Cusano 59 – A Rare Cameroon Wrapper
I can’t remember how many years ago it was, but I was in a Two Guys Cigar Shop in New Hampshire shortly after they had opened. I had framed a number of prints for their new shop and was talking to the owner, David. A gentleman came in and I was introduced to Mike Cusano. At that time he had just started making cigars and I got a ‘Bullet’ which was quite flavorful....
Punch Rothschild, A Dependable Smoke
In the cigar world today new brands and marks are popping up almost daily. Even for us who review, it’s hard to keep track of all of the new entries into the marketplace. So, it is refreshing to see that there are some old line brands that remain viable today. Punch is just one of those brands. Made in Honduras, Punch has been in the market since 1969. And been delivering...
A Legend Remade – El Tiante Habano Oscuro
A few weeks ago I had the distinct pleasure of spending a few hours with Daniel Tiant of the Tiant Cigar Group. Daniel is the CEO of the company, but also the son of former Major League Baseball star pitcher Louis Tiant. Tiant pitched for the Indians and Red Sox, being the star of the 75 World Series. As a lifelong Red Sox fan, it was a thrill for me. Those of us who remember Louis from...
San Lantano Maduro
What is with cigars these days and the bands? It’s been a long time since I have seen a cigar with a nice old fashioned band. The San Lantano has two bands, one with the mark and the other telling you that is is the Maduro. I think I might have noticed. This is a nice looking cigar. It has an oily dark wrapper and a nice feel to it. It clipped easily and lit without problem. The...
A Macanudo Duo – part 2
To pick up where we left off, today is the second in a two part series reviewing the new gigante shapes from Macanudo. This shape has become very popular in recent years and I expect that we will see even larger cigars in August at the national trade show. By the way, what is the largest real cigar you know of or have smoked? I have seen a cigar called the chief by Puros Indios. Someone...