Cigar & Spirits Magazine - Sept/Oct 2023

JEREMY RENNER

LOOKING GOOD... FEELING BETTER AND DOING THE WORK

A CIGAR 120 Y ears IN THE MAKING.

Introducing La Aurora 120 Anniversary.

For 120 years, La Aurora and the León family have cra ed premium cigars that stand on the shoulders of tradition. Now, this legendary family legacy and a new, innovative approach at our historic factory in the Dominican Republic have culminated in a cigar that is 120 years in the making – La Aurora 120 Anniversary.

With a cedar aroma, the first draw reveals smoky flavors of peppered cinnamon and anise. Sweetness then enters the fold with a sweet cocoa and creamy coffee bean, soon evolving into a smooth vanilla finish. A flavor ride to the finish, 120 transitions to dry fruit and rich tropical notes, with subtle hints of wild honey and rich earth.

Scan to join the family. LAAURORA.COM

WRAPPER:

BINDER:

FILLER:

BODY:

Dominican Republic (Habano ’92)

Dominican Republic (Olor)

Dominican Republic (Piloto, Cubano, Olor, Corojo)

Medium/Full

Eduardo León Jimenes

Fernando León Asensio

Guillermo León Herbert Fernando

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PHOTOGRAPHY FOR JEREMY RENNER by John Russo

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Molly Headley

Greg Mays

Audrey Pavia

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Back row: Ellis Augustinus, Randy Mastronicola. Front row: Barbara Lamelza, Audrey Pavia, Jeremy Renner

ONE FROM THE HEART

I’M WRITING THIS NOTE on the 5th anniversary of Russ Case’s passing. Russ was the Editor-in-Chief of Cigar & Spirits Magazine a couple of years prior to me officially joining the company. Thankfully, he suggested I start writing for the magazine when he became editor and brought me in as a contributing writer which ultimately led to my current position years later.

More importantly, Russ was a huge part of my group of friends and family. We shared life’s joy and pain together over decades. There was infinitely more joy because anyone who knew Russ would agree that he was a larger-than-life personality—a one-man marching band that inspired adventures, laughter, appreciation for the arts and so much more. Russ soaked it all up over his time on earth.

Recalling his life and death on this day—and writing these words—is not the easiest thing in the world. But on some level, it is. Writers can get hung up on whether their words are good or not, whether the piece will resonate or not, and a myriad of other insecurities. This one’s from the heart, so it goes out into the universe, and without anything other than bittersweet feelings and love for a lost friend.

Russ left our group with a gigantic void, and it has never been filled. He was the straw that stirred the drink. The one who kept us all together by initiating travels, parties, dinners, going to movies and plays, poker nights, camping and the gift of just hanging out. Russ’s mission was to never let the party die. Russ brought different groups of us together from parts or the whole of his life, and his holiday parties were representative of that. A group of disparate characters that fused into one big extended Russ Case family.

Sadly, Russ’s loss has been compounded by the fact that our group has fractured— relocations and generally busy lives being the main reasons. This would not be lost on Russ. He loved being the hub of our group but would have been upset to know that it virtually takes an Act of Congress to get more than six of us in the same place at the same time these days. Life.

Switching gears—just a bit—meeting Jeremy Renner recently reinforced some of what I’ve been feeling lately in regard to Russ and a couple of other recent life events. We are all aware of the accident that nearly cost Jeremy his life this past January. His evident gratitude for being able to spend time with us, being in the moment, and feeling life here on earth was precious for him and his family was inspiring, as you will read in his interview. His life has taken deeper meaning because he was close to death. Hopefully, you or I won’t have to experience that to find a meaningful place on earth before we depart.

My takeaway from writing this today is simple. Tell family and friends you love them. STFU and really listen to their hearts and words. Be selfless. Be kind. Be the straw that stirs the drink and live your life with gratitude and empathy.

Sincerely,

Randy Mastronicola Editor & Publisher @cigarandspirits

>> Randy Mastronicola (left) and Russ Case (right)

LAMBORGHINI REVUELTO: SCULPTED, STRONG AND SPLENDID BASQUIAT X GREAT JONES

DUDE BRACELETS DONE RIGHT

TOKYO’S BEAT BOSS – KING POWER

Photos courtesy of Lamborghini.

LAMBORGHINI REVUELTO: SCULPTED, STRONG AND SPLENDID

IT WAS JUST A MATTER OF TIME before the world’s most glamorous car became climate friendly. This year, the first hybrid Lamborghini hit the market, making its debut in California, the state that claims 25 percent of the vehicle’s market. Dubbed the Revuelto, the vehicle fuses tradition and modernity by combining the brand’s iconic 12-cylinder engine with the latest hybrid technology.

“The new Lamborghini Revuelto is perfectly balanced in that it remains faithful to the brand’s essence by delivering the exceptional driving dynamics that our clients have come to expect from Lamborghini products, while reducing emissions,” says Andrea Baldi, Lamborghini Americas Chief Executive Officer. “The iconic V12, complemented by our hybrid technology, produces more than 1,000 horsepower, and creates a visceral thrill for the driver.”

Baldi describes the Revuelto as a bold, unique vehicle, and a landmark moment in Lamborghini’s storied history.

“As the first model debuted under Lamborghini’s Direzione Cor Tauri electrification plan, the Revuelto has already achieved landmark status and is desired by our most discerning collectors,” she says.

The Revuelto features a combination of the brand’s legacy 814-hp 6.5-liter engine with three electric motors to create its exceptional horsepower. Two of the electric motors are located on the front axle, while the third motor is integrated into the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The vehicle’s charging port is located inside a front luggage compartment, although the battery can also be reloaded in only six minutes using the rear electric motor as a generator.

The regular Lamborghini settings of Strada, Sport and Corsa are present in the Revuelto, in addition to Città, the EV-only setting. This setting is only meant to be used for urban driving at low speeds.

The Revuelto’s exterior design is true to the Lamborghini brand with a few exceptions. The hood extends to the front, and features hooded headlights, while radar sensors in the shape of spheres add to the ultra-modern look. Behind the doors, large air intakes add a dramatic air.

The car’s interior is larger than the company’s previous release, the Aventador, allowing for more headroom, elbow space, storage areas and cupholders. Three display screens are located inside the cabin, with a touchscreen in the center of the dashboard working as the primary user interface. The passenger side also has a display that shows details of the car’s performance while driven.

The face of the steering wheel is home to the wiper and turn-signal controls, dial controls to manage powertrain modes and chassis, and adjustable aerodynamic- and ride-height settings. The active cruise control is located on a stalk manufactured by Audi.

In true Lamborghini fashion, the price tag on the Revuelto is not for the faint of heart. Cost begins at $890,000. -Audrey Pavia

BASQUIAT X GREAT JONES

IT’S IMPOSSIBLE to look at the work of Jean-Michel Basquiat and remain indifferent. Raw. Electric. Groundbreaking. It’s a gut punch of color and emotion that roars: “Look at me. I am New York. I am Basquiat.”

Now for the first time, Great Jones Distilling Co., the first and only whiskey distillery in Manhattan since Prohibition, is bringing Basquiat back to his Noho roots, with an artistic takeover at their distillery on Great Jones Street, minutes from the artist’s former art studio. “This collaboration is 100% New York,” says Celina Perez, Head Distiller at Great Jones Distilling Co. “Everything we do is inspired by and pays homage to our home state. From our ingredients in our bourbon to the offerings at our restaurant The Grid, to our home place in Noho, New York is our heart and soul. So much of Basquiat’s work celebrates his New York roots, his commentary on the lives of ordinary New Yorkers, and the vibrancy of downtown Manhattan. He created some of his most recognizable art at his Great Jones studio.” This partnership is the perfect mashup between the realms of spirits and fine art, creating an experience that's as layered as Basquiat's masterpieces. As visitors step into the Great Jones Distillery, they're immersing themselves in a story that celebrates New York counterculture and Basquiat's unique ability to sublimate street art into social commentary.

The heart of this collab lies in the three exclusive bottles featuring Basquiat's artwork. The Dinosaur and Skull editions of the Great Jones x Jean Michel Basquiat collection showcase some of Basquiat's most recognizable drawings. Paired with these iconic visuals is the 4-year-old Great Jones Straight Bourbon, boasting versatile flavors of creamy vanilla, spice, and a peppery finish.

Photos courtesy of Purple

PR/Great Jones

The pinnacle of the collection is the Distillery Exclusive, which has been more than seven years in the making. It’s the oldest bourbon the distillery has released, with an aging process of seven years including more than a year finished in a Pineau de Charentes wine cask to give complex hints of grape skin, honeysuckle, and stone. The bottle is adorned with Basquiat's iconic crown sketch and housed in a gift box, featuring the artist’s Bird on Money artwork. Perez recommends serving the bourbon neat.

In addition to the exclusive bottles, the Great Jones Distillery has transformed into an immersive experience inspired by Basquiat's New York. The Basquiat Bar, reminiscent of the post-punk vibe of The Mudd Club (one of the artist’s favorite watering holes), offers cocktails and appetizers inspired by Basquiat. Try POWER AND PASSION, a piña colada riff with bright, floral notes and rich texture, which celebrate Basquiat’s Haitian roots, or HEAD OF EMPIRE, which pays homage to the Alabama Slammer, balancing the nutty sweetness with a hint of bitterness with the bourbon's warm, caramel characteristics.

The distillery experience includes "Basquiat's New York," a tasting room that surrounds guests with oversized Basquiat imagery and memorabilia from 1980s New York. This multi-sensory experience features a VIP tour with a tasting of the Distillery Exclusive cask-finished whiskey. The project also includes a curated collection of merchandise, such as dino and crown t’s and sweatshirts, designed and produced by New York brand Rome Pays Off.

You can purchase Great Jones x Jean-Michel Basquiat spirits bottles or book a tour at the distillery at GreatJonesDistillingCo.com -Molly Headley

THIS PARTNERSHIP IS THE PERFECT MASHUP BETWEEN THE REALMS OF SPIRITS AND FINE ART, CREATING AN EXPERIENCE THAT'S AS LAYERED AS BASQUIAT'S MASTERPIECES.

DUDE BRACELETS DONE RIGHT

DESPITE POPULAR OPINION, stars like Johnny Depp and Chris Hemsworth weren’t the first ones to rock the men’s designer bracelet trend. Kick it back to the 5th century BC, when Greek warriors used to wrap their forearms in leather bands to avoid injury. Or to around 800 AD, when Vikings sailed the seas adorned with metal armbands engraved with symbols from Norse mythology. Bracelets are having more than just “a moment”; men have been wearing them for a millennium to show power, wealth, and all-around badassery.

Unlike watches, it’s easy to mix and match bracelets for a combo of high-low style. Layer a beaded band with a gold cuff, for example, or exit the ordinary with sculptural pieces that could be just as at home in MOMA as they will be on your wrist. The following bracelets are more than just accessories; they’re statements that scream confidence and an unwavering commitment to individuality.

There are some pitfalls men should avoid when purchasing bracelets, but these designers do it just right and will make your selection foolproof.

METAL MANIFESTO

Bolt Bracelet by Bottega Veneta

18-karat gold-plated silver and silver cuff bracelet.

Crafted in Italy, Bottega Veneta's 18-karat gold-plated and sterling silver bracelet combines sculptural elegance with a tough as nails aesthetic. With its cylindrical form and engraved house moniker on the inner band, this accessory screams bold and impeccable craftsmanship. bottegaveneta.com ($1,550)

REFINED REBELLION

Giles and Brother Skinny Railroad Spike Cuff in 14-Karat Gold

Designed by Philip Crangi from the brother and sister design duo Giles and Brother, this bracelet crafted in 14-karat gold represents the spike used on the first transcontinental railroad and symbolizes the American pioneering spirit. Free custom engraving. gilesandbrother.com ($5,100)

UNLEASH YOUR DARK SIDE

Vampire Teeth Silver-Tone Bracelet by Raf Simons

Dive into the dark side of fashion with this vampire-inspired silver-toned brass bracelet by Raf Simons. Its spooky aesthetic will add just the right amount of mayhem to your look. From the final 2023 collection Raf Simons released before becoming cocreative director of Prada, this bracelet is also highly collectible. farfetch.com ($1,721)

>> Bolt Bracelet by Bottega Veneta

>> Giles and Brother Skinny Railroad Spike Cuff in 14K Gold

>> Vampire Teeth Silver-Tone Bracelet by Raf Simons

ROOM101

IT SEEMS EVERYTHING Matt Booth touches turns to gold (or sterling silver), making it no surprise that the entrepreneur has gained a loyal following among design lovers, industry professionals and Hollywood trendsetters. Founder of the lifestyle brand Room101, the former Marine has set his innovative mind on everything from luxury jewelry to highly lauded cigars to small-batch gin. Approaching each new product with a focus on merging traditional craftsmanship with a modern design approach, Room101 is known for its unconventional branding, packaging, and unexpected blends.

MEMENTO MORI FILIGREE SKULL LINK BRACELET

For those who love to throw a bit of “dark academia” into their look, the Filigree Skull Link Bracelet by Room101 is a perfect match. This striking piece weighs in at 127.6 grams and features intricately designed skull links, for the perfect touch of the macabre. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this bracelet embodies edgy sophistication. ($1,350)

CHAIN REACTION CUBAN LINK BRACELET LARGE

A take on iconic Cuban link jewelry, this audacious accessory is tradition with a twist. Chunky enough to get noticed without being overbearing, the bracelet boasts an imposing 18mm x 18mm link width and weighs in at 148.5 grams. Its adjustable length of 8 to 9.5 inches ensures a perfect fit, while the exclusive dual-lock clasp guarantees it stays locked in place. ($1,250)

room101brand.com

THE MODERN MINIMALIST

Nexus Chain Bracelet in 14-Karat Gold by Miansai

Michael Saiger’s Miami-based jewelry line Miansai started as a side-hustle during his university years and went on to become the go-to accessory for celebs. Inspired by nautical details, the Nexus Chain bracelet is handmade to order with handwoven cord and a 14-karat gold link chain. miansai.com ($795)

THE DARK HORSE

Bracelet Clic HH by Hermès

The Bracelet Clic HH by Hermès combines the equestrian details that the luxury house is known for with black matte enamel and a brushed gold-plated or palladium-plated finish. Made in France and delivered in its iconic orange box. hermes.com ($670)

THE HEAVY HITTER

33g 18-Karat Gold Bracelet by Le Gramme

Pull your design weight with Le Gramme's 33g bracelet. Handcrafted in France, each piece in Le Gramme’s arsenal is named for the weight of its pure metal components (gold, silver or titanium) in grams. This investment piece features capsule-shaped 18-karat gold beads with style worth springing out of your safe deposit box. en.legramme.com ($14,945)

PACKS A PUNCH

Les Fines Lames PUNCH BRACELET–Oscuro Gold Ring

This striking punch bracelet from French cigar accessories house Les Fine Lames is adorned with 10mm black onyx beads, 18-karat gold spacers, and a gold punch cutter. Billed as the only cigar cutter to pass airline security checks, this accessory is the perfect blend of style, functionality, and craftsmanship. lesfineslames.com ($300) -Molly Headley

>> Les Fines Lames PUNCH BRACELET –Oscuro Gold Ring

>> 33g 18-Karat Gold Bracelet by Le Gramme

>> Bracelet Clic HH by Hermès

>> Nexus Chain Bracelet in 14K Gold by Miansai

Photos courtesy of ROOM101.

TOKYO’S BEAT BOSS – KING POWER

TOKYO IS A CITY THAT THRIVES on innovation, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of cutting-edge trends. Amid the neon lights in Roppongi, the city’s entertainment district, the Grand Hyatt stands out like a beacon. It’s here, within the quiet luxury of the Maduro Bar & Jazz Lounge on the Hyatt’s 4th floor, that King Power can be found, rocking his Cuban-link gold chain, DITA shades, and trademark swirl of platinum dreads.

This is King’s playground. His nightly ritual of fine cigars and drinks, chill beats and good company has taken over the space, making for some unforgettable evenings with special guests such as Kanye West, Floyd Mayweather, Kid Ink, The Game, and the Black Eyed Peas.

Born in Nigeria, Jesse King, entrepreneur turned producer, musician, artist, and fashion designer, has lived in Japan for the last 20+ years. He’s become an integral part of Tokyo’s subculture, collaborating with renowned artists on their music and fashion designs, as well as dropping his own album earlier this year. The Playlist features King rapping about money, God, and love against the background of afro-beats and bling.

King's versatility and ability to blend different musical genres and cultural influences extend beyond the music world. His role as an ambassador and designer for DITA eyewear coincides with his own line of luxe streetwear and flashy jewelry, KQPP (King, Queen, Prince, Princess), which is set to launch this year, along with a side project—King’s custom line of Japanese sake.

At the heart of King Power’s success is his larger-than-life persona—his infectious laugh weaves through every conversation. There’s no pretension, just a celebration of life and all it has brought. Guests stepping into Maduro Bar & Jazz Lounge will be welcomed into a world where music and fashion converge, with King Power acting as both guide and guru. The lounge is part of King’s commitment to creating spaces where people can come together,

enjoy extraordinary performances, and party in peace. When he’s not producing music for himself or other artists at the King Power Entertainment Studios (a short walk from the Hyatt), the lounge’s intimate area is also the perfect atmosphere for broadcasting the King Power Podcast with guests coming from around the world to talk music, culture, and creativity.

“Anyone who wants to come and hang with us at the lounge, we’ve got everything,” King says. “We’ve got global cigars, cognac, Patrón, champagne, wine. You name it. I play with everything.” He laughs, and it’s impossible not to want to play too…to enter this man’s royal world of positive vibes, and deluxe lifestyles, and to stay awhile. -Molly

Headley

In Tokyo, and want to hang with King Power?

Maduro Bar & Jazz Lounge

Grand Hyatt Tokyo 4th floor info@kingpower.biz

Photos courtesy of King Power.

FEATURED PAIRINGS

by Greg Mays

ISLE OF SKYE 30-YEAR-OLD SCOTCH

The Angel Cuesta is a 100-year-old cigar brand that the J.C. Newman company has recently revived. There are a lot of amazing elements to this cigar, but what I want to focus on is its production, which is arguably the most compelling element.

Rolled at Newman’s El Reloj Factory in Tampa, Florida, only two rollers can make this particular cigar, and they make a maximum of 150 per day. I had the pleasure of enjoying the salomones stick, a figurado with a closed foot and a tiny pigtail cap. As expected, the cigar lights easily and burns flawlessly. The flavor notes of white pepper and marzipan are evident from the start. As it progresses past the halfway point, there are increased tasting notes of earth and soil.

A cigar of this magnitude deserves a spirit of the same, so I paired the Angel Cuesta with Isle of Skye’s 30-year-old Scotch. The complexities of the cigar are married with similar complexities in this whisky and Isle of Skye leads with a wonderful cherry note, which finishes with the familiar (from the cigar) taste of marzipan.

Much of the cigar’s origins are mysterious. J.C. Newman simply reveals the tobacco is from three continents. That said, the cigar exhibits qualities you’ll recognize if you’re familiar with Newman’s products. The underlying earth topped with a jammy, marzipan note makes both so extremely compatible, you’ll think they were intentionally crafted for each other.

All the while I enjoyed these products, I couldn’t help but think that a pairing like this is best spent with the brand-new release of Newman’s “El Reloj Lego Set.” You have to check it out at jcnewman.com/product/el-relog-lego-set

SIZE: 7.5 X 57 SALOMONES | WRAPPER: ECUADORIAN HAVANA ROSADO

BINDER, FILLER: UNDISCLOSED | STRENGTH: MEDIUM MSRP (CIGAR): $22 | MSRP (SCOTCH): $280

ALADINO CLASSIC TORO BUNNAHABHAIN FÈIS ÌLE 2023 CANASTA CASK

Very few brands have gained such a high degree of notoriety in recent years like what we’ve seen from Aladino. A brand from the Julio R. Eiroa (JRE Cigars) catalog, Aladino has really set the standard for quality Honduran cigars in the industry.

Banded with gold and sporting Julio’s name, the Aladino Classic is exactly that—a demonstration of the “classic” cigar era of the 1950s and 1960s. There is a clear, yet earth scent on the wrapper prelight, with notes of mineral and earth upon actual light. Earthy notes continue and are joined by a sharp oaky quality as the cigar passes halfway. It’s a creamy and delicious cigar.

I paired the Aladino Classic with Bunnahabhain Fèis Ìle 2023, the annual release from the Islay whisky festival. This release rests their Scotch in Canasta Sherry casks, and it gives quite the powerful flavor profile, with an explosive orange and cinnamon nose and a big vanilla taste.

I sometimes allude to it, but this is a good example of an “against” pairing (the other being a “for” pairing). The Aladino Classic cigar is earthy and rich, with mineral and soil notes. Bunnahabhain’s Scotch, though, is sweet and citrusy and bright. These two approaches for pairings often turn out quite well, as this particular “against” pairing has. I find both to be reliable and rewarding pairing strategies.

The Aladino and Fèis Ìle nicely fill in the blanks that the other leaves, giving us a complete picture of a pairing, which has it all—both sweet and earthy, bright and rich.

SIZE: 6 X 50 TORO | WRAPPER, BINDER, FILLER: HONDURAN |

MSRP (CIGAR): $10 | MSRP (SCOTCH): $100

STRENGTH: MEDIUM

ROOM 101 JOHNNY TOBACCONAUT YELLOWSTONE TOKAJI CASK BOURBON

Johnny Tobacconaut is a new release from Room 101 Cigars with a very fun cigar astronaut graphic on the band. Originally one of Room 101’s first releases back in 2015, Johnny T. fell by the wayside for several years.

Now being produced at Tabacalera AJ Fernandez in Estelí, Nicaragua, Johnny Tobacconaut is back in 2023 with a reinvigorated blend. Johnny has a great spicy-sweet scent to the wrapper prelight, and on the light, there’s a bready profile, with a touch of harissa spice on the backpalate.

Midway through the smoke, there’s a buttery, nutty quality–like creamy cashew. I paired the Johnny T. with the limited-edition Yellowstone Tokaji Cask Bourbon, a blend of 7-year, 13-year, and 16-year aged bourbons that are finished in Tokaji casks (a type of wine from Hungary). This is a treat—a complex, sweet-and-smoky bourbon with peach notes that are rich and almost milky. Let’s call that peach ice cream. There’s a great harmony of sweetness in this combo that makes it a great pairing from lunch through late night.

A tip to make this the ultimate pairing experience is that Yellowstone, while clocking in at 101 proof, is actually quite mild and complex. This one is best enjoyed neat—the addition of ice here mutes and waters down the bourbon and would push the flavor profiles away when smoking.

SIZE: 5 X 50 ROBUSTO | WRAPPER: ECUADORIAN CONNECTICUT SHADE

BINDER: MEXICAN | FILLER: NICARAGUAN | STRENGTH: MEDIUM

MSRP (CIGAR): $9 | MSRP (WHISKEY): $100

DISTINCT FINISHES. ENTICING FLAVORS.

INTRODUCING BARRELL’S NEW CASK FINISH SERIES

E.P. CARRILLO PLEDGE FIRECRACKER UNCLE CHICKEN'S SIPPIN’ WHISKEY (BOURBON)

United Cigar has been building themselves an annual tradition in which they release a “firecracker” annually to celebrate Independence Day. In 2023, though, they made this tradition a collaboration with E.P. Carillo cigars to deliver the Pledge Firecracker. These “firecrackers” are short robustos with a lengthy pigtail on the cap like a wick or a fuse. In this case, you’ll have to remove this particular wick to properly light the cigar. With 1,000 boxes made of these cigars, you’ll likely be able to snatch up a few Firecrackers to try yourself.

The wrapper on the Firecracker is sweet hay, with a touch of toast. On light, that sweet hay continues with big notes of chocolate. I’ve often experienced that shorter, smaller-format cigars can pack quite a punch, and this is definitely a flavor bomb. Great for wintertime smoking, or if you have 45 minutes to break away from a party, the Firecracker will prove to be a treat and a pick-me-up.

I paired the Firecracker with a whiskey released by the country band Whiskey Myers. Uncle Chicken’s Sippin’ Whiskey, produced by Bespoken Spirits, is a rich-brown bourbon with a big flavor profile. Notes of cinnamon and spices arrive along with peaches and candy. Uncle Chicken’s was certainly the best fit for the bold chocolate of the Firecracker. The sweet flavors intermingle with underlying spice notes and it’s a great pairing. Note that one of the easiest ways of “cutting” a pigtailed cigar is by gently and carefully pulling on the tail until a portion of the cap comes right off—no blade required. This takes a bit of practice but it offers a bit of an old school approach.

SIZE: 3 ½ X 50 “FIRECRACKER” | WRAPPER: CONNECTICUT HAVANA

BINDER: ECUADORIAN | FILLER: NICARAGUAN | STRENGTH: FULL MSRP (CIGAR): $9 | MSRP (WHISKEY): $60

PARTAGAS VALLE VERDE GLENMORANGIE CADBOLL SINGLE ESTATE

Partagas introduced their Valle Verde cigar in summer 2023. Meaning “green valley,” Valle Verde is named for the region of Mexico where this wrapper is grown, and it’s the first time a Mexican wrapper has been used on a Partagas.

The elements are here for an earthy cigar profile: Mexican wrappers, which are often both earthy and sweet, plus Cameroonian binder, which offers another unique earth element. The wrapper certainly has the soil/earth profile I expected, and on light, this cigar has some floral and herbal notes. As the cigar progresses, the flavor profiles continue steadily, though I did begin to detect a slight berry note midway. The Valle Verde offered a superb draw with a perfect burn.

I paired the Valle Verde with Glenmorangie’s limited release Cadboll Single Estate Scotch, the third in their annual Single Estate series, which features barley from only one region. Cadboll Estate is aged in bourbon and sherry casks for 15 years. This Scotch has a dry hay-like nose with smoked orange and clove on the tongue and a banana finish that’s long and rich. Glenmorangie describes the Cadboll barley as “nutty and sweet, with notes of toffee, almonds and clove.” It’s these spices that fit Cadboll Estate right in with the earthier, herbal notes of the Partagas Valle Verde.

This particular pairing was enjoyed in a green shaded garden with a cool afternoon breeze. I highly recommend you seek out a similar experience.

SIZE: 6 X 52 TORO | WRAPPER: MEXICAN SAN ANDRÉS

BINDER: CAMEROONIAN | FILLER: NICARAGUAN & MEXICAN | STRENGTH: MEDIUM MSRP (CIGAR): $9 | MSRP (SCOTCH): $90

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

Photo courtesy of Post Ranch Inn.

TRAVEL SPOTLIGHT SCENIC BOUTIQUE HOTELS TO VISIT THIS FALL

by Molly Headley with Briana Masson from Jette Sette Travel

Summer is for plunging into turquoise waters. It’s for lounging on a terrace with the last embers of a cigar burning into the humid night sky. Come September, a tumult of tasks takes over the laze of summer days. Luckily, this sudden return to reality is tempered by the abundance of the season. Autumn, as Keats wrote, is the “season of mists and mellow fruitfulness.” Grapes are harvested to make wine, nature transforms into an explosion of color, and we start craving creature comforts, such as the crackle of a fire in a hearth, good Scotch, and meandering conversations.

Whether you’re hoping to see fall foliage or looking to venture further afield for some truly unforgettable experiences, the destinations on these pages will inspire you to bid farewell to the last days of summer and celebrate autumn in all its burnished glory.

COGNAC, FRANCE LE LOGIS GREY GOOSE

It might seem a bit odd to sip vodka in the birthplace of cognac, but Grey Goose is no ordinary spirit. Created by Sidney Frank and François Thibault, who grew up in the region, Grey Goose is made with 100% French ingredients just like its amber-toned cousin. Le Logis is not for the average traveler, Weighing in at $18,000/night for the 14-bed and bath estate, the private 16th-century manor house is surrounded by a medieval wall and its own vineyards.

Exceptional Experience: Book a cocktail-making workshop with a master mixologist, at no extra cost or, for a small fee, take a private tour of local top-shelf cognac producers. brojure.com/lelogis

Photos courtesy of Le Logis Grey Goose.

SUMBA ISLAND, INDONESIA NIHI SUMBA

Nihi Sumba is the two-time winner of Travel + Leisure’s Best Hotel in the World award, and it’s easy to see why, upon first glimpse of 567 hectares of pristine beach and jungle dotted with private thatched roof villas. Nihi Sumba is the perfect retreat for both fans of adventure and wellness aficionados. Known for its worldclass surfing, sport fishing and diving, guests can also indulge in the resort’s trademark “spa safari.”

Exceptional Experience: When the tide is waning, ride bareback to Nihiwatu beach and swim in the gentle waves with Sumba’s herd of horses. nihi.com

Photos courtesy of Nihi Sumba.

“AUTUMN, AS KEATS WROTE, IS THE ‘SEASON OF MISTS AND MELLOW FRUITFULNESS.’”

NORANGSFJORDEN, NORWAY HOTEL UNION OYE

Feel truly connected to nature as you watch Norway’s incredible vistas change right before your eyes. Located on the ancient fjords that were once sailed by Vikings, you can spend your retreat at the historic Hotel Union Oye channeling your inner mountaineer in rooms fit for Norwegian royalty.

Exceptional Experience: After a helicopter ride overlooking the Sunnmøre Alps or a session of “wild swimming,” head back to the resort to warm up in the hotel’s sexy wood-paneled game room, then finish with a glass of organic wine chosen just for you by the in-house sommelier. unioneye.no/en

Photos courtesy of Hotel Union Oye.

BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA POST RANCH INN

Perched 1,200 feet above the Pacific on Highway 1, Post Ranch Inn is the only property that sits right on the cliffs in Big Sur proper. It comes as no surprise that the views from every room are spectacular, but before you lose yourself in unending coast and conifer pines, take in the architecture itself. Each room is built to honor the environment by using natural materials such as reclaimed wood, sod, glass, and stone.

Exceptional Experience: Get to know the alphas of the sky at Post Ranch Inn’s birds of prey experience. If the 5 cm long talons and razor-sharp beaks on these raptors don’t surge your adrenaline, nothing will. postranchinn.com

Photos courtesy of Post Ranch Inn.

HUDSON VALLEY, NEW YORK WILDFLOWER FARMS

There’s truly nothing better than trading in the intensity of New York City to drive through coppery tunnels of beech and maple on the way to the Hudson Valley. The 60 freestanding cabins and cottages that make up Wildflower Farms Resorts are the perfect blend of indoor/outdoor living. Take in the forest and meadows from the comfort of your terrace, or venture to one of the restaurants to experience the bounty of regional cuisine. Exceptional Experience: Borrow one of the resort’s luxurious Mercedes-Benzes from its fleet of cars to tour the Northeastern countryside. aubergeresorts.com/wildflower-farms

Photos courtesy of Wildflower Farms.

#s i p m an d a l a

CHURCHILL, CANADA SEAL RIVER HERITAGE LODGE

Walking amid polar bears; “tundra-inspired” dining; the celestial display of the Northern Lights as your decor…are just a few of the reasons that Seal River Heritage Lodge is included in the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World Collection. Fall in Manitoba, Canada, is nothing short of staggering with polar bears standing in contrast to the trees tinged in red, orange, yellow, and green. One of three Churchill Wild eco-lodges, Seal River only has eight guestrooms, so it pays to book in advance.

Exceptional Experience: Late autumn is prime Northern Lights season. Seal River Heritage Lodge’s remote location means less light pollution and a higher chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis dance across the sky. churchillwild.com

Photos courtesy of Seal River Heritage Lodge.

NAYARIT, MEXICO ONE & ONLY MANDARINA

During the autumn hurricane season, it’s typically not wise to head to the Caribbean; however, the One & Only Mandarina is located on the Pacific side of Mexico, where dry season starts in mid-October. Everything about this property connects with the surrounding jungle. Mexican heritage is brought front and center with services such as spa treatments with curanderos (traditional healers) and curated Mexican dining experiences.

Exceptional Experience: Tee-off in one of the best golf courses in Mexico at the nearby Nicklaus Signature Course, designed by golf great Jack Nicklaus. Or head to Mandarina Polo & Equestrian Club for riding lessons and a competitive weekly polo match. oneandonlyresorts.com

Photos courtesy of One & Only Mandarina.

TANZANIA SINGITA MARA RIVER TENTED CAMP

If you’re seasonally more inclined toward spring than autumn, head to the East African country of Tanzania. October marks the beginning of the spring dry season and the return of the wildlife. Singita Mara River Tented Camp, located in the remote Lamai triangle in the Serengeti, epitomizes the idea of rare adventure. The understated luxury of the camp has a strong focus on sustainability and is the perfect starting point for wildlife excursions.

Exceptional Experience: Venture into the Serengeti National Park to witness the wildebeest migration, then head back to camp for a bottle from Singita’s cellars, which are recognized as one of the most influential wine collections in Africa. singita.com

Molly Headley holds a master’s degree in creative writing and Literary Criticism from the University of Oxford. Her work can be seen in a wide range of publications, from Bloomsbury Press , Glénat Editions and Al Jazeera Media to magazines focusing on Arts & Culture, Food & Beverage and Travel. She's lived and worked in Los Angeles, London, Saigon and Paris—endlessly hunting the best places to enjoy the finer things in life.

Briana Masson is a Los Angeles based travel advisor specializing in luxury travel. Through her company, Jette Sette , you can discover a world where personalized trips are meticulously crafted to seamlessly combine adventure, wellness, and luxury.

@jette_sette @brianamasson

Photos courtesy of Singita Mara River Tented Camp.

INTERVIEW JEREMY RENNER LOOKING GOOD… FEELING BETTER AND DOING THE WORK

by Audrey Pavia | portraits by John Russo

I’LL NEVER FORGET the moment I heard about Jeremy Renner’s accident. It was New Year’s Day 2023, and a news alert popped up on my phone stating the acclaimed actor and star of many of my favorite films and series had been severely injured when he’d been run over by a gigantic snowplow. At that point, no one knew if he would survive. He was in critical condition in a California hospital with massive injuries. I was stunned and saddened, imagining that if he even survived, his career as an Oscarnominated actor was over.

Fast forward eight months later, and I’m sitting across from Jeremy in a West Hollywood hotel, asking him about his new partnership with Sweet Grass Vodka, an award-winning South Carolina spirit. Looking at him, you’d never know he had broken 30 bones—including eight crushed ribs— and had a collapsed lung and a punctured liver. Prior to the interview, Jeremy had spent more than an hour being photographed by renowned celebrity photographer John Russo, going from several floors of the hotel to different locations, heading back to our staging hotel room to change looks in between. He was not only friendly and joking around during the shoot, but also had the energy to be gracious with fans who recognized him in the elevator and the hotel bar.

By the time I sat down with him, I was in awe of his recovery and anxious to find out about his new venture in the spirits world.*

*Editor’s Note: Our interview with Jeremy took place during the actor’s strike. Questions related to Jeremy’s entertainment career were largely off-limits regarding his film or television projects falling under SAG-AFTRA contracts.

THE INTERVIEW

Cigar & Spirits Magazine: How are you feeling these days?

Jeremy Renner: I’m feeling happy to be here. Happy to be alive. Happy to be inspired. Happy to partner. Happy to share. Everything feels wonderfully grounded and real.

Well, you look great. You’d never know anything happened. [laughter]

I feel pretty great. But I might look better than I feel. [laughter]

So why did you decide to become a Sweet Grass co-owner? It was in the works for a while. I've always been interested in the spirits world and the spirits business because I love business and I love spirits. I also love the people I'm working with. That's very important to me. It's the same thing if I was choosing a movie. It's who am I working with.

With Sweet Grass, I share a lot of the same values. It’s a very grassroots sort of business. What I was thinking about with this specific business and what Jarrod [Swanger, founder and co-owner] was thinking about were very congruent, without us even talking about it. With that synergy, it has been pretty electric. It’s made it very exciting to move forward. The accident kind of got in the way of that, so we waited until there's some health. Now we can go back to reality and move forward with it.

How did you come to meet Jarrod?

It was through my agency. They just put it together and we spent some time together to figure out how to move forward.

SUIT & TURTLENECK: CAROLINA HERRERA

SUNGLASSES: DITA MACH 6

What sets Sweet Grass Vodka apart from other vodkas that are out there?

There are a lot of good ones out there, but what I love about Sweet Grass is that it's a premium vodka—a potato vodka. There's no sugar and additives. It has won three master-tasting awards. It has a really wonderful taste and is very wellcurated. It's family-owned, and I love that. Personally, I love the taste for a sipping vodka. The price point is something that's for everyone. It’s high quality for a very good consumer price. That's the main thing for me. Why drink something that's going to make you sick or give you a headache, or has sugars and that kind of stuff when you can get something of premium quality for a very good consumer price?

Why a vodka? Why not a whiskey or a tequila? Vodka is what I drink. That's just a personal preference of mine. Clear with no sugar, no bubbles and no hangovers.

That’s only with the good stuff. Yes. When you drink the good stuff, you're not going to have any regrets. If you're going to do it, do it right.

I wish I'd known that when I was younger. [laughter] Yes, exactly. I know, me too. So you don't have to make those mistakes. No one wants to feel terrible the next day, right? Potato vodka is actually a really good choice.

Tell me, is what you're doing now with Sweet Grass helping you get back into life after the accident? Yes. Here's the really great thing. It has worked out to where it's a good time to announce my involvement, and really be able to push it out. Right now, there's a writers’ strike, there's an actors’ strike. This gives me something I can really focus on. It's good for my physical health and my mental health. To be busy and look forward to something that is outside anything else I'm doing.

I’m a single dad, and my priorities are my family, my daughter. Same for Jarrod and his family. I have been able to do a lot of learning and growing, especially coming from where I was earlier in the year. I'm pretty wide open to different things now, more than I normally would've been. I’m 52, and there was a lot of stuff that I thought I knew. Now I know a lot of shit, but I just don't think I know everything.

So the accident changed your perspective on life a little bit? Yeah, yeah. And it’s pretty exciting to venture into something like this. Between this and the [charitable] foundation I started, those have been my main focus, along with recovery. The recovery will always be ongoing. Being busy for me is part of the recovery. Getting back into life and just doing life stuff. I feel like I'm not going to be injured the whole time. This is mentally and psychologically important for me.

“THE RECOVERY WILL ALWAYS BE ONGOING. BEING BUSY FOR ME IS PART OF THE RECOVERY. GETTING BACK INTO LIFE AND JUST DOING LIFE STUFF. I FEEL LIKE I'M NOT GOING TO BE INJURED THE WHOLE TIME. THIS IS MENTALLY AND PSYCHOLOGICALLY IMPORTANT FOR ME.”

“I THINK ALL KIDS DESERVE OPPORTUNITIES. THAT'S THE BASE OF WHAT THE FOUNDATION DOES. IT PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR KIDS. WORKING WITH WONDERFUL FOUNDATIONS LIKE BIG BROTHERS AND SISTERS, AND BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS, AND THE MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION. TEAMING UP WITH THEM A LOT TO HELP FILL WHAT THEY NEED TO GET DONE.”

SUEDE JACKET: TOD'S

SWEATER: CADOGEN

JEANS: JOHN VARVATOS SHOES: ZVELLE

LEATHER JACKET: D73

SHIRT: RAILS

“I’M LIKE THE TINMAN WHO NEEDS OIL. ALL THESE METAL PARTS.”

Right. It's something to focus on besides the rehab. Yes, and it’s stuff that I love. And doing it with people I love to do it with. It couldn't be a more exciting time.

And it’s probably not as grueling as shooting a film or a series.

Oh, 100 percent. It gets busy in spurts. With the foundation, there's a lot of people helping me out with that one. I'm always inspired by the kids in that one. Let's see how we can make this grow. We're very grassroots and hands-on about it. To allow it to grow to where it needs to.

Can you tell me more about your philanthropic work?

Sure. The work that I like to do has always been where part of my life is. I’m the oldest of seven kids, and I've always been sort of a nurturer and caregiver to kids. It wasn't until I did a movie that made me famous with kids that celebrity became very cool all of a sudden—I didn’t like it before. But once I become famous with kids, it became a really cool idea. The foundation is

getting enrichment programs to underserved kids. I think all kids deserve opportunities. That's the base of what the foundation does. It provides opportunities for kids. Working with wonderful foundations like Big Brothers and Sisters, and Boys and Girls Clubs, and the Make a Wish Foundation. Teaming up with them a lot to help fill what they need to get done. Then, interim, I throw camps at Lake Tahoe for kids, and things like that.

That's great.

It's so fun and keeps me happy. It keeps me going, and gives me a reason to keep continuing.

A little bit of motivation too because whatever you're doing, you're helping people.

It's a fuel. Yes, if I can do something that puts a smile on a kid's face or gives an opportunity to a kid, man, there's nothing that's more fulfilling than that.

“THIS TIME HAS REALLY BEEN A BLESSING. I CAN BE BUSY DOING STUFF THAT I DO LOVE DURING THIS TIME WHEN WE'RE KIND OF HANDCUFFED...THERE’S NOTHING BUT A WIDE-OPEN FUTURE FOR ME, MAN. I SHOULDN'T BE HERE RIGHT NOW.”

What’s coming up for you next?

Focusing on the company, and there’s a lot of work that has to be done with the foundation. This time has really been a blessing. I can be busy doing stuff that I do love during this time when we're kind of handcuffed [due to the actor’s strike]. So I’ll continue to do those things for now and see. There’s nothing but a wide-open future for me, man. I shouldn't be here right now. [laughs]

I know. We all feel very blessed to be here with you. I'm all about time, so I'm happy to finish this day and then look forward to the next— because I’ve got to go work on these knees more and these ankles and these hips. I might look all right, but there's a lot of stuff.

You’re moving around pretty well!

I’m like the Tinman who needs oil. All these metal parts. That's also a big part of my focus. I'll be going back and doing rehab for the rest of my day today.

Really?

Then the next day.

You do rehab every day?

Doing this interview and this photo shoot has been a little escape from me having to…

Work on your body.

Yes. That's the main focus. Another blessing is that I get this time to focus on my health and recovery.

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

JEREMY RENNER’S PHOTO SHOOT TOOK PLACE AT THE FABULOUS 1 HOTEL IN WEST HOLLYWOOD.

FOR YOUR HUMIDOR

ESSENTIAL CIGARS

FOR THE FALL

As influencers in the cigar and spirits industries these past thirteen years, we’ve had the good fortune of sampling the finest premium blends throughout the world, and we’ve relished sharing them with you. We encourage you to drink what we drink, and smoke what we smoke.

Here are some of our top-reviewed and some revisited cigars over the past year that will add to your autumn enjoyment.

ALEC BRADLEY MAGIC TOAST 5TH ANNIVERSARY

7 x 54 Toro

Wrapper: Honduran, Nicaraguan

Binder: Honduran, Nicaraguan

Filler: Honduran, Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

91

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This elegantly wrapped cigar offers cocoa, wood, and cinnamon flavors, beneath an oily, ultra-dark-brown wrapper leaf. It hits a welcomed medium midday smoking experience.

COHIBA ESPLENDIDOS

7 x 47

Wrapper: Cuban

Binder: Cuban

Filler: Cuban

Strength: Medium/Full

93

CIGAR RATING

Notes: Ethereal smoke when aged, burbling along with understated power and an arched eyebrow of seduction.

CROWNED HEADS MULE KICK

5 7/8 x 52 Toro

Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium/Full

88

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This cigar smokes effortlessly and holds an impressive ash. The cashew, banana and milk chocolate tastes are unique, but it’s just not enough to elevate the cigar to an impressive level.

DIESEL CIGARS

DIESEL VINTAGE

5 x 56 Robusto Gordo

Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés

Binder: Estelí Habano

Filler: Jalapa Habano

Strength: Full

92

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This Diesel Vintage is a rich and stout cigar. It features complex flavors of cocoa, pepper, leather and hazelnut. It has an inviting bold dark ale scent throughout the smoking session. The burn and draw are first rate.

DON REYNALDO 70TH

6 ½ x 48 Belicoso

Wrapper: Dominican (Corojo)

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

89

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This is well-balanced cigar that hits the sweet spot–right down the middle. It offers scents of peppercorn and sticky white rice from the start. The unique tastes of buttered popcorn, cocoa and caramel make for an enjoyable smoking session. The burn was about as even as even can be—a very smooth cigar.

EL SEPTIMO CIGARS NAPOLEON MADURO (ROYAL SALOMON)

9 x 55 Maduro

Wrapper: Maduro

Binder: Undisclosed

Filler: Undisclosed

Strength: Medium

93

Notes: The Napoleon is part of El Septimo’s highly lauded Emperor Collection. This cigar is formidable in size but refined and elegant in the hand. The scents are nutty and fruity throughout. The tastes are subtle with white chocolate, pecan and earth. The ash and burn are sublime.

EMPERORS CUT NATURAL

PLEASURE TORO

6 ½ x 52 Toro

Wrapper: Nicaraguan

Binder: Ecuadorian

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium/Full

91

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This finely crafted artisanal cigar has distinct tasting notes of buttered toast, coffee and caramel throughout the session. It’s a long-lasting smoke meant for a leisurely summer night. This cigar offers a fine draw and was such a pleasant surprise that it will consistently be in the rotation during warmer months ahead.

E.P. CARRILLO CIGARS

SHORT RUN RETRO MADURO 2022

5 x 50 Robusto

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf

Binder: Ecuadorian

Filler: Honduran, Mexican, Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

90

CIGAR RATING

Notes: White pepper mingles with flavors of creamy espresso, almonds, citrus and dried fruits. The draw was uncharacteristically uneven for a Carrillo cigar.

ESPINOSA CIGARS

KNUCKLE SANDWICH MADURO TORO H

6 x 54 Toro

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra Maduro

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium/Full

92

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This Knuckle Sandwich is a handsome and flavorful cigar. The oily wrapper offers a great feel to the hand. The leather, earth, dark chocolate scents and tastes make for a delightful blend.

FERIO TEGO ESPECIALES

6.25 x 38 Lancero

Wrapper: Honduran

Binder: Dominican

Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium/Full

92

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This elegant lancero delivers scents and flavors of earth and wood at the start. The nuttiness makes for a tasty combination when it fuses with citrus, and espresso. The Dominican and Nicaraguan filler offers a pleasant mouth feel. The burn is stellar.

e from Start to Finish

From the finest vineyards of Sonoma County to the fields of the Midwest, farmers provide the Ammunition for creating award-winning wines & whiskeys, but the relationship between these two show-stopping lineups goes far deeper than that.

Ammunition whiskeys are expertly-distilled and aged to perfection in precisely-charred American oak casks. From there, the whiskeys are artfully blended and finished in toasted French oak barrels that once held Ammunition Sonoma County Pinot Noir (Rye) and Cabernet Sauvignon (Bourbon) for a texture, flavor and finish unlike any other.

French Oak Pinot Noir barrels used to finish Rye

French Oak Cabernet barrels used to finish Bourbon

H. UPMANN MAGNUM 54

Robusto Extra 4 ¾ x 54

Wrapper: Cuban

Binder: Cuban

Filler: Cuban

Strength: Mild/Medium

93 CIGAR RATING

Notes: This classic, short and stout cigar is a bit too light through the first puffs so it’s hard to define the flavor profile at the start. Minor complaint. The perfect draw keeps you going as a more delicious and definitive experience ensues. The wonderful nutty characteristics and brown sugar lead into sweet leather and oil. The wrapper is oily, thick and eye-catching. It finishes nicely with some earthy and sweet citrus oomph notes at the finish line.

ILLUSIONE ALLEGRIA LONSDALE

6 ¼ x 44 Lonsdale

Wrapper: Nicaraguan

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

92

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This tasty Illusione is chocolaty with oatmeal raisin notes at the start. The leather and spice flavors pick up about halfway and make for stellar cigar experience. It has a draw to die for.

J.C. NEWMAN CIGAR CO.

CUESTA-REY CENTENARIO NATURAL NO.

6 x 50 Toro

Wrapper: Connecticut U.S.A.

Binder: Dominican

Filler: Dominican

Strength: Medium

60

92

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This 60 is an expertly blended offering creating a creamy and delicious cigar with tastes of orange vanilla. It’s smooth and medium as a classic cigar creation.

J. C. NEWMAN CIGAR CO.

PERLA DEL MAR COROJO

6 x 60 Double Toro

Wrapper: Ecuadorian

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

91

CIGAR RATING

Notes: The cigar offers a potpourri of flavor–earth, wood, hints of dried fruit, and red pepper. The smoke gradually develops in flavor, expanding on the earth notes and closes with the peppery spice and subtle dried fruits and wood.

JRE TOBACCO

ALADINO SUMATRA TORO

6 x 52 Toro

Wrapper: Honduran Sumatra

Binder: Honduran

Filler: Honduran

Strength: Medium

93

CIGAR RATING

Notes: The “new-gen” branding of this Aladino offering features a smoky, sweet maduro with creamy vanilla tastes throughout. The Sumatra-seed tobacco is tasty, timeless and new at the same time. There are myriad pleasant tastes, and impeccable draw informs this expert blend.

LA GLORIA CUBANA SERIE S ROBUSTO GORDO

5 ½ x 56 Double Robusto

Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

92 CIGAR RATING

Notes: Lemony cream with earthy notes lead to a leathery spice finish. It’s a firmly packed cigar, and the draw is even throughout the smoking session. The aromas of leather and citrus are memorable.

LA MIRADA TORO RESERVA HABANO

6 x 52 Toro

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano

Binder: Dominican Corojo

Filler: Piloto Cubano, criollo 98

Strength: Medium

90

CIGAR RATING

Notes: The La Mirada draw loosened up after a minute or two. The cigar offers notes of sweet citrus, peanuts and espresso throughout. The smoke output is distinctly leathery, and the cigar finishes creamy.

LUCIANO MARIA LUCIA

5 ¼ x 54 Robusto

Wrapper: U.S.A. (Connecticut Broadleaf)

Binder: Ecuadorian

Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan, Peruvian

Strength: Medium/Full

86

CIGAR RATING

Notes: There are some evident aromas of pepper, leather and grass. The tastes are comparable. The draw is a struggle, and the cigar fights to stay lit.

MACANUDO

MACANUDO MADURO 2013 VINTAGE

6 x 54 Toro

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf

Binder: Honduran OSA

Filler: Brazilian Mata Fina, Nicaraguan Jalapa, Piloto Cubano Seco, Piloto Cubano Ligero

Strength: Medium/Full

93

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This cigar commemorates the landmark growing season from ten years ago. Notably, the Honduran binder is robust, and the broadleaf wrapper emanates from one of Connecticut's hottest summers on record. This is a stellar cigar with abundant smoke output with scents and tastes of dark chocolate almond, subtle hints of black pepper and fruit.

NOMOS CIGARS

NOMOS LONSDALE

6 x 42 Lonsdale

Wrapper: Cameroon

Binder: Indonesian (Sumatra)

Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

92

CIGAR RATING

Notes: The smooth draw brings in cayenne-spicey tastes, sweet cedar and citrus hints. The oil and leathery undertone are surprisingly sublime. The abundance of smoke, even burn and dark chocolate notes are memorable.

PLATINUM NOVA CIGARS LEO 12

6 ¼ x 56 Toro

Wrapper: Ecuadorian

Binder: Dominican

Filler: Dominican

Strength: Medium

90

Notes: The abundant flavors of graham crackers, brown sugar and cocoa inform this delicious cigar. The drawback was the re-light factor but the palate pleasure more than made up for a bit of inconvenience. Aromatic scents of cedar capped a very pleasant smoking session.

PERDOMO RESERVE

CHAMPAGNE 10TH ANNIVERSARY

5 x 54 Robusto

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

90

Notes: Imparting sweet notes of cream and honey, the Cuban-seed Nicaraguan binder and filler leaves give bold spiciness with oaky undertones for elegant flavors and rich complex aromas, leaving you with a pleasant finish. The consistently effortless Perdomo draw is there as well.

PICHARDO RESERVA FAMILIAR

6 x 52 Connecticut

Wrapper: Ecuadorian

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

91

Notes: This toro is nutty and sweet to the palate. The draw is excellent. It finishes with fig, citrus and just a touch of earth to cap off a smooth smoke.

RAMON ALLONES

NO.2

Wrapper: Cuban

Binder: Cuban

Filler: Cuban

Strength: Medium/Full

Notes: Often overlooked, seldom bettered. The RASS is quite possibly the finest Cuban robusto on the market. Perfect after-dinner cigar.

ROOM101

ROOM101 14TH ANNIVERSARY TORO

6 x 52 Toro

Wrapper: Nicaraguan

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Full

93 CIGAR RATING

Notes: This limited edition Matt Booth offering is wrapped in a chocolatey maduro. The cigar is blended with fine notes of coffee, cacao, wood, earth and balanced with a creamy smoothness. The smoking session surprisingly lasted nearly 90 minutes, and the burn held evenly throughout.

SEGOVIAS DE ESTELÍ HABANO OSCURO ROBUSTO

5 ½ x 52 Robusto

Wrapper: Ecuadorian

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

91

CIGAR RATING

Notes: Wrapped in the Mexican San Andrés leaf, the construction is flawless. It offers creamy notes of leather, coffee, vanilla bean and spice. This refined cigar feels elegant in the hand and features a silky smooth draw.

SERINO CIGAR CO.

WAYFARER

6 ¼ x 50 “The 109”

Wrapper: Ecuadoran Corojo ‘99

Binder: Jalapa Corojo ‘99

Filler: Jalapa Criollo 98 + Corojo ’99, Estelí Criollo

Strength: Medium

92

CIGAR RATING

Notes: The Wayfarer is inviting with its leathery, oily sheen. It’s a handsomely rolled cigar offering a sweet and meaty aroma. There are hints of honey, leather and pecan and finishes with a pleasant peppery backend.

TATUAJE CAPA ESPECIAL COHETE

4 x 50 Short Robusto

Wrapper: Ecuador

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Strength: Medium

92

CIGAR RATING

Notes: There are distinct tastes of nutmeg, cumin and black pepper throughout the first half of the experience. The cigar has a surprisingly sweet cream and leathery tone as you work it through. This Tatuaje features the customary pleasant close and aftertaste on the palate.

UNITED CIGARS

RED ANCHOR THE ADMIRAL

6 x 52 Toro

Wrapper: Ecuadorian

Binder: Dominican Republic

Filler: Dominican Republic

Strength: Medium

90

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This rustic cigar features a strong aroma of cedar and cashews throughout. It has notes of leather, cocoa, black coffee and rich vanilla bean leading into citrus and earthy sweetness at the finish line.

WARPED EAGLES DESCENT TORO ESPECIAL

5 ½ x 52 Parejo

Wrapper: Nicaraguan

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Full

89

CIGAR RATING

Notes: This well-balanced cigar has bold notes of earth, white pepper and cherry pits. There are nuanced hints of brown sugar and coffee bean as you close out the smoking session. The draw was slightly tight at times.

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In 2022, Lightstone debuted Moxy Lower East Side, a new 303room eclectic and stylish pleasure garden in the city’s most electrifying neighborhood. Inspired by the Lower East Side’s history as a crossroads of entertainment and culture, and its present-day role as an incubator of innovation, the hotel entices with endless amusements enlivened with the spirit of the absurd, among them, Sake No Hana, a modern Japanese restaurant; Silver Lining, a piano lounge; The Highlight Room, a rooftop bar; The Fix, an all-day café and aby Tao Group Hospitality. With interiors by Michaelis Boyd and Rockwell Group and architecture by Stonehill Taylor, the hotel’s design feeds the curiosity and dazzles the eye, layering references to the Lower East Side’s eclectic social history with the vibrancy of today. Cleverly designed rooms, tech-savvy amenities, co-working spaces, and flexible meeting studios meet the needs of the pluggedin modern traveler, all at an affordable price.

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ESSENTIAL SELECTIONS FROM

ACROSS THE SPIRITS UNIVERSE

TEQUILA CENOTE TEQUILA CRISTALINO

MSRP: $69.99 | ABV: 40%

Notes: The award-winning Cenote Cristalino is a 100% blue agave crystal clear Añejo tequila that’s matured for 12 months and smoothed by a proprietary cellulose filtration. Tasting notes are sweet vanilla, fresh herbs, and dark chocolate with a hint of cinnamon. The aromas of bitter orange peel, cinnamon, violet, and chocolate pot de creme are evident throughout. It offers a dry-yet-fruity light-to-medium body and a peppery, layered, medium-long ginger, butterscotch, and cream finish.

EL MAYOR TEQUILA LIMITED-EDITION EXTRA AÑEJO BOURBON BARREL AGED

MSRP: $129.99 | ABV: 40%

Notes: This El Mayor is aged for 39 months in American oak bourbon barrels and distilled from Blue Weber agave from the valley area of Jalisco, Mexico, creating clean, floral and spicy undertones. The full agave flavor has hints of floral and pepper. The finish is clean with a wave of dry heat and just a hint of pepper. It’s recommended to pair a glass of this formidable tequila with ceviche or sushi.

MANDALA TEQUILA REPOSADO

MSRP: $99.99 | ABV: 40%

Notes: The Mandala is smooth, soft and features a substantive presence of oak notes and cooked agave. It’s a stellar blend for both new and seasoned tequila reposado enthusiasts.

TEARS OF LLORONA EXTRA ANEJO TEQUILA

MSRP: $269.99 I 43%

Notes: The agave offers seriously spicy aromas. The flavor profile features caramel, oak and cinnamon. This perfectly executed tequila blend suits experienced palates as easily as those new to upscale tequila.

TEQUILA KOMOS AÑEJO RESERVA

MSRP: $154.99 | ABV: 40%

Notes: This Komos expression is hand-harvested from both the highlands and lowlands of the Tequila Valley in Jalisco. The piñas are roasted in traditional stone ovens, and the aguamiel is naturally fermented and twice distilled in copper pot stills. By masterfully blending the Añejo Reserva and aging it in French oak wine barrels, bourbon barrels, and sherry casks, the liquid takes on the rich chocolate and fruit flavors from the sherry casks. Coffee and caramel toffee notes are lifted by bright, citrus zest. A soft and full bodied flavor, with hints of hazelnut and dried apricots, finished off with a lasting, allspice, white pepper and luxurious amber notes.

TEQUILA OCHO PLATA

MSRP: $46.49 I ABV: 40%

Notes: Very ripe agaves and candied fruit are prominent on the nose, which is sweet and flowery. On the palate, there are flavors of citrus, cinnamon, dried fruit, almond, and a lingering trace of spearmint.

RUM

APPLETON ESTATE 15 YEAR BLACK RIVER CASKS RUM

MSRP: $60.99 I ABV: 43%

Notes: This flavorful, full-bodied rum has undertones of molasses, creamy vanilla, powerful orange peel, and delicate hazelnut in addition to toasted almond and hazelnut scents.

EQUIANO AFRICAN CARIBBEAN RUM

MSRP: $46.99 I ABV: 43%

Notes: With roasted apple and pear at the forefront, the aroma is nutty and softly confected. The strong alcohol level, which is deceptively high, balances the palate's subtle taste of brown sugar.

INDIA'S PICCADILLY DISTILLERIES CAMIKARA RUM

MSRP: $90.00| ABV: 50.0%

Notes: As Camikara is a pure Indian Cane Juice Rum, there is no addition of color, flavor, sugar, or spice making this a delicious sipping rum best enjoyed neat. On the nose, there is a bouquet of aromas: honey, ginger, toffee, raisin, prunes and leather. The first sip brings a merge of honey, vanilla, and bitter chocolate. Further savoring reveals ripe bananas, orange peels, dark chocolate and charred wood.

HAVANA CLUB TRIBUTO 2020

MSRP: $456 | ABV: 40%

Notes: This rum marks the 5th anniversary of the Tributo Collection with a limited release of 2,500 bottles globally. It features a cherry amber color, with dried fruits, sweet caramel and bitter chocolate. There are notes of poached pears with hints of old leather, spices and smooth old cigar aroma. The finish reveals tastes of chocolate and vanilla that showcase the rum’s natural aging.

HAMPDEN ESTATE OVERPROOF RUM

MSRP: $83.99 I ABV: 60%

Notes: Natural fermentation, a variety of huge pot stills and carefully chosen ex-bourbon casks are used by Hampden to produce a distinctive and powerful flavor profile. The frequent notes of banana and tropical fruits are nuanced, not overly sweet—an accessible and excellent summer rum.

TWO JAMES DOCTOR BIRD PINEAPPLE RUM

MSRP: $36.99 I ABV: 57%

Notes: The epitome of a summer rum. Two James melds potent flavors of butterscotch, coconut, pineapple, mango and passionfruit.

WHISKY JACOB'S PARDON WHISKEY SMALL BATCH RECIPE #3

MSRP: $195.00| ABV: 71.25%

Notes: Bottled from 211 uncharred new barrels, the whiskey has been aged 18 years. The wood rounds off the edges, allowing the attributes of the corn to shine through over time. The resulting flavor profile consists of caramel corn, black cherry, prune Danish, loads of baking spices such as nutmeg, clove, cinnamon and vanilla bean, pipe tobacco fragrance and more.

OUTSIDERS SPIRITS WHISKEY, JYPSI

MSRP: $199.99 | ABV: 57.5%

Notes: Crafted with meticulous care, this limited edition release is smooth and complex. Legacy Batch 001 represents a stellar blend of three finely aged whiskeys, each contributing its own unique character to the final creation. From the first sip, you'll be drawn in by the silky smoothness across your palate, leaving behind a trail of rich and tinged flavors. The depth and complexity are apparent in its complex layers of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, with hints of dried fruits and warm spices that linger after each sip.

SANTA FE SPIRITS COLKEGAN UNSMOKED SINGLE MALT WHISKEY NATIONWIDE

MSRP: $69.99 | ABV: 46%

Notes: This expression is made from mesquite smoked malted barley, rather than peat, to create a wonderfully complex flavor profile. It features a smooth, mellow, furtively balanced hint of smoky complexity. Light, fruity, grainy and filled with orchard fruits, with green apples, pears and dry white wine are the predominant notes on the nose. This results in a sweeter profile delivering a butterscotch aroma. The palate delivers a rich viscosity and a balanced array of flavors. The orchard fruits continue here with more apples and pears and even very ripe peaches, as well as basil, leather, cereal grains and a faint tangerine note. The finish is short to medium in length and grainy and sweet in flavor.

WATERFORD WHISKY

MSRP: $104.99 | ABV: 50%

Notes: Using the world's finest barley, the Single Farm Origin series is an uber-provenance range of limited edition natural whiskies that explore terroir. Singularly focused on highlighting the concept of terroir in Irish whiskey, creating some interesting expressions along the way, this whiskey is all about the barley and its effects on flavor, specifically a resurrected variety that hasn’t been used in whiskey production since the 1970s. Aromas of toffee, fudge, green apple, apricot jam, citrus zest, worn leather, barnyard notes, dark chocolate and malted biscuits. Dried spices with oiliness that wraps around your tongue; and lemon sherbet are prevalent, which is topped off with a dry, gentle spice that lasts.

BOURBON

BROWNE FAMILY SPIRITS

STRAIGHT BOURBON

MSRP: $44.99| ABV: 45.0%

Notes: A glass of this bourbon from Browne Family gives deep aromas resembling campfire, older oak, and leather with a lingering sweetness on the back of the nose. You will taste an earthy, natural sweetness with light tannins that’s finished with a smooth and slight char.

FOUR ROSES SMALL BATCH

SELECT BOURBON, KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

MSRP: $59.99 | ABV: 54%

Notes: Four Roses Small Batch Select Bourbon has aromas of sweet vanilla, cinnamon and oak bark. Layered on top of those aromas is a sweet array of fruit cobbler, caramel and spice. With a pleasant amount of depth, it brings forward a nice combination of sweet and fruity scents. It offers the palate layers of heavy summer fruits blended with a bold peppery combination accompanied by oak and vanilla. The spice that’s carried through from the beginning tapers off and melds with the leather, drier oak, and sweet vanilla, lingering for a medium finish.

FOUR ROSES SINGLE BARREL

KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON

MSRP: $49.99 | ABV: 50%

Notes: This Four Roses is a high-rye bourbon made up of the OBSV recipe and hand selected by Master Distiller, one barrel at a time, based on maturation and taste. Hints of dried spice, pear, vanilla and maple syrup, provide an aromatic scent. Tastes of ripe plum and cherries, with a robust, full body and mellow flavor, topped off by a smooth and delicately long finish.

MAKER'S MARK WOOD FINISHING SERIES 2023 BEP BOURBON

MSRP: $149.99 I ABV: 55.35%

Notes: This elite Maker’s Mark expression features a bright and zesty vanilla nose, distinct berry and brown sugar on the palate, and closes with cinnamon raisin sweetness. The satisfying finish is as long as long can be.

MILAM & GREENE VERY SMALL BATCH STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

MSRP: $69.99 | ABV: 54.0%

Notes: A spray of bakery aromas and toasted pecans unlocks the nose to the dark fruits that emerge in the background, followed by a small herbal note adding depth. Hints of marshmallow and orange blossom add a layer of complexity as the scents come forward with a mild intensity and are more dry than sweet overall. The whiskey evolves with an opening of baking spices, full-bodied tobacco and leather. Graham cracker and tart raspberry jam come in, delivering a terse fruitiness that adds a delicious contrast to the otherwise savory, slightly dry mix. An earthy undertone, which grounds the whiskey to a satisfying result and finished with strong baking spices, mix of leather lingering in a dry, savory long taste.

SCAN FOR SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

RYE

BROWNE FAMILY SPIRITS STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY

MSRP: $44.99| ABV: 45.0%

Notes: Browne Family Straight Bourbon Rye Whiskey features flavors of sweet tea with lemon and honey mixed with aromatic florals and light vanillin. The morsels of earthy rye are not overly spicy on the tongue finished off by a pleasant soft spice.

IRISH

CLONAKILTY DISTILLERY 7-YEAR-OLD IRISH SINGLE MALT WHISKEY

MSRP: $69.99 | ABV: 58%

Notes: Distilled in single-pot stills, the Irish distillery has joined forces with Texas-based Garrison Brothers Distillery to produce a 7-year-old Irish Single Malt. This Irish whiskey was initially matured in ex-bourbon barrels prior to being finished for seven months in Garrison Balmorhea barrels and bottled. It contains aromas of sea salt, vanilla and fresh cut lumber, followed by banana nut, plums, spices and cherry on the palate for a long finish of wood, spice and vanilla.

SCOTCH

GLENMORANGIE NEW CADBOLL ESTATE 15-YEAR-OLD SCOTCH WHISKY

MSRP: $90.00| ABV: 43.0%

Notes: This new batch from Cadboll Estates brings a nutty and spicy twist to the single estate series’ beloved flavor–rich and creamy–with a small portion finished in Amontillado casks. The result is a wonderfully integrated whisky that weaves together hints of toffee, clove, and hazelnut with honeysuckle, peaches and cream.

LAPHROAIG 10 SCOTCH

MSRP: $45.99 | ABV: 43%

Notes: The Laphroaig 10 works for those seeking a strongly peated whisky. It has all the smoky aggression contained within the bottle. It’s non-chill filtered, uncolored, and barrel-aged in bourbon casks.

TALISKER 10 YEAR SCOTCH

MSRP: $69.99 I ABV: 45.8%

Notes: This Talisker is rich in malty flavors, clouds of smoke and dried fruit. There’s a large, drawn-out, peppery finish with a delicious sweetness.

GIN

BROKER'S LONDON DRY GIN

MSRP: $22.99 I ABV: 47%

Notes: Broker’s has expertly crafted the right amount of spicy juniper, sweet ripe fruit and fresh botanicals. It features a warm peppery fade at the end.

BROWNE FAMILY SPIRITS GIGI'S GARDEN LAVENDER GIN

MSRP: $45.00 | ABV: 45.0%

Notes: Gigi’s Garden Lavender Gin is crafted with Pacific Northwest botanicals to add gentle lavender and light juniper notes. Sweet floral notes with lavender, chamomile, rose petal and juniper are prevalent throughout. A light juniper flavor, with lavender and citrus notes of lemon zest and lemongrass envelop the palate. It’s topped off with light and balanced characteristics of citrus and floral.

HIGHCLERE CASTLE GIN

LIMITED EDITION BARREL AGED GIN

MSRP: $99.00 I ABV: 45% 90 Proof

Notes: This limited edition is made with botanicals grown on Highclere Castle’s estate and barrel aged in French Armagnac casks, Scotch, and American whiskey barrels with notes of honey, smoke, and citrus. The gin embodies the spirit of Ancient Egypt and Lord Carnarvon’s greatest adventure

MONKEY 47 GIN

MSRP: $39.99 I ABV: 47%

Notes: Regional botanicals like lingonberries combined with pure spring water make for a light and tasty gin. On the nose, juniper is prevalent, and strong herbal notes emerge. The conclusion of Monkey 47 takes a delicious and fruity turn.

PINK MARMALADE GIN

MSRP: $169.99 I ABV: 42%

Notes: Traditional distillation methods are combined with cutting-edge, intriguing flavors to create this blend. It’s a dry and zesty gin produced by combining 13 carefully chosen botanicals with "Butterfly Pea" flower.

TANQUERAY 10 GIN

MSRP: $29.99 I ABV: 47.3%

Notes: The aromas of coriander and citrus zest fill the nostrils delicately at first, until the juniper emerges. The juniper keeps expanding and brings crisp aromas that gin enthusiasts seek out.

007 AT 70 THE MEN BEHIND JAMES BOND

by Elisa Jordan

t’s tough to imagine a man with verve, sophistication and panache like James Bond as a birthday boy, but that’s exactly what he is. In terms of his longevity, he has accomplished something few fictional characters have achieved. In 2023, James Bond as a literary figure turns 70. His movie counterpart turned 60 in 2022.

James Bond shows no sign of slowing down or going anywhere anytime soon. As current Bond actor Daniel Craig prepares to hang up his gun, fans and critics are already guessing who will next take over the role. The James Bond tradition is a long and storied one, and as a character he has managed the rare duality of maintaining his core appeal while also evolving over generations. Bond movies are set in present day, affording them the opportunity to change and update with the times. Not all characters are as versatile, but creator Ian Fleming’s creation is rooted in espionage, a timeless subject that only grows more relevant as technology and weapons becomes increasingly sophisticated.

Starting with the release of Dr. No in 1962, every James Bond movie has been produced by EON Productions, founded in the early 1960s by Albert “Cubby” Broccoli and Harry Saltzman. Upon incorporating their new company, the business partners purchased the rights to Ian Fleming’s popular spy novel series, James Bond.

Once a deal was signed with James Bond author Ian Fleming, the search for the perfect actor to embody 007 began, and it was no easy task. Playing Bond would require an actor capable of making the audience believe Bond was many men in one: violent, sophisticated, unflappable, athletic and seductive. Many actors had some of these qualities, but a very precious few had them all.

It’s as good a time as any in pop culture history to take a look at The Men of James Bond.

SEAN CONNERY

When Dr. No went into pre-production, producers discussed a number of actors, including Richard Burton, George Baker, Patrick Allen, Michael Redgrave, Trevor Howard and Richard Johnson. Cary Grant was seriously considered, but he was already in his mid-60s and not interested in committing to multiple movies.

Finally, someone brought up the name Sean Connery. He was not an obvious choice. Connery was physically fit enough to play 007, but the producers did not believe he had enough of the raw sexuality the character required. Ian Fleming had similar doubts and dismissed Connery as “not what I envisioned.” He suggested a young actor named Roger Moore instead. Things changed when Cubby Broccoli listened to someone much better qualified to assess a man’s sex appeal: his wife. When she saw him, Dana Broccoli exclaimed, “He’s fabulous!” (It is said Fleming’s girlfriend, Blanche Blackwell, also assured him that Connery was indeed sexy.)

With the question of who would play James Bond settled, production on Dr. No moved forward. Director Terence Young was the ideal choice to help craft the first Bond movie. Young was a former combat veteran who had experienced genuine danger in the field. He also dressed in fine clothes, enjoyed good food and

CONNERY STRUCK JUST THE RIGHT BALANCE OF ELEGANCE, INTELLIGENCE AND ANTI-HERO. THE ADDITION OF HUMOR PREVENTED THE MOVIE FROM BECOMING OVERLY MACHISMO, BUT THERE WAS STILL ENOUGH RUGGED MASCULINITY TO CONVINCE AUDIENCES THAT BOND WAS CAPABLE OF BOTH VIOLENCE AND SEDUCTION.

drinks, and loved women. He mentored the younger Connery and even coached the actor when it came to how to hold cigarettes, dry humor, conversation—no detail was too small. Under Young’s guidance, Connery struck just the right balance of elegance, intelligence and anti-hero. The addition of humor prevented the movie from becoming overly machismo, but there was still enough rugged masculinity to convince audiences that Bond was capable of both violence and seduction. Years after their collaboration, Sean Connery gave Terence Young credit for helping bring the Bond character to life. In turn, Terence Young gave Sean Connery credit for making the James Bond series the success it became.

James Bond became a pop culture sensation, but after a few movies Sean Connery was tiring of the role and feared he would become typecast. His instinct to back away from the character that made him famous was correct. He went on to a successful career that spanned decades until retiring from acting in 2012. But he is never far from his legacy.

For a great number of fans, he is still the embodiment of James Bond and the gold standard by which all others are measured.

GEORGE LAZENBY

When Sean Connery decided not return after You Only Live Twice, EON Productions was placed in the unenviable position of trying to recast a role now closely associated with Sean Connery.

Producers took a risk, and decided on a relatively unknown Australian model named George Lazenby, who had no acting experience in movies or television. As Terence Young had once done with Sean Connery, director Peter Hunt believed he could mold Lazenby into the perfect 007.

Efforts were made to make the Conneryto-Lazenby transition as smooth as possible for the audience. For On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, many familiar elements returned: the martini, the same cigarette case seen in Dr. No, the acerbic relationship with M, flirting with Miss Moneypenny. There are also references alluding to earlier plots, signaling this is the same character.

Lazenby’s time as Bond was difficult. He accused the producers of not showing him enough respect; in turn, producers complained of his arrogance. Despite Lazenby’s inexperience and difficulties on the on the set, EON Productions offered him a seven-movie contract. Lazenby’s agent was convinced James Bond’s popularity would never last into the 1970s and advised his client to turn the contract down. Lazenby took the advice and announced his departure from the series before On Her Majesty’s Secret Service had been released.

LAZENBY’S TIME AS BOND WAS DIFFICULT. HE ACCUSED THE PRODUCERS OF NOT SHOWING HIM ENOUGH RESPECT; IN TURN, PRODUCERS COMPLAINED OF HIS ARROGANCE.

ROGER MOORE

The name Roger Moore was no stranger to the producers of James Bond. His name had first been mentioned as far back as the casting process for Dr. No, but his busy television schedule prevented him from becoming a candidate. Unlike a decade before, the timing was now right for Moore to become 007. When Live and Let Die hit theaters in 1973, it came complete with a rocking new theme song from Paul McCartney to usher in a new era.

During Moore’s tenure as 007, the character evolved considerably. Scriptwriters tailored dialogue to incorporate Moore’s natural wit.

MOORE’S BOND WAS A MORE AMPLIFIED VERSION OF THE CHARACTER, WITH HIS LIFESTYLE BECOMING MORE LUXURIOUS, THE STUNTS INCREASINGLY OUTRAGEOUS AND THE CIGARETTES GIVING WAY TO CIGARS.

Moore’s Bond was a more amplified version of the character, with his lifestyle becoming more luxurious, the stunts increasingly outrageous and the cigarettes giving way to cigars.

Moore retired from Bond after A View to a Kill in 1985. He was 58 and it was time for a new, younger actor. Moore has left a considerable stamp on the James Bond franchise. For many movies fans, it is Moore’s wisecracking, elegant Bond that remains a favorite era.

TIMOTHY DALTON

Like Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton had once been considered for the James Bond role years before finally winning it. After Sean Connery’s first departure in 1968, theater actor Dalton’s name was put forth as a possibility. At just 24 years of age, Dalton believed himself too young and did not want to follow Sean Connery.

In 1985, Moore retired from his successful run as Bond. No longer 24 and a more seasoned actor, Dalton was finally ready to portray the famous spy.

Timothy Dalton’s vision for James Bond was a darker interpretation more akin Ian Fleming’s books.

With Dalton in the lead, Bond was a flawed man on the verge of burnout. Audiences had trouble adjusting to the grittier characterization and realistic violence.

To make the situation even more challenging, after License to Kill in 1989, legal issues prevented the production of new movies. MGM was sold in 1990, and there was a dispute over television rights. Preproduction on another film wasn’t ready to begin until 1993, but by this time Dalton was ready to move on.

THE

MAN BEHIND

THE MEN OF JAMES BOND

CREATION

Author Ian Fleming was one of four brothers born into a wealthy, well-connected family in the United Kingdom. Ian’s talents were in athletics and charming others, skills he utilized for the rest of his life. He also served in World War II; was gifted at languages; had worked for Reuters news service, where he traveled and honed the craft of writing; and he enjoyed a good drink and a smoke. In other words, Fleming evolved into a man with abilities and tastes not unlike the fictional James Bond, although some exaggeration may have been involved.

Most likely, Fleming took inspiration from several people he knew to create the ultimate spy. When the first Bond novel, Casino Royale, appeared in hardcover on bookshelves in 1953, the original print run was just short of 5,000 and quickly sold out.

THE 1960s SPY CRAZE

As the 1960s dawned, the world of entertainment was primed for the thrilling world of espionage. As the very real Cold War created tension between world powers, average citizens following the news were able to ease their discomfort and satisfy curiosity by indulging in the secret universe of international spies.

In the United States, President John F. Kennedy further fueled interest in the genre when he listed From Russia with Love as one of his 10 favorite books in the March 17, 1961, issue of Life.

continued on page 94...

WITH DALTON IN THE LEAD, BOND WAS A FLAWED MAN ON THE VERGE OF BURNOUT. AUDIENCES HAD TROUBLE ADJUSTING TO THE GRITTIER CHARACTERIZATION AND REALISTIC VIOLENCE.

Photo credit Everett Collection/Alamy.com.

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PIERCE BROSNAN

Like Moore and Dalton, Brosnan had once been considered to play Bond nearly a decade earlier. Brosnan’s TV detective show Remington Steele was ending, which would free up his schedule. The excitement over his portrayal of Bond backfired, however. The producers of Remington Steele decided that the publicity surrounding Brosnan would benefit their own agenda. Instead of canceling Remington Steele as planned, they ordered another season, effectively ending Brosnan’s

opportunity to play Bond before he could even start. That changed in 1994. The chance to play Bond had circled back around and now it was Brosnan’s turn.

Gone was Timothy Dalton’s realism. Although every Bond movie requires suspension of disbelief, the Brosnan era was especially fantastical, and reintroduced humor and lavish adventure.

continued from page 92...

As he navigated the Cuban Missile Crisis and relations with the Soviet Union, President Kennedy sent a subliminal message to his public when he called attention to the Bond novel. Like Bond, Kennedy was a glamorous, sophisticated war hero capable of serving his country at the highest level. Surely the nation would draw parallels between the two, and infer Kennedy was a man who could be trusted with his country’s safety.

The interest in espionage and President Kennedy’s recommendation of From Russia with Love coincided perfectly with the release of the first Bond movie, Dr. No, in 1962. It was a time when the film industry was also changing—the factory-style of churning out movies under the studio system was nearly dead, production codes were loosening up, and tastes in entertainment were evolving. Dr. No, starring Sean Connery as James Bond, was a blockbuster-style movie before there was such a thing.

Fueled in large part by the popularity of James Bond movies, the spy genre further boomed on television both in the United Kingdom and United States.

STAYING POWER

From early on, elements closely associated with James Bond movies presented themselves as lasting and crucial characteristics of the franchise—exotic travel, gadgets, luxury cars, beautiful women, theatrical villains and exciting action sequences. His colleagues at the elite M16 intelligence service have also become regular components of the films.

Bond himself has also come to represent an ideal or fantasy on whom viewers can project themselves. These expectations remain intact, and yet the films continue to progress as times change.

Since Dr. No, the Bond movies have spanned decades, generations and actor portrayals of the spy. Bond is more than just a series of books or a movie franchise; James Bond and his world have grown from an icon of literature and cinema into a bona fide academic canon, complete with critical studies of genre, gender, race, power, violence, politics and sexuality.

The impact of James Bond is difficult to exaggerate. In 2018, a survey revealed that 27 percent of Americans had watched the entire James Bond series. Another 47 percent said they had watched at least some of the films.

Ian Fleming died at the age of 56 in 1964 after years of adventures, tough living and drinking. At the time of his death, his books were in the early stages of becoming a cinematic phenomenon. Despite his success, there was one fan he was never quite able to win over—his mother, Evelyn. She died just a couple of weeks before Ian. His life-long nickname for her...was M.

EVERY BOND MOVIE REQUIRES SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF, THE BROSNAN ERA WAS ESPECIALLY FANTASTICAL, AND REINTRODUCED HUMOR AND LAVISH ADVENTURE.

INSTEAD OF SHOWING THE SPY FULLY FORMED, THIS JAMES BOND WOULD STILL BE IN THE PROCESS OF FIGURING HIMSELF OUT. HE DRESSES IN THE STORIED TUXEDO FOR THE FIRST TIME AND DISCOVERS HIS TASTE FOR A MARTINI THAT WAS SHAKEN, NOT STIRRED. HE MAKES MISTAKES AS HE LEARNS.

DANIEL CRAIG

After Pierce Brosnan retired from portraying James Bond, it provided an opportunity for the franchise to change direction. The new Bond would be grittier and harder edged. Years before, audiences had not been ready for Timothy Dalton’s more realistic portrayal, but preferences had changed and the time was now right.

It was also an opportunity to completely reboot the series—instead of showing the spy fully formed, this James Bond would still be in the process of figuring himself out. He dresses in the storied tuxedo for the first time and discovers his taste for a martini that was shaken, not stirred. He makes mistakes as he learns. The gun barrel sequence does not appear at the beginning of the movie, but at the end—this James Bond has to earn it.

As soon as they decided to reboot the series, producers wanted Daniel Craig to play the new version of Bond. Craig himself was not interested and wanted no part of the movies Austin Powers so effectively mocked. It wasn’t until producers

showed Craig the script and assured him of the new, darker direction that he finally agreed to accept the part.

The emphasis on Craig’s physicality was a distinct pivot from the Bonds before him. “Instead of being the lover and being defined by his libido, he’s actually defined by his ability to endure pain,” says Funnell. “He is the most beaten and bruised Bond in history. There’s a lot of emphasis on cuts on his face. You can see a lot of wounds on his chest. His chest is metonymic of all the stress and the struggles that he goes through, that his body is a living archive of trauma. You’re supposed to read that this is a body that has suffered.”

When Craig’s first Bond movie, Casino Royale, was released in 2006, many fans remained skeptical of the new trajectory, but other fans eagerly embraced the new 007. Daniel Craig’s current status as Bond is coming to an end, but he has been credited for breathing life back into James Bond.

Elisa Jordan is a freelance writer in Los Angeles. She wrote about James Bond in the May/June 2017 issue of Cigar & Spirits and interviewed Pierce Brosnan in the January/February 2021 issue. Her forthcoming book is Hello, Norma Jeane: The Marilyn Monroe You Didn’t Know.

Behind the Leaf

LA AURORA: 120 YEARS STRONG GUILLERMO LEÓN HERBERT

by Randy Mastronicola

THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC shares its tropical beaches, gorgeous valleys, mountains that peak majestically skyward and farmlands with the world. The tobacco fields of the Dominican Republic have given birth to some of the world’s most revered cigars in the history of cigar making.

Established in 1903, La Aurora is the country’s original and oldest cigar manufacturer. Their pristine factory, lush tobacco fields, meticulous tobacco barn and aging rooms are representative of the company’s commitment to maintaining its standard as a leader in the premium cigar world. We are fortunate that La Aurora continues to thrive in the cigar culture and share their iconic cigars with the rest of the world. La Aurora gives back. The company contributes to the employment of the area, and many of its employees have been with the brand for decades.

La Aurora is currently stewarded by President Guillermo León Herbert. He’s the fifth generation of León family in the tobacco world. Recently, we had the chance to chat with Guillermo, and congratulate him on the company’s 120th year of sharing their artistry with the world.

>> The Guillermo León Herbert family standing proud as La Aurora received the “Best Large Booth Award” at the PCA Convention in 2023.

Cigar & Spirits Magazine: Congratulations on your big year. Guillermo León Herbert: Well, thank you so much.

Let’s talk about how La Aurora’s legacy informs your goals with the brand today.

Integrity, authenticity, honesty and passion for excellence have been principles in our family creed. These values have been kept throughout the history of our factory and brand. Since its beginnings, La Aurora's legacy has been to make cigars of the best quality and the passion for excellence. This focus has maintained on our trajectory, making us a reference for world-class quality in our industry.

What does La Aurora’s 120th anniversary personally represent to you?

For me, it means commitment in the broad sense of the word. On the one hand, it is a commitment to perpetuate my family's values from generation to generation; the

same ones have been present in every step and decision taken by my father, uncles, and grandfather. Also, it’s a commitment to our consumers, which have consistently supported us and believed in our brand, to continue making the best cigars in the world. A responsibility that weighs on my shoulders but that fills me with inspiration every day to continue writing our history.

What might resonate with La Aurora brand fans about the anniversary?

We think the most special way to celebrate La Aurora’s 120 Anniversary is to transform those 12 decades of history into an exceptional cigar. We invite our fans to celebrate our anniversary by smoking this Dominican Puro Cigar as well as getting to know more details behind each cigar within our portfolio as we work to expand distribution in the United States Market.

Photos courtesy of La Aurora

>> Eduardo León Jimenes, founder of La Aurora. (Circa 1910)

>> Current President of La Aurora, Guillermo León Herbert.

What are the special aspects regarding the blend of the 120th Anniversary cigar that make it notable?

The composition of this Puro is unique. La Aurora 120 Anniversary is a medium-to-full-body complex cigar that provides a memorable smoke. It is a cigar of Dominican tobacco, a harvest of our family. We have chosen the best of our own tobaccos to share with the world on this special anniversary.

Tell us what continues to inspire you to create some of the finest cigars in the world.

I’m inspired by following my grandfather, father and uncle’s legacy and dream. However, I’m also motivated by our consumers, who are increasingly demanding and have new ways of appreciating a smoke. Knowing the different types of consumers and knowing how to create products that satisfy such varied palates is a challenge that inspires me every day.

How rewarding is it for you that La Aurora is recognized as one of the world’s most iconic cigar brands?

It’s an honor for us to see my family's dream come true and to appreciate the time and sacrifice it’s taken to keep us together over time. La Aurora has been part of my entire life, and it fills me with pride to be able to represent what we’ve achieved as a family and the innovation we have brought to the cigar industry.

La Aurora’s history is well-known to our audience. Please share something unique or under-the-radar about the brand. There are some things I would like to point out about us. The first one is that our family has a museum, The Centro León.

Not only about our family legacy, but it’s also one of the most important cultural centers in the Caribbean, with artworks and projects that transcend internationally. Also, others may not know that differently from most cigar factories, we prefer to grow our own tobacco. We initiate a plan to plant the seeds we want to obtain the perfect leaves and follow all the processes that allow us to reach our highquality standard. The variety we mostly plant is Corojo because it has the highest consumption locally. We are making sure to provide the finest finished product, which has opened the doors to collaborate with partners to bring other brands to market, such as Kafie and Fratello. The process of collaboration to create a brand outside of La Aurora is always exciting because it is a way to help others bring their dreams to life through the world of tobacco.

What should we be on the lookout for the rest of 2023 and beyond?

2023 has been a year of reinvention, of celebrating the rebirth of La Aurora, but the best is yet to come. In April we established La Aurora USA, to provide a closer and more personalized experience to our consumers in the market. We’re very excited about all the new things on the way. We invite everyone to be attentive to all our channels to be part of our 120 Anniversary festivities: but above all, of the New Dawn of La Aurora.

“MY GOAL IS NOT TO BE THE BEST, BUT TO FOCUS ON DOING EVERYTHING WELL, DAY BY DAY.”

Randy Mastronicola is the Editor & Publisher of Cigar & Spirits Magazine.

>> Legendary Master Blender Manuel Inoa continues to create some of the world’s finest cigars for La Aurora.

>> The Original La Aurora Factory located in Independencia Street, Santiago, Dominican Republic. (Circa 1930)z

THE HOMETOWN EDGE

FOUR SEASONS WASHINGTON, D.C., HOTEL

IF YOU’VE SPENT any length of time in Washington, D.C., you’ll notice that the city’s burgeoning dining and hospitality scenes have transformed the nation's capital into a destination spot.

The legendary Georgetown Four Seasons hotel’s aesthetic is warm, inviting and the staff makes a genuine effort to create a home away from home experience for guests. The goal is full immersion in relaxation and comfort. The hotel is a gathering spot for locals who want a “staycation” and global visitors alike.

The rooms are stylish and comfortable. The highly desired Capital Suite offers a space larger than most urban studio apartments. Diptyque Spa products and luxury linens all elevate the experience and leave one hoping to achieve a similar level of comfort at home.

The food at the hotel restaurant is artisanal and provides guests with myriad options. The hotel houses one of the most exclusive dining destinations in the city: Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak. This highly decorated restaurant, beloved by celebrities and politicians, continues to attract the hottest crowds in town.

It’s recommended you visit Engidawork Alebachew at the restaurant’s bar. “Engi” is the maestro at the bar, and his newest creation is the “Yo, You Got Beef?” cocktail. It’s an homage to the famous wagyu beef steaks served in the restaurant.

The popular Wagyu & Whiskey tasting trio offered at the restaurant began as a seasonal promotion that coincided with the area’s popular Cherry Blossom Festival. Its success led to its inclusion in the regular menu at Bourbon Steak. Chef Curtis prepares an umami of flavor with a trio of melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef dishes. Three types of beef, presented with their certificate of origin, take diners on a culinary discovery tour. A trio of Japanese whiskies are the perfect complement. The restaurant’s expansive courtyard patio makes it a coveted destination for cigar lovers. Engi curates the cigar and whisky pairings from Bourbon Steak’s extensive section of fine whiskeys. The cigar menu selection is sophisticated and includes elite brands and limited release offerings. On most evenings expect the patio at Bourbon Steak to be the hottest after dinner spot in the city.

Should your travels take you to Washington, D.C., the Four Seasons Georgetown simply delivers the highest level of luxury from check-in to check-out.

-Van Hugh

ICONIC BRAND SPOTLIGHT ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE PAST TO PRESENT, FOUR ROSES HAS LOVE IN ITS STORY

by Elisa Jordan

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.”

Since 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 top-selling 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.

“FOUR ROSES HAS EMBARKED ON A JOURNEY VERY FEW SPIRITS HAVE EXPERIENCED.”

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

>> Master Distiller Brent Elliott

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.

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

>> Vintage bourbon at its finest.

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. “Non-chill 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.

“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.

Photos courtesy of Four Roses.

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

THE WEST COAST TASTING EVENT

Cigar & Spirits Magazine Presents the Ultimate Lifestyle Affair

by Bella Jurdi

photography by Kevin Guerrero and Eddie Martinez

ON JUNE 10TH, 2023, Cigar & Spirits Magazine set the stage for a remarkable event in the heart of Newport Beach, CA.

Amidst the vibrant ambiance of the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina, the 12th Annual West Coast Tasting Event unfolded in all its glory. The scene was set to showcase premium lifestyle products, promising an unforgettable experience for enthusiasts of cigars, spirits, wines, beer, and culinary delights from Orange County's top restaurants.

As the day unfolded, guests were treated to excellent food, exquisite drinks, and the art of indulging in fine smoke. The event was brought to life with live music that filled the air with captivating sounds, thanks to the amazing performance by the Strange Hotels. The VIP lounge was located on the sandy shores, offering a breathtaking view

of the water that only added to the event's overall experience. Attendees were treated with elegant furnishings that provided the perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment.

The exclusive bar was the heart of the lounge, serving up mixed cocktails crafted with Ketel One Vodka and NOLET’s Gin.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the 12th Annual West Coast Tasting Event drew to a close, leaving behind beautiful memories among all who attended. From cigars to spirits, cuisine to lifestyle brands, the event showcased a diverse array of offerings.

It was an occasion where the finest pleasures of life converged, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes, scents, and sights.

CIGAR VENDORS:

1. Serino Cigar

2. Mishaw-Mishaw Cigars

3. Privada Cigar Club

4. JM Tobacco

5. JRE Tobacco

6. La Aurora

SPIRIT VENDORS:

1. Ketel One Vodka

2. NOLET’s Gin

3. Barrell Craft Spirits

4. Tequila Cabal

5. Ammunition Wine & Whiskey

6. Black’s 66

7. Golden Age Spirits

8. Kamiki Japanese Whisky

9. Lia Beverages

BEER/WINE VENDORS:

1. Cerveza Cito Brewery

2. Quigley Fine Wines

3. Ammunition Wine & Whiskey

RESTAURANT VENDORS:

1. Riviera

2. Descanso

3. Sol Agave

4. Bluegold

5. Bottega Angelina

6. Eddie V’s

COCKTAIL CORNER

Soho Cigar Bar’s Jared Bailey

photos by Margaret Pattillo

ARED BAILEY is one of the premier bartenders in the cocktail capital of the world—New York City. He currently pours his wares at the historic Soho Cigar Bar in Lower Manhattan as head bartender and manager.

Jared has entered and won numerous cocktail competitions which inspired his knowledge of spirits and speed. He’s perfected the classic cocktails we’ve all come to know and love, and he’s a craft cocktail artisan who creates new adaptations of the classics.

Jared continues to be an in-demand media personality making national television appearances on FOX & Friends and featured in The Wall Street Journal. He’s also a Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist, making him an expert at cigar and spirits pairings. Here are a few of Jared’s newest fall drinks— created exclusively for Cigar & Spirits Magazine —that you can work into your cocktail rotation.

PSL

Serves 1

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon

• 1 oz coffee liqueur

• 1 1/2 oz heavy cream

• 1 shot of espresso

• 1 oz pumpkin spice syrup

Directions:

• add all ingredients into a mixing glass

• add ice and shake until well-chilled

• strain neat into a coupe glass

• top with grated hazelnuts

For the pumpkin spice syrup: add 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 2.5 tbs of pumpkin spice seasoning into a saucepan and bring to boiling point; once at a boiling point remove from heat and leave covered for 20 minutes, and then when chilled, strain into a new container.

Spritz of Fall

Serves 1

Ingredients:

• 2 oz dark rum

• 1 1/4 pear cinnamon syrup

• 1/2 oz pineapple juice

Directions:

• add all ingredients into a mixing glass

• add ice and shake until well-chilled

• strain neat over fresh ice into a rocks glass

• top with ginger beer

• garnish with a lime wedge

For the pear-cinnamon syrup: add 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup diced pears, and 2 tbs of cinnamon to a saucepan and bring to boiling point; once at a boiling point remove from heat and leave covered for 20 minutes, and then when chilled, strain into a new container.

SOHO PRO TIPS

• It doesn't take much to turn a cocktail seasonal as you can see when you are willing to venture out of your comfort zone and introduce familiar flavors in different ways like I did with the syrups.

• When considering new flavors, don't be afraid to venture into the baking aisle to find inspiration and new ingredients and flavors that you can introduce to your drinks.

• While seasonal-centric drinks can be boring with seemingly endless variations of the same flavors, don't be afraid to play around with different liquors and different combinations–all it takes is some creative thinking to make a new seasonal favorite!

Cheers!

Legend of the Fall

Serves 1

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka

• 1 1/4 cranberry juice

• 1 egg white

• 1/2 oz orgeat syrup

Directions:

• add all ingredients into a mixing glass

• shake without ice for 20 seconds

• add ice and shake until well-chilled

• strain neat into a saline-rinsed martini glass

• garnish with a brandied cherry and a shake of nutmeg powder

Cider House Rules

Serves 1

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Coit Whiskey

• 3/4 oz apple cinnamon syrup

• 2 dash Fee Brothers Chocolate Bitters

Directions:

• combine all ingredients in a mixing glass

• add ice and stir until well-chilled

• strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice

• garnish with a flamed lemon peel

For the apple-cinnamon syrup: add 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup diced apples, and 2 tbs of cinnamon to a saucepan and bring to boiling point; once at a boiling point remove from heat and leave covered for 20 minutes, and then when chilled, strain into a new container.

TIME TO RAISE YOUR SPIRITS