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The Zino Nicaragua Robusto is a medium-bodied cigar, perfectly suited for novice or occasional cigar smokers looking for a smooth, flavourful profile. A blend of aged tobaccos starting with a smooth creamy Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper covers this cigar, a Nicaraguan binder is used along with a rich array of tobaccos from Nicaragua, Honduras and the Dominican Republic.
If you want to try this cigar yourself, the Zino Nicaragua Robusto is available here at Havana House.
Owner: Davidoff
Factory: Diadema Cigars de Honduras S.A.
Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Ecuador (Connecticut)
Binder: Nicaragua (Semilla 56 Seco)
Filler: Dominican Republic (San Vicente and San Vicente Mejorado Secos), Honduras (Olancho and Jamastran Visus) & Nicaragua (Ometepe Visus)
Strength: Medium
Size: Robusto 5″ x 54
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The Zino Robusto opens with a dry, toasty flavour that lightly tingles the front of the tongue. Subtle notes of hay emerge on the palate, accompanied by occasional hints of smokiness on the retrohale and a smooth, creamy body. As the ash drops around the one-inch mark, the cigar begins to reveal a pleasing level of complexity.
The cigar delivers a distinctly earthier profile, both on the palate and through the nose, a trait that continues into the middle of the smoke. A dry, woody and hay-like flavour features prominently early on, but begins to fade around the halfway point as the profile shifts to something deeper and more robust. After this transition, only fleeting hints of that initial dryness and a touch of sweetness remain.
Construction is consistently very good; the cigar maintains an even burn line with just a regular puff. Flavour is a solid medium, the body is similarly balanced, and the strength remains cautiously on the lighter side of medium, never quite venturing into stronger territory.
Many of the same flavours from earlier, particularly those from the middle of the cigar, remain present and have settled nicely, allowing each note to stand out and demonstrate how harmoniously they work together. I finally set the cigar down with about 1cm remaining. An extremely pleasant experience overall.
Great burn on the cigar, even burn line all the way down. No need for touchups or relighting.
Construction is good, so the draw was on point. If you are a fast smoker it won’t overheat. I take things slowly so the cigar can showcase all of its flavour.
This is certainly a cigar worth trying, and one that deserves a place in your humidor. It’s ideal for those moments when you want a reliable smoke for yourself or something flavourful and enjoyable to offer a guest. It’s a cigar that delivers, whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned smoker.
Ross Rating: 7/10
The Zino Nicaragua Robusto Cigar pairs very well Augustiner Helles.
Sprite, simple and brings out the cigar flavour.
If I want a relaxing summer smoke, the Zino is on my rotation.
Longer cigars are ideal for aficionados who appreciate a slower pace and a richer, more nuanced smoking experience. These cigars aren’t just about size; they’re about complexity, elegance, and time well spent.
Long-format cigars like Lanceros, Churchills and Double Coronas are designed to be savoured. The extended length allows the flavours to evolve gradually, building in complexity and depth as the cigar burns.
Longer cigars typically:
While they do require more time and patience, the payoff is a smoke that’s layered, smooth, and deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re marking a milestone or simply indulging in a quiet evening, these long-format cigars offer not just a smoke but an experience. Here’s a handpicked selection of standout long cigars, each with a character of its own, from mellow and elegant to bold and complex.
Size: 6 5/8″ x 45 ring gauge
Body: Medium
An elegant and intriguing smoke, the Partagás Aliados is a masterclass in subtle complexity. It opens with creamy wood tones and gentle aromas of hay and spice, giving way to flavours of warm sourdough and roasted hazelnuts as the cigar progresses.
A gentle pepperiness emerges in the second half, introducing a new dimension without overwhelming the senses. The final third reveals a soft balsamic note, leaving a lasting impression of balance, craftsmanship, and quiet sophistication. A contemplative choice for those who appreciate flavour development in a medium-bodied profile.
Size: 7″ x 47 ring gauge
Body: Medium
A true classic, the Romeo y Julieta Churchill is as inspirational as its namesake. From the first draw, it delivers an impeccably smooth combination of cedar, earthy richness, and a whisper of leather. As the cigar evolves, deeper notes of roasted coffee and dark chocolate emerge, followed by layers of subtle spice.
Midway through, an underlying sweetness begins to build; hints of vanilla, dried fruit, and toasted nuts, creating a perfectly rounded profile. It’s a cigar that tells a story from start to finish: luxurious, approachable, and steeped in tradition.
Size: 7″ x 47 ring gauge
Body: Mild to medium
For those who favour finesse over power, the Por Larrañaga 47 is a beautifully mellow, refined Churchill. It begins with delicate honeyed creaminess, supported by light floral and wooden notes.
As the cigar burns, it gracefully develops into richer layers of toasted nuts, soft cocoa, and sweet spices; never overpowering, but always engaging. This is a cigar that doesn’t shout; it whispers in complexity and charm. Ideal for a relaxed afternoon or a refined aperitif.
Size: 7.2″ x 47 ring gauge
Body: Full
Often hailed as the pinnacle of Cuban craftsmanship, the Cohiba Espléndidos is a cigar of power, depth, and polish. Expect a bold and layered flavour journey; rich, earthy tobacco and leather up front, backed by the subtle pulse of spice that builds in intensity.
The draw is consistently smooth, revealing the nuance and complexity that Cohiba is known for. With a long finish and full-bodied character, this is a cigar that commands attention and rewards experienced palates. It’s not just a smoke, it’s an event.
Size: 7 5/8″ x 49 ring gauge
Body: Medium to full
The Punch Double Corona is a cigar for those who savour bold flavours and a long, satisfying burn. It starts with smooth cedar and a hint of sweetness, before building into a rich medley of roasted coffee, cocoa, and dried fruit. The flavour journey deepens further in the final third, where notes of aged leather and warming spice take over, creating a crescendo of character.
With its full draw and broad flavour arc, this cigar makes for a fulfilling, meditative smoking session; one that lingers on the palate and the memory.
Size: 7 1/2″ x 50 ring gauge
Body: Medium
A celebratory release crafted with rare aged tobaccos, this limited-edition cigar is a testament to Davidoff’s blending artistry. Combining 8 tobaccos in the blend, for a total of 60 years of ageing. The experience begins uniquely with an uncut foot, allowing the initial inch to showcase earthy, woody, and herbal notes without the influence of the wrapper.
Once the full blend comes into play, a wave of roasted nuts, cream, and gentle liquorice emerges. The second third introduces bursts of sweet honey, white pepper, and a bright citrus twist, before the final third deepens into oak wood and decadent dark chocolate. Rich, layered, and luxurious, the Davidoff Year of the Dragon is a special occasion in and of itself.
Size: 7″ x 54 ring gauge
Body: Medium to full
Wrapped in a smooth, golden Claro leaf from the San Andrés Valley, this cigar brings together old-world craftsmanship with modern complexity. It opens with smooth and inviting notes of cream, nutmeg, and soft leather. As the burn continues, the blend transitions into deeper flavours: cedar, toasted grains, and a hint of warm spice.
Balanced and aromatic, the Foundation Olmec Claro Double Corona is a richly rewarding experience that’s ideal for seasoned smokers and curious newcomers alike.
Size: 7 1/2″ x 38 ring gauge
Body: Medium to full
For lovers of elegant formats and concentrated flavour, the Conviction Lancero delivers with plenty of complexity. It opens with earthy tones, leather, and a suggestion of spice, before slowly unfurling into dark chocolate, aged cedar, and a touch of pepper. A creamy undercurrent ties it all together, lending smoothness to the rich profile.
The slim ring gauge enhances the wrapper’s influence, creating an intense, flavour-packed smoke that evolves beautifully. Sophisticated, refined, and utterly satisfying.
Long cigars invite you to slow down, to savour, reflect, and enjoy the craftsmanship of a well-made blend. Whether you’re new to the format or a lifelong devotee, these standout selections offer a range of strengths, styles, and stories to suit every palate.
So next time you have the time, light one of these up, and let the cigar do the talking.
If you’re new to the world of cigars, it’s natural to wonder: do you inhale cigars like you do with cigarettes? The short answer is no, cigars are not meant to be inhaled. Inhaling cigar smoke can be harsh, unpleasant, and even harmful, especially for beginners. In this post, we’ll explain why you don’t inhale cigars, what happens if you do, and how to enjoy a cigar the proper way.
Cigar smoking is a completely different experience to smoking cigarettes. While cigarette smoke is usually inhaled into the lungs, cigar smoke is meant to be drawn into the mouth, tasted, and then exhaled. You enjoy the flavours and aromas through your palate, not through deep inhalation.
Premium cigars are made with whole tobacco leaves and are typically much stronger and more full-bodied than cigarettes. This makes inhaling not only unnecessary but also unpleasant for most people.
There are a few key reasons why cigar smokers avoid inhaling:
Cigars are made with whole tobacco leaves and so contain significantly more tobacco than cigarettes; even a small cigar can pack in much more nicotine. Inhaling that much nicotine directly into the lungs can lead to dizziness, nausea, and even nicotine poisoning.
Cigars are all about the flavour experience. The blends, ageing, and craftsmanship all contribute to complex flavour notes, like spice, earth, coffee, cedar, or leather. By drawing the smoke into your mouth, you can fully appreciate these nuances. Inhaling bypasses your taste buds and ruins the experience.
Cigar smoke is thicker, stronger, and more alkaline than cigarette smoke. It’s simply not designed for lung inhalation. Cigar smokers rarely, if ever, inhale, and those who try often regret it!
Inhaling a cigar can cause some uncomfortable side effects, especially if you’re not used to strong tobacco. Here’s what you might experience:
The most immediate reaction is likely to be a coughing fit or a burning sensation in the lungs. The dense, heavy smoke isn’t filtered like a cigarette, making it much harsher on your respiratory system.
Even without inhaling, cigars can deliver a lot of nicotine through the lining of your mouth. If you do inhale, the sudden rush can lead to light-headedness, nausea, or, in severe cases, vomiting and headaches.
So, do you inhale cigars? The answer is a firm no. Whether you’re enjoying a robust Nicaraguan blend or a smooth Connecticut wrapper, cigars are meant to be savoured. Draw the smoke into your mouth, let the flavours linger, and slowly exhale. That’s how you get the full cigar experience.
Check out our full guide to smoking cigars to discover more about the best ways to prepare and smoke a cigar:
If you’re just starting out, take your time, choose a milder cigar, and focus on flavour over strength. You’ll appreciate cigars much more when you enjoy them the way they’re meant to be enjoyed.
According to Rocky Patel Premium Cigars, the Rocky Patel White Label features tobaccos that have been aged for ten years. Its Connecticut Shade wrapper is sourced from the United States. This isn’t the only U.S.-grown Connecticut wrapper in the Rocky Patel lineup; the Vintage 1999 Connecticut also uses one.
Interestingly, aside from the Xen by Nish Patel, most of Rocky Patel’s Connecticut-wrapped cigars are produced in Honduras. Both the Xen and the White Label, however, are crafted at the company’s TAVICUSA factory in Estelí, Nicaragua.
If you want to try this cigar yourself, the Rocky Patel White Label Robusto Cigar is our cigar of the month for May, so be sure to enjoy it at our discounted price!
Owner: Rocky Patel
Factory: Tabacalera Villa Cuba S.A. (TAVICUSA)
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Connecticut Shade
Filler: Honduran Jamastran Valley, Nicaraguan
Strength: Mild – Medium
Size: Robusto (5″ x 50)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The Rocky Patel White Label Robusto began with a balanced mix of cream, wood, cedar, and a hint of citrus. During the first third, the creamy note gradually took the lead, while the wood, cedar, and citrus settled into supporting roles. At the same time, the retro-hale introduced a touch of black pepper.
In the middle of the Rocky Patel White Label Robusto, the cedar notes became more prominent, overtaking the cream as the dominant flavour. The cream, along with the wood and citrus, moved into the background. Additionally, black pepper notes began to emerge on the palate.
Towards the end, cedar remained the dominant note, while the pepper intensified slightly but stayed in a secondary role. Hints of wood, citrus, and cream added depth to the flavour profile. As the Rocky Patel White Label Robusto reached its finish, the nub remained soft to the touch and cool in temperature.
The Rocky Patel White Label Robusto began with a clean, straight burn line and consistent burn path. The ash was firm and displayed a very light grey hue. Both the burn rate and temperature remained ideal throughout.
The draw on the White Label Robusto was excellent, offering a slight resistance, which I consider a plus. Despite this, it remained an easy, low-maintenance cigar to enjoy in terms of flavour delivery.
The Rocky Patel White Label Robusto offers a relatively uncomplicated flavour profile, showcasing the classic characteristics of a Connecticut Shade cigar, primarily cream, cedar, wood, and citrus notes.
Ross Rating: 7/10
The Rocky Patel White Label Robusto Cigar will pair fantastically with the Samaroli Four Origins Rum (70cl / 45%).
A blend of rums from Nicaragua, Trinidad, Jamaica, and Mauritius, uniting four origins into one spirit. Notes of toasted coconut, cream, bark, and clove lead to hints of vanilla, icing sugar, and croissant, with a crisp, dry finish and subtle green, vegetal undertones. Only 350 bottles were produced.
Sprite, simple and brings out the cigar flavour.
It’s perfect for a nice day when you want good quality tobacco that isn’t going to blow you over. I look forward to my next one.
Rocky Patel has become one of the most respected names in the world of premium Honduran cigars. What started as an ambitious project by Rocky Patel in the 1990s has evolved into a globally recognised brand, known for its consistency, innovation, and dedication to quality.
Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or exploring new additions to your humidor, Rocky Patel offers something for every palate, from bold, full-bodied blends to smoother, refined smokes. In this guide, we’re highlighting some of the best Rocky Patel cigars currently on the market, and available at Havana House, each offering a unique experience and flavour profile.
Discover more about the history of Rocky Patel cigars:
Rocky Patel cigars are known for their:
Many of Rocky Patel’s most acclaimed lines fall into the medium to full-bodied category, making them ideal for cigar lovers who appreciate complexity and richness without overwhelming strength.
Strength: Medium
Body: Medium-Full
Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Ecuador Sumatra
Celebrating two decades of the Edge line, this anniversary edition brings depth and refinement to a classic blend. It features a striking 10-year-aged Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper and delivers notes of earth, cedar, black pepper, and dark chocolate. The construction is excellent, with a slow, even burn and firm ash. It’s a celebratory smoke that balances strength with subtle sweetness.
Strength: Medium-Full
Body: Full
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: San Andrés Mexican
The Conviction Toro is a bold, luxurious cigar aimed at serious smokers. Only 5000 Boxes of 10 have been released worldwide, making this small-batch cigar a rare find that offers a smoking experience like no other. Rich and intense, this full-bodied blend uses a dark San Andrés wrapper and aged Nicaraguan fillers to deliver a flavour bomb of cocoa, caramel, espresso, and spice. A complex, satisfying cigar that demands your attention.
Strength: Medium
Body: Full
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés
Binder: Double Broadleaf
DBS stands for Double Broadleaf Selection, and it lives up to its name with a hearty, double dose of broadleaf tobaccos. Expect a rich, earthy and spicy profile with deep flavours of dark roast coffee, cocoa, and emerging notes of leather and toasted nuts. The DBS Robusto is ideal for smokers who love intensity and complexity, all wrapped in a beautifully oily San Andrés wrapper.
Strength: Mild to Medium
Body: Medium
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Connecticut Shade (USA)
For those who prefer a smoother, creamier cigar, the White Label is a standout. Handcrafted with a beautiful Connecticut Shade wrapper, this cigar is rich in complexity yet mellow in strength. Expect notes of creamy cedar, roasted nuts, sweet vanilla, and a hint of spice. It’s a luxurious, approachable cigar that works perfectly for morning or early afternoon smoking.
Strength: Full
Body: Full
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés
Created to commemorate Rocky Patel’s 60th birthday, the Sixty is a celebration of flavour, craftsmanship, and legacy. It’s rich and elegant, offering notes of dark chocolate, espresso, earth, spice, and leather. The ageing process enhances its complexity, making it a smooth and refined smoke. It’s the kind of cigar you save for special moments.
Strength: Medium
Body: Medium-Full
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés
The ALR Second Edition is a small-batch masterpiece. After being rolled, the cigars were aged for two years, allowing the tobaccos to marry and mature. The result is a refined, full-flavoured experience with a creamy profile, rich notes of earth and spice, plus hints of wood and pepper. A must-try for collectors and aficionados seeking limited-production luxury.
Strength: Medium-Full
Body: Medium-Full
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés
Bold, but approachable, the Disciple Robusto is a cigar for those who love full-bodied blends. It’s intense from the first draw, with flavours of cedar, earth, pepper and cocoa, each adding layers of complexity. While powerful, it remains balanced and smooth, a testament to Rocky Patel’s blending mastery. This is a cigar that makes a strong impression.
Strength: Medium
Body: Medium
Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Corojo (Honduras)
The Number 6 is a sweet and spicy standout. It delivers a harmonious mix of flavours from earth, cedar and pepper, to cocoa, cream and roasted nuts. Despite its medium strength, it offers remarkable complexity and an exceptionally smooth draw. It’s ideal for those who want character without overpowering intensity.
Rocky Patel cigars continue to earn high praise in the cigar world, and it’s easy to see why. From rich, full-bodied blends to smoother smokes, there’s a Rocky Patel cigar for every preference and occasion.
Whether you’re building your humidor or simply exploring new premium cigars, this brand offers a consistent, high-quality smoking experience that rarely disappoints.
Don’t be fooled by the word mild; there is nothing bland when it comes to the flavour of these cigars! Whether you’re a novice smoker looking for an easier smoke to start with or you just prefer your smoke on the milder side, there are plenty of cigars to enjoy without overpowering your palate.
It is important to note that there is a difference between ‘strength’ and ‘body’ when it comes to cigars. Strength refers to the nicotine content, so a mild-strength cigar is a cigar with less nicotine compared to a strong or full-strength cigar. The body of a cigar refers to the depth of its flavour, so it is possible that a cigar can be mild in strength but full in flavour.
A mild cigar typically refers to a cigar with a lighter strength and a smoother taste profile. The term ‘mild’ generally indicates lower nicotine content rather than a lack of flavour. Mild cigars can still be full-bodied and rich in taste while remaining gentle on the palate.
These cigars are often crafted using lighter, often Connecticut-shade wrappers, and blend mild filler tobaccos to create a well-balanced and easygoing smoke. Mildness does not mean blandness, as many mild cigars can deliver complex and nuanced flavours.
When selecting your first mild cigar, keep the following tips in mind:
Here are some of our favourite mild cigars that beginners will enjoy, but will keep even the most experienced smokers delighted.
A classic Cuban cigar that embodies mildness with its creamy and woody profile. The Epicure No.2 is well-loved for its smooth draw and balanced construction, making it an excellent choice for those new to cigars. It offers a subtle complexity with hints of leather and a creamy finish, providing a flavourful yet approachable smoking experience.
This cigar is celebrated for its refined, smooth character and its subtle floral notes, which are both elegant and mild. The Signature 2000 is crafted with meticulously aged Dominican tobaccos, wrapped in a light Connecticut leaf, which creates a mild, creamy smoke with a touch of sweetness and notes of cedar. Beginners appreciate its consistent burn and balanced flavour profile, perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable smoke.
Romeo y Julieta is often recommended as a great starting point for beginners to the world of cigars. The Petit Julieta Cigar is an ideal choice, as not only is it mild in strength, but it is also small, so it doesn’t take hours to smoke and isn’t too overwhelming for a novice.
The tobacco is light, and the draw is known for being extremely mild and smooth, with subtle notes of earthy flavours along with smoked leather and a little hint of spiciness towards the end.
The Rocky Patel White Label Robusto is an excellent choice for those seeking a mild, refined smoking experience. Crafted with aged tobaccos and exceptional craftsmanship, this cigar delivers a smooth, approachable profile while maintaining rich and satisfying flavours.
Wrapped in a Connecticut Shade leaf known for imparting a smooth, creamy character and containing a blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos that contribute to a mild yet flavorful profile, offering a balance of creamy cedar, roasted nuts, and a hint of white pepper. The retrohale enhances the experience with subtle cocoa and nutmeg, leading to a smooth, velvety finish that’s perfect for newcomers to the cigar world.
The Camacho Criollo Robusto cigar is the perfect example of a cigar that is mild in strength without compromising on flavour. Made with Criollo leaf, which sees extra sun during the growing process, giving it an extra pop of spice, which complements the mellow sweetness present in this cigar. It is well-rounded and balanced, with a mild strength and medium-full body.
Known for its inviting aroma and rich history, the Petit Corona offers a mild yet flavourful experience. Its soft notes of cedar and mild sweetness are complemented by hints of toasted almond, light spices and floral undertones, making it a great introduction to Cuban cigars. The small size is less intimidating for beginners, while the mellow taste profile makes it a go-to choice for those seeking a light, satisfying smoke.
Mild to medium in body and light in strength, the Entered Apprentice Robusto produces a soft and easygoing smoking experience thanks to its silky Connecticut Shade wrapper and binder. Perfect for a mellow smoking session, you’ll be treated to flavours such as green tea, white pepper, milk, honey and oats.
A renowned classic, the Romeo y Julieta Churchill delivers a mild, smooth experience with a touch of cedar, earth and dark chocolate. As it evolves, sweeter, more delicate notes of vanilla and dried fruit emerge. Its larger size provides a long, leisurely smoke, while the balanced blend of flavours creates a mellow, aromatic profile. This cigar’s iconic status and approachable taste make it a favourite among new and long-term cigar enthusiasts alike.
Starting with a mild cigar is an excellent way to build your palate and discover your preferences. Don’t rush the process, take your time to savour the flavours and enjoy the craftsmanship. Whether you’re relaxing at home or socialising with friends, a mild cigar offers a smooth and approachable introduction to the world of cigars.
Industry veteran and General Cigar alumnus Rick Rodriguez left the company in 2022 to launch West Tampa Tobacco Co. with his partner, Gus Martinez. Since then, they’ve been focused on building the brand and getting their cigars into the hands of smokers.
The name honors the cigar-making city where Rodriguez’s grandparents settled, though production takes place in Nicaragua at the Garmendia Cigar Co. factory. West Tampa Red marks the company’s third and boldest release, delivering a rich core of chocolate from start to finish, accented by notes of hickory, nutmeg, leather and a smooth mocha finish.
Master blender and co-owner Rick Rodriguez has infused his personal tastes into this creation, departing from his usual focus on fan preferences. The West Tampa Tobacco Co. Red showcases a distinct blend, setting it apart from its predecessors. It features a Mexican San Andrés wrapper, reminiscent of the limited-edition Attic Series, complemented by an all-Nicaraguan binder and fillers.
If you want to try this cigar yourself, the West Tampa Tobacco Company Red Robusto is available at Havana House!
Owner: Rick Rodriguez
Factory: Garmendia Cigars Co.
Origin: Nicaraguan
Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Medium to Full
Size: Robusto (5″ x 50)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The start was spicy and offered chocolate notes straight away. A pleasant peppery note lingered on the lips and retrohale, without overpowering the cherry and chocolate-like flavours. It’s rare to find this kind of profile in a cigar, and it really starts it off with a bang.
There are subtle hints of dry oak as it progresses to the middle. The pepper combination persists for much of the smoke but gradually smooths out, creating a well-balanced and harmonious experience.
The same flavours remained, accompanied by more cream and sweetness on the retrohale, along with a subtle coffee note that gradually emerged.
The burn line remained consistently even. The ash was a snowy white, stacking neatly throughout.
Overall, the construction was flawless. The cap was well-applied, cutting cleanly with no excess loose tobacco at the end.
This is a captivating smoke with a diverse and exceptionally enjoyable flavour profile. Well-balanced yet distinctive, the dominant notes of spice, earth, cherries, and coffee remain consistent throughout and take the main stage at different intervals.
Ross Rating: 9/10
The West Tampa Tobacco Company Red Robusto will pair fantastically with the Blackened American Whiskey American Straight Whiskey (75cl / 45%).
Blackened was created through a unique collaboration between the late master distiller Dave Pickerell and Metallica. In an unconventional approach, the barrels are aged while immersed in the band’s music, with the belief that low-frequency vibrations enhance the spirit’s interaction with the wood. Finished in black brandy casks, this whiskey delivers notes of honey, cinnamon, allspice, and dark fruits on the palate, followed by a smooth finish of butterscotch taffy and maple.
Throughout his illustrious career, Pickerell was instrumental in shaping brands like Maker’s Mark and Whistlepig. Sadly, he passed away in late 2018, shortly after Blackened’s launch. Master distiller and blender Rob Dietrich later joined the team, carrying forward ‘The Boss Hog’s’ legacy blend.
Regular Coca Cola (Mexican made) from a glass bottle. The real cane sugar really makes this cigar taste even better.
I’m a huge fan of West Tampa Tobacco Co. Their cigars deliver bold, full-bodied flavours that really stand out; they don’t have that distinctive Nicaraguan “stank” that many cigar enthusiasts don’t get along with. It’s that earthy, robust character that gives their cigars a unique depth and complexity. I’ve enjoyed their previous releases, and I’m really looking forward to their upcoming blends. With Rick Rodriguez’s experience and dedication to crafting high-quality cigars, I’m excited to see what new flavour profiles and innovations they’ll bring to the table next.
Cigars come in many varieties, but one of the most significant distinctions is between hand-rolled and machine-made cigars. As their names suggest, hand-rolled cigars are crafted by hand by skilled rollers, while machine-made cigars are rolled using a machine.
The two processes lead to some differences in the construction, smoke experience and price of cigars. Understanding the differences can help you make an informed choice on which cigar best suits your preferences.
Hand-rolled cigars are crafted by skilled artisans, known as torcedors, using traditional methods. Each cigar is carefully assembled from whole tobacco leaves without the use of machinery. The process involves three main components:
Machine-made cigars are mass-produced using machines. Instead of whole tobacco leaves, they often use chopped tobacco (short filler) combined with binders made of homogenised tobacco or paper. These cigars are produced in large quantities and are usually more affordable.
| Feature | Hand-Rolled Cigars | Machine-Made Cigars |
| Tobacco Used | Whole leaves (long filler) | Chopped tobacco (short filler) |
| Manufacturing Process | Handmade by skilled artisans | Mass-produced by machines |
| Preparation | Needs the cap cut | Pre-cut, ready to smoke |
| Flavour & Complexity | Rich, complex flavours | More uniform, often milder |
| Burn & Draw | Even burn and smooth draw | Consistent burn but tighter draw |
| Price | More expensive | Budget-friendly |
| Additives | No artificial additives | May contain preservatives and homogenised tobacco |
The decision between hand-rolled and machine-made cigars depends on your smoking habits, budget, and personal preferences.
There’s no reason why you can’t enjoy both hand-rolled and machine-made cigars. In fact, each type can often be seen as ideal for different situations:
Regardless of your choice, both types of cigars serve a purpose in the world of tobacco. Whether you savour a luxury smoke or enjoy a casual puff, knowing the difference helps you find the perfect cigar for your lifestyle.
You can take a look at our full range of cigars online in the UK, including both hand-rolled cigars and machine-made smokes from incredible producers in Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua.
The Dominican Republic is one of the world’s most renowned regions for premium cigars. The country’s rich soil, favourable climate, and deep-rooted cigar-making traditions have made it home to some of the finest cigars available.
Below, we explore some of the top Dominican Republic cigar brands, their history and offer some standout selections.
ADVentura Cigars is a relatively new brand that has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to cigar crafting. Founded by Swiss entrepreneur Marcel Knobel and master blender Henderson Ventura, the brand embraces storytelling and adventure.
As part of the brand’s identity, ADVentura tells the story of two fictional 15th-century explorers who set out on a quest to discover “the unknown pleasures of the world”, with tobacco being one of them. That’s why their boxes are so special – appearing like treasure chests and pirate ships – reflecting the adventurous feel the brand has to offer.
The cigars themselves are crafted with expert precision, often incorporating a combination of Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos. ADVentura cigars frequently feature medium to full-bodied profiles with complex notes of chocolate, cedar, and spice, making them a unique choice for cigar enthusiasts looking for a well-balanced yet bold smoking experience.
The Royal Return Queen’s Pearls is a cigar crafted for the connoisseur. The Queen’s Pearls Corona offers subtle, refined, and well-balanced flavours, delivering everything one might expect from a classic “old school” Connecticut Shade cigar.
Read our full review of the ADVentura The Royal Return Queen’s Pearls Corona.
Barbarroja’s Invasion offers a rich and full-bodied smoking experience, designed for those who enjoy complexity and depth in every puff. Its dark Mexican San Andres Maduro wrapper covers a binder and filler composed of leaves from the Dominican Republic, resulting in spicy, earthy and creamy notes.
This medium-strength Robusto offers delightful notes of spice, chocolate, and sweetness. It features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper over an Ecuadorian Sumatra binder, with a filler blend of Dominican and Ecuadorian leaves that have been aged 5 to 7 years.
Read our full review of ADVentura The Explorer Robusto Grande.
Casdagli Cigars launched in 1997 and were initially crafted in Cuba. In 2013, Casdagli moved its production to factories in the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica, and the brand has only continued to gain loyal fans since.
Known for their luxurious presentation, Casdagli cigars often boast intricate flavour profiles that include notes of nuts, coffee, and floral undertones. Their blends are designed for refined palates, offering a smooth yet complex smoking experience.
The Casdagli Brothers of the Sabre Brave Robusto Cigar features a combination of Dominican fillers, a Dominican binder and a Colorado Claro wrapper from Ecuador. The Robusto offers a subtly creamy and nutty flavour, sweet aromas and a mild-medium-bodied strength.
Chateau Diadem is a boutique brand focused on producing high-quality, artisanal cigars. While relatively new to the premium cigar industry, the brand has already made a name for itself by crafting cigars that emphasise balance and sophistication.
Their blends are typically medium-bodied and feature a combination of creamy, earthy, and woody flavours. With a strong dedication to tradition and craftsmanship, Chateau Diadem cigars appeal to those who appreciate the finesse of Dominican tobaccos.
The Chateau Diadem Conviction Petit Belicoso is a compact cigar, measuring 4 inches in length, and delivers a concentrated and flavourful smoke. It is perfect for those who desire a full-bodied cigar in a shorter time frame. The cigar has a balanced and complex flavour profile, with notes of dark chocolate, earth, and a hint of coffee.
Read our full review of the Chateau Diadem Conviction Petit Belicoso.
Davidoff is one of the most prestigious cigar brands in the world, synonymous with luxury and excellence. Founded by Zino Davidoff in Switzerland, the brand transitioned from Cuba to the Dominican Republic in the late 1980s.
Since then, Davidoff has set the standard for Dominican cigars, offering meticulously crafted blends that are renowned for their smooth, creamy, and aromatic profiles. Each Davidoff cigar is the result of extensive ageing and blending techniques, making them a top choice for connoisseurs seeking elegance and refinement.
The Davidoff Winston Churchill Toro The Commander features a stunning Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, smooth and creamy to the touch, which encases a masterful blend of Dominican filler tobaccos. Together a bold, full-bodied smoke, with notes of cedar, earth, and a subtle spiciness that lingers on the palate.
As the cigar burns, the complexity deepens, with hints of leather and coffee emerging, while a mild creaminess coats the palate.
As with all Davidoff cigars, the presentation of The Late Hour Churchill is incredible, with not a single flaw on the wrapper. The effort put into the creation and presentation of this cigar simply reflects the long hours Winston Churchill put into his own hard work. The cigar’s tobacco is aged for no less than six months in old single Scotch malt casks, which is a fresh concept that makes the cigar utterly moreish as the tobacco has intertwined with the remnants of the whisky barrel and lends a unique flavour to the smoke.
An incredibly sophisticated profile, with rich and complex notes of dark tobacco, spicy, earthy flavours and chocolate, all rounded off with sweet caramel. An ultra-premium smoke through and through.
Gurkha is renowned for its unique blends and long-aged tobaccos. Though the brand originated in India, its premium cigars are now crafted in the Dominican Republic. Gurkha cigars often feature bold, full-bodied profiles with rich flavours of spice, earth, and espresso.
The Cellar Reserve 18 Year Old Solara goes above and beyond in perfecting the Cellar Reserve blend with a Corojo wrapper and 18-year aged tobacco. It provides a medium-body, full-flavour cigar, with notes of white pepper and earthiness.
Whether you prefer bold and full-bodied cigars or smooth and mellow options, the Dominican Republic offers a diverse range of choices for every cigar aficionado. Each of these brands brings something unique to the table, showcasing the rich cigar-making heritage of the country.
On a warm and sunny day in Tamboril, widely regarded as the cigar capital of the world, nestled on the outskirts of Santiago in the Dominican Republic, sits Jose Arnaldo Blanco – known to all simply as “Jochy” – calmly puffing on a cigar. A man who has worked with tobacco for as long as he can remember, his unwavering love and passion for it is clear to all who know him.
Through hard work and determination, he has cultivated and processed tobacco to perfection throughout his decades-long career as both a grower and manufacturer. His factory, Tabacalera Palma, has been the birthplace of exceptional cigars that have earned the admiration and loyalty of smokers across the globe.
The La Galera Chaveta Robusto Cigar is an authentic Dominican cigar, hand-made by the best rollers of Tabacalera Palma, and it shows – the construction is flawless.
If you want to try this cigar yourself, the La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto is available here at Havana House.
Owner: Jochy Blanco
Factory: Tabacalera Palma
Origin: Dominican
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Filler: Dominican Repulic (Piloto Cubano, Criollo 98, Pelo de Oro)
Strength: Medium – Full
Size: Chaveta (5″ x 50)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
A slight hint of mint and an even subtler touch of cedar are detected on the cold draw before lighting up. The first thing I notice upon ignition is the wonderful, rich aroma filling the room — this cigar smells incredible! Crisp white pepper floods through the nose, while the draw offers soft leather, a strong dose of mineral, and just a fleeting touch of cream on the finish. The burn line starts off uneven, but with a bit of attention, it’s mostly straightened out by the one-inch mark. The pepper fades significantly towards the end of the first third, allowing the cream to make an appearance on the retrohale as well.
As I move into the middle portion, this La Galera blend is starting to come to life. A light white pepper has made its presence known, particularly on the retrohale. A very subtle floral note occasionally emerges on the inhale. The wood remains the most prominent flavour — my mind perceives it as something akin to white oak, perhaps influenced by the white pepper.
A lovely vanilla note has joined the dominant creaminess, making for an exceptionally enjoyable smoking experience. The soft leather remains present beneath these flavours, and there’s still a touch of mineral on the retrohale, but cream reigns supreme in every aspect of this cigar’s ending. The construction is excellent throughout the final stretch in every regard. I smoke it right to the very end.
This cigar has been expertly rolled. It has an even burn light and the draw is spot on.
This cigar becomes progressively smoother as the smoking experience unfolds. Pepper and spice are gradually overtaken by a dominant creaminess that is immensely enjoyable. Once that subtle hint of vanilla appears, it only enhances the enjoyment right through to the very end. I only wish this fast-burning cigar had lasted longer, I’ll certainly be smoking the La Galera again this month.
Ross Rating: 8/10
The La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto will pair fantastically with Brugal 1888 Double Aged Dominican Rum (70cl / 40%).
This special edition from Dominican producer Brugal has been double-distilled and matured in American oak before a second maturation period in sherry casks to add a dose of dried fruit and leathery sweetness to the flavours.
Sprite works really well with this cigar.
I had the pleasure of visiting the La Galera factory recently. The care taken with every cigar they create really blew me away. I will be smoking many more La Galera in the future.
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