Tag Archives: #PCA24

The list: 2024

The new cigars this year were mostly great. Like my last list (2022), the cigars are not ranked, however, the first five (alphabetized) and the “rest” that I deemed “worthy” (lol). If you don’t care for my methods, there are plenty of other lists to read. Let’s be honest, all of these lists are subjective, so if you don’t agree, or feel that something was left off, well, sorry. I can’t be everywhere all the time and a lot of other people’s “tops” are not available in my city. All cigars listed were released in 2024. I also only picked one cigar per company (sorry Steve Saka).

For 2024, my favorite five new releases were:

  • Aganorsa Arsenio
  • Black Label Trading Company Orthodox
  • Dunbarton Umbagog Bronzeback
  • Micallef Red
  • Perdomo 30th Sun Grown

As for the rest of the list, all of these scored at least 91 on my scale.

  • Black Star Line War Witch Maduro
  • Cavalier Geneva USA Exclusive
  • Crowned Heads Blood Medicine
  • Don Doroteo Alcalde
  • Epic Casino Real Lancero
  • Espinoza Warhead X
  • Ferio Tego Summa
  • Foundation Aksum
  • Gran Habano El Enegmio
  • Kristoff Tres Hombres
  • Leaf by Oscar Criolo
  • Luciano Foreign Affair
  • Tatuaje 10 Tuxtla
  • West Tampa Red Lancero

Global Trade Alert

PCA | October 1, 2024

Could the International Longshoremen Association Strike affect the premium cigar industry?

Yes. The true effects largely depend on how long the strike will last. 

What will disruption mean for trade?

The supply chain on the East and Gulf coasts will be disrupted, potentially slowing down the shipments of cargo and consumer goods typically loaded on vessels transported by sea.

Continue reading Global Trade Alert

PCA and Laws Whiskey House Announce Barrel Pick Collaboration

[Washington, D.C.–October 2, 2024] The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) has collaborated with Laws Whiskey House for the limited-run PCA Laws Madeira Cask Bourbon. This release is the first of what will be an annual barrel pick release from the PCA, available on a first-come, first-serve basis to those who make a recommended $200 contribution to PCA’s Industry Defense Fund.

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DON’T MISS OUT ON THE VERSATILE XIKAR® FLIP DUAL CUTTER – SHIPPING NOW!

WESTON, Florida – Quality Importers Trading Company® (QI), the leading accessory supplier to the worldwide premium cigar trade, is excited to announce that the versatile XIKAR® Flip Dual Cutter,
which was first launched at the PCA in March, is now shipping four (4) color options, Black, Blue, Gunmetal, and Red and the remaining three (3) colors, Black & Bronze, Bronze, Brushed Chrome will be available in mid-September. This innovative cigar accessory is designed to cater to the diverse preferences of cigar aficionados, offering both a deep V-Cut and a traditional Straight Cut in one sleek and portable design.


The XIKAR® Flip Dual Cigar Cutter incorporates stainless steel blades capable of handling 64-ring gauge cigars with precision. The dual cutting options ensure an optimal depth for both V-Cut and Straight Cut,
providing an ample draw without compromising the cigar cap. The V-Cut design is based on the classic XIKAR® VX2 cutter engineered with an inverted stainless steel blade providing inward pressure to the cap of the cigar during the cut, preventing the cigar cap from expanding and splitting.

Continue reading DON’T MISS OUT ON THE VERSATILE XIKAR® FLIP DUAL CUTTER – SHIPPING NOW!

Toscano and PCA Announce Toscano Brenta PCA Exclusive

The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) has partnered with Manifatture Sigaro Toscano (Toscano cigars) to bring its members a new PCA release, the Toscano Brenta. The Toscano Brenta is the first Toscano blend to use tobacco that has undergone an air-cured process rather than its traditional fire-cured process. The Toscano Brenta’s blend has tobacco that has been aged 3-5 years. After the cigar has been rolled, it is re-fermented in special rooms and allowed to age for an additional six months.

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QUALITY IMPORTERS REVEAL THE 5-COUNT CIGAR CADDY®CAMOUFLAGE TRAVEL CASE

WESTON, Florida – Quality Importers Trading Company® (QI), the leading accessory supplier to the worldwide premium cigar trade, is excited to reveal a new line of Cigar Caddy® Travel Cases – The
Camouflage Series. Available in Red, Green, or Tan, the 5-count Cigar Caddy® Camouflage Travel Case is designed for those who demand both style and durability.

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Keep Your Summer Productive

What is a retailer to do when there are no trade show distractions to navigate? We don’t have to plan for big buys. We don’t have to scramble for event windows with our favorite brands that are making their show plans and scrambling to ship products for weeks after the show. We don’t have to sweat anything but selling. In the words of Mel Gibson (in a marginal Scottish accent), “FREEDOM!” Here are three ideas to consider when planning your summer:

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PCA Hires New Director of Trade Show & Events

[Washington, D.C.–July 16, 2024] The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) has announced the hiring of Shannon Marie as its new Director of Trade Show and Events. Shannon’s first day with the PCA was July 15, 2024. With over a decade of experience in the events industry, she has spent her professional career helping trade associations grow their event offerings. Shannon will work with Lisa Cox, the organization’s Senior Director of Trade Shows and events, effective immediately.

“I am excited to see the PCA’s team expand in a critical area so that we can provide additional program offerings for the trade show and events. I know that Shannon will be able to support Lisa in maintaining a best-in-class trade show and add other experiential elements to our marquee event and beyond,” says Joshua Habursky, PCA’s Executive Director.

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A Message from PCA’s New Executive Director

Dear PCA Members,

Thank you for having the confidence in me to lead the Premium Cigar Association. I do not take this responsibility lightly. I vow to put my heart and soul into this association with a rich history, massive past successes, present stability, and, most importantly, a bright future. We will never be bashful about promoting the positive impact of this organization and industry on communities across the country and the joy that premium cigars bring to adult consumers throughout the world. I am extremely fortunate to take on this role with an incredible staff and experienced board of directors who will work as a team as we access, grow, and generate new ideas. 

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PCA Names Joshua Habursky as New Executive Director

[Washington, D.C.–June 26, 2024] The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Board of Directors announces the promotion and hiring of Joshua Habursky to the role of PCA Executive Director, effective immediately. Habursky’s tenure at PCA includes outside government affairs consultant (2018), Director of Federal Affairs, Head of Government Affairs, and Deputy Executive Director (2019-present). Since May 2024, Habursky has served as interim executive director of the PCA following Scott Pearce’s departure.

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Donation Center Reminder: CFW by Oscar – Next batch of 600 Boxes available for Order!

To our amazing Donation Centers,

We want to remind all of you about the upcoming availability of the CFW Synergy program cigar, “CFW By Oscar”. An initial quantity was made available at the PCA tradeshow (which sold out in just days!) and the next batch of 600 are now available!


This is our 4th showcase cigar in the CFW Synergy Program. Participating manufacturers limit sales exclusively to our CFW Donation Centers, as a way that CFW can say thank you to our retailers, with a
limited edition showcase cigar. MSRP $14/stick, $144/box, minimum order is 4 boxes (40 cigars), no other requirements. The best part is, the manufacturer is donating 100% of their profits back to CFW.

Continue reading Donation Center Reminder: CFW by Oscar – Next batch of 600 Boxes available for Order!

Luxury Carbon Fiber

Hernandez Humidor

Individually crafted by skilled artisans, each humidor is meticulously assembled by hand, ensuring attention to detail and quality caftsmanship. The process of handcrafting imbues every piece with a unique character, elevating it beyond mere functionality to a true work of art. From the precision-cut carbon fiber overlay to the hand-polished finishes, every aspect of this humidor reflects the dedication and expertise of its makers. Inside, the humidor’s meticulously crafted interior ensures optimal storage conditions for your finest cigars, preserving their flavor and aroma with care. With its seamless blend of style and functionality, this humidor is a testament to the artistry of fine cigar storage. Holds 75-100 cigars.

420 x 250 x 140 mm

THE PALIÓ® VENETO™ QUADRUPLE JET-FLAME LIGHTER IS NOW SHIPPING GLOBALLY!

WESTON, Florida – Quality Importers Trading Company ® (QI) the leading accessory supplier to the worldwide premium cigar trade, is happy to announce that the highly anticipated Palió® Veneto™ Quad Lighter, introduced at the TPE and PCA tradeshows earlier this year, is now shipping globally. The quadruple jet-flame lighter promises to elevate the cigar aficionado’s experience with its fusion of function and style.

Continue reading THE PALIÓ® VENETO™ QUADRUPLE JET-FLAME LIGHTER IS NOW SHIPPING GLOBALLY!

PCA to Host National Convention Events at Member Locations

The Premium Cigar Association (PCA), working in cooperation with the Cigar Association of America (CAA) and Drew Estate Cigars, will be hosting outreach events in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on July 16, 2024, from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. during the Republican National Convention and during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois, on August 20, 2024, also from 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

The host locations for the events include PCA members Metro Cigars Germantown location (Wisconsin) and Up Down Cigar (Chicago). The events will bring together elected officials, candidates, and politicos from across the country. Each event is supposed to bring together over 100 people to discuss important issues in a social setting over premium cigars.

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Procigar Elects Litto Gomez as New President

PCA | May 7, 2024 – The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) examines how bad legislation such as generational sales bans hurts businesses and infringes on personal freedoms.

Procigar has a new president. At a general meeting held in early May 2024, members of Procigar elected Litto Gomez of La Flor Dominicana as its new president. Also, Ciro Cascella has been elected as the organization’s new vice president.

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The Premium Cigar Association Closes Out a Successful PCA24 Trade Show; Reveals Dates for 2025 and 2026 Shows in New Orleans

[Washington, D.C.–April 17, 2024] The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) held its annual trade show and convention in Las Vegas on March 22-25, 2024. This year’s trade show took place in the spring, a change from the trade show’s typical summer dates. With this change, the PCA saw an unprecedented interest in this trade show with an increase in the number of attending retail accounts and general excitement from attendees.

“We were very excited to hold the convention and trade show in Spring after years of feedback from retailers and manufacturers,” said PCA Executive Director Scott Pearce. “The increased attendance, excitement on the show floor, and the number of high-quality events and education as part of the convention made PCA24 a great success and phenomenal step forward. A huge kudos to the PCA staff, especially Lisa Cox and her team, for turning this around in eight months,” Pearce said.

Continue reading The Premium Cigar Association Closes Out a Successful PCA24 Trade Show; Reveals Dates for 2025 and 2026 Shows in New Orleans

CRA’s Files Reply Brief In U.S. Court of Appeals

WASHINGTON, DC (April 16, 2024) – Yesterday, Cigar Rights of America (CRA) and the Premium Cigar Association (PCA), filed the industry’s reply brief in response to the United States Food & Drug Administration’s (FDA) appeal in Cigar Association of America, Cigar Rights of America, and Premium Cigar Association v FDA. 

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Premium Cigar Association Expands Government Affairs Staff

[WASHINGTON, D.C. – APRIL 12, 2024] The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) welcomes Richard Chalkey as its new Director of Coalitions and Policy.

Richard brings over a decade of professional experience from work in government and the private sector. “The Premium Cigar Association has worked with Richard since his time in the West Wing of the White House through Congress and we look forward to having him join our team,” noted PCA Deputy Executive Director Joshua Habursky. “It is rare to find someone in Washington who has worked in the House, Senate, and White House –especially someone who worked four years in a White House and in the West Wing. We are glad to have the perspective and network that Richard will bring.”

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UNC Research Pushes For Less Freedom on the Golf Course

New “research” from the University of North Carolina (UNC)is proving that even one of America’s last great pastimes, golf, is not safe from the nanny-state agenda. In a research letter published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research, analysts Selena Kleber, Remi Philips, and corresponding author Adam Goldstein, MD, MPH, Director of Tobacco Intervention Programs at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, examined reports of tobacco sales, sponsorships, and policies at professional golf tournaments. The immediate red flag as to the objectivity of the “research” is the reference to cigarettes in virtually every sentence with cigars.

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MIAMI CIGAR & CO. ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF THE LIMITED EDITION NESTOR MIRANDA GRAND RESERVE AT THE 2024 PCA IN LAS VEGAS

(Miami, FL) March 21, 2024Miami Cigar & Co. announces the unveiling of the limited-edition Nestor Miranda Grand Reserve 2024 at the 2024 PCA in Las Vegas. Miami Cigar & Co. previously released prior editions of the brand in 2011 and 2012. It was felt that it was the right moment to revive the NM Grand Reserve, in time for the company’s 35-year anniversary.

Miami Cigar & Co. kicks off their 35-year anniversary by bringing back Nestor Mirand Grand Reserve. This 2024 version is a brand-new blend and complete with updated packaging. Nestor Miranda worked closely with the My Father Cigar Factory in Nicaragua, to create a blend that was worthy of such a milestone.

Nestor Miranda, Founder and President of Miami Cigar & Co. stated: “The Nestor Miranda Grand Reserve 2024 was a special one for us. 35-year anniversary is a big one! My wife and co-founder of Miami Cigar, Mariana Miranda, and I are still in awe by how far we have come. I really wanted to create a blend that was worthy of such an anniversary. I thank the team at the My Father Cigar Factory, for being patient with me throughout this process, as I wanted this blend to reach the highest possible standard.”

The Nestor Miranda Grand Reserve is a Nicaraguan puro, which is an elegant medium-bodied, full-flavored blend. The cigar boats flavors of spice, earthiness, and ceder, with a hint of sweetness.

Jason Wood, Vice President of Miami Cigar stated: “Nestor really wanted to create something special this year, and we believe that we hit the mark. We encourage everyone to visit us at #booth 7035 at the PCA.”

Only 1500 10 count boxes of the Nestor Miranda Grand Reserve 2024 were created. Vitola: 61/8 X 52.

TAILORED FOR LARGE RING GAUGE CIGARSQUALITY IMPORTERS LAUNCHESTHE XIKAR® XI80 PERFECT CUT CIGAR CUTTER

WESTON, Florida – Quality Importers Trading Company ® (QI) the leading accessory supplier to the worldwide premium cigar trade, announces global availability of the XIKAR® XI80 Perfect Cut Cigar
Cutter tailored for large ring cigars. Sporting the classic teardrop design in black, this cutter offers a closed back ensuring an exact straight cut for cigars up to 80-ring gauge.

Continue reading TAILORED FOR LARGE RING GAUGE CIGARSQUALITY IMPORTERS LAUNCHESTHE XIKAR® XI80 PERFECT CUT CIGAR CUTTER

Casa 1910 Announces Lauch of New Products and the ‘Mexigars’ Brand

Mexico City, March 22, 2024

Casa 1910, a leader in the production of mexican high-quality cigars, is pleased to announce the launch of several new products that will further enrich its Revolutionary lineup. These exciting releases reflect Casa 1910’s continued commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and innovation in the mexican tobacco.

New Cigars in the Revolutionary Line: “Tierra Blanca – Format” and “El Ebano – Cigar”

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Quality Importers Introduces the Palió® Tazza Piccola Ashtray

WESTON, Florida – Quality Importers Trading Company ® (QI) the leading accessory supplier to the worldwide premium cigar trade, is pleased to expand the Palió® Tazza Ashtray line with the introduction of the Tazza Piccola Ashtray. This compact, all-metal, four-cigar rest personal ashtray is set to ship in June, providing cigar aficionados with a clean and stylish smoking experience. Key features that make the Palió® Tazza Piccola Ashtray stand out from competitors are:

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