Nat Sherman is at it again, hosting a traditional cigar dinner with Chef Geoffrey Zakarian. The night, which will cost you about $250 a ticket, will include a three course meal, with a different cigar paired for each course. This type of cigar dinner is an almost extinct tradition, which is why I’m so excited to see Nat Sherman bringing it back. Hopefully this event will remain a tradition for many years to come. Event information below
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For cigar smokers, the question of the health risks of cigars is an often-debated topic. Beyond debate, however, is the sad fact that when you smoke irresponsibly, tragedy can be the result.
This was the case for Lyn Baumeister, who was killed after her husband’s discarded cigar caught fire in a trash can. The fire spread to the sofa, and the toxic fumes released by the combustion killed Mrs. Baumeister and her seven month old black lab.
“The chair had been set alight by a cigar discarded by her former partner George, with whom she still lived. He had stubbed it into an ashtray and then into a waste paper basket. He then left for work, unaware it was still smouldering…
She left three children and six grandchildren.”
This tragic story should remind every cigar smoker that when you are done with a cigar, DO NOT PUT IT IN A GARBAGE CAN. Simply set it down in your ash tray, ember towards the center, and let it go out to avoid risk of an ember catching. And if you are smoking inside, take the extra precaution and take your cigar outside.
What other methods would you use to avoid the risk of a finished cigar catching fire?
The Nat Sherman team, headed by Michael Herklots, is hosting a unique smoking experience – one of the few remaining cigar dinners in New York and indeed the world. Tickets are not cheap, but for what you get, it is a great deal that will appeal to Manhattan’s connoisseurs and upper-tier socialites.
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NAT SHERMAN AND THE CHARLIE PALMER GROUP PARTNER TO OFFER “HERF & TURF”
A Dapper New York Night Out at
the Legendary Nat Sherman Townhouse and Michelin-Starred Aureole
Nat Sherman, Tobacconist to the World since 1930, and The Charlie Palmer Group, Master Chef and Hospitality Entrepreneur Charlie Palmer’s collection of award-winning restaurants and hotels, have partnered to offer a quintessentially New York experience – Herf* & Turf. Designed for travelers and locals looking to commemorate a lifetime milestone, or simply celebrate a night out with friends, this package reserves an evening of indulgence at two Midtown Manhattan landmarks.
Herf & Turf kicks off with a cigar and spirit tasting at the private club of the Nat Sherman Townhouse, The Johnson Club Room. Named after Nat Sherman’s wife Lautia “Johnson” Sherman, the intimate space is reserved exclusively for members. From the comforts of leather couches and chairs, to the selection of letters from luminaries including Sammy Davis Jr., John Wayne and Frank Sinatra, which are framed and on display throughout the store, The Johnson Club Room’s old world atmosphere is sure to turn off the city sounds for a New York minute.
The evening continues across Bryant Park at renowned Chef Charlie Palmer’s Aureole Bar Room. Celebrated for its unabashed, energetic signature Progressive American cuisine, Executive Chef Marcus Gleadow-Ware has specially created a masculine three-course menu starting with Spring Rabbit and Foie Gras Terrine, followed by Prime NY Strip and Los Ancones Chocolate and Espresso dessert. Each course is sophistically paired with unique wines selected by Aureole’s sommelier.
Herf & Turf is offered Mondays through Thursdays for $200 per person (excluding tax and gratuity) to parties of 6-14. For more information and reservations, please contact Yulia Florinskaya (Aureole) by email or phone: 646-392-9172 x20, or Tina Parrish (Nat Sherman) at 646-442-1850.
* Herf (definition of): Fancy term for “cigar party” or a way of saying “let’s get together and smoke cigars”.
Read Robb Report’s Herf & Turf Feature Here
Table 36, an emerging boutique cigar maker, unveiled its first premium cigar line in May. Fellowship, a medium- to medium-full-bodied cigar, is made at the Fabrica de Tabacos Raices Cubanas (“Cuban Roots Cigar Factory”) in Danli, Honduras. The company currently produces a string of 90+ rated cigars for Alec Bradley and several of Alec Bradley’s private label customers.
Table 36 founder and president, Bob Atchisson, describes Fellowship’s birth: “A full year, working with Raices Cubanas’ master blender, has refined it into our ‘best-foot-forward’ market entry. The boutique cigar market is targeted at epicures, restlessly scouting for the next new smoking experience. Their interest is sparked by the Table 36 company name. Over two dozen top smokeshops in the Midwest and elsewhere are now introducing the first Fellowship cigars to smokers. To make a beachhead, this cigar must have unique character … memorable in its own particular way of satisfying. Alec Bradley and Raices Cubanas didn’t disappoint … Its flavor and aroma are out of the park.”
Fellowship comes in four shapes … Corona Gorda (5.5″ x 46), Robusto (5″ x 50), Toro (6″ x 50) and their proprietary “V58″ (6.5″ x 58). The 100% long-leaf filler blend combines leaf from Nicaragua’s Jalapa Valley with rare Honduran tobacco, grown on the Raices Cubanas’ tobacco farm in Trojes, Honduras. The binder is Honduran-grown Criollo 98 tobacco, and the wrapper is a Honduran-grown Habano Colorado Subido (“High Red”) leaf. The tobaccos are aged a full 3-4 years, and the cigars another 6 months, yielding a rich, mellow flavor profile. Atchisson reports, “Fellowship is described by reviewers as ‘earthy and spicy, with a touch of sweetness,’ with ‘strong leather notes and floral hints.’
“We bunch the cigars using the traditional but seldom-used entubado (tubed) method, in which the filler leaves are rolled into individual tubes, surrounding a similarly-tubed ligero core. This technique eliminates the two most common complaints by smokers … uneven burn, and hard or plugged draw. The process is more painstaking than conventional bunching, but the results in smokers’ satisfaction are well worth it, especially to uncompromising connoisseurs. All shapes have distinctively classic Cuban pigtail heads.”
The cigars are individually protected in cellophane tubes, and presented in substantial, high-quality 20-count cedar boxes, with the distinctive Table 36 logo.
When queried about the company name, Atchisson explains, “For years, our group of cigar-loving friends and colleagues has met regularly at a nearby restaurant. This tradition has continued for so long, we have earned a table reserved for our exclusive use. Our spirit of fellowship is what created the idea of launching our own cigar brand. It still amazes me how a bunch of rolled-up leaves can create lasting friendships.” The full Fellowship line is now appearing on the shelves of tobacconists, at manufacturer’s suggested retail prices that fall between $7 and $8.50. All retailer locations are listed in the Table 36 Web site: http://www.table36.com/wheretofindu/
Chivas Regal, the world’s original luxury Scotch whisky, has launched a permanent bottle exclusively for the on-trade – Chivas Regal 12 Year Old Night Magnum.
The Night Magnum will disrupt premium and VIP on-trade venues by tapping into occasions that are typically owned by premium white spirits and Champagnes.
Global Brand Director for Chivas Regal, James Slack, says: “When people purchase a bottle in an exclusive venue they are either ordering bottle-to-table vodka for the night ahead or Champagne to celebrate a moment. The Night Magnum will introduce Scotch whisky to these occasions, ensuring increased visibility for Chivas in the premium on-trade environment.”
The eye-catching 1.5 litre Night Magnum has a metallic finish and a burgundy Chivas Regal emblem. It will be available in more than 30 markets, including China, Brazil, Japan, France and Malaysia.
Notes
Chivas Regal is a truly global brand, selling 4.6 million 9L cases annually in more than 150 countries across Europe, Asia Pacific and Americas. The Chivas Regal range is the epitome of style, substance and exclusivity and includes Chivas Regal 12, 18 and 25 Year Old.
For further information visit http://www.chivas.com/
About Chivas Brothers
Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard – the world’s co-leader in wine and spirits. Chivas Brothers is the global leader in luxury Scotch whisky and premium gin. Its portfolio includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater Gin, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Aberlour, Plymouth Gin, Longmorn, Scapa, 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport.
In July 2010 Chivas Brothers launched The Age Matters campaign to help consumers understand the importance of Scotch whisky age statements.
August 31, 2012 (Miami, FL) — In 1997, Fernando León of La Aurora Cigars traveled to New York City with Nestor Miranda from Miami Cigar & Company. This was the first time the head of La Aurora traveled to the United States for a cigar event. The location was Cigar Inn and they were hosted by the Fakir Brothers.
Fifteen years later, La Aurora Cigars is set to release the Fernando León and what better then to have the official launch at Cigar Inn. This time joining Gus, Billy & Bas will be the son of Don Fernando, Guillermo León who heads La Aurora in the Dominican Republic.
This two-day marathon event starts on Tuesday, October 23rd with a sold-out sit down dinner for Cigar Inn members. The dinner which will feature the Fernando León will be catered by Rothmann’s Steak house.
According to Guillermo León, “My Father only shared the cigar with close friends and family, it is only fitting that we release the Fernando Leon at Cigar Inn. Ever since that event in 1997, Cigar Inn and its customers have always been an extended part of our family”.
At the request of Cigar Inn, the party will continue on Wednesday, October 24th, when Miami Cigar & Company and La Aurora Cigars invite you to stop by and experience this special cigar, the Fernando León for FREE, while supplies last.
“We are honored and privileged that La Aurora has chosen us for the release of this cigar.” adds Billy Fakir of Cigar Inn. “Fernando León was a great man, who knew a lot about tobacco. We are happy to call the Leon family our dearest friends and look forward to hosting this wonderful event in the Cigar Aficionado Lounge”.
Fernando León was the head of La Aurora Cigars from 1950s until his passing in 2009. The son of Eduardo León Jimenes was a Master Blender before taking on the role of President when his father passed. The cigar named after him was the only cigar he smoked on a daily basis. He was 89 years old when he passed. Today, his son Guillermo León heads La Aurora making him the third generation of the Leon family business to run the company.
September 3, 2012 (Tampa, FL) – The latest addition to the AVO Heritage series has arrived – AVO Heritage “Special Toro” – produced only in limited quantities. The “Special Toro” is the first AVO cigar to be composed with a 60-ring gauge.
The AVO Heritage “Special Toro” is comprised of specially fermented tobaccos that were hand selected by Avo Uvezian and Hendrik Kelner. The large percentage of Ligero tobaccos creates a spicy, full-bodied cigar with complex flavor and exhilarating palate stimulation. The fillers consist of three different tobaccos: Dominican Ligero, Dominican Seco and Peruvian Seco. The Binder is Dominican San Vicente, while the Wrapper is a specially fermented leaf from Cuban seed, grown in Ecuador – also used on the famed 2009 Limited Edition “Compañero.”
“The AVO Heritage ‘Special Toro’ is a very exciting addition to the AVO brand,” states Scott Kolesaire, AVO Brand Manager. “In response to the requests, we have created the first ever 6” x 60 cigar to bear the AVO name. With an SRP of $9.80 per cigar, ‘Special Toro’ rounds out the AVO Heritage line perfectly, offering a size for everyone, all priced under $10.00.”
Due to the limited amount of AVO Heritage ‘Special Toro’ cigars in production, an initial launch of 1,000 boxes was offered during the IPCPR convention in Orlando, FL. Each month additional cigars will be available to Select Merchants nationwide. Packaged in 20 count boxes, ‘Special Toro’ carries a suggested retail price of $196.00, taxes not included.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONCORD 4: Habana Edicion
Cigars | Wine | Whiskey | Music | Networking | Hors d’oeuvre
Friday sept 7th at 8:00PM-12:00midnite
Forbidden island Cuban fantasy awaits one night only. Come and be transported back to a time of mystic and sensuality. Simple pleasures was the norm and gentle folks came together, dressed to the nines to enjoy the finest cigars, converse on socialist politics, Santería religion. Did we mention this edition of CONCORD is Cuban infused?
A little piece of Havana awaits you…… so leave your cares at home for just one night……Network while you indulge and delight all your senses. IF YOU ENJOY FINE SPIRITS COUPLED WITH AN AMAZING CIGAR, this is not to be missed. Come, sample various Cuban treats, some may be surprisingly new to you, And just when you think the night can’t get any better…
…A chilled presentation on the rocks done by none other than David Bailey focused on the appeal and brawn of Scotch & Whiskey, may just be your next best conversation starter…
(This Event is a Smoker & non Smoker friendly event, indoor & outdoor)
Dress code: Your best reincarnation of Cuban influence or Cocktail attire.
RSVP:concord.event@gmail.com
General entry & premium entry Available
1.5/hr. open whiskey pairing 8:30-10:00pm host of hors d’oeuvre & more
MORE DETAILS VIA FACEBOOK HERE.
PHOTOS FROM PREVIOUS CONCORD EVENTS
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August 23, 2012 — Habanos, S.A. is pleased to present this Volume of the“Colección Habanos 2011”, of which only 1000 numbered units were made and will be distributed exclusively in the franchise network “La Casa del Habano” worldwide.
It is a very special issue that celebrates the uninterrupted presence of Colección Habanos during ten years in all markets worldwide.
It has been called “Obras Completas” because it contains 30 Habanos: 3 vitolas of each one of the former editions. These were exclusive for each volume and most of them were unique into the brand. All of them have been made “Totalmente a mano con Tripa Larga”- Totally Handmade with Long Filler – by experienced Cuban cigar rollers with leaves coming from the best Vuelta Abajo(D.O.P. Protected Denomination of Origin) tobacco plantations in Pinar del Río(D.O.P) , Cuba. Those 10 special Habanos are:
Cuaba, Salomones (56 ring gauge x184 mm)
Salomones de Cuaba was the vitola selected for making up the first Volume of the Colección Habanos in 2001, of which only 300 units were made. It is a majestic “double-figurado” Habano.
Partagás, Serie C No1 (48 ring gauge x 170 mm)
In 2002, the Volume II of the Colección Habanos, of which only 300 units were made, was dedicated to the Partagás brand, particularly to its “Series” renowned and admired all over the world.
Hoyo de Monterrey, Extravaganza (50 ring gauge x 180 mm)
For the Volume III of the Colección Habanos 2003 only 500 units were made. It is a true exponent of the best characteristics of the Hoyo de Monterrey blend, created to satisfy the most demanding smokers who prefer the Habanos of elegant flavor and taste.
Romeo y Julieta, Fabulosos No 6 (52 ring gauge x 180 mm)
“Fabulosos No 6” is a vitola that was especially made for the Volume III of the Colección Habanos 2004, of which only 500 numbered units were made.
Montecristo, Maravillas No1 (55 ring gauge x 182 mm)
This majestic Montecristo vitola, probably Habanos’best-known brand, became part of the Colección Habanos. With this Volume V of the Colección, of which only 500 numbered units were made, we celebrated the70th anniversary of the brand in 2005.
Trinidad, Torre Iznaga (52 ring gauge x 170)
Volume VI of the Colección Habanos, of which only 500 numbered units were made, was a tribute to the Trinidad brand. The selected vitola, being of straight format with the classic a “pig tail”, stands out for maintaining the classic medium flavor of the Habanos that make up this brand aroma.
H.Upmann, Mágnum Especial (55 ring gauge x 170)
Mágnum Especial was the vitola selected for making up Volume VII of the Colección Habanos 2007 of which only 500 numbered units were made. It is a format containing the essential characteristics of the H. Upmann brand.
Cohíba, Sublimes Extra (54 ring gauge x 184 mm)
For the Volume VIII of the Colección Habanos 2008 the vitola Sublimes Extra from Cohiba was selected to honor its name. Its beauty is supported by these exceptional dimensions, as well as the balance of its unique blend. Because of the exceptional acceptance had in the different markets, the production of this Colección was extended for the first time to 1,000 numbered units.
San Cristóbal de La Habana, O´Reilly (56 ring gauge x 160 mm)
O’Reilly is the vitola that gave prestige to the Volume IX of the Colección Habanos 2009 of which 1000 numbered units were made. This format paid tribute to one of the streets of La Habana Vieja (Old Havana) and to the 10th anniversary of the creation of San Cristóbal de la Habana brand.
Bolívar, Gran Belicoso ( cepo 54 x 184 mm)
This impressive Bolívar vitola´s blend is a faithful expression of the Habanos preferred by those connoisseurs who like intense flavors. Gran Belicoso, a figurado format, highlighted the Volume X of the Colección Habanos 2010 of which 1000 numbered units were made.
Since 2001, Colección Habanos is one of the special series most awaited by Habanos enthusiasts, and perhaps the most expected product of every year by the most faithful consumers and passionate collectors of Habanos in the world.
We hope that this Colección Habanos “Obras Completas” will be the masterpiece enjoyed by the most faithful Habanos admirers.
Cigar Landing recently moved downtown to South Street Seaport in New York City’s Financial District. The website launch party and casino night featured a “pop-up” casino with poker and craps along with cigars and drinks (they have a BYOB policy). As part of casino night, customers could join in the games with $20, which included one cigar, and $1,000 in play chips. About thirty people attended the event filled with conversation and games.
The Cigar Landing is a great cigar lounge to stop and relax. The lounge is off the main walkway of South Street Seaport (located at 150 Beekman Street). Three people are responsible for Cigar Landing. Adam Lim and Andy Oh are the owners of the lounge. Hiram Ramirez is one of Cigar Landing’s managers, and was responsible for creating the lounge’s website. You can check out the website here.
The event was a success, so be sure to stop by Cigar Landing when you are near South Street Seaport.
