Cigar & Spirits Magazine Nov/Dec 2020 Ft. 50 Cent by Cigar & Spirits Magazine

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

LINCOLN SALAZAR RANDY MASTRONICOLA BREAHNA WHEELER

CEO & Publisher Editor-in-Chief Director of Events/Administration

JOE REDMOND

Art Director

MIYURI NORRIS

Digital Media Director

AUDREY PAVIA

Consulting Editor

CODY CHO

Consulting Media Director

JOE BOSSO

Sr. Contributing Writer

ELISA JORDAN

Sr. Contributing Writer

CHRIS GOLDSHOLL LISA TURNBULL BAILEY KERWICK SHAHID GHANI NATALIE NICOL CARLY SCHEUER

Account Executive Administrative Coordinator Administrative Assistant Chief Financial Officer Legal Accounting

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joe Bosso, Julie Harrington Giffin, Dave Johnson, Elisa Jordan, Greg Mays, Audrey Pavia

A L I N CO L N B L A K E S A L A Z A R P U B L I C AT I O N Editorial, Production and Sales Office

Headquartered at: 11 Orchard Road, Suite 106, Lake Forest, CA 92630 (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. Â©2020 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. October 2020 Volume 10/Issue 6 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

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contents ON THE COVER

50 CENT The Art Of The Hustle

INTERVIEWS

JEN KIRKMAN IS OUT THERE

The Multi-Talented Comedian Makes Magical Moments

BEHIND THE LEAF NESTOR MIRANDA

The Dapper Don of Miami Cigar & Company

REWARDS

FEATURED PAIRINGS

Perfecto Pairings to Expand Your Palate

FOR YOUR HUMIDOR

Winter Cigar Buyer’s Guide

FOR YOUR HOME BAR

Winter Spirits Buyer’s Guide

HIGH NOTE HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

Closing the Year With a Few Of Our Favorites

ON THE COVER

50 CENT 6

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november/december 2020

FOUR ROSES

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

NESTOR MIRANDA

JEN KIRKMAN

LIFESTYLE

THE LOWDOWN WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OUT THERE NOW

Shear Delight The Class of Christmas Classics Ring of Fire The Good Guy Glow

SPEAKEASIES

CIGAR & SPIRITS MAGAZINE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2020

2020 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

FEATURES

SPEAKEASIES USA

A Modern Nod to Prohibition-Era Watering Holes

LUXE EXCURSIONS THAT WILL SET YOU FREE

Ultra-private and Adventurous Types May Apply

LUXE EXCURSIONS

ICONIC BRAND SPOTLIGHT ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE

Past to Present, Four Roses Has Love in Its Story

THE LOWDOWN

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publisher’s note Let it be, let it be… Without the storms–you would not appreciate the calm. Without the cold–you would not appreciate the heat. Without the sun–you would not appreciate the moon. Without the waves of life–you would not appreciate your life. In order to appreciate something, you must know that you might lose it. The key is to do all you can to never lose what it is that you love. As we begin to exit one of the hardest years in modern history, I have to reflect on how life offers no guarantees. We cannot always control what other people might do, what they might say or what even happens in the world. One thing I do know is that we may not control the world individually, but we can control our own world. We can control what we put into our world, who we allow in it, and what we allow to leave from our hearts and our minds. Is what we are saying or doing putting out love, joy and selflessness into the world? Are we being kind? I believe this year has been hard on many, but tougher on others. Whether it be financially, physically, mentally–however, it may be there has just been change. I am a strong believer in “When one door closes, another door opens.” It’s just all about our perspective, and the way we see things. Every second we each have to choose to think positive or negative. To show love or hate. To have hope or drown. At the end of the year, when we sit back and have our cigars and spirits for the last time this year, let’s try not to reflect back on the negative. Let’s look at the positive–thank the blessings we have–that even through a storm, eventually–yes, and I mean yes–there will be light. Embrace the storms and celebrate the journey during the holidays. Sit around your table during the holidays and take in the moments with those you love. Take a moment to think: What would we really have without these loved ones? Whether it be your wife, your husband, your kids, your grandchildren, your cat, your dog, your bird–whoever or whatever it may be–take a deep breath and count your blessings, and not your losses. My heart and prayers go out to you if you lost someone this year, but let’s remember the blessing of the time we did get with them. Embrace the time you spent in pure joy with them.

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You see, when you’re born, life gives you a book with empty pages. There’s no guarantee whether you will have a comedy, a drama, a romance, a history book or a tragedy. All you’re given is some simple ink of your mind and your heart. This is paper to write your story because that’s what life is–your story–and only you get it write it. To close out the year, it’s my humble thank you to my family, my team (who I also consider family), our subscribers, our social media followers, our event attendees, our industries and advertisers for your continued loyalty and support through these difficult times. It’s because of you that I’m blessed to write another publisher’s note, and will for many more years to come. Raise your glass and cigar. Cheers! I humbly thank you. May God bless all of your families with love, joy, prosperity and peace. And God Bless America!

Lincoln B. Salazar CEO & Publisher

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SHE A R DELIGHT THE CL A SS OF CHR ISTM A S CL A SSICS R ING OF FIR E THE GOOD GUY GLOW

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OUT THERE NOW

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by Dave Johnson

>> Stefano Ricci ShearlingLined Leather & Wool Blouson Jacket Photos courtesy of Freenote Cloth, Officine Generale, Cromford Leather and Stefano Ricci

>> Cromford Leather Company’s Douglas Jacket

>> Freenote Cloth RJ2 Denim White Shearling Jacket

SHEAR DELIGHT Ever since humans realized animal skins could be used for warmth, leather and fur have been clothing staples. And the humble sheep has given us one of the best applications of animal hides: shearling coats. The shearling coat features sheep’s wool on the inside lining with additional accents throughout the coat. Shearling is a very comfortable textile that can be a great addition to your wardrobe especially if you’re seeking warmth and admiring looks. It definitely throws off a cool and masculine vibe for fall and winter. Here are a few outerwear options to get you started. FREENOTE CLOTH

>> Officine Générale Jeff Coat

Whenever shearling is mentioned, one classic design is the denim trucker-style jacket. Few brands do this jacket as well as Freenote Cloth with their RJ2 Denim White Shearling Jacket ($900). The company makes meticulously crafted, heavy-duty clothing that’s superior and stylish. This jacket is ruggedly made with a 20 oz heavyweight denim from Japan, heavy-duty hardware and then lined in shearling. The RJ2 looks great with a turtleneck, and other pieces if you’re going for a layered look. It’s a stunning denim jacket. OFFICINE GÉNÉRALE

The Officine Générale Jeff Coat ($2,700) definitely offers a Robert Redford feel with its wonderful Western look. It’s a mid-length jacket made from a smooth Portuguese suede exterior and then lined with shearling. This is a great design that dips its toe into Western wear—but just a little bit. It’s a great piece to have if you think the other shearling coats out there are too loud.

CROMFORD LEATHER COMPANY

The Royal Air Force was issued a shearlinglined leather jacket during World War II. It came to be known as the Irvin jacket. This style has been replicated numerous times, but the Cromford Leather Company’s version ($4,300) is the best yet. Their Douglas Jacket is made with a very durable cowhide on the outside and lined with shearling. Sometimes bomber jackets can look a bit like a costume, but Cromford Leather has really nailed the style here. It looks timeless, but with a modern take. We love this jacket because most everyone will look stealth in a bomber like this. STEFANO RICCI

The Stefano Ricci Shearling-Lined Leather & Wool Blouson Jacket ($4,375) is a winner. This is a fantastic lightweight option. It’s made from wool and is shearling-lined, and it’s a lot warmer than it appears on first glance. It’s very casual and comfortable and looks like an elevated fleece jacket. We love the mix here. This Ricci somehow pulls off equal parts in style–a true Italian and Star Wars mash-up. Thankfully, shearling is something that always stays in fashion. If you miss out this winter, you should be able to find other re-invented options next year. Once you get a jacket with shearling, every other jacket feels like it’s missing something. And that’s why shearling is here to stay.

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THE CLASS OF CHRISTMAS CLASSICS

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946)

In the pantheon of Christmas movies, this film definitely brings one of the best feelgood endings. It’s the story of a man (Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey) who thinks his life is of such little significance that it leads him to the point of wanting to jump from a bridge. Fortunately, his guardian angel (Henry Travers as Clarence Odbody) rescues him and shows him how different (and sad) the world would be without him. Maybe it’s because it’s in black and white, maybe it’s the 1940s setting, the style of the flashbacks, or maybe it’s just the sum of all its parts, but It’s A Wonderful Life is the perfect holiday movie about redemption and love. And now anytime we put a bell on the Christmas tree, it gives us those holiday warm fuzzies. MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (1947)

When speaking of Christmas movies, no list is complete without Miracle on 34th Street. The story of a real-life Kris Kringle (played by Edmund Gwenn) who steals the Christmas heart of little Susan (the adorable Natalie Wood) is whimsical and charming in the perfect Christmas way. The New York City backdrop is replete with the old-timey Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and snowy Manhattan streets. There’s profound joy in believing anything is possible, and the payoff in the film makes an indelible impression for children and adult viewers. The 1994 remake was also very good and modernized this movie, but our favorite will always be the black and white original. You can’t beat it. A CHRISTMAS CAROL (1951)

A Christmas Carol has been told and retold many times, whether it be the original book by Charles Dickens or the many film versions. The 1951 film starring Alastair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge is regarded by many as the most definitive representation of the book. It’s certainly not the first or newest film adaptation but this Scrooge has timeless authenticity. That authenticity is what sets it apart from other versions. A Christmas Carol is quintessentially Christmas. It reminds us of the importance of changing for the better as well as the joy of enriching the world with kindness and generosity for those who are dear to us.

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A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983)

A Christmas Story has become one of those irreverent Christmas classics that achieved a certain status with a cult following, but it’s morphed into a must-view for many holiday movie geeks. Maybe the allure comes from how relatable and down-to-earth the story is. It’s not about Santa Claus, elves or even about Christmas cheer. It’s about little Ralphie Parker (played by the precocious Peter Billingsley) wanting one thing for Christmas: a Red Ryder Carbine-Action two hundred shot Range Model air rifle. We love the leg lamp, we love mispronouncing “fragile” and we guarantee you’ll never forget the oft-repeated line in the movie: “You’ll shoot your eye out.” NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION (1989)

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a comedy that hits home every time we watch it. It’s the tale of a man (Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold) trying to make his family live up to his Christmas fantasy, and failing mightily at each point. We really don’t know if there’s much of a moral to this movie or not, but each time we view it, we laugh more than the time prior. Everyone has been a Clark Griswold at some point in some way, knows a crazy Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid), or has suffered through infamous family Christmas dinner squabbles. The comedy here comes from how close to reality it seems sometimes, and it’s brilliant.

ANIMATED CHRISTMAS Be sure to re-visit a few of the best animated Christmas features this season. They’re not just for kids, and the animation techniques in some of the older features has a warmth that CGI can’t offer. The messages in these storylines resonate at any age. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer (1964) A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (1966) Frosty the Snowman (1969) Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) The Elf On The Shelf Presents: An Elf’s Story (2011) Klaus (2019)

HOME ALONE (1990)

If you grew up in the 1980s or later, Home Alone is likely an annual favorite Christmas movie. The story centers around an eightyear-old boy (Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister) being left to his own devices at home after being separated from his family in a frantic opening plot line. The boy fending off knucklehead burglars with homemade booby traps is just one of the hilarious aspects of the film. Seeing The Wet Bandits (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) get pummeled by a feisty kid is the perfect schadenfreude comedy. And when the story allows in some heartwarming moments, it’s welcomed by all viewers. Home Alone is a fun Christmas film.

A Christmas Story: Pictorial Press Ltd/Alamy.com, A Christmas Carol: Ronald Grant Archive/Alamy.com, Home Alone: Atlaspix/Alamy.com, Chritmas Vacation: United ArchivesGmbH/Alamy.com

Consider yourself assigned. It’s time to study the Christmas Classics this season. One of the best parts of Christmas is the broad selection of traditional movies we watch to get us in the holiday spirit. Sure, we love the music; but we really love the movies. And because this year has seen more than its share of turmoil, we think watching a heartwarming Christmas movie or two would be a great reprieve. It’s a fine way to laugh, relax and sip some eggnog with the family.

in collaboration with :

ERNESTO PEREZ-CARRILLO

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>> Breeo X Series 24

RING OF FIRE

>> Stahl Gas Fire Pit

Most everyone loves a toasty fire. With the return of winter, let’s take a look at a few options for one of our favorite spots to warm up: the fire pit. It’s that perfect place to bask in a crackling fire when reading a book outside, gather around while at a party, or break out the hot dogs and s’mores for a backyard family campfire. BREEO X SERIES 24 ($599)

This Breeo fire pit has a traditional look with some modern amenities under the hood. It features X Airflow technology that allows air to circulate for a better flame, and even eliminates most of the smoke. It’s made of Stainless Steel and Cor-Ten steel which will develop a rich, rust-red patina over time, and it has a wide 24-inch opening for woodburning. It features an outer sear plate for cooking and can accommodate an optional grill grate attachment if you want to turn this fire pit into a mean barbeque pit. STAHL GAS FIRE PIT ($950)

The Stahl Gas Fire Pit is one of the most visually striking fire pits, but it’s more than just a looker. This 30-inch long fire pit is made of raw steel that weighs over 100 pounds. And as the name denotes, it can use either wood logs or gas. If you live in an area with homeowner association restrictions, if you don’t want the smell of smoke on your clothes, or if you just want a warm fire pit at the press of a button, the Stahl Gas Fire Pit is certain to light up your night.

The Solo Stove Bonfire is a great portable option for a fire pit. The company makes a variety of camp stoves for cooking food while on the trail, but their foray into fire pits has given the world this beauty. The Solo Stove Bonfire is made entirely of 304 stainless steel. It features a low-smoke, wood-burning design, has a 19.5-inch opening and weighs only 20 pounds. It even comes with a carrying case, so you can stow it away or take it on location. Solo Stove makes a couple of smaller fire pits in this line and even a larger one, but this Bonfire size is the perfect balance of size and portability. VESTA FIA 30” WOOD BURNING FIRE PIT ($1,207)

>> Vesta Wood Burning Fire Pit

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If you want to commit to the fire pit idea as a permanent backyard fixture, go with this beauty. This block of 11 gauge Cor-Ten steel has a 30-inch opening and weighs in at over 200 pounds. The company says the pit is “portable”, but it’s not going anywhere that easily. It’s a formidable fire pit, and looks snazzy wherever you put it. There’s something special about a fire pit. Maybe it’s the magic of the dancing flames and the needed warmth, but we think the real magic is the way a fire pit draws people together for meaningful chats or just some quality alone time.

Photos courtesy of Breeo, Stahl Gas, Solo Stove and Vesta

>> Solo Stove Bonfire

SOLO STOVE BONFIRE ($349)

AVAILABLE ONLINE EXCLUSIVELY AT WWW.PAPPYCO.COM

THE STORY OF THESE HISTORIC BOURBON-BARREL-FERMENTED CIGARS STARTS, WHERE ELSE, BUT IN KENTUCKY, USA AND FEATURES KENTUCKY SEED AND KENTUCKY GROWN TOBACCO. ONCE GROWN, THE TOBACCO LEAVES ARE HARVESTED AND CAREFULLY SELECTED FOR TRADITIONAL KENTUCKY STYLE FIRE CURING. WE THEN TRANSPORT THE LEAVES, USED AS THE WRAPPER, FROM HOPKINSVILLE, KENTUCKY TO SAINT JAMES PARISH, LOUISIANA. THIS IS WHERE THE TOBACCO UNDERGOES BARREL FERMENTATION. THE PAPPY VAN WINKLE BARREL FERMENTED CIGAR IS HAND CRAFTED AT LA GRAN FABRICA DREW ESTATE IN ESTELI, NICARAGUA AND FEATURES TWO WRAPPERS, "TAPA NEGRA”, THE KENTUCKY GROWN, BARREL FERMENTED LEAF BLENDED OVER A MEXICAN SAN ANDRES LEAF WITH AN ALL-NICARAGUAN BLEND OF WELL AGED, ROBUST & EARTHY TOBACCOS. AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL DREW DIPLOMAT RETAILER

DREW ESTATE | THE REBIRTH OF CIGARS WWW.DREWESTATE.COM #DE4L

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>> BoyFace

THE GOOD GUY GLOW Modern men have known the importance of a good hair and skincare regimen for a long time now. The market is inundated with a variety of both affordable and luxe price points. Keep an eye on these four brands. The diversity of their products are absolute game-changers for your everyday routine, and the investment you make will reap daily dividends in maintaining your good guy glow. JACK BLACK

Jack Black has been around for almost twenty years, and chances are you may have already seen these products at your local drugstore. They’ve become the best-selling men’s skincare brand in the United States and the company takes pride in making products with high-quality ingredients–without any harmful chemicals. JB has a plethora of products, and deciding what to purchase is a good problem to have. That said, we suggest you consider the Jack’s MVP set ($150). It has just about everything you’ll need to feel shiny and new: lotions, serums, scrubs, cleansers, shampoo and deodorant. They’re number one for a reason. Their high-quality products speak to many men looking for a tight look.

BOYFACE

BoyFace is the plant-based, men’s skincare and grooming line developed by Billboard award-winning artist, Crystal Waters. The queen of house and dance discovered that many of her male dancers and fans lacked the option of quality skincare with clean and conscious ingredients. The line has been highly lauded since launching five years ago. BoyFace has a variety of top-selling items including the Double Duty de Puff & Firming Eye Serum ($29), the Power Peptide Daily Moisturizer ($45), the HighOctane Vitamin C Brightening Serum ($45) and the Cleansing Beard Mousse ($29). BoyFace is a brand whose time has come.

PETE & PEDRO

If you need help in the hair department, check out Pete & Pedro for “Bueno hair!” as they say. Pete & Pedro have some of the best men’s hair products on the market—for any type of hair and for and look. And because their line is so good, it could legitimately transform your appearance. They’ve branched out and now offer a variety of other hygiene products for skin, shower and shaves— also wonderful—but don’t snooze on their hair products. And if you aren’t exactly sure of what you need, get one of everything with their Ultimate Pedro Bueno Hair Pack ($215).

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>> Tiege Hanley Tier 3 Package

TIEGE HANLEY

>> Pete & Pedro Ultimate Pedro Bueno Hair Pack

The beauty of Tiege Hanley is its simplicity. They offer a subscription model that sends you a monthly supply of highquality skincare products. When the box arrives, it includes simple instructions for morning and evening skincare regimens and even has pictures for the correct portions. There are only a handful of products offered in a three-tiered system tailored for your specific needs. Tier 3 is the top package ($45) and it offers their entire range of washes, scrubs, serums and lotions. They’ll arrive monthly if you want to keep subscribing. The brand is really into the science behind skincare, so they like to use ingredients with scientific research behind them. This is perfect for someone who wants to start up a quality skincare routine, but doesn’t know what to get or what to use. Dave Johnson is a fragrance review critic and entertainer on the popular YouTube Channel, FragranceBros.com.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Photos courtesy of Jack Black, Pete & Pedro, BoyFace and Tiege Hanley

>> Jack Black MVP Set

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A MODERN NOD TO PROHIBITION-ERA WATERING HOLES by Audrey Pavia

Prohibition was not a fun time. Getting together with your cronies and sharing some spirits could land you in jail. Those who were willing to take the chance found their way into dark, hidden speakeasies situated specifically to avoid detection by The Law. Prohibition only lasted from 1920 to 1933, but the excitement of sneaking a drink with friends in a clandestine hideaway has remained. Today, 100 years after Prohibition temporarily became the law of the land, modern speakeasies have become even more popular than the originals. Every major city in the U.S. has its share of speakeasies. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a look at eight that have caught the attention of spirit lovers from coast to coast.

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Photo courtesy of Wicked Rabbit

SPEAKEASIES USA

>> The velvet-cool interior of Wicked Rabbit

WICKED RABBIT >> One of the Wicked Rabbit’s cocktail specialties is the Clover Club.

Photo courtesy of Wicked Rabbit >> One of the jazzy spots to mix at the Wicked Rabbit

OMAHA, NE.

Omaha may seem like an unlikely place for a speakeasy, but this burgeoning city houses the Wicked Rabbit, one of the most fun retro bars in the Midwest. Located inside the Hotel Deco, you get to the Wicked Rabbit by entering a small shop on the street called Looking Glass Cigars & Spirits. Pass by the unique liquor for sale inside the store and tell the clerk why you are here. You’ll be directed to the speakeasy’s secret entrance. A tiny venue that can only hold about 25 people at one time, the Wicked Rabbit is narrow and dimly lit. Once your eyes adjust, you’ll see some décor reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland, along with comfortable chairs and low tables. Vintage cocktails are a specialty, in keeping with the speakeasy theme.

>> Wicked Rabbit’s sleek speakeasy entrance.

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>> Be sure to sample some rare bourbon when you visit the Red Phone Booth in Atlanta.

>> The lounge look is eclectic at Backdoor at Roxys.

BACK DOOR AT ROXY’S

RED PHONE BOOTH

SEATTLE, WASH.

ATLANTA, GA.

If you want to know what speakeasies were like in their heyday, the Red Phone Booth is the spot for you. Located in downtown Atlanta, the Red Phone Booth strives to provide a Prohibition experience, including a cigar program and a turn-of-the-century cocktail selection.

Chandeliers, funky lamps, giant picture frames and cushy booths are all part of the ambience of Back Door at Roxy’s, a speakeasy lounge in the Fremont section of Seattle. Tucked behind Roxy’s Diner, the interior features ceiling-to-floor red velvet curtains and high wooden ceilings. Along with classic cocktails and signature drinks, the Back Door has a full menu from next-door Roxy’s Diner, featuring appetizers and full meals. They even have dessert. Happy hour is daily, and Wednesday nights features live music described as “funky jazz and boogaloo, with a touch of swing.”

>> Signature cocktails and dining ambiance make Backdoor at Roxys a must experience.

PDT (PLEASE DON’T TELL) NEW YORK, N.Y.

>> PDT captures that NYC speakeasy vibe at its best. >> You’ll need to make your way through Crif Dogs to enter PDT.

Once passing through a secret hollow, you’ll find yourself in an intimate room with exposed brick, wood paneled ceilings, a mahogany bar and leather booths. Although PDT opened in 2002, you’ll feel like you are back in the 1920s. PDT is known for its craft cocktails and food items off the Crif Dogs’ menu.

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>> Enter through here!

Photos courtesy of Backdoor at Roxy’s, PDT and Red Phone Booth.

If you want to visit PDT—which stands for Please Don’t Tell—you can’t just walk in through the front door. Like most speakeasies, there’s a hidden entrance. In the case of PDT, it’s a telephone booth located in the Crif Dogs eatery next door, located on St. Marks Place in the East Village section of Manhattan.

Featuring a collection of rare bourbon, whiskey and scotch selections, and more than a dozen tinctures, bitters and flavoring agents, the Red Phone Booth features original brick floors, a honey onyx bar, an intimate fireplace, custom Italian leather couches, and a hand-painted ceiling with back lighting. If you want to get in, you have to obtain a secret phone number and call it using a restored, antique red London phone booth located in the entryway. Then wait for someone to let you in.

Hear The Manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story at: www.arturofuente.com/theman

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>> Comedians, musicians, jugglers and strong men are among enticing acts.

>> Antiques and vintage circus art are displayed throughout the bar.

>> The intimate bar on a busy night, during a burlesque performance.

THE DRIFTER CHICAGO, ILL.

During Prohibition, a restaurant front door that was painted green was meant to send a message: a speakeasy was hidden within. In the spirit of the 1920’s, the Green Door Tavern, a restaurant located in a historic building in the Lincoln Park area of Chicago, houses an underground gem called The Drifter. Located beneath the floor of the Green Door Tavern, the Drifter is reached by descending the establishment’s basement stairs. Once within, patrons can order from a drink menu that changes daily. A rotating list of more than 100 cocktails is presented on Tarot cards. Entertainment is part of the experience, and can include everything from burlesque to stand-up comedy.

ATWATER ALLEY DALLAS, TX.

Atwater Alley has a stylish interior and a romantic atmosphere that lends an upscale twist to the speakeasy trend. And even though visitors must adhere to a dress code—closed-toed shoes for women and full-length pants for men—the atmosphere is both fun and hip. Atwater’s friendly bartenders serve a large variety of craft cocktails along with a huge list of wines. In-house mixologists even make unique drinks for adventurous patrons. >> You’ll get fired up with one of Atwater Alley’s craft cocktails.

RETROGRADE DENVER, COLO.

Start the night in an ice cream shop and end it in a speakeasy. That’s the drill if you want to visit Retrograde in uptown Denver, a hidden bar with an astronomical theme. Known for its classy yet relaxed and intimate atmosphere, Retrograde is popular with patrons for its uniquely named craft cocktails; “Eraserhead” and “Hard Ticket to Hawaii” are just two. Dimly lit with hanging lights and comfortable seating, Retrograde is accessed through a freezer door at the back of the Frozen Matter ice cream shop. Since Retrograde is small, you might have to enjoy a scoop of ice cream while you wait your turn to enter.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Photos courtesy of Anthony Farias/Drifter, Atwater Alley and Retrograde.

Atwater Alley in the Knox/Henderson section of Dallas is a bar within a bar. To reach it, you have to enter Henry’s Majestic, a conventional tavern, which features live music and an outdoor patio. If you know where to look, you’ll find the entrance to Atwater, a hidden, two-story speakeasy tucked in the back.

ADULTS ONLY

LOS ANGELES, CALIF.

Photos courtesy of Adults Only.

During Prohibition, Los Angeles was home to many thriving underground drinking establishments. Although those original speakeasies no longer exist, a hideaway called Adults Only on Sunset Blvd. carries on the tradition.

>> Adults Only is indeed just for grown-ups seeking speakeasy fun. >> No reading allowed.

Accessible only through an adult bookstore that’s located inside a strip mall, Adults Only features craft cocktails, reupholstered church pews and colorful stained glass windows, with walls adorned in vintage movie posters. A small, adjacent room hosts a billiard table. To commemorate your experience, a photo booth featuring old theatre seats and an old-time movie backdrop is at your disposal.

Audrey Pavia has authored twenty-three non-fiction books. She is an award-winning writer and editor living in Southern California. Audrey is a frequent contributor to Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

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CALL 800.357.9800 Mention CGSA2130 Shipping included. Purchase may be subject to state, local or excise taxes where applicable. We do not ship to South Dakota or Utah. First-time purchasers only. One per customer. No sales to anyone under the age of 21. For shipping information & restrictions please visit www.CIGAR.com/SHIP. Offer expires 12.15.20.

1911 Spillman Drive | Dept. #26 | Bethlehem, PA 18015

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C&S

Photos courtesy of Barone Photography

>> Daniel Marshall (left) and Carlos “Carlito” Fuente (right)

FEATURED PAIRINGS

Perfecto Pairings to Expand Your Palate

by Greg Mays

DANIEL MARSHALL BY CARLOS FUENTE XXXVIII ANNIVERSARY CIGAR LAPHROAIG 30 YEAR OLD SCOTCH: THE IAN HUNTER STORY In many ways, Carlos “Carlito” Fuente and Daniel Marshall represent the upper echelon in the cigar world. They are each master craftsman with vision and meticulous standards. The Daniel Marshall XXXVIII Limited Edition Anniversary Cigar is a once-in-alifetime smoke. It represents a celebration of Marshall’s 38th year in the cigar business as well as being his age when his daughter Julia was born. Carlos Fuente (in collaboration with Marshall) created the cigar with Dominican ultra-rare tobacco to honor his friend in a commemorative year. The Daniel Marshall XXXVIII Limited Edition Anniversary is a 6 x 52 torpedo. The cigars are packaged, appropriately, in an artisanal Daniel Marshall desktop/travel humidor made from Macassar Ebony that was designed by Marshall and Fuente. Each humidor contains: • 1 Daniel Marshall by Carlos Fuente 24kt Golden XXXVIII Anniversary Cigar with 2 grams of pure 24kt gold personally rolled by Daniel Marshall. • 7 Daniel Marshall by Carlos Fuente XXXVIII Anniversary Cigars. • 1 Daniel Marshall by Carlos Fuente XXXVIII Anniversary Cigar to be enjoyed in the “Virtual Campfire with Daniel.” A single roller was selected to work with this beauty at the Fuente factory in the Dominican Republic. There were only 12 cigars produced per day to ensure that everything would be perfect. I carefully lit the Marshall XXXVIII and was met with some sizzle on the tongue– just a touch of spice. It’s a mild to medium cigar with vanilla and citrus notes, the XXXVIII is an absolute pleasure to smoke. It burns perfectly and you’ll certainly enjoy it until your fingers get hot. Vanilla is a high note and there’s an ongoing cinnamon-cream pleasure as well. This is a transcendent smoking experience from the refined handiwork of Mr. Fuente. This cigar is a special occasion. The wrapper is beautiful, light and flawless. The veins are minimal and seams are invisible. Something as unique as the Marshall 38th Anniversary cigar should be met with a luxuriant spirit. I had the good fortune to pair it with Laphroaig 30: The

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Ian Hunter Story. Ian was the last of the original Johnston family to run the Laphroaig distillery, about 100 years ago. The distillery is named for the area of land at the tip of Loch Laphroaig on the south coast of the island of Islay in Scotland. The whisky is presented in a beautiful book with Laphroaig’s printed history–a special collector’s piece in its own right. Thirty years is a long time for aging Scotch whisky. It was essential to enjoy it as intended–neat and clean. Flavor-wise, there’s a minerality to The Ian Hunter story, along with wood and peat, but something much richer and deeper than those typical flavors. This is an example of something tasting “old,” but in a new and special way. Knowing the history between the cigar and whisky made it an even more rewarding pairing experience. Though they never knew each other, I suspect Ian Hunter would enjoy an evening of whisky and cigars with Marshall and Fuente. These products really are “craft to the highest degree” between these men separated by oceans and time. The beauty of distilled, aged whiskies can similarly echo the beauty of a perfect cigar. So, should you wait for years to enjoy a Daniel Marshall XXXVIII and Laphroaig 30? Absolutely not. You will savor this pairing moment for a lifetime. It’s the only way to fly. First-class all the way. 6 x 52 Torpedo | Wrapper, Binder, Filler: Ultra-Rare Dominican Strength: Mild/Medium MSRP (Macassar Ebony Humidor including cigars): $1,495 USA, $2,000 International MSRP (Laphroaig 30 whisky): $1,000 danielmarshall.com | arturofuente.com | laphroaig.com

LIGA PRIVADA YEAR OF THE RAT 2020 ARDBEG TRAIGH BHAN BATCH 2 When you’re famous for a cigar named the “Dirty Rat,” it’s wise to capitalize on the Chinese Zodiac when 2020 rolls around as the Year of the Rat. It’s a common occurrence for limited edition smokes to celebrate zodiac signs, so it’s no surprise that the team at Drew Estate went hard on this one. Offering a blend that’s slightly tweaked from the original Dirty Rat, the Year of the Rat is shapely and wrapped in gold foil….is that a pig tail on the cap? It’s something more like a flattened, inverted triangle shape. A beaver tail? Such fun. The Year of the Rat is sold in limited edition boxes of 10, and it’s perfectly compatible with Drew’s other Liga Privada line–a strong, slightly peppery cigar with the signature earthy blend of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobacco that Drew does so well. The ash burns tightly and perfectly straight. There’s a sweet, peanut profile as you reach the middle of the cigar. It fuses with the other tastes and remains balanced until the end. The limited-edition Ardbeg Traigh Bhan Batch 2 came to mind to balance this sweet nuttiness. This is a stellar limited edition offering by Ardberg. It’s an Islay Scotch. This is a distinctly briny and saltwater sipper that offers notes of smoke and pine on the finish. The dryness and saltiness mingled sublimely with the Year of the Rat. A good amount of time was spent with the limited-edition Ardberg expression, and it’s certain to be matched up again. This is an extraordinary pairing. –G. Mays/C&S Staff 5.5 x 46 Grand Corona | Wrapper: Connecticut broadleaf | Binder: Brazilian Filler: Honduran, Nicaraguan | Strength: Full | MSRP (cigar): $16 | MSRP (Scotch): $300

FALTO LONSDALE ESPANITA TEQUILA AÑEJO Luis J. Falto has been blending Falto cigars at the La Aurora factory in the Dominican Republic for decades. It remains a niche brand to some, but Falto offers a deep dedication to craft. The brand’s diverse flavors should appeal to most serious cigar enthusiasts. You’d be well-served by getting a Falto in your rotation. The cigar vitolas of Falto are the blends. So, a robusto will have the “right profile” for a robusto, and the Lonsdale has a blend of its own. It’s a traditional method of blending, and that’s part of what makes these cigars special. I spent some quality time with the Falto Lonsdale prior to lighting the cigar. I enjoyed the scent at the foot, feeling the wrapper and giving it some cold draws. I discovered some berry crumble aromas straight off–both nutty and jammy. On light, the cigar met me in that same space, with deeper nuttiness and some sweet cream, too. On occasion, there are flashes of a Dominican earth profile, but all-in-all, the notes stay in line with that crumble I mentioned. A tequila often has the right flavor notes for a pairing of this kind, probably because of the similarly tropical and nearly regional climates they both come from. I sipped Espanita Añejo from a snifter for the full experience. Orange, lemon, vanilla and spice rounded out the flavors and added some freshness and balance to the smoking experience in this case. This añejo delivered that familiar oakiness that aged tequilas have from their time resting in bourbon barrels, too. It’s a stellar blend. A Lonsdale is a very enjoyable size for flavor and smoking time. Lonsdales were once a best-selling cigar size, but popularity waned somewhat over the years. The traditional cigar vitolas have just started making a comeback, though, and I’ll welcome Falto’s Lonsdale to join the growing list of these old-school vitolas (coronas, lonsdales, lanceros, petit coronas) that are once again making a big splash. 6.5 x 42 Lonsdale | Wrapper: Sumatran | Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican | Strength: Medium | MSRP (cigar): $7 | MSRP (tequila): $35

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MICALLEF MIGDALIA HATOZAKI SMALL BATCH JAPANESE WHISKY I’ve had my share of Micallef sticks in recent years, and I was pleasantly surprised to see the format on this cigar. The Migdalia is an interesting offering from the Texas-based team at Micallef because it features a smaller ring gauge from what I’ve sampled in the past. The Migdalia is named for Migdalia Sanchez, Pedro F. Gomez’s daughter. She’s the second-generation of the Gomez-Sanchez family who roll cigars for the Micallef brand. The Migdalia cigar boxes are graced with her portrait in her honor of this refined cigar. The tobacco within is a unique blend of aged (over four years) leaves, Mexican wrapper with a Sumatran binder and Nicaraguan/Dominican filler. The wrapper itself along with the initial light of the cigar screams a single and wonderful tasting note of sweet earth. I’ve found that Mexican tobacco contributes complex and sweet flavors, and it’s always a welcome profile for me. I suspect the Sumatran binder in the Migdalia ushers in the unique earthiness in this case, and it delivers an experience of rich soil that offers you a great number of pairing choices. The emergence of Japanese whisky has gained a lot of traction these past few years, and Hatozaki Small Batch Japanese Whisky is quite worthy of your consideration if you’re an appreciator of the spirit. The Hatozaki is aged in bourbon and sherry casks, and the pour is an arresting bronze color. It’s a mouthful of flavor that has both grassy and smoky notes, a very fresh and equally perfect pair for the Micallef Migdalia–earth mingles with earth as these are enjoyed together. This Japanese blend is something special to pair with the Migdalia. 6 x 46 Corona Extra | Wrapper: Mexican San Andres | Binder: Sumatran Filler: Nicaraguan, Dominican | Strength: Medium/Full | MSRP (cigar): $8 | MSRP (whisky): $60

LA FLOR DOMINICANA AIR BENDER FOUR ROSES SMALL BATCH SELECT 2020 EDITION La Flor Dominicana (LFD) has altered some perceptions of Dominican tobaccos as their business has grown these past several years. Dominicans can be a tamer leaf–less pepper, less spice and milder than its Nicaraguan brother. LFD, however, is known for their fullbodied powerhouses, squarely quashing that old reputation. The LFD Air Bender has a great shape–the size of a toro, but with LFD’s signature chisel cap. The cigar itself is a standard parejo, but the chisel is something like a hybrid between a box press and belicoso cap. It has a unique feel in the mouth for sure. On light, the Air Bender is sweet with notes of cinnamon-raisin bread. There’s a little stickiness on the lips as well. As you make your way into the cigar, there’s a lingering nuttiness, much like raw cashews. Progressing through the halfway point, there are notes of plum and toast. All the way, the nuttiness lingers. That LFD strength is there, but not super-strong like some others I’ve had in the past. It sustains at medium-to-full strength. It’s a fairly mild smoke for an LFD, but comparably strong to others. Four Roses Small Batch Select 2020 Edition pairs well with a smoke of this kind. This bourbon is bold and syrupy. It’s syrupy in texture, not in flavor as such. Flavors are dry orange and almond, with just a lingering bite of oak spice. The finish features that memorable Four Roses marker–lingering long with robust tastes. It’s a superb combo to put a holiday cap on 2020: a couple of flavorful treats that pair extraordinarily well together. –G. Mays/C&S Staff 6.5 x 54 Chisel (Wedge) Natural | Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano | Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican | Strength: Medium/Full | MSRP (cigar): $9 | MSRP (whiskey): $150 Greg Mays is the Executive Editor of Simple Cocktails (simplecocktails.net). You can follow him on Instagram and Snapchat at @simplecocktails.

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CIGAR & SPIRITS MAGAZINE

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Julie Harrington Giffin

This familiar quote from A Charlie Brown Christmas teaches us a lesson about making something good out of something bad: “I never thought it was such a bad little tree. It’s not bad at all, really. Maybe it just needs a little love.” So here’s a list I put together for those more on the nice side than the naughty. After all, to give is to receive, is it not?

RZR The RZR is an unrivaled vehicle for off-road performance on diverse terrains. Its calculated ability to perform with power, stability and precision allows the driver to focus on what he or she does best–drive! From trails to sand to rock crawling and mud riding, the RZR is unwavering in its mechanics to handle the most extreme topography. Choose your style with power, suspension and agility–the RZR dares to be driven.

RZR.POLARIS.COM | STARTS AT $10,599

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Photo courtesy of RZR

ext time a year like 2020 rolls around, a note from Santa in my Christmas stocking would be appreciated. Even though this year played out more like the chronicles of Clark Griswold from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and less like Cindy Lou Who’s from How the Grinch Stole Christmas, my heart is content knowing I still have so much to be thankful for.

BOSE PORTABLE SMART SPEAKER Photos courtesy of Bose, Home Wet Bar, Life in Tents, Porthole Infuser and Dom Perignon Vintage

“Alexa, play Bruce Springsteen’s Santa Clause is Coming to Town.” And just like that, you’ll be rockin’ around the Christmas tree listening to the premium quality sound that we’ve learned to expect from Bose. The Bose Portable Smart Speaker is compact in size, but has impressive sound pumping audio that projects 360 degrees. Utilizing the Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant interactive technology, you can stream from digital music services such as Amazon Music, Spotify and Pandora. It can also be used as a Bluetooth speaker controlled from your phone. The battery life is 12 hours. That makes it ideal for an amazing on-the-go speaker, too.

BOSE.COM | $395

LIFE IN TENTS (LiT) CLASSIC MONOGRAM DECANTER & GLASSES This is a handsome mid-century glassware set. It’s a classically designed whiskey decanter, and the four lowball glasses sit elegantly within the carbon steel and birch wood display base. Designed to impress, this decanter set is etched with your personal monogram further adding style and elegance to an already eyecatching presentation piece.

Life in Tents is “glamping” for those who like their camping experience on the luxe side. It features a wood-burning stove, a queen-size bed or two, a 360 degree bug screen, a hanging chandelier, a lounge area and even a minibar. LiT’s grandiose bell tents provide space, strength and luxury. The 100% natural cotton canvas is waterproof and wind-resistant, while the bamboo poles add a touch of eco-friendly support. A fully enclosed floor and screened windows are the perfect canvas–so to speak–making for endless possibilities in interior and exterior high-end outdoor road trips.

LIFEINTENTS.COM | $1590

HOMEWETBAR.COM | $200

DOM PÉRIGNON VINTAGE 2010

PORTHOLE INFUSER These porthole infusers make a statement wherever they are displayed–on your bar, in your kitchen or on your table as streaming décor. Designer Martin Kastner fashioned these infusion vessels of stainless steel, tempered glass and silicon caps for long-term infusion with timeless style. These custom porthole infusers are sure to make a delicious splash whether you fancy infused cocktails, oils, teas, dressings, lemonade or water.

FRONTGATE.COM | $129

Let’s say goodbye to 2020, and let’s ring in the new year already. The DP Vintage 2010 is loaded with gorgeous tastes–sweet tropical fruit, green mango, melon and pineapple. It shines brightly as a perfect Dom Pérignon holiday vintage for sharing with family and friends. The Vintage 2010 has an ample presence, it’s full-bodied and massively aromatic. It contracts, letting the wine vibrate with spices and pepper. The energy of the spirit is sustained with a vibrant, saline finish.

DOMPERIGNON.COM | $188

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H. MOSER & CIE STREAMLINER CENTRE SECONDS This Matrix Green dial is a standout H. Moser & Cie watch. This highly coveted brand knocks it out of the park again with their trademark elegance in design. The Streamliner series gives recognition to the highspeed trains of the 1920s and 30s. The brushed and polished finish of the steel bracelet is the perfect frame for Moser’s known feature of the fumé (aka gradient) style dial. The watch is water-resistant up to 406 feet, and powered by Moser’s HMC 200 movement assuring a power reserve of three days. It is truly a beauty.

H-MOSER.COM | $21,900

JOSEPH PHELPS INSIGNIA RED WINE 2017 Christmas dinner will be even more special with Insignia 2017 on the dinner table this season. The flavors of winter are apparent with the exquisite and rare 2017 Joseph Phelps Insignia Estate Grown Red Wine. The wine is full-bodied, aromatic and tasty with expressions of cedar, ripe plumb, blueberry, roasted espresso and mocha. It smoothly adds layers of black cherry, blackberry preserves, spice and vanilla essence as your sipping experience continues. There’s an abundance of rich goodness with a soft velvety texture providing a lingering finish.

ORION OUTDOOR POOL TABLE There’s nothing like stepping outside for a bit of fresh air, and shooting some stick with friends. The Orion Outdoor Pool Table is weatherproof, waterproof and a ton of fun. It’s available in eight different powdercoated finishes, and a selection of the original Sunbrella fabrics. This pool table only gets better with customized engraving. Adding your family crest or company logo is a unique touch to a game table that will undoubtedly provide hours of fun in the sun.

BILLIARDWHOLESALE.COM | $5,995.00

JOSEPHPHELPS.COM | $280

A standout in style and size at 11x17, this cutting board is both practical and elegant. It’s made of natural acacia wood with unique wood grains and patterns that exhibit flair. The non-slip grip feet provide practicality, and this cutting board makes for a superb gift. You can add the personal touch with your initials or home chef moniker to make it your own.

HOMEWETBAR.COM | $59.95

JACK DANIEL’S INDIAN ROADMASTER DARK HORSE The iconic Jack Daniel’s name featured on this upscale touring motorcycle is a sublime ride worthy of the brand’s heritage. Released in September 2020, (there are only 107 in production worldwide) this Dark Horse design luxuriously represents the brand in distinguished style and character. The bike is styled with two-tone whiskey pearl paint giving a nod to its signature double charcoal mellowing process. The brand’s quest for innovation is seen with a 600-watt Power Band audio system, high performance engine with a six-speed transmission, and a numbered Montana Silversmith badge designating the limited edition. The Indian Motorcycle ClimaCommand Rogue is a first for the brand’s heating and cooling seat features. The myriad of distinct bells and whistles–exclusive to the Jack Daniel’s Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse–embodies the sheer perfection of Gentleman Jack. A peerless beast of a bike, you’ll be the envy of every motorhead out on the road.

INDIANMOTORCYCLE.COM | STARTING AT $38,999 30

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Photos courtesy of H-Moser, Joseph Phelps, Billiard Wholesale, Home Wet Bar and Indian Motorcycle

RAW CLASSIC CUT PERSONALIZED WOOD CUTTING BOARD

MEET THE FOURTH ROSE Our new Small Batch Select is rich and non-chill filtered with a flavor all its own. The first permanent addition to our lineup in over 13 years, it is composed of six distinct Bourbon recipes, all hand selected by Brent Elliott – Whisky Magazine’s 2020 Master Distiller of the Year.

10 BOURBON RECIPES. LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES.

FourRosesBourbon.com • Four Roses Distillery LLC • Lawrenceburg, KY • Be mellow. Be responsible.

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LEATHER TRAVEL BAR You will be the favored guest bartender at every holiday event with this superbly crafted leather travel bar, ready to create your favorite libation. It’s complete with essential bar tools, an ice bucket, two spaces for bottles and a separate pullout drawer with nine cups. It’s truly the perfect on-the-go bar for sharing a little holiday cheer, and raising a glass to the new year with good friends.

FRONTGATE.COM | $399

GUARDIAN SPARTA SCOTT KAY BRACELET Scott Kay, best known for his influence in bridal jewelry, sets himself apart once again with his rugged designs in men’s jewelry. The Guardian Sparta Bracelet reflects courage, strength and fortitude. Each sterling silver link bares an engraved Spartan vine motif representing the eternal battle of ancient warriors. The two halves of the bracelet symbolize not only the battle, but also a shared bond of respect between the warriors. It’s an incredibly handsome bracelet that tells a story of passion, power and camaraderie.

TRIBALHOLLYWOOD.COM | $2,195

NORDICTRACK FUSION CST + IFIT

NORDICTRACK.COM | $2,299-$3,299

WARRIOR I love a feel-good story and Warrior has just that. With every Warrior Flask sold, an additional flask is donated to our military, law enforcement or first responders. Over 10,000 bottles were donated in their first year of business. Flasks range in size from 18 oz. to 64 oz. and come in a variety of colors. You can also have your flask engraved. That feature makes for a great personalized item or corporate gift with a company logo. You’ll be doing some good for those who serve, and you’ll stay hydrated while giving back with a Warrior flask purchase.

WARRIORFLASK.COM | $29.95 - $59.95

OMNIWALL USA OmniWall USA crushes the competition in wall organization systems. The 18-gauge galvanized steel panels set the stage for a variety of steel accessories that securely lock into the panels. It’s designed to be utilized for optimum organization securing hand tools, power tools, extension cords, brooms, gardening tools, laundry room essentials, nails, screws and many other items. Our two favorites are the Weekend Warrior XL ($959.99) and the Power Tool Kit ($169.99).

OMNIWALLUSA.COM

CAMEOS Cameo is the ultimate experience connecting celebrities directly to their fans. Through the Cameo site or app, the celebrity of your choice delivers a personalized video created specifically for an individual fan. Even more fun is that the video can be shared on social media for friends and family to see. There are over 40,000 actors, musicians, athletes, comedians, reality TV stars and YouTubers to choose from. Imagine the delight when the video gift is received with a pre-recorded customized video message from Jeremy Piven, Tony Hawk, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Cheryl Hines, Chris Tucker, Chevy Chase or other faves. Over a million Cameos have been fulfilled to date. Who’s next?

CAMEO.COM | PRICES VARY PER CELEBRITY

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Photos courtesy of Tribal Hollywood, Frontgate, NordicTrack, Warrior Flask, OmniWall and Cameo

The Fusion CST by NordicTrack combined with iFIT training is a total fitness game-changer. The two-inone high-intensity cardio and strength training led by your personalized iFIT coach keeps you on track burning calories, building muscle and achieving your fitness goals. The Fusion CST has 20 resistant power levels to keep you challenged as your strength and cardio improve. Full body workouts incorporating cardio, body sculpting and cross-training have never been as accessible and interactive as with the Fusion CST. You’ll receive a complimentary one year iFIT membership with your purchase as well.

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

Shuffleboard enjoyed much success as a popular game played in pubs and taverns during the era of prohibition. The closings of these establishments had a direct impact on the game’s popularity and accessibility. Tables sat behind locked doors of popular watering holes until prohibition was lifted. Subsequently, the game of shuffleboard enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. The Loft Shuffleboard Table is one of the finest you’ll ever see. Made in the United States of solid beechwood, black walnut and kiln-dried hardwood; its handsome design was inspired by exposed rafters providing rich and rugged elements to the table.

BILLIARDWHOESALE.COM | $7,485

STOGIES & BOGEYS GOLF CIGAR HOLDER These uniquely handmade cigar holders make dropping, losing and contaminating your stogie during a round a thing of the past. The tee is detachable so you have the option to set it on the tee holder or ball holder on the ground. Each cigar holder is equipped with a stabilizing pin to ensure your cigar is secure.

STOGIESNBOGEYS.COM | $20

JPS MOTORSPORTS & JPS CLASSICS We’re surely entering an era where automated cars are becoming more of the norm. JPS Motorsport and JPS Classics delivers on your need for electric speed. Catapulting off the celebrated style of the Speedster, John Steel of JPS Motorsports allows car enthusiasts to custom design a GT Speedster with seemingly limitless options. The buyer has a choice of engines, paint color, leather color, wheel options and more. Working closely with his clientele, Steel oversees their vision every step of the 12-month process from start to finish. Patrick Crane, a former client of Steel’s, started JPS Classic offering semi-custom car kits ready for assembly at a lower cost and faster delivery. JPS Classic offers the world’s first electric speedster replica kit equipped with 7 Tesla Model S high-performance lithium batteries. The JPS Speedster Motorcars and Classics are enjoyed by celebrity clients, and were seen in the movie Ford vs. Ferrari.

JPS MOTORCARS CUSTOM SPEEDSTER–$39,850 JPS CLASSICS SPEEDSTER REPLICA KIT–$24,995 JPS CLASSICS SPEEDSTER REPLICA ELECTRIC KIT WITH TESLA MOTOR–$68,500 JPS-MOTORSPORTS.COM JPSCLASSICS.COM

TIMBERSLED Here’s one for the adrenaline junkie. The Timbersled snow system is one of the most savage innovations to hit the off-road adventure platform in years. Part snowmobile, part ski bike–from dirt to snow–the Timbersled is a kit that transforms your dirt bike into a snow bike for an off-road experience. Timbersled effortlessly takes you through packed snow or deep powder with the ability to go off jumps and perform real stunts. Kits come with a separate front and rear ski system that replaces your bike tires. Installation videos make for a seamless transition from dirt bike to snow bike. The Timbersled requires a fearless spirit, and a desire for heart-pounding fun.

TIMBERSLED.COM | $5,999 - $6,899

KINIS KINIS is a minimalist footwear company focused on helping you move in natural and healthy ways so you can thrive within your active lifestyle. There are two types of footwear designed with a barefoot concept in mind. Unlike a traditional athletic shoe designed with thick, rigid materials, KINIS creates the sock and shoe hybrid that promotes your foot’s natural biomechanics. Less is more!

KINIS.COM I $99

OAKMONT CUSTOM BEAN BAG TOSS Here’s a fun fact about cornhole–the bags used to be filled with dried corn. The game was literally tossing a corn bag into a hole. This lawn game dates back to the 14th century, and continues to grow in popularity worldwide today. Oakmont has set it up so you can enjoy the challenge with your own personalized boards with your initial and name. The set comes with two personalized cornhole boards and eight bean bags–four each of red and blue.

HOMEWETBAR.COM | $199.95

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Photos courtesy of Billiard Wholesale, JPS, Stogies & Bogeys, Timbersled, KINIS and Home Wet Bar

LOFT SHUFFLEBOARD TABLE

Photos courtesy of One Part Co, Mixology Craft, Tribal Hollywood, Home Wet Bar and Warrior Custom Golf

MIXOLOGY BARTENDER KIT WITH BAMBOO STAND

1PT INFUSION KIT The creative minds at 1pt think bring you a revolutionary art in infusion. Within a decorative 375ml glass and walnut bottle there lies a stainless steel infusion basket. It serves as a vehicle to create small-batch, infused spirits. Taking it one step further, 1pt infusion kits provide a variety of blends to complement your spirit of choice. The blends are naturally dried ingredients that are dairy, gluten and sugar-free. They contain no additives, and they are non-GMO. In an era where craft cocktails are king, 1pt Infusion Kits are royalty.

This kit has panache and is a conversation piece at the same time. This functional mixology set is situated within a bamboo display, and it has everything you need to make bespoke cocktails for your holiday gathering. The exclusive 10-piece bar set is made of high-quality bamboo and quality rustproof stainless steel alloy making it completely dishwasher safe. You can choose from stainless steel, gold and gun-metal black.

MIXOLOGYANDCRAFT.COM | $89.99 - 109.00

ONEPARTCO.COM | $75

WILLIAM HENRY SPEARPOINT JEROME BLUE TURQUOISE SKULL POCKET KNIFE The artistry of William Henry’s pocketknife is an intricate fusion of metal and stone. Constructed of hand-forged Damascus steel, it involves the task of folding together 45 layers of metal alloys as evidenced by the rippling patterns of the blade. The embedded zinc-infused turquoise inlay and skull design results in an illustrious contrast between metal and stone. This luxe pocketknife bares a one-hand lock system, a leather carrying case and is shipped in an elegant wood presentation box with a dated certificate of authenticity.

TRIBALHOLLYWOOD.COM | $2,500

WARRIOR PRO-EDGE IRONS FINE-TUNED PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY These irons will enhance your game with state-of-the-art adjustable weighting—custom-built to players exact specifications. You’ll optimize your distance, control and accuracy by using Fine-Tuned Performance Technology.

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CUSTOM WHISKEY CIGAR GLASS HOLDER Having both hands occupied is a good problem to have when enjoying a glass of Johnny Walker Blue paired with your Fuente Fuente OpusX. The Custom Whiskey Cigar Glass Holder has you covered, however. It’s perfectly designed to accommodate your drink and cigar. Optional personalization is available as well.

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TRAVEL BARTENDER KIT WITH STYLISH BAR BAG At your next holiday potluck, offer to bring a cocktail to share. Your friends will be amazed when you show up and roll out this bartender kit ready to shake and pour. This kit is complete with 17 pieces made of high-quality materials, including the rugged carrying tote designed to neatly hold each item. Making cocktails while on the 2020 holiday party tour has never been easier.

MIXOLOGYANDCRAFT.COM | $145

Julie Harrington Giffin (aka Agave Love) is a Certified Mezcalier. Her branding and editorial originality is delivered with a charismatic and sophisticated confidence. Julie encourages the exploration of life’s more “spirited” pleasures to one and all. WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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C&S Photo courtesy of Shark Party Media

JEN

N A M K IR IS

36 36 // CIGAR CIGAR & & SPIRITS SPIRITS

O UT

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Photo credit Nick Larson

T H E M U LT I TA L E NT E D COMEDIAN MAKES M A G IC A L M O M E NT S

>> Jen Kirkman yukking it up at the Punch Line in San Francisco, Calif.

by Joe Bosso

JEN KIRKMAN is one of those absurdly gifted multi-talents who put other multi-talents to shame. The 45-year-old stand-up comedian has authored two memoirs and released two Netflix specials. She’s issued four comedy albums, has appeared on dozens of late-night TV shows, hosts a podcast (Having Uselessness with Jen Kirkman) and has written for Chelsea Lately as well as the smash Amazon series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. And until the coronavirus put an indeterminate end to live performances, she’s been a tireless road warrior (routinely logging up to 100 dates per year), packing theaters and clubs across the globe. “It all sounds like I’m some super-ambitious person, but I’m really not,” the Massachusetts native says. “To be honest, I love what I do, but sometimes it feels like too much. I don’t mean this as a sob story, but I just want to be stand-up who sells out so many seats that I don’t have to work more than 10 nights a year. Until that happens, I have to do every job that comes by.” She lets out a laugh, then adds, “OK, let’s get really honest. When I was younger, I thought I’d be retired by now, and that’s still the dream. If I found a bag of money tomorrow, you wouldn’t hear from me. I’d be reading Cigar & Spirits, I’d have a drink in one hand and a cigar in the other, and that’s how I’d spend my days. That doesn’t sound too bad.” Kirkman’s brand of comedy is a deliciously idiosyncratic blend of personal insights and societal observations, delivered in way that’s both rich in detail and smoothly conversational. Although her barbs are trenchant, she insists she’s no flame thrower, and she draws the line at politics.

“I have a very strong opinion on this,” she says. “Rather, I have a strong opinion on why I don’t have a strong political opinion in my work. I just don’t think it’s what people expect from me. I think when people come to see me, they want to hear me talk about my life in a way they can relate to, and it’ll help them feel not alone. So I don’t let whoever the president is, or whatever the most horrible thing that’s happening in the world is, affect my comedy. Plus, whatever’s going on is usually outdated by next week, so I’ll leave that to the late-night hosts. I know my lane, and I’m cool staying there.”

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>> The many moods of Jen Kirkman include “demure.”

“IF I FOUND A BAG OF MONEY TOMORROW, YOU WOULDN’T HEAR FROM ME. I’D BE READING CIGAR & SPIRITS, I’D HAVE A DRINK IN ONE HAND AND A CIGAR IN THE OTHER, AND THAT’S HOW I’D SPEND MY DAYS. THAT DOESN’T SOUND TOO BAD.”

>> Jen Kirkman appears frequently as a guest with Conan O’Brien.

See, comedy wasn’t really big at this time–this was 1995. I thought comedy was something a guy wearing a suit and tie did. I’ve heard people say, “As a kid, I wanted to be a stand-up.” They’re probably remembering it wrong or lying; they’re romanticizing it a certain way. Because it just wasn’t a job at the time. I never saw it that way.

So you didn’t grow up on George Carlin records while dreaming of doing comedy. Nope. I mean, I listened to them, yeah, but I just never thought comedy was a job that I would pursue. My brain wasn’t developed to go, “I have these thoughts, and I can translate them into stand-up comedy.” I went to Emerson to study acting and dance. That’s where I thought I was headed.

What was your first stand-up experience like? Was it horrifying? Not at all. I started at an open-mic night in Boston. There were other people in the place roughly my own age, so it was maybe 20 or 30 people. I kind of thought I would do well, and I did. From there, I was hooked–“Oh, my God. I can do this.” So I kept doing open-mic nights to really encouraging crowds, and I thought I was amazing. It wasn’t until I moved to New York a year later and started to perform for real adult humans who didn’t know me, that’s when I was like, “Uh-oh…I’m terrible!” I thought that maybe what I was doing in Boston was just a fluke.

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But you know, after a few bad experiences you just have to keep at it. You have to experience being bad, and that’s the only way to get better. You start to find yourself. If you don’t know yourself, particularly if you’re doing personal comedy, you’re going to be lost.

I saw this on Wikipedia and want to make sure it’s true: You consider Morrissey to be your greatest influence? That’s absolutely true. There’s some things you can’t believe on Wikipedia–there’s one entry that says I have a nephew who’s a giant. That isn’t true. But the Morrissey thing, absolutely.

How exactly is Morrissey an influence on a comedian? Here’s the thing: I’m always asked what my comedic influences are, and I thought I had to say the same answers as everybody else: “Oh, I grew up listening to George Carlin and Richard Pryor records…” I do think those guys were funny, but my personal sense of humor was always sort of dark and dry. I always thought jokes about death and really morbid things were funny. That’s what Morrissey is all about. People think his lyrics are depressing, but they’re really selfdeprecating. I always related to what he was writing about. He would sing about things like Oscar Wilde, who was also very self-deprecating and sarcastic.

When was the last time you bombed on stage? Was there a night recently when you felt it just wasn’t working? That happens to everybody. Comedians are like musicians or athletes–you have a bad night, and you don’t even know why. Earlier this year, when I was doing shows–we’ll see when we can get back to that–I had a bad night in Sacramento. It wasn’t “bombing” per se, but I had what I call mild nervous breakdown. I was setting up a joke about my mom at age 81 going to a Boy George concert. But the second I said, “My mom’s getting older,” this woman in the front row goes, “Aww.” And I said, “Shut the fuck up!” I literally lost my mind. Ask any comedian–if somebody goes “aww” to one of your jokes,

Conan pic left: photo courtesy of CONACO TV. Right photo courtesy of Shark Party Media.

Were you always funny? Was there a moment when somebody told you, “Hey, you’re really funny. You could do something with that”? See, I don’t think comedians are necessarily funny in real life. But there was that moment when I thought, “Maybe I have something…” Actually, somebody else said it to me. I went to college in Boston. My roommate and I would smoke cigarettes on the front stoop of our apartment. There were these dudes who would have a drum circle across the way, and they sucked. Every week, they played, and they never got any better. It was just horrible. And I would sit there, smoking and hate-watching them, just so I could rant to my roommate about them. And he was like, “You’re funny. Maybe this could be something…”

NAT CICCO

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>> Jen Kirkman has a way about her that’s all her own.

I understand you’re a big wine fan. Do you like cocktails as well? I’m pretty much wine only these days. I prefer a nice Northwest cabernet or pinot. Give me something with some heft. I do love a Manhattan. I actually love Johnny Walker Blue. I go for darker drinks–I’m not really a vodka person. And I don’t like modern-day drinks like Cosmos. I’m old school. What’s a good old-fashioned drink?

to the setup, it ruins the whole thing. And that person is an idiot. I felt a little bad about what I did, but whatever. I had great ticket sales that weekend, so you can do whatever you want as long as you’re making people money. The club owner and I laughed about it. The best nights–they’re almost spiritual. The time seems to fly by, and at the end you’re like, “Did that even happen?” On those nights, my creativity just blossoms. Jokes that I didn’t even think of beforehand fly right out of my mouth. Those are magical moments.

Talk about your writing for The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. What exactly was your role on the writing team? I wrote on seasons one and two. I didn’t do season three because all the production took place in New York, and I live in L.A.; it wasn’t as easy as, “I’ll just get a place in New York.” That would’ve been my entire salary, so it didn’t make sense. People have the idea that I just wrote the stand-up material, but my job was larger than that. I was there to inform. It’s like if you had a show about lawyers–you’d have some lawyers come in and consult with the producers and writers. So I was a day-today writer working with the other writers. I knew everything that was going on in the show. I won’t say anything, but I even know how it’s going to end. All of the details were shared so that I could really help the best I could.

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You mean, like, a Sidecar? Yeah, something like that! If I go somewhere and I see old drinks like that, anything with an orange peel at the top, I’ll probably really like it. But I tend to get drunk super drunk on things like that. Oh, and I also like Sambuca, which isn’t a dark drink. I can’t drink it anymore, but when I did, I was a big fan. You put that coffee bean in there, and I’m like, “Yeah!” When I came to L.A., I was a waitress at a fancy country club, and all the old members would just sit outside and drink Sambuca with their cigars and cigarettes. I really liked the aroma. See, that’s old school, right?

New Jersey native Joe Bosso is obsessed with movies of the ‘70s, music of the ‘60s and cigars of any vintage. A graduate of NYU film school, Joe has written for TV shows you definitely know (like The Sopranos) and a few you might have missed. He spent 10 years in the record business and actually got to see a rock star trash a hotel room (identity withheld because, well, you know...).

Photo courtesy of Shark Party Media

A lot of TV writing is like very mathematical. Like, “Oh, there’s going to be a great scene where she goes over here.” And then you’re like, “Oh, but when she does that, what’s supposed to happen?” It’s a lot of figuring stuff out. And then, of course, they would come to me with like, “Now, would it be realistic if this happened at a gig?” And I would say yes or no, and put some of our reallife stuff in.

“I DO LOVE A MANHATTAN. I Photo courtesy of Shark Party Media

ACTUALLY LOVE JOHNNY WALKER BLUE. I GO FOR DARKER DRINKS–I’M NOT REALLY A VODKA PERSON. AND I DON’T LIKE MODERN-DAY DRINKS LIKE COSMOS. I’M OLD SCHOOL. ”

>> Jen Kirkman can “turn the world on with her smile.”

WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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C&S >> The accommodations at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi inspire “Wow!”

LUXE

EXCURSIONS THAT

ULTRA-PRIVATE AND ADVENTUROUS TYPES MAY APPLY by Elisa Jordan

ometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name—other times you crave privacy and an escape from crowds. The following vacations have options for private activities and experiences for those times when exclusivity is what’s needed. Whether you just want time alone or a one-of-a-kind opportunity, these vacation experiences offer everything you need.

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Photo courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

WILL SET YOU FREE

Andrey Armyagov/Shutterstock.com

>> A Maldives snorkeler diving along the brain coral at Maldives Indian Ocean.

CORAL PLANTING IN MALDIVES Opened in 2019, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has emerged as a world-class resort surrounded by white sands and crystal blue water. Guests can indulge in water activities, a spa and wellness sanctuary and dining venues, including a treetop restaurant. Also available is a one-on-one experience with the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resident marine biologist, Emma Bell. Guests can help Bell in her daily tasks in preserving the ocean, such as adopting a coral frame or removing a crown of thorns (a sea star that eats the coral) from the reef. They can also partake in guided snorkeling trips and presentations about marine life in the Maldives. Coral framing experience: $175 USD per frame waldorfastoriamaldives.com DRENGE/Shutterstock.com >> An aerial view of the exotic and pure island of Maldives.

>> The luxe interiors of the barge charter.

BARGE CHARTER IN FRANCE More akin to floating villas, Belmond Afloat in France has a fleet of seven luxury barges that are available for private charters. Barges accommodate anywhere from four to 12 passengers; larger parties can also book two or more barges to float in tandem. Each has a dining room, lounge and sundeck as well as private floating pools. Families can take part in ATV rides and ziplining led by the onboard guide. Private vineyard tastings and reservations at a different Michelin-star restaurant each are also offered. Starting rate is 3,879 euros per person based on a six-night itinerary. belmond.com >> A charter barge floats along creating just the right vibe for passengers.

Photos courtesy of Belmond

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>> Spectacular beach views are abundant in Anguilla.

>> There’s no shortage of villas and poolside luxury on St. Martin.

Belmond Cap Juluca on Anguilla and Belmond La Samanna on St. Martin are just 25 minutes apart across the Caribbean Sea via a private boat transfer. With the “Island to Island” package, travelers can enjoy both places in one trip. While staying in one of Belmond’s private pool villas, guests can enjoy their own personal in-villa reggae concert overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Cost available on request. belmond.com/capjuluca

Photos courtesy of Belmond Cap Juluca

REGGAE CONCERT IN ANGUILLA

>> Simply an inviting locale for in-villa reggae concerts.

MOUNTAINTOP WINE TASTING IN NAPA VALLEY

Photos courtesy of Visit Napa Valley

TOR Wines owner Tor Kenwood has been a wine vintner for more than 40 years in Napa Valley. In 2001, he retired from working for others and started TOR Wines with his wife Susan. Wines are handmade in small quantities. TOR now offers byappointment-only hiking and tasting experiences in partnership with Pritchard Hill Vineyard. The remote and exclusive vineyard has traditionally been closed to the public but now allows TOR to bring small private groups to this part of the Vaca Mountains, which is 1,500 feet above the Valley floor. Samplings of Chardonnays and vintage Cabernets paired with small bites follows the hike. $200 per person torwines.com

>> A nightly Napa Valley vineyard view is memorable.

>> You can see for open sky and vines for miles in Napa Valley.

>> Napa Valley accommodates nearly four million visitors annually.

44 44//CIGAR CIGAR&&SPIRITS SPIRITS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER2020 2020

>> An aerial view of Nayara Tented camp.

>> A female sloth and her cub hanging out.

Sloth Sanctuary: Top left pic: Photo courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp, Top right pic: Photo courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp, Middle pic: Manamana/Shutterstock.com, Bottom pic: Photo courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp

>> An adult sloth sitting slow and pretty at the sanctuary.

SLOTH SANCTUARY IN COSTA RICA

view of the luxury camp accommodations.

PANGOLIN CONSERVATION IN SOUTH AFRICA

>> The ground pangolin in its natural habitat.

Pangolins are mini dinosaur-like mammals that are covered in keratin scales, which are high are highly valuable to poachers and making them the most trafficked mammal in the world. The species used to roam freely in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, but have been locally extinct for decades. Private groups at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve can have an opportunity to get up close and personal with these native African anteaters with andBeyondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pangolin Conservation Experience and assist in replacing tags and monitoring their behavior. From $3,504 per group (up to six people) andbeyond.com

>> Cheetahs at the Phinda Private Game

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Pangolin Conservation: Left pic: EcoPrint/Shutterstock.com, Right pic: Danielle Beder/Shutterstock.com

Nayara Tented Camp is one of the first luxury camps in Central America. When guests arrive, every group is introduced to a dedicated naturalist who accompanies them on experiences throughout their stay. The expert nature guides bring guests on early morning private tours of the onsite sloth sanctuary, where more than 15 sloths (with some babies on the way) live currently. Rooms are complimentary to all guests of Nayara Tented Camp. nayaratentedcamp.com >> An exterior

Lighthouse: Top left pic: Melanie Lemahieu/Shutterstock.com, Bottom left pic: Daan Kloeg/Shutterstock.com, Top right and bottom right pics: Photos courtesy of La Maison d’Estournel, Top right and bottom right pics: Photos courtesy of La Maison d’Estournel

>> An atmospheric front view the Maison d’Estournel.

>> A low tide view of the historical lighthouse of Cordouan Gironde Estuary in France.

PICNIC AT THE OLDEST LIGHTHOUSE IN FRANCE Cordouan Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in France, was declared a historical monument in 1862—same year as Notre Dame Cathedral—and is still in operation. Guests of the 14-room La Maison d’Estournel in Bordeaux’s Medic region can travel via private boat trip for an exclusive visit to Cordouan Lighthouse before enjoying a picnic of local seafood and learning about the structure’s history. La Maison also offers exclusive wine tasting. 480 euros per person lamaison-estournel.com

>> Local roads and vineyards make for great walks.

>> The vineyard views throughout the region are unforgettable.

TRACING ROOTS IN IRELAND

>> Dromoland Castle at night.

Ireland: Photos courtesy of Dromoland Castle

Dromoland Castle traces its heritage back to the 16th century when it was home of the O’Brien family and the last High Kings of Ireland. Dromoland sits on 450 acres with gardens based on the same designs as Versailles in France. Guests of the countryside estate can trace their ancestry with in-house genealogist Lorna Maloney. Following a virtual call in advance of the visit, Lorna will share her research and results with the family. During the visit, Lorna will be ready and waiting for a private journey through the countryside to trace the family’s roots. The castle also offers golf, a spa, horseback riding, falconry, swimming, tennis and archery. 220 euros dromoland.ie >> The interior ambiance at the castle takes you back in time.

>> A carriage ride awaits you at the castle.

>> Indulge your sweet tooth after a day’s journey.

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>> A colorful street walk calls your name.

CONCERT IN SPAIN

>> The Dos Reis Catolicos Hotel façade, built in 1486, is considered first hotel in the world.

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>> Santiago de Compostela at night.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Top photo: Parisiennecreative/Shutterstock.com, Castle front: Sergio TB/Shutterstock.com, Bottom right: Ana del Castillo/Shutterstock.com

Passengers who sail from Edinburgh to Lisbon on PONANT’s Musical Odyssey for the September 22-30, 2021, voyage will enjoy a private concert in Spain’s Royal Chapel of the Hostal dos Reis Catolicos, which is considered the oldest hotel in the world. Other highlights of the cruise include stops in Bruges and Honfleur, and guided tours of La Coruña and Santiago de Compostela. There will also be additional recitals in the ship’s theaters while onboard. Starting at $4,790 per person, based on double occupancy for the cruise us.ponant.com

WWW.CIGARANDSPIRITS.COM

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>> Timeless interiors abound.

PERFUME LAB IN MARRAKECH Guests of Royal Mansour can have access to private tours of the home and laboratory of Serge Lutens, who has spent more than three decades developing fragrances from his home in Marrakech. The experience begins with a ride through the Medina in a vintage motorcycle sidecar before arriving at the estate for a private tour. The space is not open to the public and no photos are allowed inside, making this a trip guests truly need to see to believe. $730 USD for two and $100 USD for each additional guest, which is paid as a donation directly to the Serge Lutens Foundation, dedicated to the preservation of the home and laboratory. royalmansour.com

>> The warm greeting of Siddhartha.

>> The upscale and relaxing vibe at Shelter Island is world-famous.

Elisa Jordan is a freelance writer based in Southern California. She specializes in architecture, travel, history and pets.

>> A wellness retreat par none at Shou Sugi Ban House.

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Top right: Damian Benitez/Shutterstock.com, Top left/bottom right: Photos courtesy of Fredrika Stjarne for Shou Sugi Ban House

BOATING IN THE HAMPTONS Guests of Shou Sugi Ban House wellness retreats in the Hamptons can explore the Peconic Bay on a private Chris Corsair 30-foot boat. Stops include bucolic harbors such as Sag Harbor, Shelter Island and the North Fork of Long Island. The excursion can be followed by private lunch or takeaway picnic designed by Michelin-starred chef and Noma cofounder Mads Refslund. $2,300 for a half day (4 hours) shousugibanhouse.com

Top pic: Balate Dorin/Shutterstock.com, Right pic: Photo courtesy of Royal Mansour

>> The illuminated sky views of Marrakech Medina, Morocco are stunning.

A LOT OF THINGS CHANGE IN LIFE.

A PARODI CIGAR ISNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T ONE OF THEM.

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Photos courtesy of Four Roses.

C&S >> Crown Royal is the number-one selling Canadian Whisky in the world.

IT STARTED AS A LOVE STORY. It later became immortalized as an expertly distilled bourbon, but before that it was a young man honoring his beloved. In the mid-nineteenth century, a gentleman by the name of Paul Jones Jr. fell deeply in love with a beautiful Southern Belle. The legend says that when Jones asked for her hand in marriage, she replied that if her answer was “yes,” she would arrive at an upcoming ball wearing a rose corsage. On the big night, Jones watched as the woman he loved entered the ballroom wearing a grand dress—and a corsage of four roses. Her answer was indeed “yes.” Later, Jones founded his own bourbon, which he named Four Roses in honor of the night his love became his intended. Just as he was successful in winning the heart of his Southern Belle, Jones’s bourbon business was also a success. In 1884, Jones moved his operation to Louisville, Kentucky, where he set up his business on Main Street, or “Whiskey Row,” as locals called it, and trademarked the name “Four Roses.”

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Photos courtesy of Four Roses. >> Four Roses welcomes visitors from around the globe to tour its historic grounds.

ince that time, the brand Four Roses has embarked on a journey very few spirits have experienced. The Paul Jones Company purchased Frankfort Distilling Company in 1922; Seagram then purchased Frankfort in 1943, in large part to obtain Four Roses. It was a sound business decision, as Four Roses had been a topselling straight bourbon in the United States during the 1930s, 40s and 50s. “The history of Four Roses is interesting. From after prohibition to the late 1950s, Four Roses was one of the most well-known and respected Straight Bourbon Whiskies in the U.S.,” says Brent Elliott, the current Master Distiller for Four Roses Bourbon. In the 1950s, Seagram discontinued the straight bourbon Four Roses in the U.S. and moved it exclusively to the European and Asian markets. “In the U.S., the status of Four Roses declined as the name was transferred to a blended whiskey that lacked the character of the bourbon that had made it an iconic brand,” says Brent Elliott. “Overseas the bourbon flourished, and is still a high-profile brand that can be found all over Europe and Japan.” Four Roses remains a strong seller in Europe and Japan to this day. But the original straight bourbon wasn’t forgotten in this country.

Enter Jim Rutledge: The Master Distiller When he joined Seagram’s Louisville plant in the Research and Development Department in 1966, Jim Rutledge had a bright career ahead of him. Chances are he didn’t know that one day he would be remembered as a Master Distiller with legendary status. But that’s exactly what happened. From 1975 to 1992, he worked in the New York corporate headquarters until he requested a return to Kentucky. And here the Four Roses brand comes to the forefront again. Rutledge was intrigued with the original Four Roses straight bourbon. When he became Seagram’s Master Distiller in 1995, he began working on a dream to bring the Four Roses of yesteryear back home to the United States. His dream became a reality in 2002 when Kirin Brewery Company Ltd. purchased the Four Roses Bourbon trademark and production facilities.

>> Jim Rutledge

>> The classic romance story was depicted in a Four Roses vintage ad.

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>> The Four Roses world engages distillery visitors in Kentucky like no other brand. Photos courtesy of Four Roses.

“By then, [the Four Roses brand] had largely been forgotten, and those who did recognize it associated it with the blended Four Roses whiskey,” Elliott says. But determination, belief in the product and love of its quality provided a solid foundation from which to work and kept the team focused. The efforts paid off. “The fact that the team at Four Roses has returned Four Roses Bourbon from the brink of obscurity to an iconic brand in the U.S. in less than 20 years is a tremendous source of pride for the entire Four Roses Team.” Since reintroducing the Four Roses straight bourbon to the United States, enthusiasts have embraced the formula. The idea to bring it back turned out to be the right decision. It’s paid off financially for the company, but more importantly it’s paid off for the fans who can now enjoy it. “To say that the sales of our entire portfolio have been strong would be an understatement,” Elliott says. “The rising popularity of the brand is apparent in the numbers. We stay connected with our consumers. They seem to connect deeply with our brand, our commitment to them and to the quality of our bourbon. The feedback from them is the true measure of our success.”

The Next Generation Rutledge retired in 2015, a job well done. He had made a name for himself as a distiller in general, but his passion for Four Roses only furthered the mark he left on the industry. He left the operation in good hands. After Rutledge retired, Elliott stepped up as the new Master Distiller. He had worked with Rutledge for 10 years, so he was more than qualified to assume the helm. Elliott continues to bring the high standards associated with the brand—and Rutledge before him—to the products. That legacy of quality and innovation continues. “We are currently introducing Small Batch Select to select markets,” Elliott says. “Nonchill filtered and bottled at 104 proof, Small Batch Select is the first addition to our permanent lineup since we released Small Batch in 2006. Within the next few years, it will be available in every U.S. market.

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“Small Batch Select further demonstrates our ability as a Distillery to create remarkably different flavors in each of our products. At Four Roses we produce 10 distinct Bourbon recipes, each with its own flavor profile. Using unique combinations and proportions of these recipes for

each of our products, we are able to achieve a wide variety of flavors across our portfolio. Four Roses Select utilizes six of our Bourbon recipes to create its signature flavor profile.” The effort that Four Roses and Elliott has put into the products shows. In 2020 Elliott was named Master Distiller/Blender of the Year at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky America awards ceremony. It was a well-deserved honor for the heritage brand, and the folks who’ve given so much of themselves to it over the decades. The dedication to Four Roses isn’t going anywhere. The brand that started with a love story continues on with a new love story—a well-crafted spirit, pride in a company and unequalled quality.

Elisa Jordan is a freelance writer in Southern California. She specializes in history, architecture, travel and pets.

>> Vintage bourbon at its finest.

C&S SWEATER: Stefano Ricci JACKET: Stefano Ricci

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50 CENT THE

ART

OF THE

HU$TLE

by Randy Mastronicola portraits by John Russo

50 CENT

has endured as one of the most dynamic musical artists of his generation. He emerged on the hip-hop landscape with 2003’s Get Rich or Die Tryin’, an album that decidedly changed his life forever. Known formally as Mr. Curtis James Jackson, III, 50 Cent became a hip-hop icon, and would go on to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the greatest artists in his genre, including Dr. Dre, Jay-Z and Eminem (the latter one of his mentors). He is lauded for his pithy cut-to-the bone lyric style, his versatility as a rapper and his dangerous persona. The energy 50 Cent brings to his compositions informs his musical endeavors, as well the worlds he has entered as an actor, author, television producer and entrepreneur. The heart of this “hustle harder” survivor was born well before all this. Many are familiar with the brutal backstory from his youth. His high and low points have been well documented through his years as a public figure. He made his bones in a once notorious New York City neighborhood (South Jamaica, Queens), where he struggled to save his soul–as did many young men and women who hailed from that difficult area. Ultimately, 50 would get out—big time. He learned to navigate the violent and tragic waters of familial trauma, crime, drugs and urban decay during the darkest days of New York’s crack epidemic of the 1980s and 1990s. Deep down, he knew he had game. That New York Hustle–that edge–would help him rise, though not without experiencing missteps and pitfalls. His story resonates because it’s equal parts inspiration and cautionary tale. 50 Cent would ultimately overcome much of that early trauma, but not without experiencing both glory and misery in the process.

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OME BELIEVE 50 Cent has nine lives, and that’s not far from the truth. Each life could be represented by one of the nine bullets he survived at close range from a 9mm handgun in 2000 during a controversial street shooting. He’s since made a fortune or two by architecting multi-million dollar deals as an entrepreneur, made landmark records for parts of three decades that have garnered major awards, feuded with anyone who needed a feud, and battled various legal issues. He’s made it to the other side and created a legacy in business. 50 Cent had a choice. Evolve or Die– which is a chapter title in his self-help book, Hustle Harder, Hustle Smarter. “If I’d been unwilling to evolve, I’d be dead or in jail right now,” he wrote. “The key to my success is that at every stage of my life, I’ve been willing to assess any new situation I find myself, and make the necessary adjustments.” He’s made the necessary adjustments, for his own salvation and for that of his sons, Marquise and Sire. 50 Cent’s endeavors include the development of Le Chemin du Roi champagne (“The King’s Path”) and Branson cognac; the production of television programming through G Unit Film & Television; and the authoring of books, including Get Rich or Die Tryin’. His recent work in music includes song collaborations with Eminem and Ed Sheeran, on “Remember the Name”; and with Roddy Rich, on “The Woo,” in memory of the late Pop Smoke. This past February, with Eminem and Dr. Dre by his side, 50 was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Not too shabby for a New York street kid from South Jamaica, Queens. We caught up with 50 Cent, where he shared a bit of his busy universe with Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

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INTERVIEW Randy Mastronicola: You’re the owner and developer of Sire Spirits. Tell us about your brands, Branson cognac and Le Chemin du Roi champagne. 50 Cent: Cognac was always a presence for me, growing up. Hennessy, Rémy Martin. Those things were constantly around. I went toward cognac because its one of those things you would consistently see in nightlife. People would have that as a choice. Even outside of those venues, they would choose that. So I chose it because I knew that the demographic would be into it, and it’s worked out very well. You see cognac, you see champagne, you see tequila out there. It’s like you’re not having a good time out there if you’re not drinking any of three of those spirits.

Cognac and champagne convey rich and aspirational, too. Right. I associate champagne with a victory, a celebration, a birthday or something. It’s something that’s happening that you want to really enjoy. You’ll see athletes spraying champagne when celebrating a championship. Champagne was always a cool thing to me, and then the company is Sire Spirits–my son’s name is Sire.

That’s a nice sentiment. Thank you. A lot of packaging for spirits is inspired by the hierarchy of living, or of royalty.

The Branson cognac bottle art is quite regal. Le Chemin du Roi as well. Let’s get these into the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas. Right. [laughs] We’re out there–a lot of the champagne companies just put really cool stickers on bottles. The champagne in our bottles is aged over four years. It goes through the fermentation process in the bottle. They cork it with the branded version of the cork, and put the cage and everything else on it. It was the idea of creating something that symbolized royalty again, the King chess piece.

“I WANTED TO PRESENT SOMETHING THAT THEY KNEW WAS TOPNOTCH AND ON THAT LEVEL. THAT ASPIRATIONAL LIFESTYLE. THAT’S WHAT ALL THIS SYMBOLIZES: CIGARS, SPIRITS, CHAMPAGNE. IT’S THAT HIGHER LEVEL OF LIVING, AND ENJOYING YOURSELF ON THE HIGHEST LEVEL.” There’s variety. Le Chemin du Roi Brut Rosé and Brut, 2000 Blanc de Blancs. Yes, and the name Le Chemin du Roi means “The King’s Path” in French. A lot of times in youth culture or hip-hop culture, they equate a bottle to the expense. I wanted to present something that they knew was top-notch and on that level. That aspirational lifestyle. That’s what all this symbolizes: cigars, spirits, champagne. It’s that higher level of living, and enjoying yourself on the highest level. These are the things that people would indulge in on special occasions, when it’s a birthday or when they feel like the guy in the restaurant who says, “Give me your best bottle of wine.”

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Stylist: Erin McSherry Stylist Assistant: Karina Boylan Grooming for 50 Cent: Juanita Lopez

“Just give me the best.” It’s great when you can say that. It feels good. That’s what I was aiming for with the cognac and champagne. If you think of the higher level of things that we have around that represent lifestyle, like vehicles for instance–Lamborghini, Ferrari, Rolls Royce, Bentley—the companies don’t make car commercials because as soon as a person reaches a financial level where they can afford it comfortably, they just get it. My brands will be connected to that type of lifestyle. For music videos, the first thing they do to represent lifestyle is to get the car. It conveys a higher lifestyle than the artist is at maybe at that particular moment, but it conveys the lifestyle–like our brands.

Yes. Lifestyle and the hustle. Nothing wrong with that. Your books have been praised for their authenticity. Get Rich or Die Tryin’, Tryin’, and a self-help book, Hustle Harder, Hustle Smarter.. Why the self-help category? Smarter I first steered away from it. My book agent said the publisher wanted me to do something in the self-help area because I’ve had some success since 2003, and I’ve stayed fairly successful.

2003 wasn’t bad. Get Rich or Die Tryin’ remains the biggest-selling debut hip-hop album. The life lessons you can share… Yes. Get Rich or Die Tryin’. From that point on, I’ve been a firm believer that everyone will do you a favor when you don’t need one. [laughs] I viewed the selfhelp category as if it were saying you’re an expert on life. When I got to the point that I said I can display the mistakes, so people can learn from the mistakes that I made, then it got interesting, then it got cool. Who wants to talk about the things that work? The hardships of a person…ask a person who failed in business how they failed¬, and they’ll explain the entire scenario to you.

Opening up a bit resonates more with readers. The response to it was extremely good, man. It’s on the New York Times bestsellers list.

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SUIT & WAISTCOAT: INDOCHINO SHIRT: ETON SHOES: Allen Edmonds LAPEL PIN: Hook & Albert

The chapter titles are wonderful like “Knowing Your Value,” “Constructing Your Crew,” “Evolve or Die.” Good stuff. Most people run from what they’re afraid of. I run towards it. Whatever is troubling me, I engage it until the situation is resolved.

nat cicco

BOUTIQUE CIGAR OF 2019

w w w. n a t c i c c o . c o m F o r a F R E E c a t a l o g p l e a s e c a l l 8 8 8 - 6 6 2 - 5 111

JACKET: Tommy Hilfiger SHIRT: ETON PANTS: INDOCHINO BELT: Calvin Klein SHOES: Calvin Klein

CIGAR OF THE DAY

Cigar & Spirits Magazine selected the EPIC Maduro Fuerte for the photo session. The distinctly bold cigar with notes of coffee, mocha, pepper and hints of spice created an aromatic ambiance during the shoot. The cigar paired perfectly with 50 Centâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Branson Cognac. The combination enhanced a thoroughly enjoyable day talking about life, cigars and spirits.

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Let’s collaborate on the next one then. I’m a life coach as well. [laughs] Life coach? That’s what I was saying when I hesitated on the book. To perceive yourself as a life coach would mean that you’re almost an expert on life, when I know I’m making mistakes.

No doubt. The reality is we’re all connected. The highs and the lows. Your book conveys that you’re a seeker and you have something to share. We make mistakes with people. I didn’t actually see who people were and what was driving them. This is why a lot of times when a person goes left, and then we do something towards the end, that’s who they are. We have to be a good judge of people, sorting through character. We get it right sometimes; sometimes we get it wrong.

Well, you seem to be getting it right with your G Unit production for television. How rewarding has it been for you? It feels like it mirrors the success of my music career. Hip-hop loves things that are damaged. I was entertaining enough—the things that I went through—that it just connected to and translated across. It was just the right thing at the right time for me.

The timing was right at STARZ. STARZ network was growing so much around that, they were open to more. The ideas where they were coming from–it gave me some advantages, and provided me the ability to open, to spread my wings.

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5 X 50

Make no mistake about it. 50 Cent is a connoisseur of fine spirits. His Branson Cognac and Le Chemin du Roi champagne lines shine brightly “In Da Club” or wherever else you want a “bottle full of bub.”

“HIP-HOP LOVES THINGS THAT ARE DAMAGED. I WAS ENTERTAINING ENOUGH—THE THINGS THAT I WENT THROUGH— THAT IT JUST CONNECTED TO AND TRANSLATED ACROSS. IT WAS JUST THE RIGHT THING AT THE RIGHT TIME FOR ME.” The opportunity was there, yours for the taking. I know you have several television projects out there. Power Power,, and teaming up with La La Anthony on Intercepted Intercepted,, for example. Black Family Mafia has intrigued me. Where the drug industry and the music industry meet. Black Family Mafia is culturally, for me, having my finger on the pulse of what’s going on. The music industry transitioning and all that. At its base is the story telling process. It’s about a family.

Like The Sopranos, Sopranos, right? It’s a mob series, but not really. At its core, it’s about family. Right. Like why a person makes their choices. BMF is the fiction version of the street lifestyle. There were so many things that I experienced. What I’d seen and grew up around. I was able to give it the nuances of the storytelling, and it

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rung completely true. The characters are so flawed that people became passionate about the show.

We talk about “legacy” in our magazine. Man, I’d like to have my son be a completely better version of me. The thing that separates people is passion. When you become passionate at something early enough, you can put enough energy into it for you to become good enough at it, because you love it. Go with that.

Randy Mastronicola is the Editor-in-Chief of Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

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C&S

FOR YOUR HUMIDOR

MH STOCK/shutterstock.com

WINTER CIGAR BUYERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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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@CigarSpiritsMag

CIGAR RATING

ASHTON SYMMETRY PRISM

5.6 x 46 Corona Wrapper: Ecuador Habano Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan Strength: Full-bodied

ALECNotes: BRADLEY Tasting Dried fruit,CIGARS Turkish figs, coffee bean, cinnamon, and smoky spice. AMERICAN CLASSIC CHURCHILL

7 x 48 Churchill Wrapper: Honduran (Connecticut Seed) AVO Binder: Nicaraguan 30 YEAR COLLECTION MADURO Filler: Nicaraguan 5 x 50 Robusto Strength: Mild to Medium Wrapper: Broadleaf Connecticut

Binder: Dominican Republic Tasting Notes: The AB American Classic Churchill is a mellow and tasty stick. The price point is attractive Filler: Republic for aDominican cigar that could easily be placed in an elite-level humidor. The strength is mild to medium. There are

significant creamy, leathery, earthyblend, and ﬂoral notes throughout. Tasting Notes: A rich, sweet, and creamy the Avo Maduro is an ode to 30 years of their core product lines.

94 91

CIGAR RATING

BALMORAL AÑEJO XO OSCURO ROTHSCHILD MASIVO

BRADLEY 5ALEC x 55 Rothschild Masivo CIGARS Wrapper: MAXX Sun-Grown, CULTUREStalk-Cut Mexican San Andrés Binder: Olor 6 x 54Dominican Toro Filler: Dominican Olor, Nicaraguan Nicaraguan (Jalapa) and Exclusive, Stalk-Cut Brazilian Mata Norte Wrapper: Habano Tasting Binder:Notes: CostaCrowned Rican with a San Andrés wrapper, Balmoral Añejo XO Oscuro provides a truly rich experience that embraces your palate with complex notes of darkHonduran chocolate, espresso and black pepper that finish with a smooth, Filler: Colombian, Nicaraguan, Mexican, underlying sweetness. Strength:natural Medium

Tasting Notes: This MAXX features an attractive, dark and oily wrapper. It feels special in the hand. It’s expertly crafted, complex and offers an inviting multinational blend. You’ll notice it has consistent tastes of herbal sweetness, spice, oak and leather. BALMORAL SERIE SIGNATURAS DUETO OVACÍON FIGURADO

5.5 x 50 Ovación Wrapper: Nicaraguan (Jalapa) Binder: Nicaraguan (Estelí) Filler: Nicaraguan and Exclusive Stalk-Cut Brazilian Mata Norte

Tasting Notes: Harmonious notes of cacao, dry nuts and black pepper are evident on the palate. This figurado finishes LAfloral AROMA DE CUBA EDICION ESPECIAL #4 cigar. with tones and a hint of smooth molasses. An elegant and complex

CIGAR RATING

ASHTON CIGARS

7 x 49 Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Binder: Nicaraguan CALDWELL CIGAR CO. Filler: Nicaraguan

LA BARBA PURPLE

Tasting 6.75 x 46 Notes: The golden-brown Cuban-seed wrapper leaf is harvested in the volcanic landscape of Ecuador.Ecuadorian It’s paired over a premium interior of vintage Nicaraguan long-filler tobaccos. This zesty, medium Wrapper: Habano Binder: Habano cigar is strongly Cuban in profile and perfectly balanced from beginning to end. There are nuances of Filler: Dominican Carbonell, Dom HVA, Nicaraguan Criollo intensity and flavor including leather, white pepper, toffee, coffee beans and light cocoa. Tasting Notes: It’s sweet, floral and elegant. A medium boy with milk chocolate and a little chili pepper spice.

88 88

CIGARRATING RATING CIGAR

CAMACHO CAMACHO CAM CAMCOYOLAR COYOLAR

50 Rothschild 50x 4.5 x 4.5 Rothschild Wrapper: Honduran Wrapper: Honduran Binder: Honduran Binder: Honduran Filler: Honduran

Filler: Honduran

Tasting Notes: This medium to high intensity cigar features a leather, pepper, coffee, and oak flavor profile.

CIGAR RATING

CORNELIUS & ANTHONY CIGARS VENGANZA

CUEVAS 5CASA x 52 Robusto Judge CIGARS LA MANDARRIA EDICION Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Binder: 6 x 52Nicaraguan Toro Filler: Nicaraguan Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano

LIMITADA

Binder:Notes: Dominican Tasting A medium to full-bodied cigar with a rich, full flavor profile of leather, cedar and earthy notes that leaves Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan the palate tasting dried fruit, cinnamon and caramel with a slight peppery feel at the finish. Tasting Notes: This medium to full cigar features a pig tail and shaggy foot. It has an earthy dampness with notes of fruit, spice and black pepper. It finishes with a slight sweetness of cream and coffee bean.

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C&S_SeptOct_2019.indd CIGAR 66 RATING

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

COHIBA HABANA CUBA 5 7/8 x 52 Cañonazo Wrapper: Cuba Binder: Cuba Filler: Cuba

8/4/19 5:16 PM

Tasting Notes: This “cannon shot” of a cigar is full and spicy. It has notes of earth and botanicals. The finish is superbly earthy and smooth.

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CIGAR RATING

COHIBA TORO ROYALE 6 x 50 Toro Wrapper: Nicaraguan Jalapa Binder: Dominican Piloto Cubano Filler: Dominican Ligero, Honduran Viso, Nicaraguan Ligero Tasting Notes: The Jalapa Valley offers a rare combination of a moist microclimate, high elevation and reddish-brown soil all combine to make for flavorful and unique tobaccos. The Dominican Piloto binder delivers complexity with pleasant aromas and flavors. The tobacco fillers (Estelí and Jamastrán) provide a darkly rich flavor profile for this strong cigar.

CIGAR RATING

CRUX EPICURE SHORT SALOMONE 6 x 54 Vitola Wrapper: Ecuadorian, Connecticut Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Condega Tasting Notes: Sophisticated and creamy with refined notes of white chocolate and creme brûlée, with a kick of pepper and cinnamon.

CIGAR RATING

DIESEL WHISKEY ROW 5.5 x 52 Robusto Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Binder: San Andrean Filler: Nicaraguan Habano Tasting Notes: The binder leaf is aged in charred Kentucky oak bourbon barrels from Rabbit Hole Distillery. The barrel finish adds a unique dimension of flavor just beneath the wrapper. The subtle hints of bourbon in the flavor and aroma, take some of the bold Nicaraguan spice out of this blend for a medium finish.

CIGAR RATING

DREW ESTATE LIGA PRIVADA YEAR OF THE RAT 5.5 x 46 Corona Gorda Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Binder: Brazilian Filler: Honduran, Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full Tasting Notes: This Rat is a new chapter from the original offering from 2016. The gold foil that covers most of the wrapper is an eye-catcher. It delights in true creamy Liga Privada fashion with distinct notes of black pepper and earth throughout the smoking experience. The sweet burn finishes with a bit of citrus as well.

CIGAR RATING

E.P. CARRILLO CIGARS EPC NEW WAVE CONNECTICUT BRILLANTES 5 x 50 Robusto Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Tasting Notes: The New Wave Connecticut Brillantes has a mild body yet very rich in flavor. This elegant smoke is creamy and smooth with hints of sweetness. The tastes are very balanced, and offers a sweet aroma. It’s a delicious cigar.

CIGAR RATING

EPIC CIGARS MADURO FUERTE 6.5 x 54 Compinche Wrapper: Brazilian Arapiraca Binder: Cameroon Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan Strength: Full Tasting Notes: You have to love the pigtail and shaggy foot on this Epic Maduro Fuerte, and it has a kick to it. It definitely has some oomph, but it’s not at all overwhelming. It features distinct notes of coffee, mocha and a hint of spice. There’s definitely some pepper and strong earth there, and the draw is thoroughly smooth and breeds a fine ash.

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CHRIS YOUNG BRAND AMBASSADOR

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CIGAR RATING

EPIC CIGARS PROJECT E 6.5 x 54 Gran Ola Wrapper: Mexican San Andres Binder: Indonesian Sumatra Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan Strength: Medium to Full Tasting Notes: The natural leaf tobacco band on the Project E is emblazoned with a distinctive “E” (as in Epic) so there’s no band to fuss with. You’ll experience cedar, spice, leather and earthy notes as you work your way through Project E. You’ll need to settle in for a bit because it’s a lengthy smoke session of about 90 minutes. The ash is inspiring. There’s some surprising tangy cedar and chocolate tones as you wind down.

CIGAR RATING

ESTEBAN CARRERAS CIGARS UNFORGIVEN 6 x 52 Toro Grande Wrapper: Barrel-aged dark Sumatran Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Tasting Notes: Rich blend of wood, leather, coffee bean and spices, backed by a slight smoky sweetness from being in 18-year-old rum barrels.

CIGAR RATING

FALTO CIGARS INGENIO #10

6 x 60 Figurado Perfecto Wrapper: Ecuadorian Corojo Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan, Brazilian Cameroon Tasting Notes: The Falto Figurado Perfecto is elegant and substantial at the same time. It features an interesting complexity and nuanced balancing. It’s a full cigar with evident undertones of sweet spice, cinnamon and nutmeg throughout.

CIGAR RATING

FALTO CIGARS ZORAIDA 6.5 x 54 Salomon Wrapper: Dominican Corojo Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican Tasting Notes: The Zoraida is a formidable yet refined cigar. It’s elegantly balanced with touches of creaminess and zest. There are evident notes of roasted coffee. It’s extremely enjoyable from start to finish. It’s certainly a first-rate Falto creation.

CIGAR RATING

FRATELLO CIGARS FRATELLO ORO 5.5 x 47 Corona Wrapper: Ecuadorian, Connecticut Binder: African Cameroon Filler: Columbian, Dominican, Nicaraguan Tasting Notes: The Fratello Oro is a mild to medium cigar. The creaminess, dry fruit and subtle pepper from the Dominican Ligero bounces right off the sweetness of the Cameroon binder. A very handsome and luxurious cigar.

CIGAR RATING

GRAN HABANO HABANO #3 5 x 52 Robusto Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Binder: Nicaraguan Habano Filler: Nicaraguan, Mexican, Costa Rican Tasting Notes: This Gran Habano is rich, complex and unique with a hearty combination of coffee and spice flavors. It has hints of nutty smoothness with a long-lasting finish on the palate.

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CIGAR RATING

GURKHA CIGARS TREINTA 6 x 54 Toro Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Mild Tasting Notes: This 30th Anniversary Toro is special with a light peppery beginning that leads into distinct hints of almonds, chocolate and leather. Its draw is superb. The mild strength makes it a perfect morning smoke choice.

CIGAR RATING

GURKHA CIGARS CASTLE HALL NICARAGUA 5 x 52 Robusto Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium Tasting Notes: This is a stellar reinvention of the brand’s Castle Hall line. The Nicaraguan binder and filler features a peppery start, that slips into hints of cocoa with a coﬀee finish.

CIGAR RATING

HIRAM & SOLOMON UNITY TORO 6 x 52 Toro Wrapper: Indonesian Sumatra Binder: Undisclosed Filler: Undisclosed Strength: Medium Tasting Notes: The H&S Unity is a nicely constructed cigar and has an elegant and oily feel in the hand. It’s cool and chocolatey at the start. It picks up some momentum as you work it through with tangy tastes of hay and earth with a hint of spice. It’s recommended you seek out the brand’s Unity Pack (four cigar sampler) which includes their Shriner, Veiled Prophet, Grand Architect as well as the Unity.

CIGAR RATING

KRISTOFF CIGARS KRISTOFF ORIGINAL CRIOLLO 5 x 54 Robusto Wrapper: Honduran Criollo Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan Tasting Notes: Kristoff captures the spirit of a fine Cuban here. It embodies the taste and richness of traditional blends. It has a rich and oily wrapper, pigtail and uncut foot. This Kristoff offers notes of toasted almond, hints of spice and a sweet finish. This medium cigar is incredibly smooth.

CIGAR RATING

LA AURORA CIGARS 1903 EDITION PAREJO BROADLEAF 5 x 50 Robusto Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Binder: Dominican Cibao Valley Filler: Dominican Cibao Valley, Nicaraguan Tasting Notes: This 1903 is a bold and tasty smoke. Chock full of woodsy, creamy and spicy flavors. It shines at the finish with hints of nuts and citrus notes.

CIGAR RATING

LA AURORA UNTAMED 5 x 50 Robusto Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan Tasting Notes: A potent, oily Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper conceals hearty long-fillers from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua in the Untamed. There’s black pepper to greet you from the start with cocoa and subtle citrus overtones as well. It’s balanced with spot-on construction and a firm ash is another strong feature.

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The Sip of the

Season

handcrafted in Hawaiʻi

KOLOA RUM COMPANY Transport yourself to paradise

We have been serving the 'Spirit of Aloha' to the world since the very first batch of Kōloa Rum was distilled and bottled in 2009. Crafted from pure cane sugar and rainwater from Mount Waiʻaleʻale, our products are a testament to the long and colorful history of commercial sugar production in Hawaiʻi and the abundant natural resources that make Kauaʻi - The Garden Isle!

Call for Tasting schedule | 808.332.9333 | koloarum.com

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LA FLOR DOMINICANA LA NOX

5 x 40 Petite Wrapper: Brazilian, Cuban Binder: Mexican San Andrés Filler: Dominican

CIGAR RATING

Tasting Notes: Dark in appearance and in flavor, La Nox features a sweet Brazilian Maduro wrapper, a San Andrés binder and a blend of Dominican Piloto and Pelo de Oro fillers. Its smooth smoke and rich flavor were crafted for elegance and power.

NAT CICCO ANIVERSARIO 1965 LIGA NO. 4

6 x 52 Toro Wrapper: Ecuadorian Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan

CIGAR RATING

Tasting Notes: A box-pressed cigar with an uncut foot. The smoke billows abundantly. This oaky and nutty flavored cigar is a pleasant smoke. Additionally, there are notes cocoa.

PLASENCIA CIGARS ALMA DEL FUEGO FLAMA

6.5 x 38 Panatela Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan

CIGAR RATING

Tasting Notes: The volcanic soils stemming from the iconic Ometepe Island in Nicaragua inform this cigar. There are hints of spice, tangerine, roasted cashews and guava wood. The sun-grown wrappers from fields in the Jalapa Valley enhance this elegant cigar’s strength and sweetness.

QUESADA CIGARS QUESADA CIGARS FONSECA CLASSIC FONSECA CLASSIC

9090

CIGAR RATING

5 x 50 5 x 50 Wrapper: Connecticut Wrapper: Connecticut Binder: Dominican Binder: Dominican Filler: Dominican Filler: Dominican

Tasting Notes: Mild to medium well-balanced smoke. Woody and creamy enjoyable flavors and aromas.

SOUTHERN DRAW

CIGAR RATING

KUDZU LUSTRUM ROMA CRAFT TOBAC CIGARS 5.5 x 52 Belicoso Fino (box pressed) AQUITAINE EPOCH Wrapper: Nicaraguan (Ometepe Medio Tiempo)

7 x 49 Binder: Churchill Nicaraguan Wrapper: Filler:Ecuadorian Nicaraguan Habano Ligero Binder: Cameroon, Nicaraguan Tasting Notes: The Southern Draw Kudzu LUSTRUM box-pressed belicoso is a fine homage to the company’s fifth Filler: Cameroon, Nicaraguan

anniversary. It’s an expertly-constructed Nicaraguan puro highlighted by a medio tiempo habano wrapper over an Ometepe

binder—a smooth andistasty cigar. Tasting Notes:very This Epoch a full cigar with touches of black pepper and spice. Earthy flavors are enhanced with notes of espresso, dark chocolate, nuts and leather. It circles back and finishes with more black pepper and spice notes.

SOUTHERN DRAW DESERT ROSE

CIGAR RATING

5 x 50 Robusto Filler: Honduran Corojo 99, Dominican Piloto Cubano Wrapper: Connecticut Tasting Notes: A medium-bodied and medium-flavored cigar that is a more robust version of the original blend marked by Binder: Brazilian a smooth buttery yet spicy burst of flavor. Filler: Brazilian

CIGAR RATING

Tasting Notes: The Claro version offers fine aromas and notes of cedar, pepper and coffee with a sweet subtleness to it. DRAW SOUTHERN

CEDRUS

CIGAR RATING

WARFIGHTER TOBACCO COMPANY

CIGAR RATING

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60 x 52 Toro Wrapper: Besuki, Indonesian VEGAFINA Binder: Habano 2000, Nicaraguan NICARAGUA PURO ORIGEN Filler: Nicaraguan

54 x 159 mm Gran Pirámide Tasting Notes: An excellent subtle-flavored cigar with a light sweetness to it and the complex flavors of nutmeg, toasted Wrapper: Habana 2000 Nicaraguan clove and cinnamon, along with a cedar aroma. Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium/Full

CIGAR RATING

5 1/2 x 52 CIGARS Belicoso Fino VILLIGER Wrapper: Ecuadorian Cloud-Grown Claro DO BRASIL CLARO Binder: Condega, Nicaraguan Habano

Tasting Notes: This VegaFina is masterfully developed by the Grupo de Maestros of Tabacalera de García. It 5.56 MM FIELD CONNECTICUT SHADE resonates with hints of roasted nut and spice at the start. Thereafter, there are sweet notes of almond, coffee, 6 x 52 Toro cloveWrapper: and a molasses Honduran aftertaste. Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan, Colombian

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER Tasting Notes:2020 Starts spicy but finishes smooth. Hints of spice, leather, woodsy. Spice may linger on tip of tongue like a

good salsa. Pleasant retro-hale with spice.

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HIGHBALL CANNONBALL! NEFT ULTR A PREMIUM VODK A

RABBIT HOLE

THE WORLD’S BEST TASTING VODK A 2018: BEST VODK A, SAN FR ANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION 2018 & 2019: DOUBLE GOLD, SAN FR ANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION 2020: 92-POINTS, GOLD MEDAL EXCEPTIONAL, BE VER AGE TESTING INSTITUTE 2020: DOUBLE GOLD, BEST TASTING SPIRITS

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Imported by NEFT USA, Miami, FL. 40% alc./vol. Sip responsibly. Distilled from rye.

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FOR YOUR HOME BAR

WINTER SPIRITS BUYERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GUIDE To provide feedback on any of the ratings, or to offer your own opinions on any of the spirits featured, write us at: feedback@cigarandspirits.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and leave your comments: facebook.com/cigarandspiritsmagazine

76 76 // CIGAR CIGAR & & SPIRITS SPIRITS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 2020

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Blue Nectar Tequila

Watershed Distillery

Pendleton Whisky

SPIRIT RATING

Hudson Whiskey Rye

WATERSHED DISTILLERY WATERSHED BARREL STRENGTH BOURBON

MSRP: $69.99 | ABV: 59.5% The Watershed Barrel Strength Bourbon is an inviting spirit–nicely done by the brand. It has keen scents of baked apple and toasted almonds. There’s a lot of flavor. You’ll enjoy baking spices, dark fruit, caramel and the finish lingers with crisp apple.

BLUE NECTAR TEQUILA ANEJO FOUNDER’S BLEND

MSRP: $69.99 | ABV: 40% This spirit is double-distilled. It’s aged for one to two years in charred American oak barrels and blended with extra añejo, including a limited production five-year-old extra añejo. The initial palate of agave warms to velvety buttered toffee, vanilla, smoke, and oak notes, and finishes medium dry.

PENDLETON WHISKY 1910 RYE WHISKY

SPIRIT RATING

Hudson Whiskey Bourbon

SPIRIT RATING

MSRP: $39.99 | ABV: 40% Pendleton1910 is a rare 100% rye whisky distilled in Canada. The spirit is oak-barrel aged a minimum of 12 years. There are rich notes of tobacco, charred oak and butterscotch with a spicy rye kick and peppery heat. The rye is rounded out by the smoothness of maple and sweet cherry to provide a weighty and balanced, yet complex, flavor profile.

SPIRIT RATING

La Adelita Tequila

HUDSON WHISKEY BRIGHT LIGHTS, BIG BOURBON

MSRP: $39.99 | ABV: 46% This bold, grain-forward, bourbon whiskey is a winner. It’s distilled from New York corn and aged in newly charred American oak barrels. The rich vanilla nose leads you all the way through a salted caramel finish. Along the way you’ll experience notes of stone fruit, corn bread, caramel and cashew. The finish is superbly long and lingering after your ﬁnal sip.

HUDSON WHISKEY DO THE RYE THING

MSRP: $39.99 | ABV: 46% This spirit is New York’s first straight whiskey in nearly a century. It’s bold and spicy. There’s an abundance of citrus and honey with a minty mint finish. You’ll experience scents of honey, straw and apricot. There are tasty notes of mint and black pepper on the palate. The sublime sizzle on the finish is unexpectedly unique.

LA ADELITA TEQUILA LA ADELITA ANEJO

MSRP: $49.99 | ABV: 40% This anejo has copper showing viscous legs in the glass. It’s aged 18 months in American Oak whiskey barrels. The barrels are re-toasted in Mexico to a medium toast. There are direct scents of buttercream, lime and fresh agave. It features a vegetal character emphasizing wellintegrated cedar-butterscotch.

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SPIRIT RATING

Artesanal Mountain Mezcal

SPIRIT RATING

El Sativo Tequila

SPIRIT RATING

Espanita Tequila Reposado

Espanita Tequila Añejo

ARTESANAL MOUNTAIN MEZCAL VAMONOS RIENDO

MSRP: $59.99 I ABV: 42% Vamonos Riendo Mezcal is distinct with fresh fruit, honey and herbal aromas rounded out by a subtle black oak smokiness. There’s a medley of melon, pineapple, grapefruit and mandarin is balanced by the sweetness of cocoa and notes of mint and anise. The finish is velvety smooth with notes of caramel with a tantalizing citrus bite.

EL SATIVO TEQUILA SINGLE ESTATE TEQUILA BLANCO

MSRP: $39.99 I ABV: 40% El Sativo Tequila Blanco features vibrant agave and citrus flavors. It builds boldly a pleasant tastes of stone fruit on the palate. It has a long, earthy and complex ﬁnish.

1800 CRISTALINO TEQUILA RESERVA AÑEJO

MSRP: $59.99 I ABV: 40% This expertly crafted 1800 is bountiful with sweet tastes of caramel, honey, vanilla and porto wood. The elite notes of cooked agave throughout are sublime. You will keep this reserva in heavy rotation.

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SPIRIT RATING

1800 Cristalino Tequila

SPIRIT RATING

BUMBU XO

ESPANITA TEQUILA REPOSADO

MSRP: $31.99 I ABV: 40% Espanita Reposado offers scents that are abundantly buttery, spicy and zesty throughout. There are unique tastes of sweet pepper, kola nut, walnuts and roasted agave. The flavors build nicely with fruit, coconut cream and Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains.

ESPANITA TEQUILA AÑEJO

MSRP: $34.99 I ABV: 40% This inviting Espanita expression has succulent notes of honey and roasted agave–an extremely classic añejo start. You’ll appreciate the evident tastes of fresh grass, vanilla, toasted marshmallow, sassafras and apple. The finish is smooth and long with highlights of candy corn, honey, black tea and banana.

BUMBU RUM CO. BUMBU THE ORIGINAL

MSRP: $36 I ABV: 35% The Original is aged up to 15 years in Grade A bourbon barrels from Kentucky to create an effortlessly smooth and balanced rum with complexity and depth. The spirit is based on an original recipe created by 16th and 17th century sailors of the West Indies, who blended native Caribbean ingredients into their rum and called it “Bumbu.”

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SPIRIT RATING

The Peat Monster

Crown Royal

Douglas Bourbon

MSRP: $59.99 | ABV: 46% An expert blend of peat, salt grass with a smoky burn in this whisky. The finish is long and fruity with sweet oak notes. The Peat Monster is an elegantly executed whisky for novice and seasoned enthusiast alike.

CROWN ROYAL CROWN ROYAL 13-YEAR-OLD BLENDERS’ MASH

MSRP: $59.99 | ABV: 45% This expression is a corn-forward mash whisky from the Crown Royal Deluxe blend, resulting in a super smooth, richly-layered and balanced flavor. It’s Master Blenders offered an age-statement whisky and experimented with Blenders’ Mash for years to enhance the liquid through the aging process. The 13-Year Old Blenders’ Mash features charred American white oak barrels for no less than 13 years, which intensifies the liquid, bringing out richer and deeper notes of caramel and fruit.

MSRP: $29.99 | ABV: 47% The gin scent is bright with fresh citrus notes upfront, mixed with coriander, a little vanilla, and black pepper. This gin has a good amount of bold spiciness—cinnamon and cardamom—that shifts into juniper and angelica. There’s some bright citrus, before a dry finish with hints of heat from the Grains of Paradise and Tasmania pepperberry. Lingers on the pallet.

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Big Gin

SPIRIT RATING

THE PEAT MONSTER

BIG GIN LONDON DRY BIG GIN

SPIRIT RATING

Sagamore Rye

SPIRIT RATING

Vavoom

SAGAMORE SPIRIT DISTILLERY DOUBLE OAK SPRING FED MARYLAND SPIRIT

MSRP: $60 I ABV: 47%-49% The spirit is aged four years. The new toasted staves reenergize the aging process, creating flavors full of caramel and dark vanilla and colors that radiate amber and warm chestnut. It features a refreshingly aromatic flavor.

DOUGLAS & TODD BOURBON

MSRP: $39.99 | ABV: 46.5% This bourbon is a small-batch craft spirit aged in handmade oak barrels. It has a four-year aging process, making for a distinct flavor profile and smooth taste. It consists of hardy ingredients including a unique blend of strong “short-summer” corn and red winter wheat, creating more starch and finishing with a more distinct flavor. The end product offers a sweet, smoky, woody character, with a hint of fruit and vanilla at the finish.

VAVOOM VODKA ULTRA-PREMIUM VODKA

MSRP: $169.00 | ABV: 40% A 100% gluten-free spirit made with only the finest ingredients. The vodka is distilled five times then finished three times for ultimate smoothness and elegance of taste. The bottle design was refined after multiple attempts and years of design changes, handcrafted in Milan, Italy. The bottle is sure to be a collectible and encapsulates the brand’s motto: Stai’ Bella! (Stay Beautiful!)

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SPIRIT RATING

Heaven’s Door

Glenrothes 18 Year Old

SPIRIT RATING

Sugarland’s Roaming Man

SPIRIT RATING

Deau Cognac

HEAVEN’S DOOR TENNESSEE BOURBON STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

MSRP: $59.99 | ABV: 45% A unique mash bill from Tennessee, made from 30 percent “small grains.” This smooth spirit is aged nearly seven years in American oak barrels. The evident notes of vanilla and baked bread are enhanced with hints of toasted oak throughout during this luxurious time spent with this bourbon.

THE GLENROTHES 18 YEAR OLD

MSRP $130 | ABV: 48.8% A complex and well-rounded expression with a vanilla, pear and fresh-ginger character. It’s part of The Soleo Collection, a range of five Glenrothes Whiskies that pay homage to the grapes from which certain sherries are made.

PAPA’S PILAR PAPA’S PILAR MARQUESAS BLEND RUM

MSRP: $47 | ABV: 44% This blend is finished in whiskey barrels and features seven hand-selected rums aged at 24 years. It has a sweet nose with notes of vanilla, coffee beans and honey, as well as hints of toasted almonds. On the palate, it offers rich cocoa notes with slight hints of oak and vanilla. The finish is long with a growing spice, and smooth sweetness to the palate.

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SPIRIT RATING

Papa’s Pilar

SPIRIT RATING

El Mayor Tequila

SUGARLANDS DISTILLING CO. ROAMING MAN TENNESSEE STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY 8TH EDITION

MSRP $50 | ABV: 61.3% This edition is a cask strength straight rye whiskey with evident aromas of spice featuring superbly balanced flavors of berries, dried apricot and sweet vanilla. This surprisingly complex whiskey has elegant and earthy flavors of oak and orchard fruit that create a smooth finish.

DEAU COGNAC DEAU BLACK COGNAC

MSRP $210 | ABV: 40% The name “black” refers to the color of the glass used by the professional tastes during blind tasting sessions. Deau Black is a blend of Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne cognacs. It is first aged in new casks and then matured in older casks less generations in tannins. Very aromatic, this cognac releases intense floral flavors including iris, violet, honeysuckle and orange blossom. With round and dense flavors, it reveals a gentle bouquet of dried plums and smooth aromas of preserved fruits.

EL MAYOR BLANCO TEQUILA

MSRP: $25 | ABV: 40% The agave juice developed in this blanco is fermented using a highly-guarded family-owned yeast strain. The González family uses a double installation process, which yields the blanco offering, which can be bottled as-is or aged to become reposado, añejo, or extra añejo. This tequila is unaged. It’s clear and bright. With a clean, floral and spice undertone to the nose. The tequila has a crisp, full agave flavor, with hints of floral and pepper on the palate. It finishes with a light wave of heat, clean and dry with a hint of pepper.

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Guild Gin

Treaty Oak Distilling Old Fashioned

MSRP: $44 I ABV: 45% Freeland’s Geneva showcases Oregon-grown rye with an array of sultry and savory botanicals. A rich malty backbone heightened by peaks of alluring spice enchants the senses with hints of Willamette Valley hazelnuts.

GUILD SERIES GIN

MSRP: $28 | ABV: 44% Guild Series Gin is a unique partnership between Columbus-based Watershed Distillery and Cameron Mitchell Restaurant. It’s a corn and apple-based spirit, though juniper takes a back seat to more floral rose petal, nutmeg and chamomile flavors. A delicate, rose-scented gin infused with botanicals to balance a foundation of juniper and citrus. Slightly sweet, with a warm spice finish.

MSRP: 39.99 I ABV: 46% Using only Kentucky Bourbon, the barrels are broken and the staves infused with whiskey. It has a caramel body with balanced sweetness, the finish is peppery with cabernet notes, fruit and honey.

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SPIRIT RATING

FREELAND SPIRITS GENEVA

Infuse Bourbon

SPIRIT RATING

INFUSE SPIRITS CABERNET CASK BOURBON

SPIRIT RATING

Freeland Rye

Treaty Oak Distilling Day Drinker

SPIRIT RATING

Chivas Royal

TREATY OAK DISTILLING THE DAY DRINKER TEXAS BOURBON

MSRP: $25.99 I ABV: 40% Day Drinker Texas Bourbon is a 100% Texas-made grain-to-glass bourbon. It’s born from Texas wheat and yellow no.1 corn. The spirit is proofed using limestone-filtered water and aged for one year under the Texas sun. It comes in light at 80-proof–it’s an ideal blend for everyday sipping. This nicely crafted bourbon features notes of sweet kettle corn, vanilla and fresh wheat leading to a cinnamon finish.

TREATY OAK DISTILLING GHOST HILL TEXAS BOURBON

MSRP: $49.99 I ABV: 47.5% Ghost Hill Texas Bourbon is a stellar and award-winning blend for Treaty Oak. It’s named for a 28-acre ranch home in Dripping Springs, Texas. Ghost Hill is a unique whiskey made with 100% Texas-grown heirloom grains from Barton Springs Mill. It’s a genuine grain-to-glass bourbon born of years of expert experimentation. The malty notes include sweet corn, dark stone fruit and subtle oak leading to a slightly spicy finish. This Treaty Oak expression is a winner, indeed.

CHIVAS ROYAL SALUTE 38 YEAR OLD STONE OF DESTINY

MSRP: $1200.00 | ABV: 40% An incredibly smooth whisky from Chivas that has aromas of butterscotch, fruit, walnuts and hints of dried fig. It offers mild hints of tobacco, apple peel and dark chocolate tease the palate followed by a malty, spiced finish with a hint of sherry to complete it on the tongue. A superb and luxurious spirit for the discerning enthusiast.

ElArtistaCigars.com

NEW FROM EL ARTISTA CIGARS

LIVE

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Photos courtesy of Miami Cigar & Company

estor Miranda has faced a multitude of ups and downs since he entered the cigar business in 1989, but the 76-year-old president and co-owner of Miami Cigar & Company admits that 2020 has been an especially challenging year. “Because of COVID, we’ve had to deal with a lot of issues we’ve never experienced before,” he says. “Think about the retail situation: Stores had to close up for a time, and when they did reopen they had to limit the number of people who could go in at any given time. And the lounges had to close–people could grab cigars, but they couldn’t smoke inside. All of it trickles down.” Even so, Nestor stresses that the company took necessary steps quickly (like purchasing personal protective equipment) that allowed them to maintain sales without having to furlough even one employee. “Our main thing is, we want everybody to be safe,” he says. “That means our employees, the people who carry our cigars and all our customers. If we’re all smart and do the right things, we can get through this. We’re surviving. The first few months of the year were rocky, like it has been for everybody, but I think we’re going to be moving ahead soon and get back to normal.” When Nestor founded Miami Cigar & Company with his wife, Mariana, the operation was pretty much just the two of them. Mariana would load cigars into the back of her car and hit every cigar store she could find in South Florida. Nestor, still working his day job as a sales representative for Southern Wine & Spirits, would take the weekend

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“I’VE ALWAYS LOVED CIGARS. WHEN I WAS A KID IN CUBA, I HAD MY FIRST CIGAR AT 16. I LOVED IT. CIGARS ARE IN MY VEINS.”

Ever humble, Nestor laughs and refers to himself as “the old guy” of the company while singing the praises of the young people on his staff, which includes daughter Tatiana and her husband, Jason Wood, who serves as vice president of sales and marketing. “Jason is one of the new breed of cigar men,” he raves. “He’s so full of new ideas and energy, so it’s a lot of fun for me to be around him and let him do his thing. We’ve got a lot of great plans for the future.”

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What are the advantages and disadvantages to being a distributor versus being a manufacturer? I think it all depends on what kind of business you want to have, really. At the beginning of the company, I almost opened a factory in Nicaragua, but I never did. Initially, I thought that if we were actually making the cigars, it would put me in a stronger position–more tobacco–but then I realized that I didn’t want to be in Nicaragua, and I didn’t want to have to send any of my family members away, so I didn’t go through with it. So we went to other companies and had them make cigars for us–Don Pepin, A.J. Fernandez, Guillermo León–and they’ve been making cigars for us for a long time. I think Guillermo has been with us for 29 of our 31 years. They’re like family to me, and they all make great cigars.

Photos courtesy of Miami Cigar & Company

shifts, traveling to liquor stores that sold cigars and forging important relationships with retailers. At first, their goals were modest–they aimed to sell $1,000 worth of Don Lino cigars (the first brand they represented) on a Saturday. Within a few years, the Mirandas–along with the help of their children, Danny (who passed away in 2008) and Tatiana–were selling millions of dollars’ worth of cigars, allowing Nestor to quit his position at Southern Wine and join the family business full-time. Today, Miami Cigar & Company is one of the premier distributors of premium cigars worldwide, with a portfolio that includes Don Lino, La Aurora, Nestor Miranda Collection brands and Tatiana. The company also serves as the exclusive United States distributor for all Toscano brands of cigars.

HEAVENS DOOR

PLEASE DRINK HEAVENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DOOR RESPONSIBLY. Nielsen $ Sales, 52 weeks ending 10/05/19.

The company’s success story is one of true grit and perseverance, the way Mariana started selling cigars out of the trunk of a car. That’s right–she did all that. I was in the liquor business, and I did cigars as a side business. I’ve always loved cigars. When I was a kid in Cuba, I had my first cigar at 16. I loved it. Cigars are in my veins. My grandfather used to smoke cigars every day. He always had a Churchill in his mouth. I think he smoked every day until he passed away at 88. So like I said, cigars are in my blood. I think I was always built for the cigar business.

things started taking off. It was all a labor of love. I believed in the product, and I believed in myself. I loved what I was doing, so in a way, it was work but it wasn’t work.

What kind of research goes into choosing a brand to put into the marketplace? A lot goes into the decision. First of all, you have to try the cigars–if you don’t like them, nobody else will. So it starts with the actual quality and flavor of the product. It has to be right–smell, taste, feel. The cigar has to be great. You look at the cigars themselves. What do the wrappers look like? Are they appealing? Are they identical? These are all things I consider. I try the cigar, but I don’t just rely on myself; I send them to a bunch of people and I ask them for their feedback. Then when you see the responses, you know whether you have a winner or not.

Before joining the company full-time, you were still at Southern Wine & Spirits. Did you have any kind of vision for how you wanted to grow Miami Cigar? That happened gradually. Originally, it started out small. The opportunity was presented to me to Then you consider the name represent brands in my and the band of the cigar. liquor stores. I talked to my A cigar has to be dressed wife about it, and I decided properly, so the band is very to try it. We started important. The box, too. selling Don Lino 1989 “IN THE FIRST YEAR, People respond to visuals. cigars. Because I was the I SOLD SOMETHING When you go to a cigar supervisor for Southern shop and you look at the Wine, it was a good match. LIKE 60,000 CIGARS. boxes on the shelves, your On Saturdays, my free day THAT’S WHAT I SMOKE eyes are going to respond to from Southern Wine, I something that looks good. IN A YEAR RIGHT would load my car up with NOW. [LAUGHS] IT cigars and I’d drive around Florida–Miami, Key West, WAS BEAUTIFUL. WE I assume it’s about the people involved with making the West Palm Beach. Every STARTED AT THE Saturday, I’d do a different cigars, too. BOTTOM AND WE route. I was able to sell Oh, of course. I want to do $1,000 of cigars in one BUILT A COMPANY.” business with good people. day. Now, think about that: That’s when I get on a plane That’s when a bundle was and I go see them. I try out $7.50 and a box of cigars was $19.95. So you different blends, and I tell them, “When you have to sell a lot of cigars to make $1,000. get a good blend, stick to it.”

After Don Lino, we got La Aurora on board for the United States. At that time, La Aurora didn’t sell that much. They had the Imperiales–an excellent cigar, but they were only selling 10,000 a year at the time. La Aurora was being sold in the Miami area–a lot of bundles. But that’s when we started together and developed new brands, and

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You rode out the ‘90s cigar boom. Did you have a sense that some people who jumped in weren’t going to last? There were some, sure. You had people who just wanted to make a fast buck, but they didn’t love the cigar business, nor did they care to learn about it. They were putting out anything–they didn’t care. They would have put out a banana wrapper. But they weren’t creating brands; they were only meeting demand.

Photos courtesy of Miami Cigar & Company

It was a lot of work, but I had a great time. We were able to sell cigars and pay the bills. In the first year, I sold something like 60,000 cigars. That’s what I smoke in a year right now. [Laughs] It was beautiful. We started at the bottom and we built a company.

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>> Vice president of sales and marketing, Jason Wood and Nestor Miranda sharing cigars and a familial laugh together.

Let me get your quick thoughts on your brands. Talk a bit about the Tatiana. Oh, they’re marvelous. The Tatiana is special– that’s my daughter. She’s always helped me, but she said to me once, “Dad, you never say anything about me in any interviews.” I couldn’t believe it–she was right. So I wanted to do something special for her, and I created the Tatiana cigar. I told her it was going to be a brand. They come in various flavors, and they’ve become very, very popular.

How about the brand that carries your name, the Nestor Miranda? It’s a great cigar, of course. I think it’s a fabulous cigar. We do very well with it, but I’ll be honest: It’s not even close to the Tatiana.

How about La Aurora? Oh, La Aurora has been in the market for a long time, and we do extremely well with it–very, very well. We cover all the bases with it. They have a cigar for every occasion.

Can you tell me a little bit about what you’re planning with Don Lino? I could, but I won’t. [Laughs] We’re holding on to that right now. We’ve got some big plans, but if I told you I’d have to kill you, and I don’t want to do that. You’re a nice man. [Laughs]

Finally, let me ask you, what’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in this business? Be nice to people. You have to be nice to the people in the cigar shops, whether they order $100 or $1,000. When I go to visit people, I’m Nestor Miranda. I sit down with people in the store, we have a drink and a cigar, and we get to know one another. I believe in being humble. I always try to be that way. If you’re humble and nice, people will be the same way, and then you can do business in a beautiful way.

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Photos courtesy of Miami Cigar & Company

And how about Toscano? Toscano is unbelievable. We got it out of the blue sky, and every year our sales almost double. You put it in the marketplace, and it does extremely well. People break them in half, and then they have two cigars! It’s a very social kind of thing, the Toscano.

“IF YOU’RE HUMBLE AND NICE, PEOPLE WILL BE THE SAME WAY, AND THEN YOU CAN DO BUSINESS IN A BEAUTIFUL WAY.”

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C&S FEATURED COCKTAILS

HIGH NOTE HOLIDAY COCKTAILS CLOSING THE YEAR WITH A FEW OF OUR FAVORITES WARM PUMPKIN SPICE COCKTAIL

BRANDY EGGNOG COCKTAIL

Ingredients: • 2 cups pumpkin spice coconut milk beverage • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk beverage • 4 tbsp. organic canned pumpkin • ½ tsp. cinnamon • 1 ½ oz. dark rum • 1 ½ oz. vanilla flavored vodka

Ingredients: • 1 oz. brandy • 1 1/4 oz. milk • 1/2 oz. simple syrup • 1 egg yolk

Serves 3

Garnish: • Whipped topping and cinnamon sticks Directions: Combine pumpkin spice beverage, coconut milk beverage, pumpkin and spices in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring often. Add rum and vodka and continue simmering for 1-2 minutes. Serve hot with a dollop of whipped topping and a cinnamon stick.

Serves 1

Garnish: Grated nutmeg or cinnamon Directions: In a cocktail shaker, combine the brandy, milk, simple syrup and egg yolk. Dry shake without ice. Fill the shaker with ice, then shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure the egg is well-mixed. Strain into a glass. Add a dash of grated nutmeg or cinnamon as a garnish.

CHRISTMAS PEPPERMINTINI Serves 2

Ingredients: • 4 peppermint candy canes • 3 tbsp. sugar water (make with 3 tbsp. sugar and 2 tbsp. water) • 4 oz. white chocolate liqueur • 2 oz. vanilla vodka • 2 oz. half-and-half • ¼ tsp. pure peppermint extract Directions: Place candy canes in large resealable bag. Close bag. Pound with rolling pin or skillet until well-crushed. Mix 3 tablespoons sugar and 2 tablespoons water in a small shallow bowl until well-blended. Dip rim of glass in the sugar water mixture, then into crushed candies to lightly coat. Fill cocktail shaker two-thirds full with ice. Add white chocolate liqueur, half-and-half, vanilla vodka and peppermint extract; shake until wellmixed and chilled. Strain into martini glasses. Serve immediately.

GRINCH COCKTAIL Serves 1

Directions: Fill a glass with ice. Add Midori liqueur and rum. Top with lemon lime soda and stir gently to combine.

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Serves 1

Ingredients: • 6 oz. Irish Cream • 2 oz. vanilla vodka • 4 oz. cold coffee • 2 oz. milk • Ice if desired • Honey or corn syrup for rimming glasses Garnish: Shortbread Cookies for dipping

Ingredients: • 1 1/2 oz. Midori liqueur • 1 oz. clear rum or triple sec • 5 oz. lemon lime soda

IRISH CHRISTMAS COOKIE COCKTAIL

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Directions: Crush one shortbread cookie and place on a shallow plate. Place honey or corn syrup on another shallow plate. Dip each glass upside down in the honey and then in the cookie crumbs to rim. Place Irish Cream, vodka, coffee and milk in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake, then strain into glasses. You can serve over ice if desired. The more, the merrier with extra shortbread cookies for dipping and dunking.

Top left: Elenaveselova/Shutterstock.com, Middle left: Yulia Furman/Shutterstoc.com, Bottom left: Jefftakespics2/shutterstock.com, Top right: Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.com, Bottom right: Syda Productions/Shutterstock.com

by Bailey Kerwick

Micallef Cigars Doubles Down On Our Commitment to Brick & Mortar Retailers

stallone

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brick & Mortar stores are the heart of the cigar community; they are incredibly important for our Industry. 2020 has been a difficult year for us all. Together with our retail partners we continue innovating to better serve our consumers and Ambassadors in an excellent manner!â&#x20AC;? A.M. Micallef

Consumer purchases through family-owned brick & mortar retailers strengthen our industry. Micallef Cigars no longer sells to Meier & Dutch, Cigars International, Thompson Cigar, and Cigar.com. Find Micallef Cigars at your favorite Brick & Mortar retailer or on their online stores. Complete list available at www.MicallefCigars.com

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BACK COVER KETEL ONE

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. KETEL ONE Vodka. Distilled from Grain. 40% Alc/Vol. Â© Double Eagle Brands, B.V. Imported by Ketel One USA, Aliso Viejo, CA.