Good Life Diaries

Quesada 35th Anniversary Premiere @ Madison Avenue

Michael Herklots — 2009-07-05T12:29:00Z

For 35 years, the MATASA factory has made some of the finest cigars in the Dominican Republic. From their flagship "Fonseca" brand, to other well known favorites like Cubita, Casa Blanca, and several others... the name MATASA has always been synonymous with excellence. Manuel Quesada has been the force behind the MATASA factory. Now, his "young ones" are growing up, and becoming more and more involved. With the "young ones" come new ideas, new concepts, and finally new cigars. On June 29, 2009 the entire Quesada family came to New York to premiere their new brand, Quesada, and a commemorative cigar to celebrate and honor their father and uncle, Manolo.

Although it won't be available until late in the summer, about 80 lucky guests got to taste this new cigar, and I was one of them. Now, I'm a little biased since I had the pleasure of being part of the creative process from the beginning on this project, but to finally taste it finished, it its proper format was incredibly exciting... and no doubt once these cigars get the necessary age on them, they'll be showing beautifully.

At 6" x 49, this box pressed toro is "just right", allowing the nuances of the Ecuador-grown Arapiraca seed to shine without being too overwhelming. The binder and one leaf of filler is a relatively young tobacco from the 2008 crop, however it adds a bit of excitement and some up front spiciness that is certainly a departure from most of the cigars made by MATASA. Other ligeros from Dominican Republic and Nicaragua round out the blend.

It was really a special evening, perhaps the most moving when the "young ones" all spoke about the project, and how much it meant to them to create this cigar and honor a man who has meant so much to them.

Below are some highlights.

photos courtesy of http://www.darrylnitke.smugmug.com/events

Zino Platinum Red Carpet Event at Davidoff Madison Ave

Michael Herklots — 2009-06-26T14:51:00Z

Well, I think I'm going to have to let the pictures speak for themselves on this one, but what an incredible event! Charbay spirits were hand, Rothmann's Steakhouse provided some spectacular hors d'oeurves, we had some great raffle prizes from MI6 Academy, Clo Wine Bar, a trip to Turks and Caicos and a Zino Platinum Humidor.

And of course, Zino Platinum cigars were served all night.

If you're not being kept up to date with our events, be sure you're subscribed to our newsletter at http://www.davidoffnewyork.com/

...... That's all folks!!!!!!

Davidoff's "Evening of the Good Life" @ Bayards June 8, 2009 w/ Henke Kelner

Michael Herklots — 2009-06-12T11:49:00Z

Monday, June 8, 2009 was by all accounts an absolutely fabulous evening!!! Beginning at 6:00pm, Guests arrived at Bayard's in the famous India House in downtown Manhattan. The bar was open and cocktails were flowing. The Davidoff "Grande Reserve" humidor was fully stocked, and remained so throughout the evening allowing everyone to try as many cigars as they liked. Please note "Try"... no souvenirs were provided. :)

At 7:00pm we moved upstairs where the "great room" was set for dinner. Cigars were enjoyed throughout the meal! At the conclusion of the main course, we introduced Peter Banninger, President of Davidoff of Geneva, North America followed by our Master Blender from the Dominican Republic Hendrik "Henke" Kelner". Finally, the moment everyone was waiting for... the Davidoff Limited Edition 2009 "Toro Especial" was served.

The cigar is made in our factory in Villa Gonzalez, right outside Santiago, in the Dominican Republic. The filler tobaccos are all Dominican, 80% of which comes from the plants' higher leaves delivering more strength and flavor. The binder is also Dominican, and the wrapper is a Hybrid seed we developed using 3 different Cuban seeds, and grown in Ecuador.
The cigars are packaged in boxes of 10 and should be available later this summer.
I have to tell you- the cigar was really fabulous. A totally different direction from some of our more recent releases and limited editions. Full bodied, rich, earthy, and complex start to finish!

At the conclusion of dinner, guests purchased boxes and posed for pictures with Mr. Kelner and then retired to the "Blue Bar" to enjoy Davidoff Cognac and their new Limited Edition Cigar.

We were fortunate to have Photographer extraordinaire Darryl Nitke at the event covering it for us. Here are some of my favorite pictures... The FULL range of pictures can be viewed and purchased at Mr. Nitke's website. http://www.darrylnitke.smugmug.com/gallery/8509141_ZuAgu#560118079_WAPS8

AH.................... THE GOOD LIFE!

Camacho Dinner at Columbus Circle

Michael Herklots — 2009-06-03T07:08:00Z

Cigar Dinners are becoming more and more popular... and the concept of the "in-store" dinner is also gaining popularity around the country. Now I don't know for SURE, but I'm pretty damn sure we were among the very first to seat 50 people for dinner inside a cigar shop. It was with Ashton in early January of 2005... and Tony and Manny Ferraro of Ashton were on hand for it. In fact, they came by yesterday and we were reminiscing about that event and how far we've come since then!

Of course we always host big dinners... all the time. Whether in the Madison Avenue store, downtown at Bayard's (like we have coming up on the 8th of the month), at Rothmann's Steakhouse... one thing we know how to do is throw a big bash. But, at our Columbus Circle store, we've gone the other direction and embraced the idea of a more intimate event.

For our second "Columbus Circle Dinner", last night, we featured Camacho Cigars. We began in the store's lounge with a Camacho 10th Anniversary and Frederic Lornet Cremant du Jura Champagne (a very favorable combination, by the way). We're on the first floor of the Time Warner Center. SO, we made our way up to the fourth floor and were greeted by Porterhouse New York's GM David Kearns who led us to our monserous table in right in the middle of the dining room. Wines were poured including a Benessere Sangiovese from Napa Valley (that I happen to love). Dinner was extraordinary as always- the trophy being the Rib Steak prepared perfectly by Chef Extraordinaire Michael Lomonaco.

At the conclusion of dinner... guests were offered their choice of either a trip to the Emergency Room, or to return to the lounge for an incredible cookie assortment from Porterhouse, Ron Barcelo Imperial Rum, Louis Royer Cognac, and an assortment of Camacho Cigars. Each guest also received a Camacho Cigar Cutter by Xikar, T-Shirt, Cap and other fun Camacho goodies.

The event was a wonderful success and big thanks to Maria Martin from Camacho for being there!!!

There are lots of great events coming up... so I hope to see you at one of them. And if not at an event, at least in one of the stores!

Fifth Annual Birthday Party/Fundraiser raises more than $25,000 for Killingly High School's Learning for Life Fund!!!

Michael Herklots — 2009-05-07T08:38:00Z

I don't know where to begin. It was the fifth year for my annual Birthday Bash/Fundraiser for my old High School... and for the fifth year in a row, the incredible generosity of all my friends blows me away! The event was Monday, May 4, 2009, at The Carnegie Club in New York City to benefit Killingly High School’s Learning for Life Fund. A couple buddies from the Soprano’s cast, Tony Darrow and Arthur Nascarella stopped in to lend a hand, as well as entertainment reporter Bill McCuddy (formerly of Fox News).

We also had on hand visits from The CAO Boys (Huber, Kapp, Faccenda), the ENTIRE Quesada family (MATASA, Fonseca, Cubita, Casa Magna, etc...), CigarTV.com, Keith Park (Prometheus), Peter Banninger (President, Davidoff USA), Karen Lee and Jim Galle (S.T. Dupont), Savona, Mottola and Abrams from Cigar Aficionado, Roberta from Graycliff, the staff from BOTH Davidoff stores and the De La Concha folks... blah blah... the list goes on and on... and it was amazing!!!
We raised money though straight donations, as well as a KILLER raffle and an exciting live auction. All of the products in both the raffle and auction were generously donated!!!
Some of the Auction Highlights were a Cabinet of 50 2006 Davidoff 100th Anniversary Diademas ($3200), a ST Dupont 2008 Limited Edition Vendome Lighter with Ashtray ($2500), and a 2 day experience at Emeril Lagasse’s annual Carnivale du Vin Celebration in Las Vegas including dinner with Chef Lagasse himself ($5,000).
The party even got a mention in The New York Post’s “Page Six” on May 6. Check it out!!!

CIGAR CAUSE

This year brings the five year total amount raised for my dear old alma mater to over $70,000!!! I spoke with Robert Brennan, the coordinator of KHS' Career Pathways program and one incredible guy, yesterday and here's what he had to say!
"We are truly grateful to you, your business associates and friends for their passion, zest, and enthusiasm. Our students continue to reach new levels of career and technical competency. Approximately one year ago, 90 students participated in the Connecticut Career and Technical Education Testing. Killingly High School achieved 1st Place out of 15 high schools in our educational region. Our rank statewide was #11 out of 150 high schools.The scores are a direct result of our Career and Educational Teaching Staff and the monetary resources afforded through the LEARNING FOR LIFE FUND. There isn’t a day that goes by that one of our career pathways doesn't benefit from the funds your party raises each year.”

There's nothing like enjoying great cigars, and having a great time... but when you can raise money for a great cause and help people... it's even better!!!! I get to return to my hometown on May 19th to present and announce the total at the annual "End of Year Career Pathways Luncheon" at Quinnebaug Valley Community College located in Danielson, CT.
I'll keep you all posted! And thanks again!!!!!!

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING INDUSTRY DONORS (In no particular order): Miami Cigar, General Cigar, J Fuego, Alec Bradley, Altadis, Zino Platinum, Camacho, De La Concha, Max Benjamin, Ashton, Emeril Lagasse, Xikar, Prometheus, La Flor Dominicana, S.T. Dupont, Ghurka, Fuente, CAO, Graycliff, MATASA, S.A.G. Imports, Cigar Aficionado, Schrader Vineyards, Leroy Hendricks and MLB, Padron, Rebecca Moss, Pilot Pen/Namiki, Cipriani 55 Wall Street, Davidoff of Geneva, Falto, Kristoff, Mitchell Kogan, Drew Estate, Cusano, The Cigar Agency, 601, CigarTV.Com and anyone I missed!!!

Don Fernando Leon, Patriarch of the Leon Family, died.

Michael Herklots — 2009-04-30T07:56:00Z

Don Fernando Leon Asensio, patriarch of the Leon Family, died yesterday afternoon in Santiago, Dominican Republic. The Leon Family are the makers of La Aurora and Leon Jimenes Cigars as well owners of Presidente Beer and a number of other businesses. But, more importantly they're just wonderful people.

I've had the pleasure of spending time with Don Fernando on several occasions, both in New York and in the Dominican Republic.

I remember the first time I met him. Probably 2002 or 2003...

He walked into the Madison Avenue store wearing his classic green fedora w/ a feather in the band (first time I ever saw him) and he was smoking a Leon Jimenes cigar... corona shaped, but with a Cameroon wrapper. I asked if I could help him, having no idea who he was... and he asked "Do you sell this cigar?" I said "No, I'm sorry we don't". He looked surprised and said, "YOU DONT? I thought you carried Leon Jimenes!?" I said, "We do, but you asked if we sell THAT cigar.. and that one we don't sell." He asked "Why not?" I said, "well it looks like that wrapper is Cameroon, and we only sell Leon Jimenes with Connecticut and Maduro wrappers. I think what you're smoking is called a "Don Fernando" but it's not available for sale, it's only made for the Patriarch of the Leon Family (recalling the story from my sales rep). Out of curiosity, how'd you get it?"He smiled and said "I'm Fernando Leon". And we were friends ever since... and shortly after we began selling the Don Fernando as the La Aurora Choix Supreme in cab's of 50. SO... today, ... all the staff in both stores will be smoking the La Aurora Choix Supreme... in memory of the great Don Fernando.

click here for Dave Savona's article on Don Fernando at http://www.cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Features/CA_Feature_Basic_Template/0,2344,2743,00.html

Annual Birthday Party Fundraiser May 4, 2009

Michael Herklots — 2009-04-15T15:53:00Z

So, every year I host a big birthday bash with cigars, raffles, auctions, etc... to help raise money for my old high school. It's a small town public school that's funded by a very limited education budget financed by generous taxpayers on fixed incomes. This past year has been incredibly challenging for them to maintain programs, and even provide adequate resources like computers. They were only able to do so because of the funding my event generates.

The Killingly High School "Learning for Life" Fund directly supports the "Career Pathways" program and "School to Career" program that helps in the transition from high school to the next step in these young peoples' lives, whether further education or directly into a trade. http://www.killingly.k12.ct.us/index.php?show=KHS&sub=112&content=86999112

This is my FIFTH one of these!!! We started in 2005 raising $2,500, then about $5,000 in 2006, $8,000 in 2007 and last year just $32,500 thanks to the support of many manufacturers' and many guests' generous donations and participation.

This year's event is Monday May 4 at the Carnegie Club (Located at 156 W. 56th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues in Manhattan). Last year we had about 120 cigar smokers there, and it really was fabulous. Festivities begin at 6:00pmThere'll be raffles, auctions, great smokes and great company!!! There is no admission price however generous donations are requested!!!

Please feel free to pass along this invitation to any of your generous cigar smoking friends. It's a wonderful opportunity to have a really great time, and do something special for kids at the same time!!!

Here's some video footage from last year's event courtesy of CIGARTV.COM

http://www.viddler.com/explore/CigarTV/videos/388/

http://www.viddler.com/explore/CigarTV/videos/387/

http://www.viddler.com/explore/CigarTV/videos/384/

http://www.viddler.com/explore/CigarTV/videos/389/

After a long day...

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-23T08:29:00Z

So yesterday the Columbus Circle store was closed for the day to perform our annual Physical Inventory. (We were closed for an entire weekend at the Madison Avenue store earlier in the month for the same thing). It was a long long day of counting and recounting, organizing, stressing... but finally when it was all over everything came out ok.

As is tradition for us... after a big day, we all stick around to enjoy a celebratory cigar and beverage. Last night was no exception! I had a bottle of Chivas Regal 12 year old that I had received as a gift upon my original appointment to GM of the CC store back in May of 2006. We ran down to Whole Foods market for some Bubbly Waters and Crostini to munch on. I left the cigar selection to Kevin Threat, our Assistant Manager. "I got a taste for a Small Batch", Kevin said. Now, the Litto Gomez Small Batch is a monstrous cigar. This was the first "Small Batch", using only tobaccos from 2002. Currently on our shelves is the end of the "Small Batch No. 2's", and apparently the "Small Batch No. 3's" are in the works and on their way.

Anyway, we all fired up our well aged "Small Batch No. 1" and began chatting. From store issues to new products, to future events... it was a great meeting. But we kept becoming distracted by the cigars. They were incredible! What were once ferociously strong and aggressive, had become a bit more tame. It was balanced, and accessible though still wonderfully full bodied. David Alicea (one of our CC store salesmen) noted some definite chocolate notes. I thought it had a solid core of real "tobacco" flavors; spice, leather, earth... some dark woods, dark ripe fruit... it was a real treat to smoke this great cigar. We all came close to burning our fingertips and lips!!

But, what it reminded me is just how interesting it can be to age cigars. Of course cigars are manufactured to be enjoyed "immediately", meaning as an industry it's not as popular to age your cigars as a general practice the way it is in the Wine Industry for example. But, a well aged cigar can be such a pleasure to smoke. Aging allows the blend of the cigar to really marry, creating more synergy in the flavors and more complexity in the finish. Everything generally becomes "rounder". Mild cigars don't necessarily benefit from aging, but strong cigars certainly do, and the LG Small Batch- though it was certainly very good "new", was a shining example of how great aged cigars can be.

The bad news- they're gone.

The good news- the 3's are on their way!!!

Avo Uvezian's 83rd Birthday Party at Davidoff of Geneva, Madison Avenue

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-17T07:51:00Z

On Monday, March 16, 2009, over sixty cigar enthusiasts joined us at the Madison Avenue store to celebrate Avo Uvezian's 83rd Birthday. In his signature white Brioni Suit and straw hat, Avo was his gracious enthusiastic self, signing boxes of his brand new Avo Companeros and posing for pictures.
An incredible dinner was prepared and served by our dear friends and neighbors at Rothmann's Steakhouse and paired with wines selected by Andrew Bell, President of the American Sommelier Association.

This was the very first time the Avo Uvezian 2009 Limited Edition Companeros had been smoked by the general public. More details on the cigar are below!

Here are a few pics from the night:

The Tables are set...

Avo spending time with guests...

Eddy Simon (Avo Brand Manager), Avo Uvezian, Michael Herklots (General Manager, Davidoff New York City)

Joseph Bollo, Avo Uvezian, Ruth Bollo

Avo Uvezian and Paul Chapman

Ibrahim Amer (Davidoff @ Madison) and Elena Baenninger (Davidoff @ Madison)

Avo dining with guests

... And Dinner is served!

David Savona and Greg Mottola of Cigar Aficionado and guests

Nick Rufino (Rothmann's) and Andrew Bell (American Sommelier Association)

Kevin Threat (Assistant Manager, Davidoff @ Columbus Circle)

Michael Herklots, Geri Corrigan (Public Relations, Davidoff), and Kevin Threat

Robert Seise (Assistant Manager, Davidoff @ Madison Ave)

... And it's time for the speeches...

(charcoal and graphite on wood by Adrian Roman)

Adrian presented his portrait to Avo as a gift.

Avo addressed the audience, thanked them for all their support, and invited everyone back for all the future Birthday Party Celebrations. (He's planning through 99!!!)

Eric Flores (Sales, Davidoff @ Madison Ave)

Everyone left with gift bags filled with a box of the new 2009 Avo Companero and a gorgeous porcelain ashtray.

Avo Companeros

Size: 6" X 54

Packaging: Box of 10 cigars

Price: $160USD per box (plus applicable taxes)

Country of Origin: Domincian Republic

Every year since 2001, the AVO brand has released a limited edition cigar to commemorate Avo's birthday. The 2009 Companeros are made by Davidoff of Geneva in the Dominican Republic (as are all AVO cigars). The past two editions prior to this (Avo 2008 Tesoro and the 2007 LE-07) were much milder in comparison to this one. It's full bodied and rich offering flavors of spice and leather. There's a slight sweetness that to me sort of comes and goes throughout the cigar. But really, I think it's a fabulous smoke that can certainly be enjoyed now and will definitely change with addition aging.

La Flor Dominicana Salomon

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-10T12:24:00Z

I received these babies in several months ago... right around the holidays to be exact but I'm sorry to say I never smoked one. I've looked at them everyday, but just couldn't dedicate the time and attention I thought one of these La Flor Dominicana Salomon's deserved.

Well, today was the day. I walked into the Madison Avenue store, and straight into the humidor to grab one. It was dark, oily, and hefty!

I took off my coat, sat down at my desk and clipped the cap. It was packed with tobacco but drew with ease. The pre-light flavor indicated some seriously strong tobaccos. I was questioning my judgement for a moment. Perhaps this was not the best choice for my 9:00am cigar. But, I went for it any way. The first couple puffs were a bit tight, no surprise for this particular shape. The filler tobacco was expanding with the heat. But, a few more puffs opened the cigar up into its full format, and plumes of smoke were spilling out of my mouth.

The cigar began with some very bright flavors... but as it smoked down turned meaty and leathery... almost chewy in fact. About one third of the way down and two espressos, I realized that perhaps a little substance in my stomach was a good idea, so I ran out to the street vendor and grabbed a little something. Upon returning to my cigar, it was still lit and the aroma in my office when I returned was favorable but dense.

All in, it took about 2 hours to smoke (including quick breakfast break). It really was a fabulous cigar. Impressive. I'm looking forward to smoking it again soon... though perhaps later in the day after a meal.

The Perfect Holiday Smoke

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-07T18:23:00Z

5 January 2009

The Perfect Holiday Smoke…

You know, it seems every year I’m faced with the same problem. I go through my humidors looking for the perfect cigars to accompany me on my Christmas excursion. Carefully taking into consideration size and time commitment, as well as my cigar-smoking cousins who’ve never turned down a smoke from me since I’ve been in the business.

The first part of the trek was to the northeast corner of Connecticut, “The Quiet Corner” as it’s referred to. It’s where I grew up… and is about a three hour drive from New York City. Usually I love enjoying a cigar on the drive, but this time just wasn’t in the mood. It was bad weather, bad traffic, and I knew I’d just end up chomping on it to release my frustrations rather than actually enjoying it.

We (my girlfriend Tiffany, and I) spent the next 3 days in Connecticut with my family. I don’t think I ever appreciated the wrap around porch of our Victorian home until I began enjoying cigars. It’s perfect. However, the cold weather didn’t permit me to enjoy a cigar this time… My cousins and I did burn a quick La Flor Dominicana Carajo with them outside of my Grandfather’s condo which was a nice little break from the family celebrations.

Next was the trek North and West to the great city of Buffalo- Tiffany’s hometown. The next three days were to be spent up there. The weather was rainy, and traffic was again difficult… we had exhausted our ipod’s, and were still faced with about 400 miles of driving ahead of us. Finally Tiffany looked over and asked, “Wanna smoke a cigar?” “Eh.” I replied… “Well, I want to”. She said. I looked over and asked, “Really!?!” She said, “Yeah, I’m in the mood… what else are we gonna do?” With that, I went rummaging through my ‘man purse’ next to me and found a Davidoff Grand Cru No. 1 that I had packed. Since we were parked on I-90, I put down my window a touch and fired it up. I passed it to Tiffany for her to enjoy. She asked a few questions about it, and passed it back to me… it was just wonderful.

We eventually made it to Buffalo… and I didn’t end up having the opportunity to enjoy a cigar again until I made it back to New York and was in my store New Year’s eve… but the cigar I shared with Tiffany on that ride was just so perfect. It wasn’t a big fancy “trophy” cigar… and we weren’t sitting at the Grand Havana Room, with a nice glass of Cognac… There we were, bundled in my car wearing sweats, listening to NPR and enjoying a cigar together… and enjoying EACHOTHER! Sometimes those “perfect moments” just seem to happen… so for me… this was my Perfect Holiday Cigar!!

What was yours?

Recession Smoking

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-07T18:22:00Z

20 May 2008

I’ve been inundated with questions regarding the cigar business in today’s economy. Of course, cigars are one of those things that are considered an “extra” in many of our lifestyles; they’re not on the list of essentials like food, water and shelter (although for me, they’re somewhere between food and water).

I’ve heard people are “cutting back”, “tightening their belts” and waiting for things to “settle down”. I saw a customer last week that I haven’t seen in quite some time. When I asked where he’d been, he replied, “Ugh, I haven’t gotten out of office before 9pm for weeks.” Now, I am a believer in working hard, putting in the extra hours, and even burning the candle at both ends. But, I’m NOT a believer in not rewarding yourself for your hard work.

It’s times like these that make your “cigar time” even more important! A cigar demands time. It demands attention and relaxation. I’m not suggesting that you blow off a conference call and fire up a 2-hour double corona in the middle of the afternoon. I’m suggesting that just as you schedule lunch meetings and conference calls, schedule yourself 30 or 40 minutes for yourself to unwind, regroup, and enjoy a cigar. It’s theraputic, it’s meditational, it’s…. (gasp!) Good for you!?!?!

Here are some interesting little tidbits I found while “Google-ing” the word ‘stress’:

Up to 75 percent of all time lost in the workplace is stress-related

A 20-year study by the University of London found that unmanaged reactions to stress were a more dangerous risk factor for cancer and heart disease than either smoking or consuming high cholesterol foods.

Up to 90% of all visits to primary care physicians are for stress-related complaints.

75-90% of all visits to primary care physicians are for stress-related complaints or disorders

Nearly half of all American workers suffer from symptoms of burnout, a disabling reaction to stress on the job.

Job stress is estimated to cost U.S. Industry $300 billion annually, as assessed by absenteeism, diminished productivity, employee turnover, direct medical, legal and insurance fees, etc

So, just try to make a little time for you. Try it earlier in the day, or during lunch. Enjoy a cigar on your drive home- your time with a cigar is your time. And in these days of elevated stress, be sure to still make time to enjoy life, and celebrate life with a great cigar.

A Discussion with Jose Seijas

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-07T18:17:00Z

28 March 2008

So often when you think of cigar-men, you think of stocky guys in guyaberas standing in a field smelling tobacco leaves, their shirt pockets stuffed with freshly rolled puros for them to smoke all day. But there is a man who is quite different. Tall in stature and always impeccably dressed, Jose Seijas is a soft spoken gentlemen whose passion for making some of the most popular premium cigars on the market is incredibly evident, yet his demeanor is as subtle as the cocoa notes on the cigar that bears his name. I recently had a chance to chat with Jose Seijas upon my return from the first annual ProCigar Festival about some of the newest offerings coming out of his factory- ALTADIS’ Dominican Facility, Tabacalera de Garcia in La Romana.

MH: JOSE, THE PRO CIGAR FESTIVAL WAS SUCH A GREAT SUCCESS. WHAT DO YOU THINK NOW THAT THE FIRST ONE IS OVER WITH?
JS: I certainly appreciate your comments about the Festival. I think we owe a lot to Henke Kelner and Catherine Llibre and her team for all their dedication to make this event memorable. We all contributed to it, but it is fair to say that these two people took the Lion’s share of the work, and really ensured its success. Next year will be even better!
TELL ME A BIT ABOUT THE JOSE SEIJAS SIGNATURE SERIES CIGARS.
The Seijas Signature came out of an effort to evolve our blends towards fuller flavor cigars. We tried different types of tobaccos until we settled on a blend composed of Dominican, Nicaraguan and Peruvian fillers, a Dominican Olor binder and an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper.
IT STARTED JUST WITH ONE SIZE IF I RECALL, AND NOW THERE’RE SEVERAL FACINGS, RIGHT?
That’s correct. The Seijas Signature started with the Toro, 50 X 6 1/8 “ in 2003. The second year we added a Perfecto (48 x 6 ½” ) and a Robusto (52 x 5”). Right now the Seijas Signature Line has, in addition to the original three sizes, a Churchill (50 x 7”); a Belicoso (52 x 6 1/8”); and two more Figurados: the Short (46 x 4 ¼”) and the Figurado, (52 x 6 1/8”)
I THINK I’VE SMOKED ALMOST ALL OF THEM, AND IT’S INTERESTING TO ME HOW UNIQUE EACH CIGAR IS TO ANOTHER, EVEN THOUGH THEY’RE TECHNICALLY THE SAME BLEND.
Of course. The shape and size of the cigar changes the relationship of all of the tobaccos, and the tobacco composition can give you an idea of the blend’s complexity. We differentiate this blend more by choosing specific components from the raw material stock: for example, the Peruvian is from the third cut, the Dominican tobaccos are a combination of Piloto from La Canela plus a specially fermented Piloto from the top part of the plant. The Nicaraguan is Viso or Ligero. The Binder is actually Olor, but its characteristic aroma reminds the smoker of dark chocolate and other countryside aromas.
AND THIS TYPE OF FLAVOR AND EXPERIENCE IS WHAT YOU GENERALLY PREFER?
The Seijas Signature reflects my style of blending: full flavor with smoothness; the absence of vegetal flavors and high acidity; and the presence of sweet tones that are confirmed by an abundant salivation.
BESIDES THE GREAT FLAVOR, AESTHETICALLY THE CIGARS ARE GORGEOUS AS WELL.
Indeed, even while your smoking it. The Olor binder burns beautifully and the Seijas Signature ash is very white, contrasting with the natural dark color of the wrapper.
SO IT IS FOR SURE A WINNER IN YOUR BOOK?
So far, The Seijas have received very flattering reports and all my team is extremely satisfied with the results. The consistency of the Seijas Signature is remarkable, both from the stand point of performance and of course flavors and aromas. It is one of those cigars that gets better and better as you smoke it.
TELL ME ABOUT THE CONCEPT BEHIND THE NEW LIMITADA LINE OF CIGARS BY ALTADIS. WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL?
The Limitadas are another step in the direction of providing our customers with complex blends, this time playing with different proportions of Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers, wrapped in a sun grown Connecticut binder and topped with a beautiful Criollo ‘98 seed wrapper.
The Tobacco leaves are all selected from the best of our well aged inventory kept in our warehouses. The cigar makers devoted to these brands are among the best of Tabacalera de Garcia, and each cigar is inspected for draw and appearance in keeping with our factory’s quality control standards.
SO YOU’RE USING TOBACCOS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD TO MAKE THESE CIGARS, NOT JUST DOMINICAN?
Yes. In essence, the Limitadas represent the freedom of moving across borders to obtain the best tobaccos of each territory and blending them to provide a truly wonderful smoking experience to our customers.
WILL THESE BE A REGULARLY MANUFACTURED LINE OR ARE THEY A LIMITED EDITION?
The quantity is limited to 10,000 on each brand: Montecristo, Romeo and Julieta, H upmann and Trinidad.
AND IS IT ONE SHAPE PER BRAND?
The format for each brand are: Belicoso 52 x 61/8, a Churchill 54 x 7 for the Romeo y Julieta, a Toro 54 x 6 for Trinidad and a Robusto 52 x 5 for the H .Upmann
I CERTAINLY APPRECIATE YOUR TIME, JOSE, AS ALWAYS. HOPEFULLY WE CAN SMOKE ONE OF THESE TOGETHER SOON.
Either here in Dominican Republic or there in New York… I hope so too. Saludos.

ProCigar Festival 2008

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-06T12:30:00Z

19 February 2008

I just returned from a quick trip to the Dominican Republic. Within hours of my feet touching Dominican soil, I felt like I never left. I get to the Dominican Republic about four times a year, and every time is unique and special. This year I brought my girlfriend and two friends along with me- making it extra special.

Thursday, we spent the day at MATASA. Best known for making the Fonseca brand, MATASA makes some of my favorite cigars to smoke. From the airport, we went straight to one of MATASA’s storage facilities. Bails upon bails and Tercios upon Tercios were stacked- filled with tobaccos from years past that ensure MATASA’s ability to make incredible, consistent cigars, year after year. We proceeded to the factory in Santiago,where we walked through the factory looking at the various stages of making a premium cigar. From sorting, to stripping, to sorting some more… then making the bunch, applying the wrapper, forming the cap, and then aging. But of course it doesn’t stop there… MATASA has their own box factory as well.

On Friday we drove out to La Canela to see one of MATASA’s fields. I’ve been there many times before, but each year is always different as each crop is unique year after year. This year was incredibly healthy, with harvest well under way. “We only lost 30 or 40 plants” said Manuel Quesada, owner of MATASA, referring to the two major storms that pounded the Dominican Republic in late Fall. We walked in and out of curing barns where thousands of leaves had been strung and hung to begin the curing process- changing in color from bright green to brown. From here, they’ll head to the storage facility we visited the day prior to begin their long fermentation process before going to the storage facility for aging.

We then headed north, through the mountains and up to La Isabella, the place where Columbus first landed. A friend of mine has a wonderful beach house that he generously made available to us for the weekend where we enjoyed all the sun, Presidente beer, Brugal Extra Viejo Rum, and cigars we could before heading back to Santiago on Sunday for our Monday departure back to New York.

What’s always so impressive to me, and seems to be most impressive to folks on their first visit to a cigar factory is just how much is done by hand. In fact, EVERYTHING is done by hand. Seeds are planted by hand. Leaves are picked by hand and carried to the curing barn where they’re strung by hand and then hung by hand to cure. When that’s complete their then removed and stacked by hand on the ground of the barn until their bailed by hand and brought to a fermentation facility where they’re stacked by hand in pilons. No less than twice a day the core temperature of each fermenting stack is measured and each stack is rotated regularly by hand, bringing the inside tobacco to the outside, and the tops and bottoms to the middle, to ensure even fermentation. After months of fermentation, the tobacco is bailed by hand and brought to an aging facility. Once it’s time to use the tobacco, the bails are opened by hand, the leaves are sorted and re-moisturized, sorted, stripped and eventually rolled in a premium cigar. The cigars are inspected by hand, sorted by color- a band is then placed on each one by hand with the brand’s logo, and many are placed into cellophane sleeves- by hand. Then the cigars are sorted for color and boxed, each box sealed and labeled with all the necessary stickers for the importing country. It’s astonishing. It gives new meaning to the words “Hand Made”. Next time you reach for a cigar, before just cutting and lighting it- pay a little more attention to it, and appreciate just how much truly goes into making that Premium Hand-Rolled cigar!

New Year's Smoke 2008

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-06T12:28:00Z

2 January 2008

The celebration of a New Year is always filled for me with reflections over the past year and thoughts of the upcoming year. 2007 was a wonderful year for me. I traveled quite a bit- from the Tobacco Harvest in the Dominican Republic in February to the Grape Harvest in Napa Valley in September. Great cigars, wine, food and friendship were what helped make 2007 so special. And what better way to finish up a year than by embracing all of those great things together.

At 17 people strong, we held court at Rothmann’s Steakhouse in Midtown Manhattan for the ringing in of the new year. The food was outstanding as always! I brought along a few bottles of Vieux-OS 2005 Old Vine Charbono by Shrader Cellers (one of my favorite producers) to help wash down the Crab Cakes, Lobster Ravioli, and Porterhouse. Once the countdown was over and there were more streamers than vino in my wine glass, it was time to change venues. A remaining 6 of us, with a couple bottles of bubbly in tow- retreated nearby to a private little oasis where we would be permitted to smoke. Both ladies and gentlemen alike fired up Davidoff Classic No. 2’s and drank some wonderful Cava throughout the first 3 hours of 2008. We shared stories- some new and many old- laughed, and enjoyed the rare occasion of enjoying great cigars without interruption or complaint.

Now it’s back to reality. Alarm clocks, deadlines, month end, year end- but even with all the potential stresses and pressures, there is less of a sense of urgency as there was a few days ago… after all, we have a whole year left… what’s the rush? I’ll get it done… as soon as I’m done with my glass of Charbono and No. 2.

Happy New Year!

New Year's Smoke 2008

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-06T12:28:00Z

Dunhill Estupendos

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-06T12:27:00Z

3 December 2007

There’re tricks in every trade- but one thing cannot be faked, and that’s age. Whether it’s a good bottle of wine, a classic car or a great cigar, they all demand proper care, patience and a true love for them. Today I smoked a Dunhill Estupendos (7X47 tubos) from the mid 1980’s. Made entirely of Cuban tobacco, it has been among the most sought after cigars for collectors at auctions.

I never had the opportunity to taste what a Dunhill Estupendos tasted like when it was new, but having smoked this one with over 20 years of age… why turn back the hands of time? This cigar began slightly vegetal in character, with an herbal and tea-like quality. It slowly built in all aspects- strength, flavor, and aroma.

By the mid-point of this cigar a toasty, caramel-like flavor began to work its way into the profile. Hints of cedar and honey also became more apparent as I smoked more and more, but impressively the cigar never became hot or harsh.

The finish was long, and lingered after the cigar was extinguished but not in an unpleasant manner at all. It was a wonderful example of how age can benefit a cigar. Aging cigars helps to marry a blend, and really allow the tobacco to mellow. Though mild cigars generally do not age as well, especially long term, fuller bodied cigars age wonderfully as there is more potential for change and development over time.

Of course opportunities to smoke cigars with this much age come few and far between, but aging cigars yourself can become as a much a part of your cigar experience as actually smoking them. Active humidification systems ensure that the humidity remains stable and consistent. But you don’t have to sacrifice the aesthetic of a room to risk it looking more like a cigar store than an office or den. Companies like Filias Design (www.filiasdesign) can help create an appropriate humidor to work with your space and will perfectly store and age your most precious cigars.

Purchase cigars in boxes, and age them appropriately in your humidor. Mark on the box the date you received them, and keep a log of your experience with the cigar each time you smoke one to keep track of how the cigar is changing and whether that change is favorable or not. Then stock up, put them away, and enjoy the pleasures of smoking a fine aged cigar.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/39/Estupendos.jpg

Mystery Smokes

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-06T12:25:00Z

26 November 2007

Jose Blanco, marketing director for La Aurora, popped in to see me recently. I love this guy, I really do. He’s balls to the wall cigars. We smoked some La Aurora Excepcionales and drank espresso as we caught up on what was new. La Aurora recently moved their facility from Santiago to a much larger one in Guazumal, Dominican Republic. Just before he left, he reached into his pocket and pulled out two cigars and said, “smoke these when you have a minute.”

Well, it just so happened that I had a minute (and nothing to smoke), so I cut the beautiful little corona shaped cigar and dry smoked it for a bit. The draw was effortless. The earthy undertones and the wrapper’s spiciness were apparent without the use of flame. It lit easily and the flavorful smoke filled my mouth with each puff. A small blister began to form around the base of the ash. This is typically an indication of youth- and although common to see among many of today’s popular strong cigars, it’s rare to see it in something from La Aurora leading me to believe that this was a new project of some sort. The smoke felt almost velvety in my mouth and rich and complex flavors were beginning to develop. Though some seemed familiar, this was for sure a cigar I’d never smoked before.

I emailed Jose Blanco immediately to find out A) just what the hell was that, and B) how can I get more. In typical fashion he said A) oh just a little project, and B) you can’t. Pressing him for more information, he would only share that the filler and binder was in fact a cigar I had had the pleasure of smoking on several occaisions- the “Don Fernando” a Cameroon-wrapped corona only made for Don Fernando Leon, the patriarch of the Leon Family. The wrapper he was keeping secret.

Despite the mystery, it reminded me that just when you think all the bases are covered and you ask yourself over and over, how can we create new flavors in cigars- here was just one of an infinite number of examples of just that. There are a lot of cigars that I enjoy smoking on a regular basis, but there’s nothing like smoking something new and different. It’s like smoking your first cigar all over again… new, exciting, and inspirational to try more new and exciting things. Gracias, Jose!

The "Special Occasion"

Michael Herklots — 2009-03-06T12:23:00Z

2 November 2007

I woke up this morning earlier than normal and opted to drive into work rather than taking the subway. I dimpled my tie and walked over to the humidors to make my morning selection, but found myself at a loss. Not at a loss of cigars… but which cigar to smoke. As I moved cigars and boxes left and right, I saw a a box of Juan Lopez petit coronas from 2001- gifted to me from a good friend in Switzerland a couple years ago. It’s a trophy little stick with loads of flavor. I was conflicted whether to sacrifice one to my morning commute when it me. I’ve got lots of cigars… many of which I hold on to for “a special occasion”. But, I’ve had countless special occasions since I’ve received these cigars and never once had I gone for one since I’d received them. So I decided to make my commute that special occasion. I cut the cigar and lit it in my apartment, just to enjoy the aroma for a moment. Then I was off. As I neared the foot of the bridge, I found myself less agitated at the parade of brake lights ahead. As I blew the smoke up into my sunroof, I paused to allow a cab in from the right (instead of him just cutting me off). As I was approaching my greenlight at 3rd Avenue, I slowed to the crossing pedestrians (I DID have the right of way, by the way) and stopped short about 10 feet enjoy the rich spiciness that had overwhelmed the flavor of this cigar. I double parked outside the garage for another twenty minutes, listened to the news, watched my fellow New Yorkers rush about, as I sat reclined at the wheel enjoying the last inch of this most wonderful cigar. It’s important to appreciate life’s precious moments, but its equally and perhaps even more important to simply appreciate how precious life is and enjoy every moment…