Cigar Aficionado posted an article a few days back that I found pretty interesting. It looks like Dunhill, the legendary cigar brand that sold individual sticks for over $1,0000 each at a recent auction, will be releasing the “Aged Reserva Especial 2003”, which will use Dominican tobaccos from 2003.
As Cigar Aficionado reports:
“The blend is completed with a Connecticut broadleaf binder, and wrapped in Connecticut-shade tobacco grown in the northeastern United States. The cigars were rolled at General Cigar Dominicana for Dunhill. As with every Dunhill Aged cigar, after rolling they were stored for a year in aging rooms lined in Spanish cedar to allow the cigars to mature.”
I’ll be looking forward to smoking this stick and perhaps giving it a review. You can read the full article here.
The Guardian provides unique protection for up to six watches, jewelry, cash, or important documents.
The centerpiece of the Guardian is the multi-walled, high-security cylinder built into the leather, which was developed in-house at Döttling. This consists of a range of high-tech materials, which have been interlocked in a top-secret composition. The carbide component is nearly as hard as a diamond and destroys tools such as drills or saws attempting to attack the Guardian. Several layers of highly tear-proof and cut-resistant aramid carbon-fiber fabric, which is also used in bulletproof vests, also prevent drilling or sawing. The outermost and innermost layers of the high-security cylinder are made of polycarbonate. This material is also used for anti-riot shields and helmet visors. It makes the Guardian extremely impact-resistant, ensuring that it cannot be destroyed, even with the largest sledgehammers. A high-security safe door is integrated into one end of the cylinder, which is also reinforced with aramid carbon-fiber fabric. This door can only be opened with a three-digit code. When this code is entered correctly, the lock, consisting of four high-gloss polished steel bars, opens.
In short: in a closed state, the Guardian can only be opened with massive force and a lot of time – time that is not available, as the Guardian is also equipped with a GPS tracking device, and can thus be precisely located around the globe.
As for the exterior of the Guardian, the same applies here as for all Döttling products: there are virtually no limits set to individuality.
For example, the handle brackets made of high-gloss polished stainless steel can be engraved. Any conceivable variation in fabric or leather is also possible for the cover. This ensures that the Guardian is not recognized as a “travel safe” – providing a further plus in terms of security.
The Döttling Guardian can be carried with a handle or shoulder strap. Thanks to its compact design of just 35 cm length and 13.5 cm diameter, it can also be placed in a suitcase. And despite its high-security concept, it only weighs about 4 kg. This makes it a true featherweight, allowing one to travel unencumbered in every respect.
Cigar Landing’s Andy Oh announced today via email the Cigar Landing holiday party. Cigar Landing was hit earlier this year by Hurricane Sandy, but was quick back to its feet thanks to the hard work of its owners.
Below is the email:
Come join us on Friday (12/21) as we celebrate the holidays (or the end of the world). Decorations, light refreshments, entertainment, etc.
Festivities begin at 6:00 pm. Hope you can make it.
Cheers,
Cigar Landing
150 Beekman Street (between South and Front Streets, one block north of Pier 17 @ the Seaport).
~ Auchentoshan 1966 – A Rare Vintage Release ~
~ Auchentoshan 1979 – Latest in 1970s Vintage Series ~
~ Valinch 2012 – Second edition Small Batch Release ~
Auchentoshan, the only triple distilled Single Malt Scotch Whisky, has released three remarkable and sought-after collectibles: the limited editions Auchentoshan 1966 and Auchentoshan 1979, and the second small batch release of Valinch 2012. These exceptional expressions will satisfy the palates of any whisky enthusiast or collector.
Established in 1823, Auchentoshan triple distils every drop, meaning the spirit produced reaches 81.5% ABV, significantly higher than most distilleries in Scotland. It is this quality and lightness of Auchentoshan’s distillate paired with the carefully selected oak casks that gives its whiskies an unmistakably light and fruity flavour. This production process is totally unique to Auchentoshan; a distinct proposition that makes for a modern expression of a classic single malt.
AUCHENTOSHAN 1966 – BOURBON MATURED
Carefully matured in North American ex-Bourbon Hogshead casks for just over 44 years, one of the rarest expressions of any Lowland Single Malt Whisky – making it a highly coveted collectible for any whisky fan.
Only 257 bottles of the Auchentoshan 1966 were laid to rest following distillation on 21 February 1966. After triple distillation, this extraordinary expression was matured exclusively in Warehouse Number Three, in the shadow of the Old Kilpatrick hills. Some say it is the perfect building for maturing Scotch Whisky; the sheltered aspect and lowland climate make for very small variations in temperature – just 12 degrees centigrade over a year. What’s more, the floor is natural soil which allows the warehouse (and the casks) to breathe.
Encased in a handcrafted aluminium and oak outer case that are each individually numbered, the Auchentoshan 1966 comes partnered with a booklet charting the history of this rare expression. Priced at £4,500 RRP, this exclusive bottling is available now.
Kirsteen Beeston, Head of Brands at Morrison Bowmore Distillers, comments: “This is a stunning example of the care, craft and investment we put into our whiskies, that means it can withstand the test of time. Thanks to careful tending of the North American white oak hogshead casks, Auchentoshan 1966 Year Old has matured beautifully over 44 years. It has aged with a complex character – but keeps its youthful vitality.”
TASTING NOTES
Golden syrup in colour, the expression displays welcoming aromas of fragrant tobacco leaf accompanied by a gentle prickle of lemon pepper. A splash of pure water awakens subtle notes of fruitcake and eucalyptus that develop into sweet heather honey, culminating with a flourish of cooling mint. A clean yet lingering finish, reminiscent of marmalade.
Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Morrison Bomwore Distillers, adds: “Auchentoshan 1966 is a whisky of exquisite elegance with a delicate yet intriguing bouquet capturing the pinnacle of the distiller’s art and remaining true to its triple-distilled house style. As Auchentoshan matures through the decades in bourbon casks, the fresh citrus aromas intertwine with the American white oak, evolving whilst maintaining the beautiful triple-distilled structure”.
AUCHENTOSHAN 1979 – OLOROSO MATURED
Building on the success of the Auchentoshan 1975 Bourbon Matured launched in 2011, the Auchentoshan 1979 Oloroso Sherry Matured is the latest from the superb series of vintage releases from the late 1970s. Released this October, only 1,000 bottles are in existence worldwide, with each bottle individually numbered, making it no doubt a much sought-after limited edition for all enthusiasts and connoisseurs. RRP is £350.00
True to Auchentoshan’s signature contemporary look, this whisky comes in a stylish and understated premium black box. The character of the copper gold liquid is reflected in the copper foiling throughout the packaging and the interior of the box holds an image of a deconstructed Oloroso sherry cask in homage to the importance of the wood maturation process.
This Auchentoshan is a true rarity; distilled on 22 October 1979, the expression has been fully matured in first-fill sherry butts for over 32 years. Bottled at cask strength, the expression is non chill-filtered to preserve maximum intensity of flavour, creating an Auchentoshan of intense spiced fruitiness.
Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Morrison Bowmore Distillers, adds: “This carefully crafted malt is one of the most intensely fruity Auchentoshans ever to be released. A cornucopia of rich dark fruits and deep spices, this beguiling expression is beautifully dry.”
TASTING NOTES
A cornucopia of rich dark fruits with Victoria plums, blackberries and raisins, balanced by cinnamon spiced fruitcake. On the tongue, experience bramble jam, dark chocolate, spiced fruit chutney and Madeira cake. Spicy nutmeg, tobacco and pepper linger into the finish.
VALINCH 2012
Launched last year in response to popular demand from Single Malt evangelists, the Auchentoshan Valinch was released to great reviews. A non chill-filtered Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in first-fill North American ex-Bourbon oak casks, the Valinch is a cask strength edition of the acclaimed Classic. For 2012, Auchentoshan is unveiling the second small batch release of this much-lauded malt. Only a limited amount of Valinch are selected for release once a year – 2000 cases globally.
Named after the metal pipette used to draw whisky straight from the cask, this light and refreshing whisky has all the depth of taste, flavour and full body associated with sampling whisky at source.
The packaging of this expression tells the story of the whisky, with the bottle reflecting a laboratory bottle complimented by the outer carton; stripped back to basics, exposing the idea of whisky straight from the cask.
TASTING NOTES
Pale golden in colour, the first aromas are sweet and creamy crème brulee, followed by an invigorating full-bodied orange zest notes on the tongue. The finish is sweet, crisp and lingering.
For more details, visit www.auchentoshan.com / or www.facebook.com/auchentoshan
Follow us on Twitter @TheAuchentoshan
These bottles are available at all good whisky specialist shops.
Auchentoshan Classic has recently gained a listing in Tesco’s.
UK Distributor: Cellar Trends on 01283 217703 or auchentoshan@cellartrends.co.uk
Notes:
Auchentoshan – The Modern Classic
A traditional and authentic single malt, distilled three times and matured in the finest wood
A whisky produced with passion and enriched with heritage
Favours the classic but with a nod to the contemporary
It’s a combination of two worlds; old and new
It’s a throwback to the future
It’s style not fashion
The very best of the past with the very best of the present…
Auchentoshan Classic is available to buy from a wide range of retailers including Asda, Waitrose, and a range of on line retailers and whisky specialists with a RRP approx £27.00.
As Glasgow’s closest Distillery, Auchentoshan is truly unique as it is the only distillery to use a third still in the whisky making process. It means Auchentoshan is the only Single Malt Scotch whisky to triple distil every single drop. This third distillation takes the new spirit to 81.5% ABV (not 70% which is achieved through only distilling twice) making it the highest distillate of any Scottish distillery. The result is a light and delicate single malt of unmistakable smoothness.
Awards 2011
IWSC
– Gold Medal, 1975 Bourbon
– Best in Class Silver, 18YO
– Best in Class Silver, Classic
International Spirits Challenge
– Silver Media, 1975 Bourbon
– Silver Medal, Valinch
– Silver Medal, Three Wood
Scottish Design Awards
– Best Packaging – Auchentoshan Travel Retail Award
Awards 2012
San Francisco Spirits Competition
– Double Gold Medal, Three Wood
– Silver Medal, Classic
– Silver Medal, 12YO
World Whiskies Awards:
– Best Lowland – Auchentoshan 1999 Wine Matured
Ultimate Spirits Challenge:
– 94 points/Excellent-Highly Recommended – Auchentoshan Three Wood
Ultimate Cocktail Challenge:
– Chairman’s Trophy – Best Scotch Whisky in a classic Rusty Nail cocktail – Auchentoshan Three Wood
As San Diego’s newest wine and cigar lounge, Habanos Cigar and Wine Cafe’s Grand Opening party was a major success. Despite ongoing rain, the house was packed, as ladies and gentlemen were entertained by the live Blues music of Chris James and Patrick Rynn Chicago Blues. The event started at 6pm and ran until midnight.
Some photos of the humidor…
Two large, enclosed patios provided a festive ambiance for guests to enjoy great blues music, friendly conversation, food, premium wines and cigars. The center of the main patio sported a warm and inviting fire pit. Plenty of free parking was available to guests. Complementary appetizers were provided and the friendly staff took care of every customer need. For those who wanted to enjoy a full dinner and wine, the back patio, packed to the max, was the place to be.
“I was concerned that the rain may hurt the event,” commented Nate Kalasho, proprietor, wine connoisseur and cigar aficionado, “But they came and enjoyed a festive evening. I want to personally thank all those who supported our Grand Opening.”
“I was happy to see the number of ladies that came to the event,” commented Missy of San Diego “I even got to dance to the great music. I hope Chris and Patrick will come back soon.”
ABOUT CHRIS JAMES AND PATRICK RYNN
Vocalist and guitarist Chris James and bassist Patrick Rynn are staunch Blues traditionalists with a high-energy contemporary edge. They’ve been playing together since 1990, proudly dedicating their musical collaboration to the invigorating sound of real, unadulterated Blues. They lead their own internationally acclaimed band, and have toured the world playing behind some of the greatest Blues legends in the field.
ABOUT HABANOS CIGAR AND WINE CAFÉ
Habanos Cigar and Wine Café
3111 Hancock St corner of Rosecrans
Just South of Hwy 8
619-787-7477
Apx 3,000 sq. ft.
600 sq. ft. walk in humidor
The three large enclosed patios provide leather sofas, tables and chairs.
The main patio sports a warm and inviting fire pit.
The second patio provides a warm & inviting fireplace
5 large screen TVs
Full Tapas kitchen
Huge premium wine selection
Espresso and specialty coffee drinks
Free parking
Hours of Operation
Sunday to Thursday 9am to 10pm
Friday & Saturday 9am to midnight
A few weeks ago, we interviewed Patrick Vivalo of Rocky Patel Cigars. Patrick is very involved with the sales and marketing of the company, and has really added to the online presence of the brand. He sent me a few sticks about a week after the interview went up, and included in his package was the Decade, one of Rocky Patel’s signature cigars. This cigar came in tubo fashion, which as you can see from the photos below really adds a nice touch in the presentation of the cigar. Without further ado, the review:
Blend Specifics
Size: Toro (6.5 x 52)
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Binder: Honduran
Filler: Nicaraguan
Click to view
Appearance & Construction
The Decade features a dark, richly toned brown wrapper. Some minimal veins are present, though I don’t really notice them given the beautiful presentation of this cigar. With very solid construction, beautiful banding, and all just out of classic tubo packaging, the cigar begs to be smoked. Off the foot are scents of granola, wood, and coffee.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
This cigar kicks off with a very fine-textured white pepper paired with sweet granola and spice on the retrohale. The texture of the smoke is very unique, so fine that the smoke tickles the front of your tongue and coats the pallet.
About a quart of the way through this cigar, I am impressed even more by the construction (pictures above). Notes of leather emerge and the pepper begins to intensify. The second third introduces coffee and bitter cocoa notes, while woodiness becomes much more prominent.
The only detraction I can think of with this stick was that the smoke became particularly hot near the end, which is of course more frustrating when the smoke is from a cigar you are particularly enjoying.
Conclusion
You don’t have to like Rocky Patel as a brand, but you have to hand it to him that this is a stand out blend that is worthy of acclaim. It is a bit on the pricey side, so this isn’t an everyday smoke. It is, however, a cigar that any medium-full bodied lover should smoke as soon as they can.
December 14, 2012 — Steven Ysidron, President of Epicurean Cigars, and Gary Griffith, owner of Emilio Cigars announced today that they have entered into a joint distribution agreement.
Under the terms of the agreement Epicurean Cigars will now be shipped from the Emilio Cigars facility in Vineland, NJ and added to the portfolio of products of the Emilio Cigars sales staff.
Ysidron, formerly with Savinelli, USA, has had a long career in the industry, and is now producing his own line, Epicurean Cigars. “We are very excited to be a part of what Emilio Cigars are doing. They represent the integrity and commitment to quality boutique cigars that has long been a passion for me and my family,” said Ysidron.
Griffith reiterated: “We welcome Steve to the family, and look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership. I am fully dedicated to the mission of bringing an array of quality boutique cigars to a broader market, whether under the Emilio Cigars mark, or the mark of other equally dedicated and passionate manufacturers.”
This agreement will free Ysidron to stay focused on new product development and production oversight and allow him to expand his distribution into new markets.
Distribution will shift to the Emilio Cigars facility during the first week of January, 2013.
Independent Scotch whisky producer, Isle of Arran Distillers, is celebrating after its 14 year old malt was awarded a Double Gold medal by US-based food and drink website TheFiftyBest.com.
Now a multi-award winning whisky, Arran’s oldest spirit released in 2010, picked up the award in the Single Malt Scotch Aged 10-15 years category.
Euan Mitchell, managing director of Isle of Arran Distillers, said: “This is a fitting end to what has been a fantastic year for the distillery.
“These awards are highly regarded in the industry so we’re delighted that our oldest malt has again been recognised for its quality and character. Next year we’re planning to release our first 16 year-old malt, which I hope will be equally well received.”
The Arran Malt 14 year old was one of just a handful to be awarded the prestigious Double Gold Award by FiftyBest.com.
The spirit also won a Double Gold Award at this year’s World Spirits Competition and in 2011 was named ‘Best Island (non Islay) Single Malt Whisky, 13-20 Years by Whisky Magazine.
James MacTaggart, master distiller at Arran Distillers, added: “Our whiskies are now celebrated all over the world, but we’re not going to rest on our laurels and will continue to produce innovative and high quality malt whiskies for many years to come.”
Since it was established 17 years ago, Isle of Arran Distillers has won a number of awards including Scottish Distiller of the Year (2007) and Scottish Drinks Producer of the Year (2007).
For the full list of winners in the FiftyBest, visit here
About Isle of Arran Distillers:
* Current accolades for Isle of Arran Distillery include Winner for: Best New Exporter (2004), Queen’s Award for International Trade (2005), Scottish Distiller of the Year (2007) and Scottish Drinks Producer of the Year (2007.)
Product awards include: Best Whisky Liqueur (2007), ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 12 Years & Under’ for The Arran Malt Amarone Cask Finish (2008) ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 11-15 Years’ for The Arran Malt Sherry Single Cask 1998 (2010) and ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 11-15 Years’ for the Icons of Arran Peacock (2011.)
Also, ‘Double Gold Award’ for Arran’s 14 Year Old Single Malt and ‘Gold Award’ for Arran’s 10 Year Old Single Malt at the World Spirits Competition 2012. Double Gold in FiftyBest.com awards 2012.
About FiftyBest.com:
TheFiftyBest.com is an award-winning online guide to fine living, featuring rated listings from on unbiased surveys and proprietary tastings judged by food, wine/spirits journalists, and connoisseurs. Adhering to strict tasting rules and rigorous methodology,
TheFiftyBest.com achieves the highest standards of spirits evaluation.
December 10, 2012 (Jeffersonville, IN) — Match Lounge will host a whiskey tasting and cigar pairing event sponsored by WhistlePig’s Master Distiller Dave Pickerell and Oliva Cigars during Match’s grand opening celebration Friday, December 21st 7:00-9:00pm. In addition, neighboring Riverside Cigar Shop and Lounge will hold an exclusive launch event with Oliva Cigars 4:00-9:00pm.
Match’s Whiskey and Cigar Event will feature a scotch, bourbon and whiskey flight, paired with a signature Oliva Serie V Melanio Cigar. WhistlePig’s Master Distiller, Dave Pickerell, one of the nation’s preeminent master distillers who previously spent fourteen years as Maker’s Mark Master Distiller, and Ian Hummel, of Oliva Cigars, will be on hand to entertain and educate attendees during a one-on-one question and answer session. This pairing event is limited to thirty people with tickets being sold for $30 per person. To purchase tickets, please call 812-284-6198.
In conjunction with Match’s event, the adjoining Riverside Cigar Shop will host an event sponsored by Oliva Cigars. Oliva, a leader in the cigar industry, has a long history of producing award-winning cigars, primarily grown and produced in Nicaragua and sold worldwide. Riverside’s event will be one of the first opportunities in the U.S. for customers to receive the 2013 Oliva Cigar sampler. Customers who purchase a box of Oliva Cigars will receive the 2013 Oliva Cigar sampler free of charge. In addition, any box purchase at this event will enter the purchaser in a raffle for a custom cigar cutter from Hutch valued at $300. The Oliva Cigar event is a free event.
Cremo is, in my opinion, one of the more interesting brands on the market today, partially for its duel identity. Though the brand has been around for well over one hundred years, its current form is only a handful of years old. The Cremo Classic Maduro is the second blend out of Cremo, coming on the heels of the remarkably successful Cremo Classic (reviewed here). I was excited to smoke these pre-release cigars after enjoying the Classic, so now I’ll get right to it.
Blend Specifics
Size: Intrepidus (6 x 52)
Wrapper: Mexican San Andreas
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Appearance & Construction
The Cremo Classic Maduro really is a beautiful cigar. This is partially to do with the unique reflective band that displays “Cremo” in black lettering. I find that this presentation works really well with the dark brown color of the San Andreas wrapper. The stick is slightly springy to the touch, well packed, and has only a few barely-visible imperfections.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
Before lighting, the smell off of the foot of the cigar reveals chocolate notes, definite spices, and something like hay. On the light, this cigar kicks off with deep, rich notes of milk and dark chocolate, a hint of cherry, and medium spice on the retro hale.
About an inch in, the body increases, and a touch of leather is added to the mix. At the beginning of the second third, there is a significant addition of white pepper and bitter chocolate, a welcome complexity. The body continues to build.
In the final third, the strength picks up even more, while black pepper dies off, leaving a profile very similar to the Alec Bradley American market sungrown. It is here that the profile finds its resting point and after about an hour and a half of smoking, I put the cigar down.
Conclusion
Coming in at about $12 a stick, the Cremo Classic Maduro isn’t a cheap stick, but it is well worth the ticket price. The Cremo Classic Maduro is rich, complex, aromatic, and well balanced. It is a cigar that tells a story as it progresses, and I didn’t want to put it down. Easily a must-buy cigar. I’m very impressed with how Cremo has released two incredibly different cigars, both of which measure up to a high standard of quality and enjoyability.
