A.J. Fernandez Cigars announced yesterday that Enrique “Ricky” Somoza will now oversee operations in the USA. Somoza, born and raised in Miami, had worked as production manager for A.J. Fernandez in their Nicaragua factory since 2013 after meeting A.J. on a trip to Nicaragua.
Festival Calendar: The Best Cigar Festivals in the USA in 2016
2016 looks to be an incredible year for cigar smokers. There will be more events across the United States this year compared to past years, and some long time favorites have had to switch venues because of expanded itineraries and ballooning attendance.
Nick van Olden is New VP of Tobacco Procurement at Drew Estate
Swisher International has hired Nick van Olden as vice president of corporate tobacco procurement. In this newly established role, van Olden will coordinate tobacco procurement for Drew Estate’s premium cigar line.
Oettinger Davidoff AG acquires majority interest in Asia Distributor Bluebell
Following the acquisition of a 25% interest in its Asia Distributor Bluebell Cigars (Asia) Ltd a year ago, Oettinger Davidoff AG, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, announced today the acquisition of a majority interest effective January 1, 2016.
Macanudo Announced Logo Redesign for the US Market
General Cigar announced that the company modernized the design of its iconic Macanudo logo for the U.S. market. Beginning on January 15, 2016, Macanudo Café, Macanudo Maduro, Macanudo Crü Royale and Macanudo 1968 and will feature the brand’s new look.
Miami Cigar & Co. Adds Nate McIntyre to their US Sales Team
Miami Cigar & Company, producer of the Nestor Miranda Brand and importer of La Aurora cigars to the US, announced the addition of Nate McIntyre to their sales team yesterday.
What is Necessary to Become a Cigar Sommelier?
Some fellow aficionados have asked us what someone needs to do to become an expert in cigar tasting. Typically this role is referred to as cigar sommelier (or Catador). In this article we’ll attempt to explore the recommended preparations on the path to becoming a cigar sommelier.
La Aurora Wins Two Awards by Dominican Cigar Review
The Dominican publication Dominican Cigar Review awarded cigar manufacturer La Aurora awards in two categories. La Aurora accepted the award for “Best Factory Tour” and La Aurora’s Master Blender, Manuel Inoa accepted the “Cigar Personality of the Year” award.
Premium Colombian rum, gin, and coffee now complemented by cigars
Dictador Rum, produced in Colombia since 1913, has recently added a premium cigar line to complement their rum, gin and coffee. Concept direction is led by Jason Nelson, with Abe Flores producing the cigars in the Dominican Republic.
S.T. Dupont and Davidoff to Merge Distribution in the United States
S.T.Dupont and Davidoff of Geneva USA announced that they will enter into an exclusive distribution agreement in the US as of January 1st, 2016. Lotus International will remain S.T. Duponts after-sales-service center for the US.
Kris Kachaturian to Retire from A.J. Fernandez Cigars
A.J. Fernandez Cigars announces that managing partner, Kris Kachaturian will soon retire and shift into an advisory role for the brand. Kachaturian will continue in day to day operations for the time being, to ensure a smooth transition.
Glenfiddich & Daniel Marshall: One-of-a-kind Whisky and Cigar Pairing
Daniel Marshall, along with master blenders and cigar creators Manuel Quesada and Nestor Plasencia, have created a special cigar for Glenfiddich. The special cigars were made in Nicaragua and aged in Davidoff of London’s humidor for six months.
