notes of toasted bread, white pepper and fudge make for an excellent blend. The mouthfeel is rich and well-rounded.

BOYD & BLAIR POTATO VODKA

MSRP: $32.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: A superbly balanced potato vodka isn’t always an easy find. This Boyd & Blair features a semisweet taste with no harshness. It’s a flavorful and exceptional vodka.

BROKEN SHED VODKA

MSRP: $31.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: This spirit is smooth, warm and works extraordinarily well in a martini. It lingers with sweet flavors of fruit and honey on the palate.

CHOPIN POTATO VODKA

MSRP: $32.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: This vodka is expertly crafted and offers a subtle green apple and vanilla nose. The tastes are creamy and earthy. It has a strong mouthfeel with a clean and smooth finish.

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CROP ORGANIC ARTISANAL VODKA

MSRP: $24.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Crop Organic Artisanal Vodka is a light and clean spirit. The vanilla notes are evident. It’s a nicely crafted mixing vodka.

CRYSTAL HEAD VODKA

MSRP: $45.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: This vodka offers neutral grain and sweet mineral aromas with hints of citrus. The blend continues with evident tastes of vanilla and cream. It leads into an appropriately sweet and creamy finish.

DEEP EDDY VODKA

MSRP: $17.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Deep Eddy Vodka is filtered eight times with a proprietary method to ensure a bite-free finish. The spirit is inherently gluten-free because it’s manufactured entirely of corn, and completed with pristine Texas water.

DEEP RUN PIONEER SPIRIT SMALL BATCH VIRGINIA

MSRP: $24.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Deep Run Small Batch Vodka is distilled seven times and incredibly smooth. It’s a first-rate sipper, but equally enjoyed with a couple of rocks. The hints of orange and vanilla bean make for a wonderful finish.

EFFEN VODKA

MSRP: $20.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: EFFEN Original is a perennial favorite because of its silky finish, and its distinct flavor of sweet raisins. It makes for a great base because it's light, crisp and features smoothness throughout.

GREY GOOSE VODKA

MSRP: $19.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Created in France, Grey Goose uses single origin Picardie wheat and water. The process achieves the brand’s desire to showcase the extraordinary character of their wheat. It’s a naturally rich and full vodka with a smooth mouthfeel.

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a e k o m S r e n n i W e r u S ! y a d o T

For orders and inquiries, please contact Zander-Greg Inc. at 888-662-5111 or visit www.zandergreg.com for more information.

HANGAR 1 VODKA

MSRP: $31.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Hangar offers sweet, plump and round tastes with an almost creamy texture. There are faint tastes of fruitiness and a touch of sweet syrup. The finish is clean and snappy.

HARRIDAN VODKA

MSRP: $59.99 I ABV: 44% Notes: Harridan Vodka tastes as pure as any on the market. The distinct tasting notes include citrus and black pepper. There’s a pleasant vanilla and toffee finish. It hits all the notes because it works as a sipper, on the rocks or in cocktails.

HUMBOLDT ORGANIC VODKA

MSRP: $18.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: This Humboldt has an attractive price point, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s low-end. This vodka is distilled from organic American sugarcane. It’s clean on the palate, smooth enough to sip and excellent for mixing. The tastes are evident with vanilla and citrus throughout.

JCB VODKA

MSRP: $99.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: JCB is blended with sustainably grown grapes from the Côte-d’Or, and fermented in French Oak opentop vats for more than 20 days. The wine is then aged in barrel for six months. The Chardonnay grapes, also hand-picked and sorted, are gently pressed to release the natural golden juice. JCB is an expertly blended vodka, and a stellar addition for your home bar.

KÁSTRA ELIÓN VODKA

MSRP: $54.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: This vodka is a robust blend with notes of ripe olives, peppery undertones and a soft, buttery finish.

MULLHOLLAND VODKA

MSRP: $18.99 I ABV: 43% Notes: Mulholland Vodka has a silky mouthfeel with toffee and vanilla notes up front with pepper and mint on the finish. The flavors showcase the smooth, round character and the blend’s great length. It’s a wonderful experience on the rocks.

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NEFT VODKA

MSRP: $34.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Crafted in Austria, Neft is a pristine sipping vodka distinct with honey and citrus notes. It’s distilled with just two simple ingredients: mountain spring water from the Alps and ancient non-GMO rye grains. It’s as smooth as you’ll get in a vodka with this price point.

OYO VODKA

MSRP: $31.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: The aromas of vanilla, fig preserves and caramel mesh nicely into tastes of honey gelato with a mineral finish. Oyo is quite flavorful and vibrant. It adds a refinement to your vodka cocktail of choice.

PLATINUM 10X VODKA

MSRP: $12.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Platinum features a distinctly bold taste. It’s a welcome addition to any bar in need of a good price point mixer.

PURITY VODKA ULTRA 34

MSRP: $27.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Purity uses organic ingredients at the heart of their vodka—slowly distilled 34 times in a copper still at 13th century Ellinge Castle. The blend has won more than 150 international awards. It’s recognized for its rich and creamy butterscotch taste. It’s a very clean and smooth vodka.

REYKA VODKA

MSRP: $19.99 I ABV: 40% Notes: Reyka is traditionally distilled and filtered through ancient lava rocks. It’s distinctly distilled from grain, and it makes for an appealing small batch vodka. You’ll appreciate how the glacial spring water adds a lushness to the blend.

WOODY CREEK DISTILLERS VODKA

MSRP: $34.49 I ABV: 40% Notes: The Woody Creek Distillers blend is a benchmark in the potato vodka category. It features native Colorado Rio Grande russet, Chepita, Lady Claire potatoes, mountain spring water and yeast. The distillery's on-site potato mash is first rinsed and mashed before being stripped and put through one distillation to create its elite 80 proof blend.

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C&S

All photos courtesy of Hunters & Frankau

THE CIGAR SOMMELIER FIRST CLASS SERVICE OR SMOKE AND MIRRORS? by Nick Hammond

ritish author NICK HAMMOND is of the opinion

excitement in a job that’s been around as long as cigars

that you’d better look before you leap before

have been sold, Cuba in particular pushed its promotion.

joining the growing ranks of a new and unusual

A Cigar Sommelier is (or should be) someone who’s an

off-shoot of the hospitality industry… Even the term itself is controversial, with many believing that it’s nothing more than a cynical marketing ploy to

foundation of knowledge on the cigars that are available in his or her market and what each and every one has to offer.

create something mystical from a straightforward set of

He or she exists professionally to enhance customer

skills.

enjoyment and choice and as such, needs an exceptional

Others, on the other hand, recognize that this is a crucial and underplayed hospitality role—one that requires genuine breadth of knowledge and both a trained and seasoned palate. In recent years, the term Cigar Sommelier has crept up on us. Recognizing a value in driving interest and

expert in their field. He or she must possess a very large

/ CIGAR CIGAR && SPIRITS SPIRITS JULY/AUGUST JULY/AUGUST 2022 2022

palate and memory. He or she needs to be able to recommend certain types of cigars to certain types of people dependent on a vastly shifting interplay of circumstances. What have they eaten? What time of day is it? What are their preferences? Where will they be smoking?

or a while, until Covid intervened,

work and thrive within the industry, find

there was a very popular Cigar

your way and understand how the market

Sommelier competition organized

works. It’s all a learning curve at the end

by Habanos SA, the finals of which

of the day, but what a pay off! You become

were held at the Habanos Festival each

part of a tight-knit community. Those

year. Competitors would be tested on

that appreciate cigars come from all walks

their knowledge of marques and vitolas

of life, and it’s with hard work that you

across the entire Habanos portfolio and

become part of that.”

would also be scrutinized by a panel of judges while performing a “live” scene of hospitality—meeting a “customer” and serving up the ideal stick for the concocted occasion. This performance even attracted an audience as part of the annual Habanos Festival in Havana. I have conflicting opinions when it comes to the term Cigar Sommelier. On Reuters/Alamy Stock Photo

one hand, some of the most exacting and knowledgeable cigar people I know carry the title. On the other, companies boasting “qualifications” are churning out >> Famed cigar sommelier Fernando Fernandez enlightens a class at a cafe in Downtown Havana in 2015.

“sommelier” with little more knowledge than having learned how to cut and light a cigar. Let me assure readers that if the life of a Cigar Sommelier appeals to you—first do some homework of your own for free. “The role itself is quite niche,” says Syafiera Rosidi, Cigar Sommelier at the worldfamous Annabel’s of Mayfair, London, and a Master of Habanos in her own right.

It’s easy to be seduced by the apparently glamorous lifestyle of a sommelier. Imagine, lighting cigars for interesting and important people! Working in fabulous surroundings! Getting great tips and free cigars! And getting paid for it! If this is your view of the job, let me sober you up at once. To become a seriously good Cigar Sommelier–what’s the point of being any other kind?–you need to immerse yourself in your subject like a professional chef would in food, flavors, textures, colors and tastes. Here in the UK, Hunters & Frankau, the sole importer of Cuban cigars, runs a prestigious qualification known as the Masters of Habanos. It’s a seriously strenuous thing to pass. Would-be Masters must learn a bewildering array of sizes (the actual sizes in millimeters, not just a “robusto extra” type hazarded guess). They must know, by

“Where there are many voices, many

size, shape, look and taste, all the current

teachers and many students, the cigar

production and Limited Editions likely

world is far smaller in comparison. You

to be found in their market (and very

need to open dialogue with those who

often in others, too). They must know

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and understand the strength and flavor profiles found

open and with a true and hard love of cigars in your

in each different brand and size. And, on top of that,

heart, then the opportunities are there for you to

they need to work in an industry that’s known for its

explore a fascinating career.

grinding pace, hours and relentlessness.

Many of those Masters of Habanos in the UK who

“Of course, you need to really love cigars,” says

studied ceaselessly to learn how Cuban cigars are made

Antonino Lo Iacono, Cigar Sommelier at The

across all those different factories have now moved

Beaumont Hotel in Mayfair, which boasts a covered

on to prestigious jobs in the industry. Like Syafiera

cigar terrace and a stunning DeArt humidor inside.

and Antonino, they are now recognized worldwide

“The cigar world evolves every day and if you think it could become a career for you, I would say, take your time, don’t rush it, enjoy different cigars together with different drinks—and, of course, good company is very important.” You’ve never worked behind a bar or in a kitchen if you think hospitality looks like fun. Sure, it is fun at times. But it’s also bloody hard work, tough on any social/family life and probably, if truth be known, not very good for your health in the long run. As far as I’m

among those who can sincerely claim to be true Cigar Sommeliers with an incredible knowledge and passion for their subject. They are not called Masters for nothing. I have nothing but respect for these amazing people and am proud to call many of them my friends. I would suggest that if you fancy this truly unique way if life, you’ll find a wonderfully individual (some would say eccentric) group awaiting you and a lifelong journey to enjoy ahead.

concerned, the “coalface” of the hospitality industry; for

Just get yourself a really good pair of comfortable

those chefs working day in, day out; for those waitresses

shoes, because you’ll be on your feet all day and night!

pounding the tables night after night; and for thoseCigar

And make sure that you study with the right sort of

Sommeliers coming home 14 hours after leaving and

organization to truly understand what the cigar world

being unable to sleep; is a young man or woman’s job.

has to offer.

Having said all that, if you come into it with your eyes

The best of British to you!

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C&S >> The stately Hennessy Distillery

All photos courtesy of BPCM PR/Hennessy

ICONIC BRAND SPOTLIGHT

HENNESSY JULIEN PEPIN LEHALLEUR by Matt Randolph

80 80 // CIGAR CIGAR &&SPIRITS SPIRITSJULY/AUGUST JULY/AUGUST 2022 2022

UT-OF-THE-BLUE TASK FOR TODAY: Without thinking too hard and long, go

ahead and name ten of the world’s most respected and popular spirits brands. As spirits enthusiasts, we can probably agree on many of them. We can take it to the next level by tackling a similar task by category: scotch, tequila, bourbon, etc. Spirits enthusiasts would likely agree on many of those choices as well. When you think of the cognac category—and there are any number of crème de la crème brands—you’ll most likely land on Hennessy in the blink of an eye. The brand’s history is magnificent. Real history that involves war, aristocrats and familial pride. We recently connected with Hennessy’s Julien Pepin Lehalleur. Julien is the Global Brand Education & Training Director for the company, and he was able to share some insight regarding Hennessy’s yesterday, today and tomorrow.

>> The Hennessy Tasting Committee

>> The Hennessy Le Peu distillery >> Founder Richard Hennessy

Cigar & Spirits Magazine: Tell us about how you became affiliated with Hennessy. Julien Pepin Lehalleur: It was a long and intense journey to get to the holy grail of spirits. I joined Hennessy as the Global Brand Education & Training Director in October 2018. However, my career at Moet Hennessy started in 2000, with Ruinart Champagne as business controller. I then moved to fashion for Dior Couture managing wholesale in Europe for five years. After that, Krug Champagne in the U.S.A. and Asia. Finally, two years in travel retail as Key Account Director on Dufry. How rewarding is it for you that you represent Hennessy and that it’s recognized as an iconic brand? Pride of belonging to this incredible Maison is the common trait to all Hennessy employees. Very rewarding, yet very challenging to be up to the task of representing the number one premium spirit in the world, the leader of cognac and the most important wine and spirits brand of the LVMH group. But I adore when people in key markets (such as the U.S.A., our number one market) look jealously at me when I tell them I work for Hennessy, in Cognac, France. Please share with our readers a bit about the history and prestige of the brand and how that tradition and authenticity informs Hennessy today.

Louis XV to fight the British who were ruling in Ireland. After eight years on the battlefield, he quit to learn the trading of spirits—eau-de-vie or “water of life”—with his cousins in Flanders, which is now what we now know as Belgium. He settled in Cognac, where he deemed the eaux-devies to be of superior quality and reputation. The company was then passed on to his son James who rapidly developed the business internationally with the very first shipment to the U.S.A. in 1794. And so on and so forth for eight generations. The roots of the brand are fascinating. Yes. But what sets Hennessy even further apart is the fact that this is actually the tale of two families who have worked hand in hand for eight generations. In 1806, James Hennessy named Jean Fillioux as the first master blender for Hennessy. This position was then occupied by his son, and this carried on until nowadays, with Renaud Fillioux de Gironde, who took over after his uncle Yann Fillioux in 2017.

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HENNESSY IS A GLOBAL LUXURY BRAND AND UNIQUE IN ITS ABILITY TO EMBRACE LOCAL CULTURES ALL OVER THE WORLD.” This transmission of skills, secrets, savoir-faire and above all of an incredible qualitative stock of eaux-de-vies is unique in the world of spirits. Together with his tasting committee, the gatekeepers of tradition and quality at Hennessy, Renaud gathers daily to taste some 60 eaux-de-vie—12,000 samples per year. They also look after over 500,000 barrels and 3,000 demi-johns, most probably the largest reserve of eaux-de-vies in the world, and certainly the most ancient, with some over 200 years old. This unparalleled reserve allows Renaud and his tasting committee to craft a portfolio of very different cognacs, from our Hennessy Very Special to some of the most prestigious cognacs in the world, such as Hennessy Paradis or Richard Hennessy. >>Next-gen Maurice Hennessy

Who would you say is the typical Hennessy connoisseur these days? Or maybe there isn’t a typical enthusiast… Hennessy is a global luxury brand and unique in its ability to embrace local cultures all over the world. It’s fascinating to see how people around the world feel close to our values. In each country where Hennessy settled, it adapted itself to local culture and customs. The brand found its public and thanks to this versatility, consistency of excellence and quality it has become the number one cognac house in the world. You’d be surprised to see how differently people drink it around the globe. There’s absolutely no archetype for the Hennessy lover. What are the most popular or prestigious sellers? It varies drastically from one country to another. I can just tell you that Hennessy is present in the most high-end restaurants and hotels around the planet, as well as in the most renowned wine and spirits retailers. What are the unique aspects that make Hennessy elite, collectible and sought after? At Hennessy, the price of our cognacs is driven by the rarity of the eaux-de-vies composing the blend. The rarest cognac in the permanent collection is Richard Hennessy, a tribute to our founder, created in 1996 by seventh generation master blender Yann Fillioux. This incredible cognac is an assemblage of our rarest and oldest eaux-de-vies. Only 12 barrels—around 9,000 bottles—are released annually so this is a must-have for collectors and serious aficionados. We also have even more limited editions, sold through very selective distribution, created in very limited quantity, or even made-to-measure by the master blender. Cognacs belonging to the “Edition Rares” are the epitome of cognac-making so highly praised.

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UNFORSAKEN UNFORSAKEN - DARK SUMATRA Dark Sumatra Nicaraguan binder and filler; barrel aged, medium to full body; extremely rich with notes of cedar, spice, roasted coffee and complex taste of sweetness.

NAME

COLOR

SIZE

BOX OF

BUNDLE

BOOLIT

DARK

4.75 x 46

32 ct

TORO

DARK

6 x 52

24 ct

SIXTY

DARK

6 x 60

24 ct

SEVENTY

DARK

6 x 70

24 ct

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>>The rare Dame Jeanne Hennessy collection

How does a new Hennessy drinker discover your cognac? Hennessy is present in over 150 countries. The brand is a major player in travel retail and is welldistributed in key on-trade accounts such as restaurants, cocktail bars and hotels. Hennessy is also a sponsor at important sports and music events. And we have famous Brand Ambassadors in the hip-hop community, boxing with Canelo Alvarez, or reggaeton music with Maluma. Since 2020, Hennessy is the official spirit of the NBA. As you start to understand, Hennessy is brand that cannot be unnoticed. Why would a new consumer or a seasoned enthusiast select the brand? It’s a safe choice as the number one cognac—the prestige of the brand through international recognition. There must be a reason behind such success, meaning that if undisputed quality was not there, we wouldn’t be able to withstand that leading position. The width of our portfolio and the versatility of our cognacs

allows everyone to find a cognac that will suit their palate. The brand is enjoyed in many ways—neat, on the rocks or even in classic cocktails for some of our cognacs, from Hennessy VS and VSOP to Hennessy X.O. Last but not least, a consumer may also choose Hennessy because he or she has been introduced to the brand by a sommelier, a bartender, a caviste or through a friend who’s in love with Hennessy. What should we be on the lookout for in 2022 and beyond? You’ll see more presence through the NBA, and get ready for more Editions Rares–meaning collectible and increasingly rare and collectible cognacs in the years to come. Our master blender has been working for a long time to prepare the arrival of new ultra-rare blends, new Hennessy Paradis formats and an exciting brand campaign. This decade is a very exciting one for Hennessy, nevertheless we face a challenge—we do not have enough eaux-de-vie to face the growing demand!

Matt Randolph is an award-winning writer and editor living in Santa Fe, N.M. 84

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KRISTOFF.COM

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Hear The Man’s story at: www.arturofuente.com/theman WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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All photos courtesy of La Aurora

88 88 // CIGAR CIGAR &&SPIRITS SPIRITSJULY/AUGUST JULY/AUGUST 2022 2022

BEHIND THE LEAF

MASTER BLENDER MANUEL INOA T H E A RC H I T E C T O F L A AU RO R A C I GA R S by Dave Johnson

stablished in 1903, La Aurora is the

really “out there”—but ultimately you have to serve

original cigar factory in the Dominican

the consumer. You have to make cigars that the

Republic. What started as a small family-

general public will love. And that’s my passion as a

run business has expanded into a global operation,

Master Blender. I am still learning every day, so in

with their cigars now distributed in over eighty

a sense, the path takes a lifetime.

countries worldwide. La Aurora boasts one of the world’s most pristine factories, and its lush tobacco fields are sublime. The brand’s tobacco barn and aging rooms are meticulously cared for, and that standard in the premium cigar world is elite. If you’ve had the pleasure of working your way through La Aurora’s portfolio during the past thirty years, your smoking pleasure should in no small part be credited to the expertise of Master Blender Manuel Inoa. He’s the architect of some of the finest cigars in the world.

What does a Master Blender do? That’s complicated to answer. It’s exciting, but there are lots of things involved. Of course, I make new creations for La Aurora, but one of the more involved tasks is to maintain the consistency of each current blend—which is harder that it sounds. Tobacco crops vary a lot in flavor and aroma, depending on weather conditions. And crops change from year to year. So I have to make sure that each blend is as consistent as possible by overseeing the quality process and determining

Recently, we had the pleasure of chatting with

which tobaccos should be used with each blend. It

Manuel to talk about all that’s involved with being a

keeps me focused every day.

Master Blender. We found ourselves drawn in with his magnetic personality, and the insight he shared about blending with La Aurora. With a cigar inhand and an easy smile on his face, Manuel offered us a glimpse into the passion he has for creating cigars. He’s possesses an eminently good cigar mind—the best of what we have in the landscape of premium cigars.

I heard that the La Aurora Especiales cigars had an interesting story behind them. How did those cigars come about? Great story! A few years ago, several [retail] stores from several states in America came to the Dominican Republic to learn about the cigar industry. Through the course of events, they had the idea of creating a special new blend that they would all sell together. They sent a few people at a time to

Cigar & Spirits Magazine: Congratulations on 30 years with La Aurora. What was your path to becoming a Master Blender and how long did it take? Manuel Inoa: Well, I don’t think anyone can prepare to be a Master Blender—there’s not a traditional path. There’s no book to teach you, so you must learn every day, every month and every year. One thing you learn is that you can make unique blends for yourself—maybe something

come to the factory and try some of my blends. I ended up making about four different blends, they chose the ones they liked, and we made a special cigar line based on their tastes. It was a great project, because it ended up being something different than I would normally make, and these stores really loved the result. They really knew their stuff, and I learned a lot in the process. It took about two years, but it was very rewarding.

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What goes into the process of making a new blend?

As a Master Blender, do you have a certain style that makes you stand

There’s a couple of ways we start. One way could be that we need to

out from other blenders?

plant a certain crop of tobacco, and then figure out how to blend it

Oh absolutely. Every blender has their own personal tastes. I

in a harmonious way. Another way would be to take tobacco from

personally love to munch on tobacco during the day, and I enjoy

our current inventory and then create a blend based on flavors

the flavor it brings. I also love to make blends with a lot of power—I

and characteristics we are looking for. The secret for any Master

want that punch of nicotine. I have made many of our blends with

Blender is to have a full inventory of tobaccos to use. And we

those things in mind. Many times, the fuller blends may lack that

have tobaccos from all over the world like Brazil, Peru, Nicaragua,

power I’m looking for, so we’ve made several medium and medium-

Ecuador and Cameroon. So I check my inventory to see what meets

plus blends that strike the balance we want. Through it all, I just want

the requirements, and then create a couple of samples and see how

to make the people happy, and to do that you have to bring flavor

they are. Most likely, they won’t be exactly right on the first try, so

and power. I’m lucky in that I have a wider range of tobaccos from

I’ll adjust different percentages of the proportions of each until you

around the world that I can work with, so if there’s something that

get it just right. I will then move on to the binder, using only one

tastes great, I can add it to the blend.

wrapper. If I’m using a Connecticut shade wrapper for this blend, I try it with the binder and adjust that percentage of binder until it’s what I’m looking for. We could end up doing anywhere from 50 to 80 different prototypes in this process—always in a corona size. And then I’ll send our blend to our factory owner for him to make the

How often do you make new blends with La Aurora? We do so many blends. If we’re talking about the whole company, we do a lot of private label blends as well as blending for our own brands. All together, we can make twenty to thirty new blends every

final decision. And this process can take years from start to finish.

year. For our La Aurora and León Jimenes brands, of course we’re

Do you consider blending more of an art or a science?

very deep in development for a project coming out in 2023 for our

I think they’re both important. It’s science, because you watch the

120th anniversary. So we want it to be something unique.

weather, the curing process, the growth of the tobacco plants, the fermenting process—this hard work involves a lot of precise science. But the blending and creating requires more passion and love. Blending a cigar is almost like a painting–choosing the right shades to blend and showing the world your creation. That’s the art.

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always working on something new. For example, right now we’re

What is your favorite cigar you’ve made with La Aurora? That’s hard to answer because they’re like my babies. I love them all. But if I had to choose, it would probably be the 100 Años. It’s a 100 percent Dominican cigar that celebrated our 100th anniversary, and it was considered the best Dominican-made cigar at the time. Since then, it’s won a few other awards. This is absolutely one of my go-to smokes. Also, the Fernando León from the Family Reserve Collection is another favorite. We initially released them in corona, toro, gran toro and robusto sizes. The coronas aren’t as popular, but I’ve been smoking a lot of those. Which of your cigar blends would you suggest to someone new to the world of premium cigars? We have so many from the line that people could start with. The normal La Aurora line is perfect. But for someone new, our León Jimenes is a great suggestion, I think. It’s our luxury line, and it’s great for any level of experience. As for sizes, robusto is always popular, but I like to suggest the corona for someone starting off because it’s the perfect medium size. Finally, what’s the one thing that you love about being a Master Blender? Tobacco is in my blood. I love everything about the tobacco business. As a Master Blender, though, there’s always something new to discover and learn, and that’s exciting. I get to meet a lot of people, share my expertise and get theirs in return. It’s so much fun, and I love every minute of it.

Dave Johnson is a fragrance review critic and entertainer on the popular YouTube Channel, FragranceBros.com

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All photos courtesy of Tom Dyer

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TOM DYER’S

COCKTAIL CORNER OUR RESIDENT COCKTAIL EXPERT SHARES HIS FLAIR...

Tom Dyer has focused his dynamic skills as a professional flair bartender over the two decades he’s been in the drinks industry. He’s travelled the world—competing and placing 1st in over 80 competitions— including 10 United Kingdom titles and two World Championship titles.

Tom’s YouTube channel showcases his flair bartending skills and drink creations to the amusement of cocktail enthusiasts across the globe. He also manages five schools under the European Bartender School brand in London, Paris, Milan, Rome and Cape Town in South Africa. Here are a few of Tom’s newest cocktail creations you can work into your own flair repertoire.

Cheers! 94 // CIGAR CIGAR &&SPIRITS SPIRITSJULY/AUGUST JULY/AUGUST 2022 94 2022

OCEAN BLUE

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 6 oz vodka • 2 oz blue curacao • large handful of mint leaves • 4 oz lime juice • 2 oz sugar syrup • top with soda

Directions:

• Add all ingredients into a 2 liter jug • Add plenty of cracked and cubed ice • Stir, swizzle and churn vigorously • Add more ice • Top with soda

Garnish:

• Mint leaves and lime wheels

Glass:

• Jug with 4 glasses

TIP: Replace the soda with lemon soda if you want it sweeter.

SHEPHERD’S DELIGHT Serves 1 Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin • ¾ oz cinnamon / honey syrup • 1 oz lime • 1 oz cranberry

Ingredients / Directions for Syrup:

• 1 cup honey • 1 cup water • 3 sticks cinnamon • Heat on low for about 10 mins or until cinnamon flavor has been absorbed.

Directions II:

• Gently shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain. • Top with blood orange soda

Garnish:

• Orange wedge

Glass:

• Highball / tall glass

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ENDLESS DAYS Serves 1 Ingredients:

• 1 oz vodka • 1 oz aperol (Italian bitter apéritif) • 2 oz orange juice • 1 oz lemon juice • ½ oz sugar syrup • soda

Directions:

• Shake all ingredients together with ice • Strain into a highball glass • Top with soda

Garnish:

• Dehydrated lemon wheel and mint sprig

Glass:

• Highball / tall glass

TIP: Shake gently.

With summer in full swing, I wanted to share three “hot” tips to keep you cool and fresh in the hot summer sun… CLEAR. BIG. ICE.

Clear ice keeps your drinks colder for longer, melts slowly and looks sexy “AF.” Make sure those cubes are BIG and you’re onto a winner. There are several clear ice cube makers on the market, or just fill a cooler with water and put it in the freezer.

FREEZE.

Put your vodka in the freezer if it isn’t already. You’ll thank me later. Why? Four words: Super silky.

Freezing cold. Chilled vodka will cool you out when used in your martini or for a simple sip and shoot.

ICE. YOUR. GLASS.

Store your glassware in the freezer with the ice already inside. Remove it only when your drink is ready to be poured.

FIZZY BREEZE SPRITZ Serves 1 Ingredients:

• ¾ oz raspberry liqueur • ½ oz London dry gin • 1 oz supasawa cocktail mixer • ½ oz thyme syrup • Prosecco sparkling wine

Directions:

• Build and churn the ingredients with crushed ice in the glass. • Add more ice • Top with Prosecco

Garnish:

• Raspberries

Glass:

• Small highball / rocks

TIP: Lemon juice will work in replacement to Supasawa.

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@europeanbartenderschool

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BACK COVER A FUENTE

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