All posts by Jeff Slatton

In charge @haveapremiumcigar.com cigar reviewer @CigarWeekly.com

Premium Cigar Association Announces Results of 2026 Board of Directors Election

[Washington, D.C.–January 30, 2026] The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) has announced the results of its most recent Board of Directors election, with three new members elected to the Board and two current members re-elected to additional terms.

Continue reading Premium Cigar Association Announces Results of 2026 Board of Directors Election

DON EMMANUEL CIGARS EXPANDS INTO PANAMA WITH OFFICIAL BRAND LAUNCH EVENT

Expansion follows recent international growth across the Caribbean, Latin America, and Africa.

Miami, FL – January 29, 2026 — Don Emmanuel Cigars announces its official expansion into Panama, marking another milestone in the brand’s growing international presence and continued momentum across key cigar markets.

Continue reading DON EMMANUEL CIGARS EXPANDS INTO PANAMA WITH OFFICIAL BRAND LAUNCH EVENT

PANGEA CIGARS ANNOUNCES THE INTRODUCTION OF A NEW PREMIUM CIGAR HOUSE

Built on Discipline, Experience, and Earned Authority

MIAMI, FL – January 27, 2026— Pangea Cigars today announced the official introduction of the company, marking the debut of a new premium cigar house built on intention, discipline, and refined craftsmanship.

Founded by industry professionals Ibis Luis and Anna Ayupova, Pangea was created to reflect a shared philosophy: true luxury does not rely on legacy, nor does it seek attention through volume or trend—it is earned through experience, consistency, and restraint.

Continue reading PANGEA CIGARS ANNOUNCES THE INTRODUCTION OF A NEW PREMIUM CIGAR HOUSE

Quality Importers Unveils Limited-Edition 2026 Year of the Horse Collection

WESTON, FL – January 23, 2026 – Quality Importers Trading Company® (QI), the leading supplier of premium cigar
accessories globally, announces the launch of its exclusive, limited-edition Year of the Horse Collection.


Celebrating the vibrant energy and driving spirit of the Chinese zodiac’s Horse, the collection combines visual design, expert craftsmanship, and premium utility for the discerning cigar aficionado. This limited-edition collection draws its powerful inspiration from two distinct traditional systems—the Chinese Zodiac and Numerology—which both signify
2026 as a year of dynamic action and bold beginnings.

Continue reading Quality Importers Unveils Limited-Edition 2026 Year of the Horse Collection

Fervor Cigar Festival

June 13th, 2026
Waymore Guesthouse

Nashville TN- The 2nd annual Fervor Cigar Festival, presented by Smokers Abbey, is happening Saturday June 13th at Tall Tales, the rooftop bar and event space at East Nashville’s Waymore Guesthouse, located at 811 Main St Nashville, TN 37206. The event will run from
6-10pm and ticket holders will have access to unlimited spirit and cocktail samples, heavy appetizers and will also receive a pack of 5 cigars upon entrance. Cigars will also be available for purchase. Tickets are on sale starting Feb 1st and will start at $95. Tickets will increase to $110 between March and April. On May 1st the tickets will increase again to its final price $125. Attendees must be 21.

Continue reading Fervor Cigar Festival

THE SMOKING FRENCHIES OPEN NEW HEADQUARTERS AND PRIVATE LOUNGE IN SWEETWATER. THE DESIGN FORWARD HYBRID SPACE MARKS A CREATIVE AND OPERATIONAL MILESTONE FOR THE EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR OF FUENTE THE OPUSX SOCIETY

(SWEETWATER, FL) January 20, 2026 – The Smoking Frenchies, LLC has officially relocated to a new headquarters featuring a refined private lounge integrated within its daily operational space.

The domestic and international distributor, known as the exclusive distributor of Fuente The OpusX Society cigars and accessories, has unveiled its new 2,480 square foot office and private lounge located at 2129 NW 135th Avenue in Sweetwater, Florida. The new space serves as the company’s central hub for daily operations while offering a curated environment designed for connection, creativity, and industry collaboration.

Continue reading THE SMOKING FRENCHIES OPEN NEW HEADQUARTERS AND PRIVATE LOUNGE IN SWEETWATER. THE DESIGN FORWARD HYBRID SPACE MARKS A CREATIVE AND OPERATIONAL MILESTONE FOR THE EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR OF FUENTE THE OPUSX SOCIETY

250TH YEAR CELEBRATING OUR INDEPENDENCE WILL BE WITH FIRECRACKER

Hudson, NH – Independence Firecracker will release for the 250th anniversary of our United States. United Cigars and Arnold Andre collaborated to celebrate the anniversary and the longest running collaboration series in the industry. As a member of ProCigar, German based Arnold Andre celebrated their 200th anniversary in 2017 and 2026 will mark their 15th year in the Dominican Republic where their premium cigars are rolled.


The Independence Firecracker measures 3 ½ x 50 and fashion the original fuse on the head of each cigar to help light up the skies for this yearly collaboration from United Cigars. Blended for the taste of freedom with ligero filler leaves from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua with a Dominican binder. The Independence Firecrackers uses a Mexican Habano wrapper to bring the celebration together.

Continue reading 250TH YEAR CELEBRATING OUR INDEPENDENCE WILL BE WITH FIRECRACKER

Casa Carrillo Unveils Exclusive Three-Blend Collector’s Box, Marking a New Era of Digital Connection, Craftsmanship, and Community Engagement

Miami, FL — Casa Carrillo is proud to unveil a new collector’s box featuring three rare blends crafted from the highest-quality tobaccos sourced from trusted growers across multiple regions. Produced in extremely limited quantities, these 6×52 toro cigars represent the most exclusive expressions within the Casa Carrillo portfolio—available only to those who earn access through the brand’s digital ecosystem.

Throughout the year, Casa Carrillo will award collector’s box prizes through a series of social media contests and sweepstakes, with winners selected at random from eligible participants.

Continue reading Casa Carrillo Unveils Exclusive Three-Blend Collector’s Box, Marking a New Era of Digital Connection, Craftsmanship, and Community Engagement

MEXIGARS UNVEILS NEW 4-PACK FORMAT AND REFINED PRICING STRATEGY FOR GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION

CASA 1910 (January 12, 2026) — Casa 1910 proudly announces the official launch of the new MEXIGARS 4-Pack, marking an exciting evolution of the brand’s MEXIGARS line. Inspired by the dormant majesty of the three volcanoes surrounding the San Andrés Valley, MEXIGARS continues to deliver the authentic “Taste of México” to enthusiasts worldwide, now in a more accessible multi-pack format.New 4-Pack Format & Box Availability

Continue reading MEXIGARS UNVEILS NEW 4-PACK FORMAT AND REFINED PRICING STRATEGY FOR GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. Releases 2026 José Gaspar Cigars

Celebrates Tampa’s two world-famous traditions, cigars and Gasparilla

Tampa, FL – Tampa has two-century-old traditions: Since 1885, Tampa has been known as “Cigar City.” Since 1904, pirates have been invading Tampa and throwing a large festival called Gasparilla. Each year, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. brings both traditions together by releasing a limited edition José Gaspar cigar.  Handcrafted by J.C. Newman, a 130-year-old, four-generation family business, José Gaspar cigars pack a punch perfect for any pirate.

“José Gaspar was one of most feared pirates in the Americas,” said Drew Newman, fourth-generation owner. “Sailing from his base near Tampa Bay in the late 1700s, he terrorized the Gulf of Mexico and amassed a great fortune.  Gaspar celebrated victories with a bold and flavorful cigar.  This cigar honors his legacy and the tradition of Gasparilla.”
This year, J.C. Newman is releasing 10,000 José Gaspar cigars.  The 2026 release of José Gaspar is a 6’ x 54 cigar wrapped with a Ecuador Havana wrapper. The 2026 José Gaspar cigars are sold in packs of 5 cigars with an MSRP of $40. José Gaspar cigars are only available at the following locations in the Cigar City of Tampa:

Florida:Cigar City Brewery Co.
Corona Cigar Company-Tampa
Edwards Pipe and Tobacco
Grand Cathedral Cigars
Hotel Haya
Central Cigars
J.C. Newman Cigar Museum and Factory Store
King Corona Cigar Bar & Cafe – Ybor
Tobacco Depot- Carrollwood
Sterling Cigar Lounge & Bar
Visit Tampa Bay Visitor Center
Tampero Cigars Ybor City
Cigar Castle Bruton’s Cigar Shop
Casa de Montecristo Cigar Lounge & Bar – South Tampa
Cigars International Superstore – Brandon
The Columbia Restaurant- Ybor
J.R. Cigars Outlet-Tampa

“When pirates invade Tampa and parade down Bayshore Boulevard on January 31st, they will be enjoying José Gaspar cigars,” said Newman.  “Just like the pirates of Gasparilla, however, José Gaspar cigars will sail out of Tampa Bay at the end of

 Gasparilla season and will not be available again until next year.”

Shortly after J.C. Newman Cigar Co. relocated to Tampa in 1954, leading cigar makers invited the late Stanford J. Newman to become a pirate and join the Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, the organization that hosts the annual Gasparilla celebration.  This invitation was a symbol that J.C. Newman had been welcomed and accepted into the cigar community in Tampa, which was then widely recognized as the fine cigar capital of the world. 

Quality Importers / Xikar donation to CFW!

Operation: Cigars For Warriors announced today that it has received a donation of hundreds of cigar accessories for inclusion in care packages. The donation includes ashtrays, lighters, cigar cutters and punches as well as protective travel cases across the QI brand portfolio which includes (but is not limited to] Xikar, Humidor Supreme, Palio, Big Em and Cigar Caddy.

Continue reading Quality Importers / Xikar donation to CFW!

Española Corojo Line Adding New Robusto and Churchill Sizes

New vitolas scheduled to ship February 1, 2026

Los Angeles, CA — JM Tobacco, Inc. proudly announces the expansion of its acclaimed Española Corojo line with the introduction of two new vitolas: Robusto (5 x 50) and Churchill (7 x 50). These new sizes will debut in early 2026, with shipments commencing on February 1, 2026.

Continue reading Española Corojo Line Adding New Robusto and Churchill Sizes

Hooten Young Announces the Launch of the RTBA “Right to Bear Arms” | 22 Rounds

Jacksonville Beach, FL — December 10, 2025 — Hooten Young, the veteran-founded premium cigar company dedicated to honoring heritage, precision, and purpose, proudly announces the official release of the RTBA “Right to Bear Arms” | 22 Rounds Box. Crafted for discerning cigar enthusiasts and patriots alike, the RTBA collection reflects Hooten Young’s deep commitment to craftsmanship, American values, and disciplined performance.

Continue reading Hooten Young Announces the Launch of the RTBA “Right to Bear Arms” | 22 Rounds

J.C. Newman Ships Sarzedas, a New Nicaraguan Brand

One of J.C. Newman’s historic brands, Sarzedas was known as “The Aromatic Cigar.”

Today, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. began shipping Sarzedas. U.S. Patent Office records show that J.C. Newman first rolled Sarzedas cigars in 1900. A century ago, Sarzedas was widely known as “The Aromatic Cigar.” One hundred and twenty-five years later, the new Sarzedas cigars are handmade at J.C. Newman’s PENSA cigar factory in Esteli, Nicaragua.

Continue reading J.C. Newman Ships Sarzedas, a New Nicaraguan Brand

DON EMMANUEL CIGARS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION INTO KEY CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICAN MARKETS

Boutique brand co-blended by Don Emmanuel and Master Blender Eladio Díaz continues its international growth

Miami, FL – December 3, 2025- Don Emmanuel Cigars, the boutique premium cigar brand founded by Brazilian tobacco devotee Don Emmanuel, is proud to announce its expansion into new international markets, including the Caribbean regionthe Dominican RepublicVenezuela, and Puerto Rico.

Continue reading DON EMMANUEL CIGARS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION INTO KEY CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICAN MARKETS

Duran Cigars Unveils the Roberto Duran Reserva: A Landmark First Father–Son Collaboration for the Brand

Little Havana, Miami, FL – November 24, 2025Duran Cigars proudly announces the release of the Roberto Duran Reserva, a new super-premium line that marks the first blend ever created collaboratively by Roberto Pelayo Duran and his son, Roberto Pelayo Duran Jr.

Building on the heritage of the original Roberto P. Duran line, the new Reserva represents an elevated evolution of the brand’s blending philosophy—uniting Roberto Sr.’s decades of global tobacco expertise with Roberto Jr.’s modern palate and fresh perspective. The release arrives as Duran Cigars strengthens its return to the U.S. market through its new headquarters and retail space in Little Havana.

Continue reading Duran Cigars Unveils the Roberto Duran Reserva: A Landmark First Father–Son Collaboration for the Brand

CROWNED HEADS ANNOUNCES REBRANDINGOF ICONIC JERICHO HILL CIGAR LINE

Crowned Heads, the renowned cigar maker celebrated for its musically inspired blends and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, today unveiled a bold evolution for one its most beloved lines: Jericho Hill. As a part of a larger strategic rebrand, the full-bodied Nicaraguan cigar will now join other Crowned Heads brands including, Mil Días, La Imperiosa, Broadway, and Tennessee Waltz in a similar packaging configuration and presentation.

Continue reading CROWNED HEADS ANNOUNCES REBRANDINGOF ICONIC JERICHO HILL CIGAR LINE

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. To Roll America250 Cigars

Handmade in America’s last traditional cigar factory,
these cigars will bear the official America250 seal.

Tampa, Fla. – J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with America250 to roll cigars in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States next year. Beginning next month, cigars hand rolled at J.C. Newman’s historic El Reloj cigar factory in Tampa, Florida, will be packaged with the official America250 seal.

Continue reading J.C. Newman Cigar Co. To Roll America250 Cigars

Plasencia Cigars Presents “Harvest to Heaven” at Tampa’s Iconic Grand Cathedral During Tampa Cigar Week

A premier celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and sensory discovery — Saturday, December 6, 2025, 6–10 p.m.

MIAMI, FL — November 11, 2025 — Plasencia Cigars, the world’s leading premium tobacco grower and maker of award-winning cigars since 1865, proudly announces Harvest to Heaven, an exclusive evening celebrating craftsmanship, culture, and community during Tampa Cigar Week.

Continue reading Plasencia Cigars Presents “Harvest to Heaven” at Tampa’s Iconic Grand Cathedral During Tampa Cigar Week

World Cigar Show Launches in Dubai with Resounding Global Success

[Washington, D.C.–November 18, 2025] The inaugural World Cigar Show, organized by Quartz with support from the Premium Cigar Association (PCA), made a commanding debut in Dubai last week, establishing a new global benchmark for premium cigar events. Across three exceptional days, the Show welcomed thousands of visitors, top international brands, industry leaders, diplomats, media, and cigar professionals to a series of world-class venues in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Continue reading World Cigar Show Launches in Dubai with Resounding Global Success

CROWNED HEADS ANNOUNCES ‘NEW LOOK’AND EXPANSION OF ICONIC TENNESSEEWALTZ BRAND INTO THREE VITOLAS

Crowned Heads, the Nashville-based premium cigar company, is excited to announce the long-awaited line extension of its beloved Tennessee Waltz, the brand that has served as a love letter to the Volunteer State since 2014.

Continue reading CROWNED HEADS ANNOUNCES ‘NEW LOOK’AND EXPANSION OF ICONIC TENNESSEEWALTZ BRAND INTO THREE VITOLAS

Casa Carrillo 2025 TAA Exclusive in Stores Now

The Casa Carrillo TAA Exclusive series represents a distinguished blend crafted exclusively for members of the Tobacconists’ Association of America (TAA). This year’s release showcases a USA Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, paired with a Dominican binder and fillers from the USA and Nicaragua, resulting in a rich, full-bodied smoking experience that embodies the brand’s commitment to complexity, balance, and flavor.

Continue reading Casa Carrillo 2025 TAA Exclusive in Stores Now

Duran Cigars Returns to the U.S. Market, Marking a New Era with the Addition of Roberto Duran Jr.

The company’s U.S. return is anchored by its new headquarters and distribution center in Little Havana

Little Havana, Miami, FL — November 12, 2025] — After years of remarkable success in Europe and Asia, Duran Cigars proudly announces its return to the U.S. market. The company’s renewed presence marks the beginning of a new era for the family-owned brand, led by industry veteran Roberto Pelayo Duran and strengthened by the addition of his son, Roberto Pelayo Duran Jr.

Continue reading Duran Cigars Returns to the U.S. Market, Marking a New Era with the Addition of Roberto Duran Jr.

Update: California Delays UTL and Issues New Proposed Rules

After legal challenges from the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) and the Cigar Rights Of America (CRA) in state and federal courts addressing the California Unflavored Tobacco List regulatory scheme, the Attorney General of California has started a process to make several changes.

The Attorney General issued a new proposed rule, seeking comments by Tuesday, December 23rd at 5:00 PM PST. The rule release proposes several changes:

Continue reading Update: California Delays UTL and Issues New Proposed Rules