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TAMPA BAY TIMES: First look at the restaurant coming to Ybor’s renovated Sanchez y Haya building

2026-09-03T18:44:04.877-04:00

By: Helen Freund

Times Food and Dining Critic

It’s a sweltering, mid-July day in Ybor City, and Drew Newman is visibly excited — elated, even.

The great-grandson of J.C. Newman Cigar Co. founder Julius Caesar Newman is showing us around his latest project: an ambitious renovation of the 116-year-old Sanchez y Haya building.

We tread through dirt, tuck beneath scaffolding and plastic sheeting, and climb up unfinished stairs and past exposed concrete beams. We are all sweating profusely, but it’s hard to not get caught up in the excitement: Newman’s enthusiasm is contagious.

In just a few months, the roughly $20 million project will wrap, and Newman will debut what has been a years-long, painstakingly laborious endeavor. Nate Siegel, a co-owner of the Tampa restaurant Willa’s and proprietor of St. Petersburg seafood spot Cheeky’s, is consulting on the project. Together, the duo took the Tampa Bay Times on an exclusive tour of the two-story building, currently an active construction site but the future home of a classic American restaurant, a swanky cigar lounge and a boutique hotel.

Here’s everything to know about what’s in store.

The history

Across the street, inside the historic brick El Reloj building, is the J.C. Newman Cigar Co.’s cigar-making factory and museum — the last traditional cigar factory in the country. Like the Sanchez y Haya building, El Reloj, with its iconic 100-foot clock tower, was built in 1910. At the time, it was one of Tampa’s 150 cigar factories. The Sanchez y Haya building, at 1601 E Columbus Drive, was constructed to serve the cigar workers at the factory as well as neighbors and visitors to the area. While it initially had a restaurant and lounge on the first floor and a hotel on the second floor, over the years the building’s colorful history has included a grocery store, distillery, coffee mill, knitting shop and Prohibition-era speakeasy. At the end of its tenure, the building housed the Chip-In, a notorious dive bar that shuttered in the 1990s, after which the dilapidated building sat vacant for decades.

Newman’s family purchased the Sanchez y Haya building in August 2020 for $650,000. Newman, the fourth-generation owner of J.C. Newman Cigar Co., said the building was barely standing at the time.

“For years we would watch from our cigar factory as potential buyers would visit the building hoping to redevelop it but ultimately walk away after seeing its condition,” Newman said. “We realized that if we didn’t try to save this building no one else would, and we didn’t want to lose this piece of Tampa’s history.”

Rehabbing and renovating has been an extremely timely and costly endeavor, tallying around $20 million in total, Newman said. His team has received assistance from a variety of sources, including the East Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency, which invested $5 million; a $600,000 grant from Hillsborough County and $2.3 million from the National Park Service.

Part of the National Historic Landmark District, it was the first building in the city of Tampa to be built out of reinforced concrete. Since 2023, the team has been working to manually restore beams, ceilings, columns and has used more than 1,400 bags of concrete to patch the building’s original frame. There have been other hurdles, including a colony of roughly 5,000 bats that had to be relocated (they now live in architecturally recreated bat hives across the street).

“Our part of the historic district has always been forgotten,” Newman said, adding that he hopes this project will act as an anchor to “attract further preservation and development” in the neighborhood.

“We’re not restoring the building to flip it and sell it,” he said.

The restaurant and cigar lounge

Newman said he drew inspiration from other destinations catering to niche food and beverage experiences, like the wine-producing region of Napa and the Kentucky Bourbon trail — both of which draw connoisseurs from all over the world. He thought: “Why not build that for cigars?”

He hopes the success of his neighboring cigar factory — which last year clocked 25,000 visitors — is an indicator that tourists and locals will find something to love in his new endeavor.

Just like the original building, the renovated Sanchez y Haya space will have three entrances and three different businesses under one roof: Elaine’s, a contemporary American restaurant, and the cigar lounge Stanford Cigar Club, on the first floor; and an 11-room boutique hotel — The Inn at The Reloj — on the second.

To help design and curate the space, Newman approached Siegel, after the opening of Willa’s. But getting Siegel on board wasn’t easy, he said: It took roughly two years for him to agree to the project, because at first he thought it was “a crazy idea.” “But I finally broke him down,” Newman said.

Siegel, who has been working alongside Newman for the past two years, said he was drawn to the project because of the building’s location and deep cultural and historical significance.

“This is a mecca for cigar smokers and also history lovers,” Siegel said.

Elaine’s is named after Newman’s grandmother, Elaine Newman, and is an homage to both her cooking as well as his grandparents’ hospitality and role as “consummate hosts.”

Newman recalled how his grandmother, who learned to cook during trips to Paris and was the director of community relations for the department store Maas Brothers, was always welcoming people into their home, where his grandfather would make cocktails while she prepared a meal.

To design the space, the team poured over archival photographs of the original building, incorporating elements that nod to its former life, including the original bar. The restaurant will seat roughly 100 people inside and include a separate private dining area, a 12-seat bar and additional patio seating.

The restaurant’s street-facing doors are bright red, a nod to Elaine Newman’s penchant for all things “fire engine red,” her grandson said, including her shoes, clothes and car.

There will also be an homage to a relic of another long-lost Ybor institution: The “power table” in the corner of La Tropicana Cuban Cafe, which was reserved for Roland Manteiga, the longtime editor of La Gaceta. A corner of Elaine’s will house the table with a reserved sign along with a replica of the iconic red phone, which sat on the carved wooden table and was used to alert reporters of breaking news (or gossip). Old photographs taken from newspaper archives will decorate the walls, offering diners a glimpse of the “movers and shakers” who once held court there.

The menu at Elaine’s is still being designed, Siegel said, but he described the theme as “classic American with continental influences,” and said guests can expect a raw bar selection and prime steaks among other dishes that evoke nostalgia. Some will be culled directly from Elaine Newman’s salvaged recipes. In a nod to the neighborhood’s roots, Siegel said there will be Spanish, Cuban and Italian influences, including a Cuban sandwich, rice and beans, and a roasted pork or chicken. In overall decor and theme, Siegel said Elaine’s will evoke the “Great American Brasserie,” a place where white tablecloths and professional service will set the scene for a casual breakfast and lunch spot and a more elegant and refined dinner experience. “I want it to be nice,” Newman said. “I always want it to be accessible. It can’t feel elitist or snooty.” Inside Stanford’s Cigar Club, which is named for Newman’s grandfather, floor-to-ceiling windows will look out on Columbus Avenue, and guests will be greeted by a long, wraparound bar to their right when they enter. Siegel said the lounge will feature a humidor showcasing a large variety of J.C. Newman cigars, a shaded patio outside and cozy booths for lounging. He described the space as “casual, with fine dining details,” and said he imagines the space as a place that’s swanky but not exclusive — no private membership required, he said.

The bar menu will focus on brown spirits with an emphasis on barrel-aged whiskeys, and will include a full cocktail program, wine list and a small food menu.

Altogether, Siegel said he hopes to employ roughly 75 people and said that interviews for an executive chef and other members of the spot’s executive team are already underway. It will help, he hopes, that the restaurant is offering a full benefits package to all employees — hourly and salaried — including a 401K and parental leave (a rarity in the current restaurant landscape).

Siegel’s role as a principal consultant on the project means he won’t stay forever, but he plans to stick around at least the first few months until Newman’s team is ready to take the reins.

The hotel

Upstairs, The Inn at El Reloj will feature 11 rooms in a boutique setting. Both Siegel and Newman emphasized that the project is a restaurant with a hotel, not a hotel with a restaurant (they referenced the building’s boarding house days and said they chose to run the spot independently rather than partner with an outside management company).

Nine of the rooms are a standard 300 square feet while two larger suites are roughly 850 square feet. A breezeway in the middle was once occupied by a “jungle” of plants before renovation, Newman said, and will be reimagined as a landscaped “sky garden.” There’s also a long wraparound porch that will be exclusive to hotel guests.

The timeline

Newman said they are shooting for a fall opening and hope to be fully operational by Thanksgiving. At Elaine’s, Siegel said they will first launch with breakfast and lunch service and then eventually add dinner. Once fully open, Elaine’s, Stanford’s Cigar Club and the Inn at El Reloj will be open seven days a week. “Our hope is that the building will look and feel just like it did in the early 1900s,” Newman said.

PLASENCIA CIGARS HONORS 160 YEARS OF TOBACCO GROWING WITH THE NEXT CHAPTER OF ITS BRAND EVOLUTION: "BORN OF THIS LAND""

2026-09-03T18:30:39.004-04:00

Plasencia Cigars, a world-renowned premium tobacco grower and maker of award-winning cigars with a tobacco tradition since 1865, today unveils Born of This Land, the next chapter in the company's brand evolution as it honors 160 years of growing tobacco. Inspired by this historic milestone, the campaign builds upon Plasencia's recently introduced evolved brand identity, new logo, and redesigned packaging, continuing the company's journey to more authentically express the people, philosophy, and agricultural heritage that have defined the Plasencia family for five generations.

For 160 years, the Plasencia family believed that extraordinary cigars begin long before they are rolled. They begin in the soil, in the care given to every tobacco plant, and in the generations of men and women whose experience, patience, and dedication transform nature into one of the world's most respected premium cigars.

“One hundred and sixty years is far more than a milestone for our family; it represents five generations of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering respect for the land that has sustained us since 1865,” said Néstor Andrés Plasencia, a fifth-generation member of the Plasencia family. “Each generation has inherited the responsibility to leave the land better than we found it and to pass our knowledge, the language of tobacco, to the next. For me, what we do has always been about lighting up people’s souls. Born of This Land honors the people, the knowledge, and the land that make that possible.

While Plasencia's evolved visual identity and redesigned packaging introduced a refined expression of the brand, Born of This Land gives that philosophy its most human expression yet. The campaign features field supervisors, agricultural engineers, crew leaders, fermentation specialists, quality experts, and master craftsmen whose knowledge and skill shape every Plasencia cigar. Featured by name, role, and personal story, they represent generations of knowledge carried through every step of the process, from soil to smoke.

“Our vision is for the land to become an even more defining part of how people understand Plasencia,” said Ed Bello, Chief Executive Officer of Plasencia Cigars. “Terroir is not simply where our tobacco is grown; it is the relationship between the soil, climate, people and generations of knowledge that ultimately shapes what you experience in the cigar. Born of This Land gives us a platform to tell that story with greater clarity and to place origin at the center of how Plasencia expresses itself to the world.”

Born of This Land will launch across print, digital, retail, and experiential platforms, extending Plasencia's evolved identity through a unified expression of the company's enduring respect for the land, its people, and the generations of knowledge that have sustained the family since 1865.

HOYO DE MONTERREY UNVEILS NEW CIGAR, LE HOYO, IN NEW LEGENDS SAMPLER

2026-09-01T17:43:59.552-04:00

Hoyo de Monterrey is offering fans an exclusive chance to try its latest cigar months before its full launch. The new cigar, Le Hoyo, is only available within the Hoyo New Legends Sampler.

Each pre-humidified sampler pack includes four Toro (6 X 52) cigars: Hoyo de Monterrey Rojo, Oscuro, and Shade, in addition to the new offering, Le Hoyo.

Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo features a Honduras OSA wrapper, a US Broadleaf binder, and Dominican Piloto, Nicaraguan Estelí, Honduran La Entrada Corojo 2012, and Honduran Jamastran Broadleaf fillers. While it will eventually be available in three frontmarks (Rothschild 4.5 X 50, Toro 6 X 52, and Gigante 6 X 60), it is currently only available as a Toro within the New Legends Sampler. Le Hoyo was made by the top rollers at the HATSA Factory in Honduras.

Scott Abney, Brand Manager for Hoyo de Monterrey, said, “The New Legends pack puts the best of our brand on offer for our fans. We wanted to give them the opportunity to try Le Hoyo here first alongside three classic Honduran cigars. Not only are each of the cigars incredible on their own, but together they represent different elements of the legendary Hoyo story.”

SRP for the Hoyo New Legends Pack is $27.59. It will ship to retailers in September 2026.

MIAMI CIGAR & CO. NOW SHIPPING OUTCAST TINS AND TORO HUMIBAGS TO RETAILERS NATIONWIDE

2026-09-01T13:09:33.681-04:00

Miami Cigar & Co. announces that Outcast Tins and Outcast Toro Humibags, the newest extensions of the Outcast Cigars line, are now shipping to premium cigar retailers nationwide.

Originally introduced at the 2026 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show in New Orleans, the new Outcast formats generated strong interest from retailers looking for more flexible, modern ways to offer the brand. Both products are now arriving at tobacconists across the country.

Outcast crafts blends using rare and unconventional tobaccos, each cigar designed to challenge tradition and redefine expectations. Featuring a standout Brazilian Cubra wrapper, Black Cavendish tobacco, and a philosophy rooted in fearless self-expression; Outcast Cigars invites smokers to make a statement with every draw.

Outcast Tins contain 10 cigarillos (4 x 30), offering a shorter, more accessible option without changing the core profile that defines the brand. With an MSRP of $24.99 per tin, the format provides an approachable entry point for consumers while creating new opportunities for retailers.

Outcast Toro Humibags includes four full-size Toro cigars (5.5 x 54) in a humidified bag, delivering the same Outcast blend in a format that’s ready when you are—no humidor, no planning, no extra steps. With an MSRP of $39.99 per bag, the Humibag offers a straightforward way to enjoy a full-size cigar without the usual setup.

“Outcast was never about fitting into what a cigar is supposed to be,” said Jason Wood. “These formats are a natural extension of that—same cigar, just built for how people live and smoke today. Whether you want a shorter smoke or a full-size Toro ready to go, it’s about making Outcast easier to enjoy.”

Since its debut, Outcast has been about carving its own lane—less about rules, more about individuality. The addition of Tins and Toro Humibags reinforces that mindset while giving retailers two distinct formats designed for different smoking occasions.

Outcast Tins and Toro Humibags are now shipping to premium cigar retailers nationwide.

Product Details

Outcast Tins

Format: 4 x 30 cigarillos
Packaging: 10 cigars per tin
Blend: Same as core Outcast Cigars line
MSRP: $24.99 per tin

Outcast Toro Humibags

Vitola: 5.5 x 54 Toro
Packaging: 4 cigars per humidified bag
Blend: Same as core Outcast Cigars line
MSRP: $39.99 per bag

THE GHOST WITH THE MOST RETURNS: ALEC BRADLEY FILTHY GHOOLIGAN

2026-08-31T16:16:22.852-04:00

Alec Bradley is resurrecting a spectral classic for spooky season. Black Market Filthy Ghooligan, an annual limited-edition from the brand, is set to return to shelves (and haunt humidors) this September.

The Halloween-themed cousin to the popular Black Market Filthy Hooligan, Filthy Ghooligan is a barber pole featuring seven different tobaccos. Its wrappers are Ecuadorian Habano and US Broadleaf; its binder is Indonesian Besuki; and its fillers are Jalapa, Estelí, and Condega from Nicaragua alongside Dominican Piloto. It was produced in Honduras.

Like previous Filthy Ghooligan releases, it will be available in a single size: a 6 X 50 Toro.

Bradley Rubin, Alec Bradley Brand Ambassador, said, “Filthy Ghooligan has become one of the many beloved Alec Bradley traditions. Not only is it innovative and eye-catching, but it’s a cigar of excellent quality and construction. Consider this a treat — instead of a trick — for your Halloween festivities.”

Production of Filthy Ghooligan is capped at 1,950 boxes, each containing 24 cigars. SRP per cigar is $14.49. It will begin shipping in September 2026.

DON EMMANUEL CIGARS CONTINUES INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION WITH ENTRY INTO PARAGUAY

2026-08-31T10:19:53.540-04:00

Don Emmanuel Cigars announces its expansion into Paraguay, continuing the brand's growing international presence and marking another important step in its development throughout Latin America.

Don Emmanuel Cigars will be represented in Paraguay by Amilkar Pérez, with the brand currently available at Exclusive Cigars. The expansion introduces Paraguayan cigar enthusiasts to Don Emmanuel's distinctive approach to premium cigars, which combines the perspective of a Master Cigar Sommelier with the blending expertise of legendary Master Blender Eladio Díaz.

"Latin America is an important part of our continued international growth, and we are very excited to bring Don Emmanuel Cigars to Paraguay," said Emmanuel, Co-Founder and Creator. "For us, entering a new market is much more than simply making our cigars available. It is about finding the right people who understand our philosophy, can tell our story, and share our passion for cigar culture. We look forward to building that connection with cigar enthusiasts in Paraguay."

The Paraguay expansion follows Don Emmanuel Cigars' continued growth across Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa, as the brand steadily expands its international footprint through carefully selected partners and premium cigar destinations.

At the center of the Don Emmanuel portfolio are Anunnaki and the limited-edition Sun & Moon, both co-blended by Don Emmanuel and Master Blender Eladio Díaz at Tabacalera Díaz Cabrera in the Dominican Republic. Both projects reflect Emmanuel's distinctive sommelier perspective, combining exceptional tobacco, balance and complexity with the mythology and cosmic inspiration that define the Don Emmanuel brand.

Altadis U.S.A. Introduces Exclusive ‘Golden Four Event-Only Cigar Assortment’

2026-08-31T09:52:22.692-04:00

Altadis U.S.A., the maker of some of the world’s most legendary cigar brands, proudly introduces the Golden Four Event-Only Cigar Assortment, a limited-edition collection that will be available exclusively at select premier events nationwide.

Each Golden Four Tin features four unreleased cigars with exclusive tobaccos carefully chosen from one of Altadis’ renowned cedar rooms. Inside the Golden Four tin, aficionados will discover one cigar from Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, H. Upmann, and Aging Room—four iconic brands brought together in a rare collector’s format.

This debut assortment represents the first batch in an ongoing series that will showcase new, unreleased blends, offering aficionados the opportunity to try special blends only available if they attend select events nationwide. The Golden Four will not be available for retail purchase or individual sale, reinforcing its position as a true event-only exclusive.

“The Golden Four assortment is for the true cigar lover—for the ones who chase what’s rare and undiscovered,” said Gabe Diaz, brand manager for Altadis U.S.A. “We’ve opened the doors to our cedar rooms and pulled unreleased cigars from four of our most iconic brands, giving aficionados a taste of something they can’t find anywhere else.”

The Golden Four Event Only Cigar Assortment will be presented at events across the country starting in September, marking the launch of a collectible series destined to become a coveted keepsake for cigar lovers worldwide.

M by Macanudo Myers’s Rum™ (5 x 50)

2026-08-30T17:34:07.289-04:00

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by General Cigar)

Macanudo is expanding its M by Macanudo lineup with M by Macanudo Myers’s Rum™, a flavor-infused cigar made in partnership with the iconic Jamaican rum brand of the same name.

The collaboration reflects the shared Jamaican heritage of both brands. Macanudo’s early cigars were crafted in Kingston, Jamaica, while Myers’s Rum built its legacy on the island’s rich rum-making tradition. This connection makes the partnership a natural fit, bringing together two brands with roots in Jamaica to create a cigar that captures the spirit of the island.

"Myers’s Rum is one of the most recognizable names associated with Jamaica, and its rich flavor profile made it a natural inspiration for this release,” said Matt Wilson, Senior Brand Manager for Macanudo. “With M by Macanudo Myers’s Rum, we wanted to create a cigar that celebrates the shared heritage of both brands while delivering a smooth and flavorful smoking experience.”

This marks the seventh cigar in the M by Macanudo lineup, which was created to elevate the flavored cigar category by combining premium tobacco blends with carefully crafted flavor infusions. The series offers a range of flavor-forward cigars designed to appeal to both seasoned cigar enthusiasts and those exploring infused cigars for the first time.

Handcrafted at General Cigar Dominicana, M by Macanudo Myers’s Rum™ features an Indonesian wrapper along with a Dominican binder and filler blend.

The cigar is available in a Robusto (5 x 50) format and will begin shipping to retailers in late April. Suggested retail price is $9.89 per cigar.

The cigar looks nice and has an average feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up, which take about 4 to 4 1/2 minutes to settle down, were cocoa, whipping cream, and black cherry. There was black pepper rated at 7 to 7 1/2. Nice start.

At the first third (18 minutes) I got a lot of the black cherry note. It's tangy and sweet. There's also whipping cream and black coffee. I didn't have the cocoa any longer. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is black cherry with good lingering black pepper. I rated the first third 93.

Moving through the second third (40 minutes) nothing changed. I had the same notes, same strength, same finish. This cigar seems to be very consistent. I held the score of 93.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 2 minutes. Again, I think nothing changed. This cigar, once it settles down, stays consistent with the primary black cherry notes, cream, and black coffee. I held the score of 93. If you like black cherry like I do you might give this one a try.

Overall Score: 93

Big Payback Extra Fuerte 70s (7 x 70)

2026-08-29T17:39:47.654-04:00

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by General Cigar)

Room101 Cigars is adding a new chapter to The Big Payback with the introduction of Big Payback Extra Fuerte 70s, a full-bodied release built for smokers who prefer their cigars with a little more diameter and a little more attitude.

A new offering in the highly popular 70 ring gauge format, Big Payback Extra Fuerte 70s delivers the scale the line is known for with a bolder profile to match. Handcrafted in Honduras, the blend features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, Nicaraguan Estelí binder, and a mix of Honduran, Nicaraguan, and Dominican fillers. The result is a premium cigar at an accessible price point, staying true to the Payback mission of delivering more cigar for the money.

Matt Booth, Founder and Creative Director of Room101 Cigars, eloquently said: “SO. MUCH. GIRTH. So much circumference. So much delight.”

Big Payback Extra Fuerte 70s will begin shipping to retailers in April 2026. It will be available in a 7 x 70 size, packed in 20-count boxes, with an SRP of $9.79 per cigar.

The cigar is huge and dark. It has a hefty feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up were dried apricot, light brown sugar, tanned leather, and black coffee. The cigar is tangy. There was black pepper rated at 7. Pretty good start.

At the first third (40 minutes) I had the same notes but the black coffee is making a move. You get the sweet notes and then, as if it was hiding in the bushes, the black coffee takes over. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish has a little residue of apricot and light to average lingering black pepper. The notes in the cigar are ok but the black coffee jumping in trying to take over is concerning. I rated the first third 91.

As I moved through the second third (1 hour 26 minutes) the apricot notes are quite light and there's bitterness. The black coffee is up. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. The light sweet notes of apricot combined with the added bitterness and elevated black coffee made for a disappointing second third. I rated the second third 87.

The cigar lasted 2 hour 36 minutes. The burn really slowed down in the final third. The cigar burned very evenly until the final third. I thought the cigar was the best in the final third. The apricot notes were pronounced and the black coffee pulled back to a nice amount. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is apricot with very good lingering black pepper. I rated the final third 92. You get a tremendous burn time with this cigar and the notes are pretty nice for the most part.

Overall Score: 90

Powstanie Cigars Begins Shipping the Limited-Edition SBC 26

2026-08-28T15:17:56.157-04:00

Powstanie Cigars is pleased to announce that the highly anticipated Powstanie SBC 26 is now shipping to authorized retailers.

The SBC 26 is the latest release in Powstanie’s Small Batch Collection and represents Brother Gregg’s passion project—a carefully developed cigar featuring an intricate blend of tobaccos sourced from Ecuador, Mexico, Brazil, the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua.

Produced at Fábrica de Tabacos NicaSueño S.A., the Nicaraguan factory responsible for manufacturing Powstanie Cigars, the SBC 26 was developed with extensive attention to tobacco selection and balance.

The cigar features a distinctive barber-pole wrapper combining Ecuadorian Sumatra-seed tobacco with Mexican San Andrés tobacco. Beneath the wrapper is a Brazilian Mata Fina binder.

The filler consists of four carefully selected tobaccos. A Dominican Piloto Mejorado ligero is joined by three Nicaraguan components: Condega tobacco, Estelí viso and Pueblo Nuevo ligero from the 2021 crop.

“Every SBC release gives us the opportunity to do something special, but the SBC 26 is particularly meaningful because it is Brother Gregg’s passion project,” said Mike Palmer, National Sales Manager for Powstanie Cigars. “The amount of thought, detail and tobacco knowledge that went into this blend is incredible. We’re excited to finally begin shipping it and put it into the hands of retailers and cigar smokers.”

Powstanie co-founder Mike Szczepankiewicz added his own expectations for the release, along with a good-natured message for halfwheel co-founder Charlie Minato:

“Gregg put everything he had into developing the SBC 26, and the cigar speaks for itself. Charlie Minato, I know you have your rating system, but this one had better score higher than an 81. No pressure, Charlie—but we’ll be watching.”

Powstanie SBC 26 Blend

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra-seed and Mexican San Andrés

Binder: Brazilian Mata Fina

Filler: Dominican Piloto Mejorado Ligero and Nicaraguan tobaccos from Condega, Estelí and Pueblo Nuevo

Size: 5 1/2 x 46

MSRP: $18 per cigar

Packaging: Boxes of 20

Box MSRP: $360

Production: 500 boxes

Total Production: 10,000 cigars

The Powstanie SBC 26 is a limited-production release and is shipping now to authorized Powstanie retailers across the United States.

DON EMMANUEL CIGARS CONTINUES GLOBAL EXPANSION WITH ENTRY INTO OMAN

2026-08-27T11:35:46.869-04:00

On the heels of Anunnaki Anu being named to Robb Report’s prestigious 2026 Best of the Best and Anunnaki being selected as a finalist for Best Dominican Cigar of 2026 at the Cigar Journal Cigar Trophy Awards, Don Emmanuel Cigars announces its expansion into Oman, marking another important step in the brand’s rapidly growing international presence and continued development in the Middle East.

Don Emmanuel Cigars will be represented in Oman by Ashish Chaturvedi, with the brand available at Puro Cigar Lounge. The expansion introduces cigar enthusiasts in Oman to Don Emmanuel's distinctive approach to premium cigars, which combines the perspective of a Master Cigar Sommelier with the blending expertise of legendary Master Blender Eladio Díaz.

"The Middle East has a sophisticated and passionate cigar culture, and we are very excited to bring Don Emmanuel Cigars to Oman," said Emmanuel, Co-Founder and Creator. "As we continue to grow internationally, it is important for us to work with people who understand our philosophy, believe in what we are creating and can share our story with cigar enthusiasts in their market. We are very excited to begin this new chapter in Oman."

The Oman expansion follows Don Emmanuel Cigars' continued growth across Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa, further strengthening the brand's international footprint as it enters strategic cigar markets around the world.

At the center of the Don Emmanuel portfolio are Anunnaki and the limited-edition Sun & Moon, both co-blended by Don Emmanuel and Master Blender Eladio Díaz at Tabacalera Díaz Cabrera in the Dominican Republic. Both projects reflect Emmanuel's distinctive sommelier perspective, combining exceptional tobaccos, balance and complexity with the mythology and cosmic inspiration that define the Don Emmanuel brand.

The expansion into Oman represents another step in Don Emmanuel Cigars' broader strategy of entering new markets while maintaining a strong emphasis on relationships, education and support for the retailers and partners representing the brand.

LA Cigar Collective releases “Le Flambeaux”

2026-08-26T13:29:04.737-04:00

LA Cigar Collective’s third exclusive blend pairs New Orleans tradition with an unexpected full-bodied expression from Kelner Cigars.

METAIRIE, LA -Some cigars tell stories. Some are born from tradition. Others from innovation.

Le Flambeaux began with a challenge.

For its third exclusive cigar, LA Cigar Collective (LACC) turned to Klaas Kelner of Kelner Family Cigars with a specific request: create a cigar that pushes beyond the strength profile smokers might traditionally associate with a Kelner blend while preserving the complexity, balance, and refinement that have defined his work.

The challenge from LACC was simple:

“Build us a cigar that’s full-bodied. Push beyond the strength profile people expect from a Kelner blend without sacrificing the complexity and balance that define your work.”

The objective was never strength for strength’s sake. Instead, LACC wanted to explore another dimension of one of the cigar industry's respected blending talents.

The result is Le Flambeaux.

Carrying the Torch

The name draws its inspiration directly from New Orleans and the historic flambeaux carriers of Mardi Gras.

Before modern street lighting transformed nighttime parades, flambeaux carriers walked the routes bearing flaming torches, illuminating the procession for those gathered along the streets. Derived from the French word for “torch,” flambeau has become an enduring symbol of New Orleans tradition.

For LACC, that history became an appropriate metaphor for the project.

Le Flambeaux is about shining a light on a side of Klaas Kelner’s blending talent that many cigar smokers may not have experienced.

Rather than abandoning the characteristics associated with Kelner's blending, Le Flambeaux expresses them through a richer, bolder, and more commanding profile.

At the heart of the blend is a filler composition containing 60% ligero, providing the strength and intensity LACC challenged Kelner to achieve.

A Mexican San Andrés wrapper surrounds an Ecuadorian Habano binder and Dominican filler tobaccos. The cigar is produced in the Dominican Republic at Kelner Family Cigars.

Throughout the smoking experience, Le Flambeaux delivers transitions of dark brownie chocolate—particularly the rich, caramelized character of the brownie’s outer edge—leather, raisins, and underlying sweetness.

Despite its considerable strength, the intention remains balance and complexity rather than sheer power.

A Collaboration Built on Creative Trust

Le Flambeaux represents more than LACC's third exclusive release. The project demonstrates what can happen when retailer and manufacturer are willing to challenge one another creatively.

LACC presented Kelner with an opportunity to step outside expectations. Kelner answered by creating a cigar that maintains his blending identity while exploring a decidedly more powerful expression.

For LA Cigar Collective, that willingness to experiment is precisely what an exclusive cigar should represent.

“This project stands as a testament to creative trust—when a retailer challenges someone at the top of their game, and they answer with something extraordinary.”

LA Cigar Collective invites cigar smokers to experience the result of that experiment and extends its appreciation to Klaas Kelner and Kelner Family Cigars for accepting the challenge—and carrying the torch. Production of 10,000. Available on LACigarCollective.com and SmallBatchCigar.com as well as select Brick and Mortar stores.

LE FLAMBEAUX — BLEND INFORMATION

Vitola: Gran Toro

Dimensions: 6 1/2 x 55

Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés

Binder: Ecuadorian Habano

Filler: Dominican Republic — 60% Ligero

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Factory: Kelner Family Cigars

Packaging: 15-count boxes

Release: LA Cigar Collective

Brick House The Commodore Maduro 5-Pack Bags now shipping

2026-08-26T11:07:25.189-04:00

This week, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. begins shipping the all-new Brick House The Commodore Maduro 5-pack bags to retailers. Packaged in a convenient, resealable humidor bag of five cigars, this new format makes it easier than ever for Brick House enthusiasts to experience a taste of this bold new offering.

“Brick House is known around the world for its outstanding taste, flawless construction, and excellent value,” said fourth-generation owner Drew Newman. “Our most popular Brick House size is the 6.25” x 60 Mighty Mighty. This year, we will hand roll 1.1 million cigars in that vitola alone. The Commodore is Mighty Mighty’s big brother. It recognizes the popularity of larger ring gauge cigars, but its standard 5.5” length makes it more approachable than the typical 7” x 70.”

Like all Brick House Maduro cigars, The Commodore is handcrafted at the J.C. Newman PENSA factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, and features a Brazilian Arapiraca Maduro wrapper complemented by a rich selection of Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos.

Cigar Aficionado has rated Brick House a 93 and included it in its Top 25 Cigars of the Year four times, including as the No. 10 Cigar of 2024.

Emilio Cigars shipping new Limited-Edition SUAVE SUMATRA

2026-08-25T10:53:36.870-04:00

Emilio Cigars is now shipping the new Limited-Edition SUAVE SUMATRA.

Emilio Cigars, a distinguished name in the world of premium cigars, is proud to announce the release of the Limited-Edition SUAVE SUMATRA. Expertly crafted in Esteli, Nicaragua at the renowned Fabrica Oveja Negra, SUAVE SUMATRA represents a pinnacle of artistry and flavor.

Master blender and owner of BLTC and Fabrica Oveja Negra, James Brown, lent his expertise to the creation of Suave Sumatra’s unique blend and artwork. Reflecting on this release, Mr. Brown stated, “Suave has been the cigar line that really put Emilio on the map. It's not only a great introduction to the brand but also a great introduction to smoking cigars in general. Featuring a Sumatra wrapper highlights the balance of spice, flavor, and complexity. The finish is long with the signature subtle sweetness Suave is known for."

SUAVE SUMATRA

Origin and Blend:

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Sumatra

Binder: Ecuador Habano

Filler: Nicaragua

Available vitolas:

Robusto – 5x50 (20 count) MSRP $10.00

Toro – 6x50 (20 count) MSRP $10.50

Emilio Cigars is a brand with old school roots and new school attitude. With an eclectic portfolio, Emilio is sure to have something for everyone.

TATIANA CAPPUCCINO AND AMARETTO CLASSIC SIZE AND TIN FORMATS NOW SHIPPING TO RETAILERS

2026-08-24T13:43:23.111-04:00

Tatiana Cigars announces that the new 6 x 44 Classic size and 10-count tins for two of its most recognizable aromatic profiles, Cappuccino and Amaretto, are now shipping to retailers nationwide. First showcased at the 2026 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show in New Orleans, the new formats expand the Tatiana portfolio while giving consumers additional ways to enjoy two of the brand’s most popular aromatic profiles.

Known for its smooth and inviting aromatic offerings, Tatiana continues to build on what it does best, creating cigars designed around enjoyment, accessibility, and everyday moments. The addition of a 6 x 44 Classic format introduces a more traditional smoking experience for both Cappuccino and Amaretto, while the new tins provide a convenient, ready-to-enjoy option for those on the go.

Inspired by familiar indulgences, Cappuccino delivers a warm, coffee-forward aromatic profile, while Amaretto offers a smooth, slightly sweet experience reminiscent of the classic Italian liqueur. Together, they reflect the kind of approachable enjoyment that has defined Tatiana for decades.

“Tatiana has always been about creating an enjoyable, approachable smoking experience,” said Jason Wood, Vice President of Marketing and Sales of Miami Cigar & Co. “With Cappuccino and Amaretto now available in the Classic size and tins, we’re giving consumers more ways to enjoy these aromatic profiles, while also making it easier for retailers to merchandise and grow the brand.”

The Classic size is available in 25-count boxes (6 x 44) with an MSRP of $5.25 per cigar, and the 10-count tins have an MSRP of $18.50. The new formats create greater flexibility for consumers while also offering retailers a streamlined, easy-to-merchandise addition to the Tatiana lineup.

Tatiana Cappuccino and Amaretto in Classic and Tin formats are now shipping to retailers nationwide through Miami Cigar & Co.

NECM Liberty or Death (LOD) (6 x 51 Double Perfecto)

2026-08-23T17:57:04.504-04:00

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Kevin Parow)

The cigar was made to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States.

* Vitola: Double Perfecto

* Size: 6 x 51

* Wrapper: Habano

* Binder: Ecuadorian Sumatra

* Filler: Nicaragua & Dominican Republic

* Collaboration: LNV × Rockefeller Cigars

The cigar is well made and has a very nice band. The cigar has an average feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up were apple, pear, brown sugar, roasted almonds, and a lot of earthy black coffee. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2. Pretty good start.

At the first third (22 minutes) the notes are about the same and they are fairly equal in amounts. The sweet notes and dark notes are fairly equal. There are still some almond notes floating around. The brown sugar is almost candy like; chewable. The cigar is medium body and starting to lean toward medium to full. The finish is apple with brown sugar and very good lingering black pepper. I rated the first third 94.

Moving through the second third (47 minutes) the black coffee continues it's march upward. The sweet notes are about the same but they are decreased due to the elevated black coffee. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is a little apple and quite a bit of black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. I rated the second third 92.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 16 minutes. It rebounded back to almost exactly the way it was in the first third except the almond notes were hit and miss; mostly miss. The cigar is full bodied. The finish is unchanged. The first and final thirds are very good with the middle section having a little too much black coffee. I rated the final third 94. This is another good cigar from Kevin Parow.

Overall Score: 93.33

Plasencia Triunfal (6 1/4 x 54)

2026-08-22T17:49:10.519-04:00

Video review HERE.

(Description taken from Halfwheel.com website)

Before the 2026 World Cup, a new Plasencia cigar arrived at stores. The Plasencia Triunfal is a 6 1/4 x 54 toro extra that uses a wrapper from Finca La Tradición in the Jamastrán Valley of Honduras and a binder from Finca San Agustín from Olancho, Honduras. The fillers come from Finca La Tradición and Jalapa, Nicaragua. Plasencia says that a single pair of workers at its Tabacos de Oriente factory in Danlí, Honduras rolled every cigar.

Each Triunfal has an MSRP of $59.99 and production is limited to 5,000 numbered boxes of 10 cigars.

The company says this is the first time it has released a cigar that has organic tobacco from both Honduras and Nicaragua.

“Triunfal represents much more than a cigar,” said José Luis Plasencia, fifth-generation member of the Plasencia cigar family, in a press release last month. “It reflects unity, resilience, and celebration—values that resonate deeply with our family’s heritage. We believe cigars are meant to accompany life’s most memorable moments, and Triunfal honors one of the most powerful shared celebrations inspired by the game that unites the world.”

The cigar is well made and has a nice feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up were a lemony pear, brown sugar, tanned leather, and earthiness. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2. Pretty good start.

At the first third (34 minutes) the lead flavors of lemon and pear are still there but there's more brown sugar with them. There's still leather and earthiness in the mix and now there's also black coffee. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is leather with very good lingering black pepper. The additional brown sugar helps. Even with it the sweetness is still in the medium to average category. I rated the first third 93.

As I moved through the second third (1 hour 3 minutes) the cigar got much earthier. The sweet notes are still there but they're suffering. The leather and black coffee seem decreased due to the increased earthiness. The cigar is still medium bodied but it's leaning toward medium to full. I rated the second third 91.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 32 minutes. The earthiness continues to increase. There is now minimal sweetness. There is still leather and black coffee which are quite noticeable. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is unchanged. The cigar got earthier as it went. The sweetness continued to decrease and at this point it's at it's lowest. I rated the final third 86. I expected much more out of a $60 cigar. While the overall Score is 90 and technically I could smoke it again I will not be paying $60 for one.

Overall Score: 90

NEW UNDERCROWN GORDO SIZE INTRODUCED BY DREW ESTATE

2026-08-21T15:24:48.173-04:00

Undercrown by Drew Estate is proud to announce the Undercrown 10 Gordo. This 6 x 60 vitola adds a new layer of richness and depth to the Undercrown 10 experience and answers the call from cigar lovers who prefer big ring gauge cigars.

Undercrown was born of the unknown heroes on our factory floor, crafted by the same hands that make Liga Privada, and captures the spirit of the Underdog that has driven the brand ever since. Originally crafted to commemorate a "Decade of Dedication," the Undercrown 10 Line celebrates the legacy of that Undercrown spirit. Released a decade after the original Undercrown was born on the factory floor, Undercrown 10 honors the original movement while delivering rich, undeniable flavor geared towards the seasoned connoisseur.

This masterpiece has been a mainstay since its inception and now proudly welcomes a new offering to the lineup.

The floor demanded Undercrown. The people demanded a Gordo — and we listened.

The Undercrown 10 Gordo is a stately 6 x 60 prince, offering a longer, leisurely smoking experience for those who want to maximize their enjoyment. The fifth vitola in the Undercrown 10 family, Undercrown 10 Gordo will be offered in limited production boxes of 10 for $168.00.

The Undercrown 10 Gordo utilizes the same recipe as the existing UC10 brandmark, showcasing a Mexican San Andres maduro wrapper overtop a Connecticut Broadleaf binder and hand-selected long-filler leaves from Honduras and Nicaragua.

La Gran Fabrica spokesperson Pedro Gomez: "Undercrown 10 is an incredible medium-to-full-bodied masterpiece at its core, and a blend we all celebrate every single day here at La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate. With this massive new Gordo size, it becomes the ultimate smoke for any big celebration. ¡No Jodas! It's a bigger bang for your buck, bringing out that fine, spicy Mexican hot chocolate profile like nothing else."

Undercrown 10 Gordo joins the Undercrown El Tigre as the latest releases in the Undercrown line, as Drew Estate continues to innovate and experiment with new options for Undercrown fans worldwide.

Undercrown 10 Gordo is shipping now to Drew Estate retailers.

Cigar Aficionado Names Perla Del Mar Maduro Corona Gorda Cigar of the Week

2026-08-21T14:33:13.387-04:00

We are honored to share that the J.C. Newman Perla Del Mar Maduro Corona Gorda has been featured as Cigar Aficionado's Cigar of the Week, earning an outstanding 90-point rating.

Handcrafted at our J.C. Newman PENSA cigar factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, the Perla del Mar Maduro pairs a rich Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper with hearty Nicaraguan tobaccos. Pressed in the traditional Tampa style, the 5.5" x 46 Corona Gorda delivers the rich, full flavor and distinctive character of Perla del Mar Maduro in a classic size.

Cigar Aficionado writes, "Profound notes of espresso are conveyed with every puff, along with some black pepper and earth. Touches of leather and brown sugar appear on the finish. The draw is substantial while the burn stays sharp and even."

Read the full feature via the link below.

Read More

JOYA DE NICARAGUA INTRODUCES ROSALONES TO THE U.S. MARKET

2026-08-20T11:05:15.083-04:00

Joya de Nicaragua announces the expansion of Rosalones to the United States, bringing one of its oldest brands — with origins dating back to 1968 — to the world’s largest premium cigar market.

Originally reintroduced in the late 2010s for Spain, Rosalones quickly gained recognition for delivering authentic Nicaraguan character at an accessible price point. Following its international success, the brand now makes its national debut.

The launch includes Rosalones Reserva and Rosalones CT, both crafted with long-filler, aged tobaccos, offering a premium experience with an approachable profile. The blends deliver rich notes of earth, cocoa, and coffee, making Rosalones a versatile, everyday smoke.

Rosalones CT features an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers (2/5 strength), available in:

Robusto 5 x 50 (RC550) — $6.99 per cigar / $139.80 per box (20ct)

Toro 6 x 52 (RC652) — $7.99 per cigar / $159.80 per box (20ct)

Rosalones Reserva features a Nicaraguan Habano Criollo Colorado wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers (3/5 strength), available in:

Robusto 5 x 50 (RR550) — $6.99 per cigar / $139.80 per box (20ct)

Toro 6 x 50 (RR650) — $7.99 per cigar / $159.80 per box (20ct)

Rosalones will debut at the PCA Convention & Trade Show 2026 at the SAG Imports booth #3447, where orders will be taken and shipments to retailers are scheduled for late May 2026.

Rosalones offers a straightforward introduction to premium cigars — rooted in tradition, crafted with quality, and made for everyday enjoyment.

Joya de Nicaragua announces the release of Joya Red White and Blue

2026-08-20T11:02:06.022-04:00

Joya de Nicaragua announces the release of Joya Red White and Blue, a limited-edition cigar created exclusively for the United States in celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence.

"For decades, American cigar smokers have embraced Joya de Nicaragua and allowed us to grow alongside them,” said Joel Fernandez, SAG Imports National Sales Director, “This cigar is our way of saying thank you. As the United States celebrates 250 years of independence, we wanted to create something that could accompany our consumers during one of the most meaningful celebrations in their history. It also marks a special moment for us, as in 2026 we launch our independent distribution under SAG Imports in the United States — the world’s reference market for premium cigars.”

Joya Red White and Blue features an Ecuadorian H. wrapper over carefully selected binders and fillers from Jalapa & Esteli, crafted as part of the JOYA line alongside Joya Cabinetta, Red, Silver, and Black. True to the line’s signature approachability, it delivers a medium-bodied smoking experience, enhanced by extended aging to achieve a smoother, more refined expression that highlights the vibrant character of Joya.

The feel and look of the packaging was crafted in the same spirit as the occasion itself. Patriotic elements and quiet symbols of freedom, ambition, and the pursuit of new

horizons shape the band and the box in equal measure — honoring a country that has long inspired the world, and a cigar culture that has grown into one of its finest traditions.

“The packaging reflects the spirit of the celebration,” said Cristhian Lanzas, Marketing Director of SAG Imports. “It gently references American aviation, a symbol of freedom, ambition, and the pursuit of new horizons. The cigar band is also complemented by fifty stars encircling the design, representing the 50 states that form a nation that has long inspired the world.”

With a limited production of 500 boxes, Joya Red White and Blue will be presented in 10-count boxes in a traditional Toro (6 x 52) format, with an MSRP of $13.50 per cigar and $135 per box.

The cigar will make its official debut to retailers at the PCA Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans, at the SAG Imports Booth #3447, with shipments to U.S. cigar shops scheduled to begin in early June 2026, giving consumers time to enjoy it ahead of their Fourth of July celebrations.

JOYA DE NICARAGUA UNVEILS: CLÁSICO ORIGINAL GREEN ROOM SELECTION

2026-08-20T10:57:06.357-04:00

In 1968, the first premium cigar factory in Estelí, Nicaragua opened its doors, founding Joya de Nicaragua and establishing the country as a serious cigar origin. The Joya de Nicaragua Clásico became the first premium cigar produced and exported from Nicaragua, winning the hearts of American cigar lovers through the 1970s and beginning the nation's ascent to world-class status.

During that same era, Joya de Nicaragua was recognized as the foremost representative of New World cigars, offered to guests at The White House’s Green Room, where after formal dinners, politicians and diplomats would gather to relax, drink, and smoke. It is a moment that has become part of the brand's history: a cigar from Estelí earning its place on one of the most notable stages in the world.

But the meaning of the Green Room has long since traveled beyond Washington.

"The stories of the Green Room had been told through history and diplomacy many times, but for us the real meaning is much simpler," said Juan Martínez, Executive President of Joya de Nicaragua. "A cigar has the unique ability to bring people together and make everyone equal for a moment. It doesn't matter where you come from or what title you hold. Every smoker eventually creates his own Green Room, whether it's a quiet porch, a favorite chair, a local cigar shop, or a gathering with friends, a place where the ritual of a cigar becomes a moment of connection."

Joya de Nicaragua proudly introduces Clásico Original Green Room Selection, a tribute to the Clásico's enduring legacy, and to every Green Room the modern smoker calls his own.

Presented in one of the oldest formats hand-rolled at the Estelí factory since 1968, the 6x54 Diadema features an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper over carefully aged Nicaraguan binder and fillers. The result is a balanced, refined smoke: mild, woody, and creamy, with a delicate structure and subtle pepper on the finish.

Clásico Original Green Room Selection will be released in 20-count boxes with an MSRP of $13.50 per cigar and $270 per box. A total of 1,200 boxes will be produced, with 700 allocated to the U.S. and 500 to international markets. The cigar will debut in New Orleans at the PCA Convention & Trade Show in April 2026 at the SAG Imports booth (#3447), with shipments to retailers scheduled shortly after the show.

CINCO DE CINCO CORONA DOBLE NOW AVAILABLE IN THE US

2026-08-20T10:52:59.494-04:00

In 2023, as Joya de Nicaragua celebrated its 55th anniversary, the company introduced Cinco de Cinco. To develop this commemorative blend, our master blenders meticulously reviewed hundreds of blending sheets collected over the years at our factory tours. By analyzing the most frequently selected tobaccos, they created a blend that truly reflects the preferences of our global community of cigar lovers.

The cigar was named Cinco de Cinco — Spanish for “Five out of Five” — as it incorporates the tobaccos that visitors at our factory consistently rated as the very best. In other words, it is a true 5/5 recipe.

Today, Joya de Nicaragua is proud to announce the introduction in the US of Cinco de Cinco Corona Doble (7 x 54), originally a non-US exclusive vitola.

"Retailers and consumers continue to ask for formats that truly showcase the depth of a blend, and the Cinco de Cinco Corona Doble delivers exactly that. This vitola gives smokers the opportunity to experience the blend’s complexity over time, and we’re proud to bring another standout expression of the Cinco de Cinco line to the market." said Joel Fernandez, SAG Imports National Sales Director

Cinco de Cinco is crafted with ultra-vintage tobaccos, featuring a Mexican San Andrés wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers, presented in a soft-pressed format. The result is a cigar that is truly a five out of five in profile and complexity: full-bodied with medium strength, delivering deep, rich, earthy character complemented by notes of cocoa and dark chocolate.

Named Cigar of the Year by Cigar Snob Magazine, this award-winning cigar will be available in 10-count boxes with an MSRP of $21.99 per cigar and $219.99 per box. The Cinco de Cinco Corona Doble will be unveiled to U.S. retailers this April at the PCA Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans, with shipments scheduled to begin immediately following the show.

Camacho Cigars launches the Limited Edition 2026

2026-08-20T10:43:19.335-04:00

Camacho Cigars is proud to introduce the Camacho Limited Edition 2026, the second release in its Boldly Built by Masters series. This release pays tribute to Camacho's Master Blending Competence Center, a team of Master Blenders who contribute their unique skills to consistently delivering the highest standards. It is these uncompromising standards and relentless pursuit of quality that have shaped Camacho's bold character over the last few decades. Their passion and expertise are reflected in the cigar's very essence. Now, Camacho aficionados can experience the depth of their craft with every puff.

Handcrafted in Honduras, the Limited Edition 2026 is presented in a technically demanding perfecto format and showcases the full range of Camacho's bold character through a multi-origin cigar that evolves from start to finish. More than a celebration of craftsmanship, it is a recognition of the experience and discipline behind every Camacho cigar.

"The Camacho Limited Edition 2026 celebrates those whose work has shaped Camacho for decades," says Javier González, SVP Head Global Marketing & Innovation at Oettinger Davidoff. "The best tribute we could give them was to put that experience into the cigar itself. The perfecto format lets the blend unfold from the first draw to the last, delivering a layered, uncompromising smoking experience that captures everything Camacho stands for."

Taste experience

Wrapped in an Ecuadorian leaf over a Honduran binder and filler tobaccos from Honduras, Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, the Camacho Limited Edition 2026 delivers an evolving, medium-intense smoking experience across its 60 to 80 minutes, with notes of spice, cream and herbs.

Dimensions perfecto: 56 x 6" | 2.2 x 15.2 cm

Intensity: 3.5 out of 5

Packaging

The Camacho Limited Edition 2026 is presented in a matte black wooden box containing 15 hand-rolled perfectos. White and gold branding, the iconic Camacho scorpion, and a black-and-gold tobacco leaf interior elevate the unboxing experience, while a Chaveta-shaped window reveals the cigars, paying homage to the craftsmanship that went into making them.

Launch & availability

The Camacho Limited Edition 2026 will be available as of 3 September 2026.*, with 4,000 boxes available worldwide.

*Launch date and availability may vary depending on country.

Valentino Siesto Cigars presents Orange Black and its private-label brand Velero at InterTabac 2026

2026-08-19T14:56:11.732-04:00

From September 15 to 17, Valentino Siesto Cigars will return to InterTabac at Booth 4.C28, Hall 4, presenting the continued evolution of its Black Series alongside its private-label brand Velero.

Orange Black: The Star of InterTabac 2026

With Nero Black, Nero Black N.2, Yellow Black and now Orange Black, what began as a product line has evolved into a recognizable family of cigars, each with its own identity and character.

Orange Black will initially be presented as a Robusto 50 × 5 with a Maduro wrapper.

"Orange Black represents exactly where we want to take the Black family: recognizable cigars with a shared identity, but with each expression offering its own character and experience. It will take center stage at InterTabac 2026 and is a true expression of A Masterpiece for Every Day."

- Valentino Siesto, Founder

Velero: The Power of Pause, Inspired by the Adriatic

The idea behind Velero was born on the shores of the Adriatic. Its name evokes sailing and the special sense of pause found at sea: slowing down, being present and enjoying the moment.

Handmade in the Dominican Republic, Velero arrives at InterTabac in four expressions: Navegante

Maduro, Horizonte Robusto, Admiral Torpedo and Marinero Toro - created for those who, like us, appreciate The Power of Pause.

"A pause is not time lost; it is time fully experienced. The Adriatic and the rhythm of sailing provided the natural inspiration for Velero. We look forward to presenting its four expressions in Dortmund."

- Aleks Djuretic, Velero Brand Owner