I.W. Harper Unveils A Rare 34-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey in Partnership with Award Winning Actor Colman Domingo

Stitzel-Weller Distillery proudly introduces the rarest release in I.W. Harper’s 150-year history: I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Crafted from just four legacy barrels laid down in 1989 and matured for 34 years at the iconic Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Kentucky, this ultra-limited expression represents a first-of-its-kind intersection of whiskey craftsmanship, cultural storytelling, and community. Launched in collaboration with two-time Oscar nominated actor, director and philanthropist Colman Domingo, this release is both a reflection of enduring style and an intentional celebration of identity, individuality, and artistic expression. A testament to the liquid’s rarity, only 5 bottles will be sold (out of only 11 total in existence), exclusively consigned via global auction at Sotheby’s in New York, with proceeds donated to Native Son , a movement, community, and platform created to inspire, empower, and amplify the visibility of Black queer men.

“As someone who cares deeply about legacy and representation, this release feels personal,” Colman Domingo shared. “As a Black queer man, I know how vital visibility, support, and community are. Choosing Native Son as the charity partner was intentional—it reflects the same values we’re honoring through the whiskey: legacy, cultural expression, and creating space to be seen and celebrated. I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old isn’t just about rarity; it’s about storytelling that honors both past and future.”

That legacy is not just defined by time in barrels, but by the stories and cultural threads that surround it. Founded by Isaac Wolfe Bernheim, I.W. Harper has long stood as a symbol of refinement and quiet confidence within Black culture in America – respected for its historic ties and resonance across generations. Continuing that mission into the future, proceeds from the auction of I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old will directly benefit Native Son’s mission, reinforcing the release’s dual role as an exceptional whiskey and a meaningful cultural message.

Distilled in 1989 and matured for over three decades at the historic Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Kentucky, I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old was blended from four hand-selected barrels, carefully preserved and bottled at cask strength, 63.1% ABV. The result is a whiskey that speaks to quiet patience and considered stewardship – crafted not just to age, but to endure.

“I held onto this whiskey knowing exactly how special it was,” said Nicole Austin, Diageo’s Director of American Whiskey Liquid Development and Capabilities. “These barrels were marked for I.W. Harper all those years ago, and I’ve been waiting for the right moment to do something truly meaningful with them. This release is the rarest in the brand’s history—a liquid that’s been carefully stewarded for 34 years. As someone who has spent my career honoring the past while helping shape what American whiskey can be, this project has been incredibly personal. It’s a way to spotlight I.W. Harper’s legacy through a lens of true rarity and reverence.”

Every element of I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old was developed through that lens, from the couture-inspired wrist piece to the silk scarf by Brooklyn-based creative Michelle Cadore . This release draws visual and conceptual inspiration from the themes of fashion, resistance and identity, ideas powerfully explored in wider cultural works that have shaped the conversation around heritage and expression.

Rather than relying on heavy-handed tasting notes, I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old is defined by its structure and restraint – an experience meant to be understood first-hand by the select few who will have the chance. It carries a profile shaped by decades in new charred oak, offering a rare balance that reflects both the craft of American Whiskey and I.W. Harper’s signature quiet confidence.

I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old will exist solely as this ultra-limited, once-in-a-lifetime release, available exclusively through Sotheby’s via auction benefiting Native Son.

“These remarkable bottles take center stage – distilled in 1989, they mark a special moment in American whiskey history,” said Zev Glesta, Spirits Specialist, AVP, at Sotheby’s. “Exceptionally well-aged, bottled at cask strength, and five of only 11 in existence, it’s the kind of release collectors dream about. What makes it even more special is that the proceeds will go directly to Native Son, a cause close to our hearts. We’re proud to be part of something so thoughtfully curated – not just celebrating an incredible whiskey, but also giving back in a meaningful way.”

I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old represents not just a whiskey’s journey across time, but the Stitzel-Weller Distillery’s ongoing commitment to cultural contribution and community support. Sotheby’s auction for I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey will be live from July 24 through August 7, 2025 and bids can be placed on Sothebys.com.

Hooten Young Launches Operation Midnight Hammer™

Hooten Young Cigars & Whiskey proudly announces the release of Operation Midnight Hammer™, a limited edition 6 x 60 torpedo cigar inspired by the sleek dominance of the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and the unwavering courage of the U.S. military personnel who command them.

"Midnight Hammer pays homage to the precision, bravery, and quiet strength of those who serve from the skies, and we’re proud to bring that spirit to life in this bold, limited-edition release.” said Norm Hooten, President and Co-Founder of Hooten Young Whiskey & Cigars.

Midnight Hammer is crafted for those who appreciate bold flavor and meaningful storytelling. Wrapped in a dark San Andrés Maduro leaf and featuring a rich Nicaraguan binder and filler combination, it delivers a full-bodied experience layered with complexity, spice, and depth. The cigar’s unfinished shaggy foot serves as a symbolic nod to the lethal precision of the B-2’s payload—raw, ready, and unforgettable.

True to its inspiration, Midnight Hammer™ is available for a very limited time as a true limited edition project. Each cigar is banded with a design inspired by the silhouette of the B-2 stealth bomber and carries the spirit of those who operate in silence but leave a lasting mark. Pre-sale of the Midnight Hammer is live as of July 1, and the cigars will begin shipping on or before July 14. The MSRP is $16.00 per cigar and are available in humidity controlled Hooten Young 4-Packs.

GLENFARCLAS RELEASES OLDEST EXPRESSION TO DATE

Glenfarclas, one of Scotland’s few remaining family-owned and managed distilleries, has today announced the release of its oldest whisky to date.

Distilled on 20 November 1953, the Glenfarclas 70-Year-Old marks a pinnacle in the distillery's legacy, embodying over seven decades of meticulous ageing and expertise. Matured in the distillery’s traditional dunnage warehouses in Speyside, this release was laid down in first-fill sherry casks. The whisky has been overseen by six distillery managers over the past seventy years and will now be available to purchase internationally.

The 70-Year-Old is an exceptionally rare Glenfarclas. When it was distilled back in 1953, the malt barn would have been a hive of activity at the heart of the distillery, with barley being hand-turned on the malting floors. Today the old malt barn has been re-purposed as the tun room. This remarkable whisky comes from one of the few remaining casks of this era.

With only 262 bottles available globally, the Glenfarclas 70-Year-Old is a landmark release that embodies rarity, provenance, and heritage. With its polished dark teak hue, the Glenfarclas 70-Year-Old invites you in before the first sip. The nose reveals stewed fruits, and a gentle touch of Speyside peat. On the palate, rich notes of dark chocolate, spiced dried fruits, treacle toffee and deep coffee unfold in layers.The finish is long, evolving, and deeply satisfying - a rare whisky that lingers, both in flavour and memory.

John Grant, chairman and fifth generation of the Grant family to have owned and run Glenfarclas distillery, added:

"As Chairman of a family-owned distillery I am committed to overseeing the production of our exceptional malt whisky, just as my forefathers did before me. We take great pride in maintaining complete control over every aspect of production, preserving our time-honoured traditional methods - most notably, the use of direct-fired stills, which creates a robust and full-bodied spirit."

"Remarkably, this particular cask has been maturing almost as long as I’ve been alive. Releasing it now marks a true milestone, and one that Callum and I have considered carefully and with great respect for its legacy.”

At 70 years old, this is the oldest release in the Glenfarclas Warehouse Series, surpassing the 30-, 35-, and 40-Year-Old expressions. Presented in the same distinctive Glenfarclas ‘red’ secondary packaging the series is known for, the understated packaging marks a deliberate choice by the family to let the whisky speak for itself, while remaining true to the brand’s values of simplicity and integrity.

Callum A. Fraser, Distillery Manager at Glenfarclas commented:

“This is true Glenfarclas and this expression captures the very DNA of the distillery. What we did 30 or 40 or even 70 years ago is very much what we still do today. The warehouses are still here, holding decades of stories in their walls. At the heart of it all, tradition remains key. “This whisky has waited seventy years to be enjoyed. Through wars, the reign of a queen and now a king, the world has changed — but this spirit has endured, and it stands as a rare and timeless testament to patience and craft.”

The Glenfarclas 70-Year-Old will be available globally from June 2025 through a select network of specialist retailers in over 50 markets. The recommended retail price is £20,000 (UK), subject to regional variations.

Cohiba Unveils the Latest Edition of Spectre

Cohiba continues to redefine the cigar experience with the latest release of Spectre, an ultra-premium limited-edition offering that brings together rare tobaccos, expert craftsmanship and next-level packaging. This latest Spectre release features a 7-year-aged Havana Connecticut 2017 wrapper and introduces the first-ever Criollo '98 grown in Mao Dominican Republic, making it one of the most distinctive blends in Cohiba’s portfolio.

“Spectre has always been about pushing the limits of what’s possible,” said Sean Williams, Cohiba Brand Ambassador. “Rare tobaccos, flawless construction and packaging that is in a league of its own. This year, we’ve taken it even further. The blend is unlike anything we’ve done before, and the box is truly next level. This year’s Spectre is for those who appreciate the smoking experience as much as the cigar.”

Since its debut in 2018, the Spectre series has become synonymous with innovation, with each release surpassing the last in both blend complexity and presentation. This year’s release continues that tradition with a meticulously curated blend and an upscale cylindrical wooden box that opens to unveil 10 individually sealed metal tubes. Each tube has a built-in humidification system to ensure optimal cigar condition. The box’s core functions as a travel humidor.

The latest Spectre blend includes:

-               Wrapper: 7-Year-Aged Havana Connecticut 2017

-               Binder: Mexican San Andrés

-               Filler: Criollo '98 from Mao Dominican Republic, San Andrés, Vuelta Abajo

Spectre is crafted at General Cigar Dominicana and is available in a Toro (6 x 52) vitola. With extremely limited availability, each cigar is priced at $149.99 with a collector’s box of 10 available for $1,499.99. Shipments will be sent to authorized Cohiba retailers starting June 16, 2025.

Caribbean Sunrise Spirits and La Aurora Announce the U.S. Launch of E. León Jimenes 1903 Rum

Caribbean Sunrise Spirits and La Aurora are proud to announce the U.S. launch of E. León Jimenes 1903 Rum. Our 1903 Rum is being launched in the U.S. with importation by Caribbean Sunrise Spirits, LLC (CSS), the sister company of La Aurora, USA, as La Aurora—the oldest continuous manufacturer of Dominican cigars—expands its US footprint. E. León Jimenes 1903, is a light rum crafted from 100% premium sugar cane juice. Our unique production process utilizes a four-column continuous distillation train, ensuring unparalleled consistency as the alcohol emerges at an impressive 96% ABV, showcasing our commitment to excellence. This exceptional spirit then undergoes a meticulous aging process, starting with 6.5 years in Ex-bourbon American oak barrels, followed by an additional 1.5 years in Ex-sherry cask European oak barrels, for a total of 8 years of maturation.

E. León Jimenes 1903 features notes of oak, panela (unrefined whole cane sugar), and a medley of spices including vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, culminating in a citrusy finish. The slightly sweet profile accentuates the woody flavors, revealing layers of caramel, dried fruits, chocolate, orange peel, and bananas. This medium-bodied aged distillate offers a clean, dry, and subtly sweet finish. Fine wood spices and hints of almond linger momentarily before gently fading away.

“In 1903, Eduardo León Jimenes had the vision of crafting the highest quality Dominican products to share with the rest of the world. Since then, we have become masters in the value of time and aging, the art of mixing aromas and flavors, and the commitment to excellence. We entered into the rum industry in 2013 to celebrate my grandfather, E. León Jimenes, on the 110th anniversary of his founding of La Aurora,” said Guillermo León, President. “Following the incredible success of our 110 Aniversario rum and the overwhelming praise and awards it has received, we knew creating a product at a lower price point without compromising our unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship would be a monumental challenge. Yet, from that challenge came E. León Jimenes 1903—a rum born from our strictest standards, deepest passions, and desire to honor my grandfather’s visionary spirit.”

“E. León Jimenes Rum is and will always be a portfolio of premium products intended to share the best of the Dominican Republic with the rest of the world, building on the vision of E. León Jimenes. The goal, long-term, is to continue to share these distinctly Dominican experiences with others whether through pairings with cigars or Dominican cuisine. Caribbean Sunrise Spirits intends to be a leader alongside other premium rum brands, both established and new, in order to cement rum as a premium, and sought-after, spirit,” says Ed McKenna, CEO.

E. Leon Jimenes 1903 will be available all year, with the first distribution starting in Florida, New York, California, and Nevada mid-2025, with ambitions to expand into at least 5 key markets by the end of 2025 (SRP: $39.99).

CAO INTRODUCES AMAZON BASIN DAGGERS, A NEW TAKE ON A CULT CLASSIC

CAO is expanding its most talked-about limited-edition series with the launch of Amazon Basin Daggers, a new cigar that brings the signature Amazon Basin blend to a compact 4 x 38 format. Handcrafted at STG Estelí and shipping in June 2025, Daggers brings the same bold blend to a shorter format.

Crafted with the same rare Bragança tobacco used in the original Amazon Basin, Daggers delivers a bold, earthy experience with notes of fruit and a satisfying short-format draw. This small powerhouse is offered in limited quantities and packaged in convenient five-count packs.

Cory Beardsley, brand manager for CAO, said, “Amazon Basin fans are some of the most passionate in the cigar world. We’ve seen how quickly the original sells out and heard the same question every year: when are we getting more? Daggers are our answer to that. It’s the same blend, same rainforest story, now available in a new format.”

Since its original release in 2014, CAO Amazon Basin has become one of the most highly anticipated cigars in the CAO lineup. Known for its use of Bragança tobacco, a rare varietal grown in the remote Amazon Rainforest and harvested only once every three years, the blend has earned a reputation for its exotic profile and cult-like following.

The Bragança leaf is grown organically on unspoiled tropical land, rolled by hand into tubes called carottes, and fermented under high pressure before being transported by canoe from the rainforest. Once at CAO’s factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, the Bragança is blended with a hearty Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos from Colombia and the Dominican Republic.

 The CAO Amazon Basin Daggers (4 x 38) have an MSRP per 5 pack of cigars of $24.99.

HOYO EXPANDS CORE LINEUP WITH SHADE

Hoyo de Monterrey is following up on the success of Rojo and Oscuro with a third offering in its revitalized core lineup. The new smoke, called Hoyo de Monterrey Shade, features a Honduran Shade wrapper above Honduran binder and filler tobacco. This Honduran Puro was crafted by expert artisans at the famous HATSA factory in Danlí, Honduras.

Hoyo de Monterrey Shade comes in three sizes: a 4.5 X 50 Rothschild, a 6 X 52 Toro, and a 6 X 60 Gigante. Tasting notes include smooth hints of earth and grass. 

Scott Abney, Band Manager for Hoyo de Monterrey, said, “Hoyo Shade is the perfect follow-up to last year’s releases, Rojo and Oscuro. Given Hoyo’s reputation for crafting excellent shade cigars, we knew we had to set a high standard for Shade, and I’m pleased to say we’ve met it. Add to all of that a more-than-approachable price point, and I’m confident that Hoyo Shade will quickly become a fan favorite.”

Hoyo Shade will begin shipping June 2, 2025. All sizes are sold in boxes of ten. SRP per cigar ranges from $5.99 to $8.49. The box and band art match the style of last year’s releases from Hoyo de Monterrey, Rojo and Oscuro.

Hoyo de Monterrey Shade is available in 3 sizes:

Rothschild (4.5” X 50) per cigar $5.99

Toro (6” X 52) per cigar $7.49

Gigante (6” X 60) per cigar $8.49

J.C. Newman Cigar Company Ships The Julius Caeser Troublemaker

Today J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is shipping The Troublemaker, a new size to its top-selling Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand of luxury cigars, to 105 premium cigar retailers across the United States. The Troublemaker is a 5.75” x 52 soft perfecto. It is packed in leather boxes of 20 cigars with a suggested retail price of $17 per cigar. Like all Diamond Crown cigars, The Troublemaker is handcrafted by the Fuente Family for the Newman Family at Tabacalera A. Fuente in the Dominican Republic. 

“One of my longtime mentors is Rich Dolak, the vice president of operations at both J.C. Newman and Arturo Fuente,” said fourth-generation owner Drew Newman. “Since I was a teenager, I’ve sat in Rich’s office and listened to him teach me about the cigar business. Above Rich’s desk hangs a vintage poster with a unique cigar shape. Three years ago, I asked him, ‘Why can’t we roll a cigar like that?’”

“We call it ‘The Troublemaker’ because it was very difficult to make,” said Newman. “Rich used a knife to shape a dowel to match the cigar shown in the poster above his desk. We then used that hand-carved dowel to create custom cigar molds for this special size.”

“Because this cigar was such a pain to create, the factory has another name for it,” said Newman. “As that name is not appropriate to print, its officially called ‘The Troublemaker.’”

YOSHINO SPIRITS CO. and KAMIKI SHUZO PROUDLY UNVEIL MINOKI SINGLE ORIGIN JAPANESE RUM

Yoshino Spirits Co. and Kamiki Shuzo proudly unveil Minoki Japanese Single Origin Rum – an exceptionally rare expression of Japan’s rum heritage.

Inspired by the legend of the Ocean Princess, Minoki is aged in Mizurana Oak Casks and coral-filtered, capturing a level of craftsmanship few will ever experience.

Crafted from local sugarcane on Japan's tropical islands, the 8-Year-Old and 15-Year-Old expressions are among the rarest Japanese rums, with national production under 10,000 cases annually. This limited release is available globally on a first-come, first-served basis:1,900 bottles of the 8YO and 1,200 of the 15YO only.

Oban Welcomes A New And Extraordinary Scotch Whisky | Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish

In a world that moves fast, true craftsmanship takes time. Enter Oban’s latest release, Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish – a limited-edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky that celebrates the mastery of patience and precision. Meticulously aged and carefully finished in Andalusian Sherry Casks, this expressive whisky invites drinkers to slow down, savor the moment and appreciate the craft.

This new, creamy-smooth expression from Oban was aged to perfection in European Oak Butts and American Oak Hogshead Barrels before being finished in Oloroso and Palo Cortado Sherry Casks. On the nose, Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish opens with aromas of dried raisin and orchard fruit, giving way to charred orange rind and lemon peel. The whisky’s palate delivers layered notes of burnt sugar, cinder toffee and a slight hint of almonds, European Oak imparts tannins, pepper, and spice, culminating in a warm lingering finish of brown sugar.  

Tucked away in the West Highlands of Scotland, Oban Distillery has been producing exceptional whisky since 1794. Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish was created by the distillery’s seven artisans, inspired by the flavors and traditions of southern Spain’s Andalusia region. Reflecting the distillery’s long-standing dedication to quality, Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish is a true embodiment of the mastery of the seasoned distillers who carefully create Oban day by day. Under the guidance of DIAGEO Master Blender Dr. Stuart Morrison, hand-selected casks were carefully finished for over four years in Oloroso and Palo Cortado Sherry Casks, resulting in a transportive tasting experience that marries sweet dried fruits, citrus and Oban’s signature maritime salinity.

“After years of development and refinement, we are proud to welcome Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish,” said Dr. Stuart Morrison. “The whisky is born of deliberate care and the passion of Oban’s dedicated distillers.”

Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish is a testament to balance and detail. Like a thoughtfully curated grazing board, every note, every flavor, and every detail of this whisky is crafted to be savored. It pairs beautifully with aged meats, nutty cheeses, and briny olives, making it the ideal choice for a neat dram and a sell-set grazing board.

This limited-edition bottle is a testament to the art of appreciation, and is available at select spirits retailers nationwide with a suggested retail price of $150 for 750mL.

MACANUDO GOLD LABEL DEBUTS LIMITED-EDITION TORPEDO VITOLA

Macanudo Gold Label is back for a limited time, featuring its signature golden wrapper and unmistakably smooth flavor profile. For 2025, the fan-favorite lineup adds a new vitola with the release of Gold Torpedo—a 6.5” x 52 frontmark available in limited quantities.

What sets Gold Label apart is its exceptional Connecticut Shade Capa Especial wrapper, drawn exclusively from the first and second primings of the tobacco plant. These lower leaves receive less sunlight, allowing them to retain more natural sugars, yielding a wrapper that is lighter in color, sweeter in taste and silkier in texture. The result is a cigar that delivers a uniquely creamy, mellow smoking experience.

The full blend features a Connecticut Shade (Capa Especial) wrapper, a Mexican binder also pulled from the plant’s first and second primings, and a filler blend of Mexican and Dominican tobaccos. Together, they create a profile that’s smooth, nuanced and approachable.

Matt Wilson, Senior Brand Manager for Macanudo, said, “Macanudo Gold Label has always been a fan favorite, and it’s a release we’re proud to bring back each year. As always, we’ve incorporated the first and second primings of the Mexican San Andrés binder to deliver an even more elevated smoking experience. Pairing that with a torpedo vitola gives the blend a new dimension while staying true to the mellow, creamy profile fans expect from Gold Label.”

Macanudo Gold Label is handcrafted at the General Cigar Dominicana in Santiago, Dominican Republic. The collection will begin shipping to retailers May 1st and is limited.

CAMACHO CIGARS UNVEILS LIMITED EDITION 2025

Camacho Cigars introduces its Limited Edition 2025. The multi-origin toro cigar comprises well-aged Dominican tobacco with Honduran and Mexican tobaccos that can be found in some of Camacho's boldest of cigars. This extraordinary release celebrates the skilled Camacho Master Blenders' unmatched expertise and passion with a cigar for their rebel aficionados.

"Our Camacho Limited Edition 2025 is the essence of boldness and a statement in itself", says Edward Simon, CMO at Oettinger Davidoff. "Our Master Blenders took on a challenge that was as daring as it was ambitious: to fuse our most powerful and richest Camacho tobaccos from various countries of origins into one exceptional masterpiece. This cigar is the first in a series that not only honors the commitment, craftsmanship, and drive for excellence of our team in Honduras but also delivers an unforgettable experience for true aficionados."

The Limited Edition 2025 not only lives up to but exceeds the brand claim of "Built Bold". Its multi- origin blend in the popular toro format comprises Honduran and Dominican filler tobaccos under a Honduran binder and a Mexican wrapper, resulting in a taste experience ideal for those who appreciate a cigar that shows its strength.

Rich notes of dark chocolate open the toro, paired with a hint of spice and a subtle nutty undertone, supported by roasted and earthy nuances. As the cigar progresses, robust coffee flavors emerge, accompanied by a distinct kick of white pepper, softened by creamy undertones and a hint of smoky wood. The final third highlights bold pepper and rugged wood, rounded out by delicate hints of dried fruits and leather, delivering a complex and memorable finish.

Dimensions toro: 6” x 52”

The Camacho Limited Edition 2025 toro cigar is presented in a distinctive 20-count metallic canister. Made of aluminum and lined with cedar, this special canister features intricate gold tobacco leaf accents and the phrase “Boldly Built by Masters” – a nod to the skilled team in Danlí, Honduras.

The Camacho Limited Edition 2025 will be available as of 19 June 2025*.

GPC Expands CACHITOS Line-Up with Connecticut Release

Global Premium Cigars (GPC) announced today that they will be expanding the CACHITOS line-up, with the release of CACHITOS Connecticut.

The CACHITOS brand has always been about delivering an uncompromising premium cigar experience in a smaller vitola, for discerning cigar enthusiasts without a lot of time to sit down to enjoy a great cigar. CACHITOS original is crafted with premium Nicaraguan tobaccos in a 4 x 50 Short Robusto vitola and is now sold in a premium, 5-pack box configuration that makes it easy to carry them with you on the go.

The CACHITOS Connecticut blend release marks the first line extension in the history of the brand, originally introduced in 2019 by company founder and master blender, Enrique Sanchez, and quickly becoming a go-to, shorter-smoke favorite among cigar enthusiasts. The CACHITOS Connecticut blend is crowned with a shade-grown wrapper from the Connecticut River Valley (USA) and incorporates premium Nicaraguan tobaccos primarily from the Jalapa and Condega regions in the binder and filler to deliver a luxuriously creamy and richly complex smoking experience from start to finish.

Both CACHITOS blends, the original and the Connecticut release, are handcrafted at the Barreda cigar factory in Esteli, Nicaragua, and are created on the same Nicaraguan-centric, exploratory blending philosophy of Enrique Sanchez, aiming to deliver uniquely authentic, premium Nicaraguan cigar blend expressions.

When asked about the new CACHITOS Connecticut blend, Enrique Sanchez stated, “I can honestly say that now is the right time to release this special new blend. It has taken us a long time to find, select and incorporate just the right combination of premium tobaccos that deliver an extraordinarily smooth, yet complex and flavorful Connecticut wrapper blend. One of the challenges was to create a cigar blend that would satisfy cigar smokers across the spectrum of profile preferences. I live for these types of blending challenges, always diving deep into my Nicaraguan roots to deliver blends that are uniquely pleasing, and it brings me great pleasure to now share this blend with cigar lovers everywhere.”

Both CACHITOS are offered in a 4 x 50 Short Robusto vitola, and sold in new, convenient 5-pack box configurations, with an MSRP of $6.20 per cigar. CACHITOS Connecticut will begin shipping to global retailers in April, 2025.

La Aurora Debuts Fuerte Sol - the first edition of the Family Creed Series

La Aurora USA has announced the La Aurora Fuerte Sol, the first edition of the Family Creed Series. Just as the sun represents power and endurance, “Fuerte Sol” captures the strength and resilience inherent in the León family values. The León Family, founders of La Aurora cigars, have built a legacy on their unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and tradition. The reason can be found in the León Family Creed, a set of principles that has guided, and continues to guide, every León family member. Each blend in this series takes its name directly from the Family Creed.

 “The Family Creed Series is a new commitment to the U.S. market as we continue to innovate and listen to our consumers, as well as stay true to the Family Creed that has led our business for decades,” Said Guillermo León, President of La Aurora. “To honor our family creed, we are launching a new cigar blend line that embodies the very essence of our legacy. This collection is not just a tribute to our past but a statement about our future—crafted with precision, sourced from the finest tobaccos, and blended with an understanding of both tradition and the evolving tastes of the modern connoisseur. Innovation and persistence were the keystones of this creation, as we refined every detail to ensure a cigar that speaks to both heritage and progress. Through this line, we are not just offering a product; we are shaping the future of our company, proving that legacy is not about standing still, but about continuously setting new standards for excellence.”

La Aurora Fuerte Sol seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques, honoring the Leon family’s heritage while meeting the evolving tastes of modern cigar enthusiasts. This medium-full strength cigar is a bold testament to their unyielding commitment to excellence. For the first time, exclusively at PCA 2025 in New Orleans, La Aurora Family Creed Series Fuerte Sol will be available to the public in two formats:  Box-Pressed Robusto (5x50) and Box-Pressed Toro (5.75x54). A third format is slated for release in Q4 2025: Box-Pressed Gran Toro (6x58).

Fuerte Sol features a complex blend of Pennsylvania, Dominican Republic, and Nicaragua filler tobaccos, wrapped in a dark, oily, Mexican San Andrés wrapper and all harmonized by a Nicaraguan binder providing for notes of spicy cedar, cocoa, toasted nuts, oak, and citrus. The new box-pressed cigar joins the La Aurora portfolio boasting a creamy and sweet smoke with medium to full-bodied strength.

Available in dress boxes of 20 handmade cigars, this first edition of the Family Creed Series will be at PCA and then shipping to retailers in early May. (MSRP: Box-Pressed Robusto - $310/box or $15.50/cigar; Box-Pressed Toro $360/box or $18.00/cigar; Available in Q4 2025 Box-Pressed Gran Toro $370/box or $18.50/cigar).

Treasure Box

La Aurora also shared brand new packaging for La Aurora’s Treasure Box. The Treasure box captures all the best-selling Preferidos blends in the perfecto format. From the smooth Sapphire (Connecticut wrapper) to the decadent Ruby (Maduro wrapper), this will be a gift that is sure to please the most discerning aficionado in your life.

The Preferidos perfectos are each packaged in a beautiful tubo and named after precious gems. The brand-new box provides more details on the entire portfolio and shows off the beauty of the brand. Rolled in the original format that made La Aurora famous, the doble figurado or perfecto, these tubos are entrusted to be rolled only by torcedores with over 15 years of experience. The Treasure Box is complete with six Preferidos blends in Perfecto (5x54) formats: Connecticut (Sapphire), Cameroon (Platinum), Sumatra - Ecuador (Emerald), Connecticut Broadleaf (Diamond), Maduro – Brazil (Ruby), and Corojo – Ecuador (Gold). New packaging for Treasure Box will begin shipping to retailers in early May (MSRP: $171.00 per box).

“The Treasure Box is really the perfect gift for introducing La Aurora to those in the U.S. who may not be familiar with the brand,” said John Ferrigan, National Sales Director. “With a new box that features the blends and better shows off the beautiful tubos, it makes for a great grab-and-go gift whether it’s a family member that knows nothing about cigars, or an aficionado that understands the legacy behind the brand.”

E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company is Proud to Announce its fourth Pledge98 Campaign to Benefit Els for Autism Foundation®.

E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company announces its fourth "Pledge98" campaign benefitting the Els for Autism Foundation. This campaign is set to raise awareness and funds for the non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of people with autism and those who care for them through lifetime services and collaborative partnerships. This is the fourth year in a row for Pledge98, the first few years included several campaigns, events and in-kind donations that raised over $150,000 for the foundation.

In the spirit of the Pledge Prequel earning a 98 rating when it was selected as the Cigar of the Year in 2020, E.P. Carrillo is donating $9.80 per every Pledge Prequel (5x50) box sold in April 2025 which is World Autism Month and as part of the Carrillo Cares initiative. E.P. Carrillo will also be hosting Pledge98 events throughout the country and participating in Els for Autism golf tournaments throughout the year. "Our first three Pledge98 campaigns with Els for Autism surpassed all of our expectations," said Lissette Perez-Carrillo, Co-Owner of E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company. "We hope our fourth campaign will continue to engage the retailers and consumers just as much.”

JC Newman Begins Shipping Tampa Smokers Cigars

Today J.C. Newman Cigar Co. began shipping its new Tampa Smokers cigars to more than 100 cigar retailers around the country.  This first release includes boxes of Tampa Smokers cigars handmade by J.C. Newman in Tampa and a baseball-inspired cigar case handcrafted by Brizard in California along with a retro Tampa Smokers cap and a 1947 vintage Tampa Smokers program.

“Baseball and cigars are two of America’s historic pastimes,” said fourth-generation owner Drew Newman. “It is only fitting to celebrate the new baseball season with a special cigar that honors Tampa’s first professional baseball team, the Tampa Smokers.”

A century ago, Tampa was known as the Fine Cigar Capital of the World. The 200 cigar factories in Tampa handcrafted more than 700 million cigars per year. In 1919, Tampa’s first baseball team was named the Tampa Smokers to celebrate its place as Cigar City. Many famous athletes played for the Tampa Smokers, including Al Lopez, who was the son of cigar workers and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. 

Tampa Smokers cigars are handmade in J.C. Newman’s iconic El Reloj cigar factory in Tampa with Ecuadorian Shade wrapper, Connecticut Broadleaf binder, and filler tobaccos from Latin America where baseball continues to be a favorite pastime.  This release includes 500 boxes of 11 Tampa Smokers cigars: ten 6" x 52 toros ($20 SRP) and a 7" baseball bat ($40 SRP).  This release also includes 250 limited edition and numbered Tampa Smokers case handcrafted by Brizard in California with authentic leather used on vintage baseball gloves and ash wood that is used in baseball bats.  Each case includes three Tampa Smokers toro cigars.

Tampa Smokers cigars are handmade in J.C. Newman’s iconic El Reloj cigar factory in Tampa with Ecuadorian Shade wrapper, Connecticut Broadleaf binder, and filler tobaccos from Latin America where baseball continues to be a favorite pastime.  This release includes 500 boxes of 11 Tampa Smokers cigars: ten 6" x 52 toros ($20 SRP) and a 7" baseball bat ($40 SRP).  This release also includes 250 limited edition and numbered Tampa Smokers case handcrafted by Brizard in California with authentic leather used on vintage baseball gloves and ash wood that is used in baseball bats.  Each case includes three Tampa Smokers toro cigars.