Thoughts and Reflections Post-TAA

Just back from the Tobacconists Association of America (TAA) trade show in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - what a trip! It's been a couple days but I must say I'm still exhausted from all the merry making. Mexican beer may not be the most potent but anything is dangerous in certain quantities!

The trade show this year was a great one with high member-attendance, perfect weather, and a perfect atmosphere conducive to all the networking and friendship-forging that goes on at such gatherings. I must mention however, there was one tragic occurrence as a valued member of the cigar community passed in the middle of all of the celebration. Manny Ferrero of Ashton Cigars, a former employee of Holt's in Philadelphia, was a highly-respected and well-loved member of our community. 

Here is a link to the Cigar Aficionado write-up of his passing:

http://www.cigaraficionado.com/webfeatures/show/id/16453

You will be missed Mr. Ferrero.

This upsetting occurrence obviously cast a pall on the entire occasion but I think everyone can agree that we emerged all-the-closer afterwards, the bonds between us strengthened by the reminder that life is short and nothing is guaranteed.

Anyway, on a cheerier note, I am sure everyone is well aware of our recent review in Cigar Aficionado - the Dos Campeones Sixto blend received a triumphant 92 rating; tying with a Cuban Montecristo atop the 'Miscellaneous' category! We are all very excited and our vendors seem to be as well - grab a box or two while you still can! Every vitola is equally delicious. 

That is all from me for now friends, enjoy life and stay lit! You'll be hearing from us again soon.

Jonathan @ Savinelli

Which Champion Are You?

Immediately upon opening the beautiful, understated wood-grain box in which Savinelli's new 'Dos Campeones' line of cigars are packaged one is faced with a daunting decision: "Which Champion Are You?"

The 'Dos Campeones' line boldly takes us into uncharted territories as every box contains two unique varieties of these complex sticks; both the 'Coraje' - Latin for 'Courage', and the 'Sixto' - named for being the sixth blend by creator Steven Ysidron. The Coraje is a dark and robust smoke; to describe it as 'strong' would not be doing it justice - this baby is going to be claiming some Man Cards this year. The Sixto, on the other hand, is beautifully complimentary, a slightly more mellow smoke though equally as complex as its brother Coraje.


Cigar Aficionado's "Cigar Insider" has both of these blends rated very highly, with the Sixto taking top honors rated at a stellar 92.  Don't miss out on these fantastic sticks as I can't imagine they'll stick around long and, as always, stay lit, friends!

Savinelli

Heard it Through the Pipe Tamper 6-3-2011

On this edition of the Pipe Tamper...

We get a final update on the new lines Savinelli Cigars will be introducing in 2011.

Straight from Steven Ysidron:

'If you are a big fan of boutique wine, micro brew beer or small batch liquor you will love what Savinelli has in store for you. Savinelli have been making cigars for nearly 20 years.  The company has been making some of the highest rated boutique cigars you may have never heard of. Working closely with factories such as Fuente, Oliva and Placencia have just released the new line up for 2011 all these cigars are small batch and are carefully quality controlled from the fields to the aging process The first to be released will be their twenty year Anniversary cigar with a blend of fine aged vintage tobacco that will be medium bodied with a smooth finish. Next to be released will be the New Special Selection 2006 This Medium to full bodied cigar which was rated in the Top 25 in the world for 2008 has a new look and new vintage. To follow the Nicaragua Reserve will also have a face lift and be touting a 2007 vintage tobaccos. These cigars will be released at the Las Vegas IPCPR.'

As always...Stay lit my friends!

Jon

Heard it Through the Pipe Tamper 5-3-2011

On this edition of the Pipe Tamper...

We learn more about the Dos Campeones line.

With Savinelli's innovative new cigar line, Dos Campeones, launching in less than 30 days, I would like to explain the story behind the sticks.

In each box of Dos Campeones will be two different blends. The 'Sixto' and 'Coraje.' Steven Ysidron, CEO of Savinelli, worked on the blends for the Dos Campeones. When he could not decide which blend to move forward with, he decided to use both. When asked to comment on this decision he said, ''We have been in the cigar game for almost 20 years. I have tasted a lot of tobaccos, a lot of blends. I came up with something real special with the Dos Campeones, and couldn't decide which blend could carry the name. I think both blends really embody what Savinelli can bring to the table. I am excited to launch such an innovative line."

Coraje is Latin for 'Courage.' This is a strong blend cigar and is not for the weak hearted smoker. Only the strong, the brave, the courageous will attempt to smoke this cigar.

Sixto is Latin for 'Sixth.' This cigar is the sixth blend that Steven Ysidron has worked on. He believes that in each blend he has learned how to make the next better. He promises that this blend has been his best work so far.

Look for the Dos Campeones in a store near you coming in June.

As always...Stay lit my friends!

Jon

Heard it Through the Pipe Tamper 4-28-2011

On this edition of the Pipe Tamper...

We get a sneak peak at the upcoming Savinelli Dos Campeones cigar.

In lieu of the new Savinelli 20th Anniversary cigar launching next month, this cigar line has been lurking in the shadows.

This unique line will feature two different blends in the same box. The Dos Campeones is set for launch this summer.

As always...Stay lit my friends!

Jon

Fav O' Rite

With the 20th Anniversary cigar releasing very soon, I want to know about your favorite cigar.

This is the last chance to have your name entered in the contest for a box of free Savinelli 20th Anniversary cigars due out next month.

What made your favorite cigar memorable? Have you smoked it again? Do you prefer a certain size over another?

Have you ever smoked a cigar that was terrible, one that you didn't finish?

Don't worry, I won't be mad at you if you say your favorite isn't a Savinelli. You just haven't smoked the right stick yet...

Heard it Through the Pipe Tamper 4-14-2011

On this edition of The Pipe Tamper...

Steven gives you the inside scoop on our newest cigar. The 20th Anniversary Stick.

As always...Stay lit me friends!

Jon