On 16 July 2025, the European Commission unveiled a proposal to revise the Tobacco Excise Directive.
Knowledge
Plain Packaging Commences in Singapur
Singapore has enacted stringent plain packaging regulations following similar legislation in Australia and Ireland, among other countries.
The Index Releases First Box from Its Collection X Program
The Index, Australia’s premier luxury cigar purveyors, has released the first box of aged Cuban Cigars from its exclusive, Australia-first Collection X program.
Cigar Scene
Belgian Smoking Ban
Smoking and vaping on terraces in Belgium will be banned as of 1 January 1 2027. Federal Minister of Health Frank Vandenbroucke announced this last week after approval by the Council of Ministers.
New Releases
Habanos & Bullfighting seventh edition presented in Madrid
Dedicated to the “matador” Luis Francisco Esplá, the cigar chosen for this year’s edition is Montecristo Edmundo.
Ratings & Awards
Cigar Trophy 2025 – Five Days Left to Vote
Only five days left to submit your votings! Vote now!
Cigar Friendly
UB City – The Cigar Lounge you don’t Expect in Ulaanbaatar
UB City is not about flashy Montecristo and Cohiba, not about ostentation. It is an urban refuge, in a city that runs, jostles, surprises.
UB City – The Cigar Lounge you don’t Expect in Ulaanbaatar
UB City is not about flashy Montecristo and Cohiba, not about ostentation. It is an urban refuge, in a city that runs, jostles, surprises.
Cigar Academy Partners Dubai Duty Free to Train Cigar Specialists
The Cigar Academy, is announces a strategic partnership with Dubai Duty Free to provide specialized training for its team of cigar specialists.
From the Magazine
José O. Padrón’s: Unforgettable Moments
José Orlando Padrón, founder of the world-renowned cigar brand and pioneer of the Nicaraguan cigar industry, celebrated his 91st birthday in the middle of this year. The most valuable present to mark this jubilee, however, was prepared by and for himself (and, above all, for us passionados). In line with the Cuban poet and author…
Turmeaus Cigars & Whisky – UK’s Largest Cigar Shop
Liverpool’s favorite tiny tobacconist, Turmeaus, has just become the UK’s largest specialist cigar shop. C.Gars Ltd took over Turmeaus in 2003. The London-based company’s new flagship store, rechristened Turmeaus Cigars and Whisky, is now in the center of Liverpool.
The Taste of Havana
Recently published, the cookbook The Taste of Havana has numerous original Cuban recipes, is full of funny anecdotes and enlivened with colorful photos. Our Cigar Journal cook, Walter Monschein, tested the recipes and has put together a Cuban menu from the book for you. Put on whatever music you like – son cubano, rumba, salsa or reguetón – turn on the stove, and start cooking!
Las Vegas
Even Las Vegas has its limitations, at least when it comes to smoking. But there are still plenty of great cigar spots in the city, both on and off the Strip.
José O. Padrón’s: Unforgettable Moments
José Orlando Padrón, founder of the world-renowned cigar brand and pioneer of the Nicaraguan cigar industry, celebrated his 91st birthday in the middle of this year. The most valuable present to mark this jubilee, however, was prepared by and for himself (and, above all, for us passionados). In line with the Cuban poet and author…
Brand Focus: How Eiroa’s Asylum Came to Be
Asylum is the new brand from Christian Eiroa and Tom Lazuka, and it is known for being huge. The big cigars measure 7 x 70 and 8 x 80. But how did the brand come about? According to Tom Lazuka, it was his idea.
Sexy Cocktails in Berlin
“Poor, but sexy!” This is the motto of Germany’s capital. The description of the city of former mayor Klaus Wowereit is evidenced in many subject areas – from the economic situation to the hip trendy neighborhoods. In one area, though, it’s not quite true: the city’s bar scene. It isn’t poor, and in its diversity is very sexy.
The Favorite Wrapper
What makes the cigar manufactures and smokers of the world praise the ecuadorean wrapper? Take a trip with Cigar Journal to a country made to grow wrapper and you might just find out why.
FDA: Regulation of Premium Cigars Now On Hold
Federal Court Holds FDA Regulation of Premium Cigars to be “Arbitrary and Capricious”.
