Category Archives: News/Features

Hooten Young Announces the Hooten Young | Jack Carr Edition

Jacksonville Beach, FL — Hooten Young Cigars & Whiskey is proud to announce the launch of the Hooten Young | Jack Carr, a special edition cigar created in collaboration with bestselling author and retired Navy SEAL Jack Carr, honoring the premiere of The Terminal List: Season 2 | Dark Wolf.

Expertly handcrafted at Tabacalera Diaz Cabrera in Santiago, Dominican Republic, this 6 ½ x 52 Toro is a bold Dominican Puro featuring a silky Corojo wrapper, a robust Dominican grown San Andrés seed binder, and select Dominican fillers highlighted by Piloto Cubano. The result is a complex and refined profile—delivering depth, balance, and precision in every draw.

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Casa Carrillo Unveils La Historia Silk — Inspired by Women, Blended for All

Miami, FL — Casa Carrillo proudly announces the release of La Historia Silk, a bold new chapter in the Perez-Carrillo legacy. Born from authentic conversations with women across the cigar industry—retailers, aficionados, and leaders—Silk captures the intersection of generational tradition, meticulous craftsmanship, and forward-thinking innovation.

Crafted exclusively in a 6 x 52 Toro format with a refined medium strength, La Historia Silk is a cigar designed for all smokers-seasoned aficionados and newcomers alike. It also marks the first round-format Perez-Carrillo cigar released in the U.S., further highlighting its unique place in the family’s history.

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CROWNED HEADS ANNOUNCES BLOODMEDICINE B-POSITIVE LE 2025

Crowned Heads is excited to announce an all-new brand extension to its highly sought-after brand, Blood Medicine, the Blood Medicine B-Positive LE 2025.


B-Positive is a riff on the original Blood Medicine blend, which originally began as an eventonly cigar in 2022, and then introduced as a one-size limited edition release in 2024, and most recently as a 3-vitola limited release in March of this year. Blood Medicine B-Positive features
the same blend as the original Blood Medicine release, but is finished with a Corojo cover leaf.

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HEADING TO RETAILERS: EL BATON CAMEROON LIMITED EDITION FIRECRACKER

Hudson, NH – The United Cigar and J.C. Newman El Baton Cameroon Firecracker collaboration ships to Firecracker Retailers at the end of the month. This partnership marks the first time J.C. Newman Cigar Co. has created a Firecracker, all in honor of the 60th anniversary of Stanford J. Newman’s discovery of Cameroon tobacco.


The El Baton Cameroon Firecracker by J.C. Newman will feature the El Baton band and pay tribute to the rich history and distinctive flavor of Cameroon tobacco. Cameroon, crowned as the jewel of Africa, has captivated cigar aficionados with its rarity, complexity, and unmistakable character.


This special release commemorates the visionary legacy of Stanford J. Newman, a second-generation cigar maker who, in 1965, pioneered the use of Cameroon tobacco in premium cigars. Sixty years later, the El Baton Cameroon Firecracker pays homage to his trailblazing spirit and the rich heritage of this unique tobacco.


The El Baton Cameroon Firecracker started its journey at the renowned J.C. Newman PENSA factory in Esteli, Nicaragua. This limited-edition cigar, measuring 3.5” x 50, features the Firecracker’s iconic fuse cap, first introduced in 2007. Blended with medium-to-full-bodied, Nicaraguan tobacco grown from some of the most fertile soils in Nicaragua. The
cigar will deliver a bold, complex experience that highlights the signature qualities of Cameroon tobacco and the unmistakable Nicaraguan punch. Notes of sweet spice, cocoa, cedar, black pepper, and a touch of dried herbs.


Cameroon tobacco, cultivated in the West African countries of Cameroon and the Central African Republic, is revered for its unique climate and soil that produce its renowned flavor and texture. Its delicate leaves, painstakingly grown and processed, make it one of the most coveted tobaccos in the world. Companies like Arturo Fuente, H. Upmann, La Flor Dominicana, and Partagas have all built legacies around this beautiful wrapper.


This collaboration between United Cigar and J.C. Newman celebrates not just a brand, but the history and artistry of one of the world’s finest tobaccos. Don’t miss the chance to experience the El Baton Cameroon Firecracker, a bold spark of history. This collectible will have a suggested retail of $9 and come in boxes of 20 cigars. Quantities are extremely
limited, so be sure to secure your box of this historic release.

Casa Carrillo Debuts Endure Corona Gorda with Exclusive Launch at Two Guys Smoke Shop — Limited Nationwide Release to Follow

Miami, FL – August 2025 — Casa Carrillo Cigars is proud to announce the debut of the Endure Corona Gorda, a limited-production extension of the acclaimed Endure line, launching exclusively at Two Guys Smoke Shop on Thursday, August 28, 2025, as part of their year-long 40th Anniversary celebration.

Measuring 6 x 46 and rounded box pressed for a refined feel; the Endure Corona Gorda continues Casa Carrillo’s celebrated use of the Genuine Meerapfel Cameroon wrappers sourced from the legendary Meerapfel family—the same prized leaf featured in the Endure Toro and Robusto vitolas. Before the Endure line’s debut, it had been decades since Casa Carrillo last incorporated this rare wrapper into its blends. The Cameroon’s elegance and complexity are paired with an all-Nicaraguan blend, meticulously hand-crafted at Ernesto Pérez-Carrillo’s Casa Carrillo factory in the Dominican Republic.

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30 YEARS OF ELEV8TE CIGAR WITH THE ATABEY BLACK DELIRIOS

Hudson, NH – Luxury meets legacy on August 30th as Nelson Alfonso of Selected Tobacco unveils the Atabey Black Delirios, a masterful 5 ¾ x 55 vitola launch to honor the 30th Anniversary of Elev8te Cigar Lounge in Villa Park, Illinois. This milestone release fuses unmatched technique, rare tobacco, and an aging process like no other, delivering a smoking experience worthy of three decades of cigar culture.


Wrapped in a dark, oily Ecuadorian Maduro leaf, the Atabey Black Delirios conceals a Dominican binder and a thoughtful blend of Dominican and Peruvian fillers. True to Selected Tobacco’s uncompromising standards, each cigar has been aged for five years post-roll in a proprietary environment of five distinct cedar varieties and French oak, with meticulously controlled humidity cycles, allowing the blend to mature into a timeless balance of depth and complexity.

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Casa Carrillo Cigars Announces Encore Black Bulwarks Begins Shipping This Week

[MIAMI, FL.] — Casa Carrillo Cigars proudly announces the release of the Encore Black Bulwarks, shipping to select retailers this week. This bold new vitola continues the legacy of the acclaimed Encore line—first recognized when the Encore Majestic earned Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Cigar of the Year in 2018. Following the successful debut of the first Encore Black (5 3/8 x 52), the Bulwarks introduces a larger 6 x 58 Perfecto format and a deeper, more commanding expression of the Encore Black blend.

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Welcome Cigar Fish Brokerage to Bentley Tobacco USA & Hooten Young Cigars

We’re excited to announce the addition of Cigar Fish Brokerage to the growing Bentley Tobacco USA and Hooten Young Cigars team.

Covering Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Kansas, the Cigar Fish team brings a wealth of experience, strong relationships, and a shared passion for premium cigars. Their commitment to professional, brand-driven growth aligns seamlessly with our mission of providing elevated cigar experiences.

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CIGAR ASSOCIATION OF CANADA

The Cigar Association of Canada (CAC) stands as a beacon of advocacy and representation for cigar manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailer and individuals. Driven by a mission to champion the Canadian cigar industry’s interests. This prestigious organization is dedicated to creating a favorable regulatory environment, promoting the cultural appreciation of cigars, and safeguarding the rights of adults to responsibly enjoy cigars. Through strategic lobbying against restrictive regulations, the CAC endeavors to enlighten and educate, addressing critical issues such as taxation, smoking bans, and marketing restrictions while also working to enhance public perception of cigar smoking.

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George Rico of Gran Habano Appointed to the PCA Board of Directors

[Washington, D.C.–June 12, 2025] Last week, Max Bichler resigned from his position at Rocky Patel Premium Cigars and his recently announced position on the PCA Board of Directors. With Bitchler’s resignation, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) is announcing the appointment of George Rico of Gran Habano to fill Bichler’s position as an associate member on the PCA Board of Directors.

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E.P. Carrillo Connecticut Ships to Retailers This Week

Miami, FL – Casa Carrillo is proud to announce the latest addition to its acclaimed Essence Series: the E.P. Carrillo Connecticut is now shipping to retailers nationwide. As the fourth blend in this celebrated line—following Sumatra, Maduro, and Honduras—the Connecticut is also the second Essence cigar crafted outside Casa Carrillo, produced exclusively at the renowned Agroindustrias DIADEMA factory in Honduras.

Debuted at the 2025 PCA Trade Show in New Orleans, the Connecticut brings a velvety, mild-bodied option to the Essence Series, delivering smooth sophistication and subtle complexity.

“The E.P. Carrillo Connecticut was born out of a desire to create a cigar that pairs creamy, mellow flavors with exceptional craftsmanship,” said Ernesto Perez-Carrillo. “This blend is perfect for both seasoned smokers seeking a refined, nuanced experience and those new to the world of premium cigars.”

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THE ALMA DEL CIELO BY PLASENCIA CIGARS IS NOW IN TOBACCONIST SHOPS ACROSS THE U.S.

This new blend, the world’s first high elevation cigar, was unveiled by the Plasencia family at the 2025 PCA

Plasencia Cigars, a world-leading premium tobacco grower established in 1865, proudly announces that the first-ever high-elevation cigar, the Alma del Cielo is now shipping! Alma del Cielo, meaning “Soul from the Sky,” was unveiled via a grand event at the Plasencia Cigars booth at the 2025 PCA in New Orleans. Guests enjoyed champagne and a performance by Grammy Award-winning artist October London.

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E.P. Carrillo Evolves into Casa Carrillo:

A Unified Vision for the Future

Miami, FL – E.P. Carrillo, the award-winning premium cigar brand, proudly announces its transformation into Casa Carrillo. This rebrand marks the next evolution of the company, uniting its U.S. headquarters, factory, and global presence under one name that reflects both its heritage and its vision for the future.

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PLASENCIA CIGARS TO INTRODUCE THE WORLD’S FIRST HIGH ELEVATION CIGAR, ALMA DEL CIELO, AT THE 2025 PCA IN NEW ORLEANS

A cigar crafted from a story of family, love, passion, and destiny.

 (Miami, Florida) April 12, 2025 – Plasencia Cigars, a world-leading premium tobacco grower established in 1865, proudly announces the debut of Alma del Cielo, the first-ever high-elevation cigar, at the 2025 PCA in New Orleans. Alma del Cielo, meaning “Soul from the Sky,” captures the essence of tobacco grown at Finca San Julian in Condega, situated at greater than 3500 feet above sea level. This cigar is a tale of family, love, passion, and destiny.

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BYRON PUSHES THE BOUNDARIES OF TIME AND TASTE WITH 10 YEAR AGED

Madrid, Spain — Following the wildly successful and completely sold-out 2023 releases of the Atabey Dioses and Misticos 10-Year Aged editions, Selected Tobacco returns to the PCA stage with something even more
seductive, the Byron 21st Century Aristocratas 10-Year Aged (8 x 52).

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PCA Member Update: Addressing U.S. Tariff Measures

[Washington, D.C.–April 3, 2025] On April 2, 2025, the White House introduced a sweeping trade policy shift, set to impact the premium cigar industry among others. Starting April 5, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EDT, a 10% tariff will apply to all goods entering the United States. A second phase, effective April 9, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EDT, will impose additional reciprocal tariffs on countries with higher tariffs or trade barriers against the U.S., calculated at half the value of those barriers.

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Hiram & Solomon Cigars Introduces the Patriot Cigar Honoring M.W. George F. Hamilton, 91st Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts.

Hiram & Solomon Cigars is proud to announce the release of the Patriot Cigar, a distinguished addition to its portfolio, crafted exclusively in the Dominican Republic to honor Most Worshipful George F. Hamilton, the 91st Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts.

This carefully curated blend results in a medium-to-full-bodied profile that is bold yet balanced. The Ecuadorian Habano Claro wrapper lends a smooth, elegant finish, while the Dominican Ligero and Seco fillers provide depth and complexity in every draw.

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Micallef Purple Reigns as the Newest Color Series Release

Micallef Cigars proudly announces the release of Micallef Purple, the latest addition to its growing Color Series. Following the celebrated launches of  Micallef Black, Blue, and Red, the new Micallef Purple continues the tradition of offering exceptional cigars at an outstanding value—ensuring quality and consistency while maintaining the same price point established with Micallef  Black in 2023. Micallef Black, the first in the series, was awarded Cigar of the Year  2023 by The Cigar Authority, cementing the Color Series as a standout in the industry. 

Read more: Micallef Purple Reigns as the Newest Color Series Release

Micallef Purple is a medium-bodied cigar featuring a San Andrés Sumatra wrapper, a Broadleaf binder, and a carefully curated blend of Nicaraguan,  Dominican, and Mexican fillers. This combination delivers a smooth yet complex smoking experience, with notes of cinnamon, nuts, cocoa, and white pepper,  balanced by earthy undertones of chocolate, leather, molasses, and cedar. 

The official launch of Micallef Purple will take place at the Premium Cigar  Association (PCA) Trade Show in April. The cigar will be sampled to select  consumers ahead of its national release, with exclusive pre-release  opportunities at: 

• The Cigar Authority Care Package in April

Following these previews, Micallef Purple will be available in brick-and-mortar shops nationwide beginning April 24, 2025. 

The Color Series reflects Micallef’s unwavering philosophy: delivering premium cigars that offer exceptional quality at an accessible price. Since the introduction of Micallef Black, this approach has resonated with cigar enthusiasts and retailers alike. Micallef Purple continues this tradition,  maintaining the same price as its predecessors—ensuring smokers can enjoy a top-tier experience without compromise. 

“Micallef Purple, continues our mission of making premium cigars accessible without compromise.” said Dan Thompson, President of Micallef Cigars. “Like the  rest of the Color Series, it proves that premium quality and affordability can go  hand in hand.” 

Al Micallef, Founder of Micallef Cigars, added: “We continue to invest in the best tobaccos, the best people, and the best processes to bring extraordinary cigars to the market. Micallef Purple is another proud addition to our Color Series, and  I can’t wait for our Ambassadors and retail partners to enjoy it.” 

Micallef Cigars remains committed to brick-and-mortar retailers, ensuring their continued success by offering exclusive products, pricing consistency, and direct-to-store support. 

Purple is available in Toro and Robusto sizes in 25-count boxes and will be available in brick-and-mortar retailers nationwide beginning April 24th.  

Strength: Medium 

Wrapper: San Andrés Sumatra 

Binder: Broadleaf 

Filler: Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Mexico 

Retail Price: Robusto (5×52) $7.00/cigar, Toro (6×52) $8.00/cigar