There are probably hundreds of “boutique” cigar manufacturers all over the world, and, generally, we associate this term with both the size of the company as well as the volume of production. But for no brand is it more appropriate than for the new, still unknown label Royal Danish Cigars by Jan Vistisen.
Drew Estate: From Kiosk to Global Cigar Company
In 1996, Brooklyn native Jonathan Drew opened a cigar kiosk in New York’s World Trade Center. That kiosk dramatically changed the course of Drew’s life – and that of many others. Today, Drew Estate, as it is now known, operates the second-largest premium cigar factory in the world.
It’s a Lifestyle: Rocky Patel Premium Cigars
Cigars bearing the name Rocky Patel are expected to be something special. And they are. Since founding the company, Rocky Patel has created and approved every single cigar blend. Each one served a unique purpose at the time. Over the decades, this is how Rocky Patel cigars have developed a broad portfolio.
Steffen Rinn: Hessen’s last Cigar Maker
From the 1920s into the 1970s, Rinn & Cloos AG was Germany’s la
Boutique Cigars: Dion Giolitos Hottest Illusione
Looking up the word ‘picky’ in a lexicon, you may find a photo of Dion Giolito. The Illusione brand owner doesn’t worry about how many cigars he makes, only that they’re exactly right. Illusione is probably the most boutique of all boutique brands.
Monte Pascoal builds Factory in Fields in Brazil
Brazilian tobacco is well loved around the world. Just when it seemed like there was no more room in the market for a new Brazilian cigar, Lorenzo Orsi decided to take his passion for Brazil and cigars and created a new Brazilian cigar.
Nestor Plasencia Sr. Can’t Be Beaten. Comeback King.
Losing all its property in a revolution is enough to take most companies out of an industry. Nestor Plasencia has suffered this loss in both Cuba and Nicaragua. He is now in control of tobacco growing on perhaps the largest scale in Central America.
It’s Hard to Top the History of Joya de Nicaragua
Dictator ownership, nationalization, worker control, brand success, market lows, trademark loss and official cigar supplier for the White House … It’s hard to top the history of the first and oldest commercial cigar producer in Nicaragua. This year the “Jewel of Nicaragua”, established by two Cuban exiles, is celebrating 45 years of social, political and managerial changes with an anniversary brand.
A. J. Fernandez – Discipline and Passion
In every profession there are exceptional talents. Among cigar makers, too, there are a few who do the term “genius” justice. One of them is Abdel J. Fernandez.
La Flor Dominicana holds the only Cigar Patent
Litto Gomez and his wife Ines Lorenzo Gomez made the bold move into the cigar business in 1994 – without any experience. Today La Flor Dominicana is one of the most highly regarded brands.
Tabacalera Incorporada – The Filipino Tabacalera
With the recent launch of the Gran Reserva and a new USA distribution deal, the Philippines’ oldest cigar manufacturer, Tabacalera Incorporada, is intent on returning to global prominence.
The Perdomo Experience: From Seed to Smoke
Nick Perdomo has come a long way in 20 years. His deep appreciation of his customers, whether they be retailers or consumers, led him to offer tours where visitors are immersed into his fully vertically integrated operation. Sometimes the owner of the company no less is playing tour guide – cigar retailers and enthusiasts must put this trip on their bucket list!
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