Shows
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 196: Hirochi RobainaHirochi Robaina mixed bag
Kip – I’m smoking the HR Claro, which features an Ecuadoran Habano Claro wrapper. This particular example was given to me at the 2016 IPCPR, and is the ‘109’ vitola at 7.25” x 50….although I see in looking around the internet it lists in many places today at 7.5”. In any event, I had actually not made a stop at the HR/White Hat(now La Familia Robaina) table during the show and happened to all but accidentally find myself there at the end of the show. The folks were cheerful offered me a seat and a cigar. This one has been wai...
2019-09-011h 35
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 196: Hirochi Robaina
Hirochi Robaina mixed bag
Kip – I’m smoking the HR Claro, which features an Ecuadoran Habano Claro wrapper. This particular example was given to me at the 2016 IPCPR, and is the ‘109’ vitola at 7.25” x 50….although I see in looking around the internet it lists in many places today at 7.5”. In any event, I had actually not made a stop at the HR/White Hat(now La Familia Robaina) table during the show and happened to all but accidentally find myself there at the end of the show. The folks were cheerful offered me a seat and a cigar. This one has...
2019-09-011h 35The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 195: Unbanded 039
Unbanded 039
NOTE: Image is a sample image only; not this week’s cigar…my apologies, but the original image was lost in the shuffle. Description: Roughly a 5”x44rg heavily box pressed cigar with a beautiful even colorado wrapper. Possibly even a half shade darker. Smooth veins and an even overall texture make this an absolutely gorgeous cigar with near perfect appearing construction. The prelight aroma is slightly tingly with a touch of a cheesy funk. Normally I’d raise my eyebrows to the smell but something about it works here. It’s more reminiscent of a typical cigar barnyard...
2019-08-311h 29
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 195: Unbanded 039
Unbanded 039
NOTE: Image is a sample image only; not this week’s cigar…my apologies, but the original image was lost in the shuffle. Description: Roughly a 5”x44rg heavily box pressed cigar with a beautiful even colorado wrapper. Possibly even a half shade darker. Smooth veins and an even overall texture make this an absolutely gorgeous cigar with near perfect appearing construction. The prelight aroma is slightly tingly with a touch of a cheesy funk. Normally I’d raise my eyebrows to the smell but something about it works here. It’s more reminiscent of a typica...
2019-08-311h 29The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 194: Host’s ChoiceHost’s Choice
Craig – 2015 Davidoff Nicaragua Diadema – I had been taking this cigar with me to Colorado for the past three summers and finally decided that I wasn’t going to wait around for the 4th failed attempt to smoke it in the mountains. An old deceased friend always said that he would mortgage his house for more “original” Davidoff Diadema’s. Just this week I got an email that they’re being sold again. In his honor and since I have none of those 14 year old cigars, I’d smoke the closest thing I had, this Nicaragua celebrating the same vitola...
2019-06-011h 29
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 194: Host’s Choice
Host’s Choice
Craig – 2015 Davidoff Nicaragua Diadema – I had been taking this cigar with me to Colorado for the past three summers and finally decided that I wasn’t going to wait around for the 4th failed attempt to smoke it in the mountains. An old deceased friend always said that he would mortgage his house for more “original” Davidoff Diadema’s. Just this week I got an email that they’re being sold again. In his honor and since I have none of those 14 year old cigars, I’d smoke the closest thing I had, this Nicaragua celebrating...
2019-06-011h 29The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 192: Unbanded from Dan CUnbanded from Dan C. March 2019
Craig – 4-⅜”x50 by direct measurement. “Washed out”, matte brown wrapper. Very little cap. A completely different “tobacco” aroma; I can tell it’s tobacco but it doesn’t smell like cigar. Almost aromatic or cured despite being faint. A very cool definition of wrapper, binder and filler leaf from the foot.
Kip – A heavy 4.375” x ?? (can’t find my gauge). Medium/Dark brown, mostly even coloration. Barnstall aroma at the foot; less pronounced on the wrapper. Moderate veins on the wrapper, but it telegraphs every nook, cranny, and lump underneath. Very fine tooth throughout its surface.
Cigar N...
2019-05-011h 00
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 192: Unbanded from Dan C
Unbanded from Dan C. March 2019
Craig – 4-⅜”x50 by direct measurement. “Washed out”, matte brown wrapper. Very little cap. A completely different “tobacco” aroma; I can tell it’s tobacco but it doesn’t smell like cigar. Almost aromatic or cured despite being faint. A very cool definition of wrapper, binder and filler leaf from the foot.
Kip – A heavy 4.375” x ?? (can’t find my gauge). Medium/Dark brown, mostly even coloration. Barnstall aroma at the foot; less pronounced on the wrapper. Moderate veins on the wrapper, but it telegraphs every nook, cranny, and lump underneath. Very fine tooth throughou...
2019-05-011h 00
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 188: My Father LE 2010
My Father LE 2010
Craig – In late 2009 I was preparing to take my second trip to Nicaragua. I had visited a few years before in 2006 when I took a day trip to Jalapa from a home base in Danli, Honduras. This time I was staying in the cigar town of Esteli, and I couldn’t be happier. That was until I started hearing whispers of “special” cigars being made at the My Father factory. In January of ‘10 I had the pleasure to personally witness the manufacture of these very cigars we’re smoking tonight. Jaime and Jose Garcia had individual...
2019-02-012h 05
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 187: Asylum Ogre 7×70
Asylum Ogre 7″ x 70
Oof. The Asylum Ogre 7” x 70. What a behemoth of a cigar. It features a Habano/Candela (Nicaragua) barber pole wrap over Nicaraguan internal components. JLedou sent these in long ago, and we’ve been a bit scared to light them up. Originally planned for a Halloween show, they were delayed until tonight. Let’s see how it goes….
Cigar News
* Kretek (y’all might be more familiar with them in the cigar world as Ventura) has bought Foundry Cigar from General (STG). Michael Giannini led the creation of Foundry – you may remember Bob McDuffe...
2019-02-011h 49
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed 183: Pipe Night Part TresPipe Night Part Tres
Tonight, we revisit the pipe again, in Part 3 of our Pipe Night Series. Join us as we talk pipes, tobacco, and a few useful tips and tricks to getting full enjoyment from your pipe. Craig is smoking Westminster, and Kip something special….
Tonight’s Pipe Night Discussion
Pipe smoking and all its associated ephemera and methods are an art – and, a science.
Don’t focus on the tools of the trade. Get basic – but suitable – gear, and experiment with tobacco until you find what suits your preferences.
Be simple. It’s not...
2018-09-291h 52
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed 178: Unbanded 034
Unbanded 034
Unbanded 034 (J2) from JLedou. Tonight’s Unbanded is a robusto, coming in at 5”x50 with an evenly colored, dark brown wrapper. The wrapper is actually very oily, although this is disguised by the tooth. The cold draw is sweet, with an aroma much like seasoned hay. All seems delightful pre-light for me (Kip)….let’s see how it fires up.
Cigar News
Recent Name Changes:
Since our last show, there were a couple of name changes in the industry. First, Casa Fernandez announced they were renaming the organization AGANORSA Leaf. There are a lot of names...
2018-04-301h 58
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 174: Ezra Zion All My Ex’s Maduro
Ezra Zion All My Ex’s Maduro
Kip – The All My Ex’s maduro made its appearance in April 2016 as a followup to the original released blend. The Ezra Zion guys generously gave us these while I was at IPCPR 2016. The maduro All My Ex’s features a Mexican San Andres wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and filler. They were made via Noel Rojas at the Aroma de Jalapa factory in Estelí. The line was available in three vitolas (6”x52 toro at $8.95, 5”x50 robusto for $8.50, and a 6.5”x42 lancero ($8.95)). Total production was 800 boxes of 25 (20,000 total production). I remember these having a heal...
2018-02-071h 43
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 173: EP Carrillo 2011 Dark Rituals
EP Carrillo 2011 Dark Rituals
Craig – The EP Carrillo 2011 Dark Rituals Edicion Limitada is a cigar with a special place in my heart. It’s not the best cigar in the world, it’s not my favorite size but it is the only cigar I’ve ever received for building someone a house. In 2009 I started working with a couple in the Chicago suburbs to design their dream house. We worked long and hard to marry their need for space with their desire for a healthy & efficient living space.
When it was all said and done, they had th...
2018-02-052h 03
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed 171: EP Carrillo Edicion Inaugural
Preliminary Review – EP Carrillo Edición Inaugural
Craig – The EPC Edicion Inaugural was a cigar that was heralded as the reintroduction of a legend amongst casual & serious cigar smokers. Ernie Perez-Carillo was coming back after selling off his fabled brand, La Gloria Cubana, to General Cigar. His Non-Compete was up and he was ready to show that he still had the desire and skill to carve his own niche. The EI09 was widely praised for being incredibly complex and approachable. Having been at the IPCPR where it debuted, I can remember seeing billboards leading from the airport t...
2018-01-291h 52
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 155: Tatuaje Face – Original
Tatuaje Face
Craig – Monsters! Yes, we’re a couple weeks late to the Halloween Gig but it’s really never a bad time to light up an original Tatuaje Face. This big beast, 6-½”x56 by direct measurement, was the 2010 Monster release, #3 in the series. One of Pete’s first uses of the San Andres wrapper, this cigar takes a left turn from the then typical tobaccos being used in the Esteli MF factory. It does sit on a Nicaraguan binder & filler blend which have always done a good job of keeping the impression of proper pe...
2016-11-211h 34
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 148: Crowned Heads and Diamond Crown 20th
Crowned Heads & Diamond Crown
Kip – Crowned Heads Las Calaveras 2016 – I’m having the 5×50 edition of this year’s release. It has a Connecticut broadleaf wrapper over Nicaraguan fillers. Produced by My Father. Based on my first experience, I’d liken it more akin to the 2014 version than 2015…which is great for me.
Craig – Diamond Crown 20th Anniversary – A lovely gift from Kip that seemed like it was calling out to me this evening.
Cigar News
FDA Panic much?!
Recluse….9 new lines, with 14 sizes each?!?!?
Kings Cigars will be releasing some new limited editions...
2016-08-211h 37
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 147: Ezra Zion and WildcardCotW – Ezra Zion Chocolate Porter, and……
Kip – Ezra Zion Chocolate Porter: This was a limited run released by the guys at Ezra Zion a couple months ago. It features a San Andres wrapper, and had a very limited production of 645 cigars. The release promises deep, roasty flavors coupled with some vanilla, coffee bean and licorice. Also promises not to nuke your palate with strong tobaccos….let’s give it a whirl.
Craig – ….did not write his notes….
Cigar News
There are *tons* of new cigars being announced leading up to IPCPR…but woefully few details to be hones...
2016-08-211h 38
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 144: Unbanded 027
Unbanded 027
Unbanded 027 – A 5”x50 robusto with a dark wrapper and smooth but dry complexion. There’s a faint aroma on both wrapper and foot…not much else is known. Let’s see how it goes, shall we?
Cigar News
The FDA has spoken. Now what?
Since buying Toraño a couple years ago, General has left it pretty much under the radar. Until now. They’re making four new additions to the Vault Series. The packaging is very brightly colored and you won’t have trouble locating the boxes – they’re purple, yellow, orange(ish) and turquoi...
2016-06-011h 37
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 139: Unbanded 026
Unbanded #026, from K. Hasselwander
The unbanded vitals, as we have ’em before the unveiling….
Kip: 6.875” x 36; nicely assembled (from outward appearances); even-toned, dark brown, dry complexion.
Craig: My measurements have it at 6 ⅞” inch x 36 ring gauge. Very dry in appearance and slightly rustic, almost in a saturated and dried out sort of way.
Cigar News
Tampa’s new Davidoff lounge has its grand opening tomorrow…
Continuing with the TAA-limited releases, this year’s Angel’s Anvil has been announced by Crowned Heads. This year, the release will feature a CT broadleaf wrapper over...
2016-03-211h 17
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 138: Hirochi Robaina HR Habano
Hirochi Robaina HR Habano
From Craig: This stunning Hermoso #4 is a sight to behold. It’s Ecuadorian colorado maduro wrapper sits over all Nicaraguan innards. The first cigar from the Robaina family released outside of cuba, this cigar was originally released and made in a partnership with Cubanacan. Throughout the much covered turmoil that emerged prior to IPCPR 2015 the HR line of cigars was in limbo. The public wasn’t aware of whether the cigar would continue to be made. Questions about its ownership, manufacture & distribution all existed. Thankfully, just this past month the last of the quest...
2016-03-201h 14
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 137: Tatuaje Black Corona Gorda
Tatuaje Black Corona Gorda
Re-released for the Tatuaje 10th Anniversary in 2013 (after a limited 2007 initial release), the Tatuaje Black Corona Gorda is one of my favorite Tatuaje blends of all time. They’re rolled by My Father, and feature a Sungrown Criollo Estelian wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and filler blend. It comes in at the typical 5 5/8” x 46 and retails somewhere around the $10 mark, depending on retailer.
Cigar News
El Niño is wreaking havoc with Cuba’s tobacco crop…what are the lasting effects after 3-4 consecutive years of weather troubles?
This news came out a couple...
2016-02-161h 31
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 136: Partagas Maduro No 1
Partagas Maduro Number 1
At 5-⅛”x52 the Partagas Maduro Number 1 Robusto (plus) gets my vote as most controversial cigar of 2015. It’s the second “maduro” regular production cigar ever produced after the Revolution in Cuba, with the Cohiba Maduro 5 being the other. It made its debut in the 3rd quarter but trumped just about everything else Habanos put out last year, in terms of chatter. People balked at the Añejados but shouted to the heavens about the Maduro 1. The word on the street was that this cigar tasted Nicaraguan. In fact, nearly the same arguments were made about this...
2016-02-151h 26
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 135: Chogüí Dos77 Rogusto
Chogüí Dos77 Rogusto
Tonight, we’re smoking the Chogüí Dos77 Rogusto (robusto+gusto, 5″ x 52). It carries a “Havana seed” Dominican wrapper over Dominican Criollo ’98 binder and Habana 2020/DR Corojo filler. An initial limited shipment has made its way to the US, although it was originally only available in the Dominican Republic. Stateside, they retail around the $9 mark, and are available in Santiago for the equivalent of roughly $6. I also recently reviewed the Dos77’s successor in the Chogüí PrimerAño.
Cigar News
Tatuaje is bringing a new La Verite to market – a 2013 vintage. There will be two...
2016-02-121h 58
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 134: Unbanded 023
Unbanded 023
Tonight, we’re smoking TWO Unbanded cigars….doubly blind!
Unbanded A – 4.5” x 50/52ish (52+); dark wrapper with an oily feel (but no visible sheen); coarse veining – broadleaf? Lumpy telegraphing of its insides; almost minty cold draw
Unbanded B – 5” x 50; dark wrapper with a more noticeable oily sheen than “A”; sweeter foot aroma
Cigar News
Quesada will be continuing their limited Seleccion Espana limited release for a dozen retailers for 2016 – this time, however, it’s in an “A”-ish vitola (8.5” x 48)….sorry, Craig. Each retailer will still receive 100 cigars, but in 10-ct boxes rather than the 50 or 100 cou...
2016-01-221h 28
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 132: Asylum 99 Problems
Asylum 99 Problems
The singular oddball in the Asylum 13 lineup, tonight’s cigar is the Asylum 99 Problems – a 7” x 38 lancero standing in stark contrast to the rest of the line – which typically runs in oversized vitolas. The cigar is a Nicaraguan puro, although it is manufactured in Christian Eiroa’s “El Aladino” factory in Honduras. The story says owner Tom Lazuka asked Christian Eiroa how many lanceros would fit in an Ogre box – and the answer was 99. Hence, the name. The cigar was produced in limited quantity (500 boxes of 99), and retailed around the $7 mark.
Cigar News
The Oliva Serie V...
2016-01-221h 11
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 130: EP Carrillo Short Run 2015
EP Carrillo Short Run 2015
The 6th in the series, this year’s EP Carrillo Short Run comes with a Nicaraguan (Jalapa) Criollo ’98 wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and Nicaraguan/Dominican filler components. It is available in 3 vitolas – the Napoleon (5″ x 50), Imperios (6″ x 60), and tonight’s featured cigar, the Vencedor (6″ x 52). Depending on size, the MSRP runs from $6.75-8.75 for the line, and production was capped around 1,500 boxes of 24 for each vitola. I enjoyed these when they first hit the shelves in March/April 2015, and thought them worthy of a spot as a featured Cigar of the Week. Tune in to see...
2015-12-071h 16
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 128: Room101 SA
Room101 Serie San Andres “Papi Chulo”
The Room101 Serie SA (San Andres) comes with a natural San Andres wrapper over Honduran binder and Dominican/Honduran filler mix. Tonight, we’re smoking the “Papi Chulo” vitola, which measures a diminutive 4″ x 42 and goes for about $5 per stick.
Cigar News
In a press release earlier in the week, it was announced that Padilla and La Aurora had reached an amicable agreement over the use of a lion in respective branding. Padilla will cease to use the existing lion on some of their materials, but will be allowed to us...
2015-10-291h 29
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 126: Punch Margaritas
Punch Margaritas
Boxcode: NISV – December of 1993 these little cigars were boxed and headed out of the factory. They’re a “Carolinas” vitola, coming in at an odd 26×4-¾”. This box has been open for a couple of years but the unique “Punch” flavors have morphed more into a basic “Vintage” tobacco flavor. The nuance is gone but the suave character is certainly there in spades. We’ll be smoking a new(er) punch coming up in near future and it’ll be interesting to see if Kip can spot any of the hallmark flavors in that which he detects in this more...
2015-10-291h 21
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 125: Crowned Heads Jericho Hill OBS
Crowned Heads Jericho Hill OBS
This week, we’re smoking the OBS (Orange Blossom Special), from Crowned Heads’ Jericho Hill line. The OBS is a 4.75”x52 robusto, and Kip’s favorite from the line thus far. The Jericho Hill is produced for Crowned Heads by My Father, and this particular vitola retails for $8.75. It features a Mexican San Andres wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and filler.
Cigar News
Palio lives! Well, kinda. Maybe not really….Quality Importers has acquired the company. QI is predominantly a humidor and accessory distributor who has taken over distribution for a handful of...
2015-09-241h 34
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 124: Special Guest Cigar Coop
Special Guest Cigar Coop
This week, in Craig’s absence, Kip is joined by special guest host William “Cigar Coop” Cooper. Tune in as Kip has the chance to pick Coop’s brain about the current state of the cigar industry and some recently introduced cigars. We have lots of great conversation in store, so this is one you don’t want to miss!
Cigar News
In episode 122, I pontificated a bit about the status and future of House of Emilio. Now, just a couple weeks later, yet another member (Guayacan) has left the fol...
2015-09-111h 50The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 124: Special Guest Cigar Coop Special Guest Cigar Coop This week, in Craig’s absence, Kip is joined by special guest host William “Cigar Coop” Cooper. Tune in as Kip has the chance to pick Coop’s brain about the current […]
The post Half Ashed Episode 124: Special Guest Cigar Coop appeared first on Half Ashed.
2015-09-1100 min
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 123: Partagas Serie D EL 2010
Partagas Serie D Edicion Limitada 2010
One of the 2010 Edicion Limitada releases from Habanos, the Partagas Serie D Especial is a take on the traditional PSD4, but with ⅝” more in length and a further processed maduro wrapper. It is a Gordito vitola, typically referred to as a Toro (5-½”x50). Its rustic, thick maduro wrapper does not impart a large amount of typical maduro flavors to the mix but certainly does help round out the typical PSD4 profile with a bit more complexity.
Cigar News
Tobacconist University, in partnership with the producer J. Fuego, has shipped the second...
2015-09-031h 27
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 122: illusione ECCJ 20th
illusione ECCJ 20th
As a follow up to the 2008 release of a 15th anniversary cigar, illusione has once again teamed with Cigar Journal for the ECCJ 20th. It hit the market a bit late to the party in February 2015, but still drew a great deal of interest from many of us who smoked the first effort. The cigar features a Nicaraguan Corojo ’99 wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and Nicaraguan Criollo ’98 & Corojo ’99 filler leaf. Total production was 30,000 (2,000 boxes of 15), and came out of the TABSA factory (AGANORSA/Casa Fernandez). The ECCJ 20th can be differentiated from the original 15th by i...
2015-08-201h 36
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 119: The Craig Stands AloneHi folks. Welcome back for yet another show…and yet another twist to our format. You’ll quickly notice Half Ashed is only Quarter Ashed tonight, as Craig is co-hosting with himself in my absence. With all the craziness of my recent move, he had to tackle a show all by his lonesome and succeeded with flying colors. As if he didn’t take enough flak about voluminous oration in the past, I’m sure our esteemed listeners will give him a fair share now. So, tune in with me and see exactly what lurks in the dark recesses of Schne...
2015-07-2941 minThe Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 119: The Craig Stands AloneHi folks. Welcome back for yet another show…and yet another twist to our format. You’ll quickly notice Half Ashed is only Quarter Ashed tonight, as Craig is co-hosting with himself in my absence. With all […]
The post Half Ashed Episode 119: The Craig Stands Alone appeared first on Half Ashed.
2015-07-2941 min
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 102: Robaina Farm Roll
Robaina Farm Rolled Cañonazo
Welcome to another fun- and (mostly) fact-filled episode of Half Ashed. This week, we’re smoking the 2005 Robaina Farm Rolled Cañonazo. Craig describes it thusly:
A beautifully delicate cigar of 6-⅛” x 54. An incredibly delicate wrapper closes the foot of this nutty and fruity tasting cigar rolled, and grown completely, at the Robaina farm in Pinar del Rio. The plantation, known as Cuchillas de barbacoa, was run at the time by famed Cuban tobacco man, Alejandro Robaina. These cigars are from early in 2005 and have been in my possession since. These ar...
2015-02-181h 54
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 101: Unbanded 020
Unbanded #020, suggested by Steve McHenry
Welcome to Episode 101, featuring our 20th Unbanded cigar, suggested by listener Steve McHenry (Thanks Steve for the submission…tune in to see how it went!). This Unbanded was a bit of a surprise to both of us at the grand reveal. I don’t believe either of us had any familiarity with the cigar, and I think it shows :). Give a listen and find out what this 6.25″ x 52 beauty turned out to be!
News
In the news, we covered several items, including the following stories:
Well, I suppose it had...
2015-01-311h 39
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 094: Special Blind Mans Puff GuestWelcome to Episode 094 of Half Ashed! This week, the vacationing Craig has been secretly replaced by special guest Aaron Loomis of Blind Mans Puff. We had a few minutes to talk about the fantastic job those guys are doing over on their site, as well as some interesting recent collaborations with us and other cigar media members. Be sure you check out the Blind Mans Puff website to get the latest in their unique style of collaborative review.
Aaron was smoking a Nomad C-276 as his chosen CotW, and I selected a 2013 La Flor Dominicana Mysterio (now known as TCF...
2014-12-091h 39
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 093: Tatuaje La Verite 2008
Tatuaje La Verite 2008
Welcome, everyone, to Episode 093 of Half Ashed – featuring the 2008 Tatuaje La Vérité Churchill. Craig’s description was as follows: “Tatuaje’s La Verite 2008 Churchill is our CoTW. Released in 2010 to much fanfare, these “single origin” cigars are similar in fashion to the “farm rolled” cigars found throughout Cuba. All components were grown on Jose Garcia’s La Estrella farm in Esteli, Nicaragua and are from the 2008 vintage Habano Criollo (read: Criollo. All Criollo tobacco came from Cuba originally). Besides being a single vintage, single origin cigar, the tobacco used was not aged in bales. After fermentati...
2014-12-021h 27
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 091: Tatuaje Belle Encre ReservaWelcome back for another fun-filled, exciting episode of Half Ashed! This marks the 91st episode of the show, and features the Tatuaje Belle Encre Reserva as our Cigar of the Week. The cigar was one of Kip’s selections, and he described it thusly:
The Tatuaje Belle Encre Reserva was a limited run of the Belle Encre (5 ⅜” x 48 perfecto), featuring a CT Broadleaf wrapper rather than the Ecuadoran Habano found on the standard line. It’s packed with the same internal components as the regular line (Nicaraguan throughout). This was released early this year as part of the 10th Anniversar...
2014-11-191h 36
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 090: Blessed Leaf Kairos
Welcome to Episode #090, featuring the Blessed Leaf Kairos. This week, we’re smoking one of my favorites, a blend created by the minds behind Ezra Zion Cigars and Casa Fernandez. Here’s a bit of background:
“The Kairos was put out by the “cigar ministry” arm of the Ezra Zion guys – BlessedLeaf.com. They decided to add a line from which sales would support various Christian ministries and missions (for full disclosure, I (Kip) am actually a beneficiary of this ministry, as a donation was made toward my move into full time mission work in the Dominican Republic….so take my...
2014-11-081h 21
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 089: Cohiba Reserva Media CoronaWelcome to Episode 089 of Half Ashed, featuring the Cohiba Reserva Media Corona
This week, we’re smoking this very special selection from Craig’s list of favorites. His own words about the cigar:
5-⅝”x38rg – A size only produced only for the 2002/03 “reserva” assorted box of 30. All tobacco was aged a minimum of 3 years prior to rolling; a rarity for cigars from Cuba. It is said that premium selections from the ‘99 harvest was all that went into these cigars. Typical Cohiba “beany” flavors are present and though thought of as a “special” release, these just seem to be standard in flavo...
2014-11-041h 16
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 088: Pipe Smoking Volume 1Welcome to Episode 088, our first Pipe Smoking episode! This is Volume One of what will be an occasional feature here on Half Ashed. We spent the first hour going through the process of how you go about readying a flake tobacco for smoking (either rubbed out or folded/stuffed). Admittedly, last night’s show is much better absorbed if you watch the video – but I hope you find some value in the audio as well. We should have another pipe smoking related topic and show lined up in about three months or so. While we realize we are a cigar podca...
2014-10-261h 50
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 087: Don Pepin Garcia BlueGood day everyone! I hope the week finds you doing well. Welcome to Half Ashed Episode 087, featuring the Don Pepin Garcia Blue Exquisito (corona gorda; 5-5/8″ x 46). This was one of my (Kip) suggestions, and my brief summation was:
For a time, this was my favorite vitola in the DPG Blue lineup. Nowadays, I strongly prefer the robusto or lancero in the line. Constant, but not overbearing spice is a fixture with this blend. The other vitolas have markedly sweeter dispositions. This one is pleasant in its own right, but has more of a savory bent to it. The DPG Blu...
2014-10-241h 39
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 086: My Father Flor de las AntillasGood day, folks. I’m having to dig out the wayback machine to even post this episode. We recorded this on October 3rd, but after a week off I still failed to get it posted. None the less, here it is for all you listening pleasure. In Episode 086, we take a look at the My Father Flor de las Antillas. Specifically we’re smoking the 6×60 edition of this line, a retail exclusive for Binny’s Beverage Depot which is a chain of cigar/liquor stores in the Chicago Illinois area. Craigs words:
A shop exclusive to Binny’s Beverage Depot ou...
2014-10-191h 37
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 084: Bolivar RegentesWelcome to Episode 084 of Half Ashed, featuring one of Craigs faves as our Cigar of the Week. Of that cigar, Craig says:
My favorite small cigar. These earthy and mildly sweet stick packs a lot of fun into its 34×4-⅞”. Sadly, it has been discontinued for over a decade but the remaining box I have still exhibits some of the characteristics these had when young. At less than 10 years old these were the cigar equivilent of chocolate and mushrooms. That sounds to be an odd combination but it worked so well. So much so, in fact, that once I tried...
2014-10-011h 39
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 082: Guest Barry SteinWelcome to Episode 082 of Half Ashed, featuring special guest Barry Stein of Two Guys Smoke Shop and The Cigar Authority. Craig was traveling this week, Barry graciously agreed to sit in and host with me. So, a huge thanks to Barry. I chose the Insidious by Asylum for the show, and unfortunately Barry was unable to join me due to his lease agreement restrictions.
In addition to an excellent update Barry about his personal recent history, we covered stories from EP Carrillo, Crowned Heads, La Aurora, and My Father. In other topics, we discussed lots of legislative goings-on, and the...
2014-09-111h 15
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 081: Joya de Nicaragua Dark CorojoWelcome to Episode 081 of Half Ashed when we’r featuring the Joya de Nicaragua Dark Corojo – specifically, the “El Martillo” vitola. This week we review this cigar during the show, as well as cover several news items from Willy Herrera/Drew Estate, the Guayabera Lady, some legislative news, Cigar Federation’s charity raffle, and Ezra Zion. We also discuss what we’ve been smoking, and a couple of other interesting diversions….
Next week, we will be featuring a wildcard Cigar of the Week, as Craig will be out of town. I will be joined by special guest host Barry Stein...
2014-09-041h 55
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 080: Bolivar Belicoso FinoGood evening and welcome to Episode 080 of Half Ashed, featuring the Bolivar Belicoso Fino as our Cigar of the Week. Through a shipping mishap, I (Kip) was without the featured cigar so I partook of a different bunch….and a pipe. We covered industry news from Crowned Heads, L’Atelier, La Sirena, the Rocky Mtn. Cigar Festival and some legislative news from Chicagoland.
We also had quite a bit to discuss in our “What Have We Been Smoking” segment, what else we’ve been pondering this week, and a viewer email from Officer Paul. Next week, we will be feat...
2014-08-281h 34
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 079: Kip & DaleGood day folks, and welcome to Episode 079 of Half Ashed! Craig was unavailable to host this week, so I had former Dogwatch Cigar Radio host Dale Roush sitting in with me. We covered news items from AJ Fernandez, the Rocky Mtn. Cigar Festival, (more!) personnel changes within the cigar industry, a Gran Habano story you need to know about, Tatuaje, and EP Carrillo. Of course, we also talked a bit about our chosen cigars for the night and what we’ve been smoking lately…and closed out with a viewer email.
Next week, we will be featuring the Bolivar Be...
2014-08-221h 17The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 079: Kip & DaleGood day folks, and welcome to Episode 079 of Half Ashed! Craig was unavailable to host this week, so I had former Dogwatch Cigar Radio host Dale Roush sitting in with me. We covered news […]
The post Half Ashed Episode 079: Kip & Dale appeared first on Half Ashed.
2014-08-221h 17
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 078: Special Dogwatch Guests 1 of 2Good afternoon, folks. Welcome back to another episode of Half Ashed. This week, Kip was in Tennessee to attend a family funeral – so our buddy Bob McDuffee (of Dogwatch Cigar Radio fame) sat in with Craig. The two of them covered a few news items, including stories from La Flor Dominicana, Cohiba, JC Newman and the FDA. They also covered a full run-down of Bob’s opinion of the state of the industry with regard to IPCPR as an organization. You’ll definitely want to check in for that. Of course, they talked a bit about what they’ve been smokin...
2014-08-171h 49
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 077: Casa Fernandez 35thI apologize for the terribly late post this week, everyone. I had a family funeral to attend that required some travel to Tennessee. So, we’ll have TWO episodes post this week. First up is Ep 077, featuring the Casa Fernandez 35th Aniversario. Tune in to hear Craig reneg on every negative thing he’s ever had to say about CF.
In the news, we had a couple of industry personnel shake-ups to talk over, as well as stories from My Father, The Cigarmy (pipe reviews are live!), and CAO. As always, we also covered what we’ve been smoking, a...
2014-08-141h 46
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 076: MonsdaleWelcome to Episode 076 of Half Ashed, featuring the Monsdale as our Cigar of the Week. I happen to be a complete neophyte with this cigar, but Craig described it beforehand thusly:
The LCDH at “Club Havana” in the Miramar region of Havana provides a house rolled cigar blended by Enrique Mons. His “monsdale” was his lonsdale vitola. A beautifully flavorful cigar when “on”, these samples are from 2006 and are over the hill in my opinion. We shall see this evening… I am primarily including them this evening because of their interplay of sweet & sour flavors that kip has commented on mu...
2014-07-291h 40
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 074: Tatuaje Tattoo CaballerosGood evening, folks. Welcome back for another exciting – albeit audio-challenged episode of Half Ashed. This week, we had some difficulty in getting Craig into the hangout, but we managed via his handy dandy iPhone (hence the peculiar sound). Our Cigar of the Week was the Tatuaje Tattoo Caballeros, so tune in to get our thoughts on this recently released budget-friendly Tatuaje. In the news, we covered items from Hirochi Robaina, Casa Fernandez, Toraño, RoMa Craft, and AJ Fernandez. Of course, we also discussed what we’ve been smoking and a couple of other minor items in the course of this a...
2014-07-171h 04
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 073: Trinidad IngeniosWelcome back for another round of Half Ashed shenanigans, folks. This week, we featured the Trinidad Ingenios as our Cigar of the Week – one of Craig’s submissions. He described it thusly:
The commercially available Trinidad brand became available to the market in 1997 with the Fundadores and the Edicion Limitada trend began in 2000. For the first time in 2007 the two came together in this lonsdale. At 6-½”x42 it is a beautiful size to match the beautiful appearance of this unique stick. Trinidad, a decidedly sweet tasting brand, and the E.L. wrapper leaf, an almost agonizingly dark tasti...
2014-07-091h 54
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 072: Demi Lance Episode!Please forgive the brevity this week, but we had an abbreviated Episode. Episode 072, now known as the Demi Lance show, was a bit different for us. Craig was actually very much under the weather, but troopered on to make sure we got something recorded. We opted to forego the typical show format and simply answer a few listener emails we needed to catch up on. So, rather than the normal 1.5-2 hour show, we have a brief show focused strictly on answering YOUR questions. We covered items from Bruce S., Dan C., Louis A. and Michael S. this week. Our regula...
2014-06-3051 min
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 071: Unbanded 017
Welcome back to another exciting week of Half Ashed! Episode 071 features Unbanded #017, kindly provided by Officer Paul (Thanks, Paul!). I forgot to snap a picture of the cigar, so you get treated to Craig in a sombrero for our featured image this week :). We covered several important cigar news items this week, including stories from Drew Estate, La Flor Dominicana, 7-20-4, Davidoff Nicaragua, IPCPR’s hiring of a new CEO, and the finalized review architecture for The Cigarmy. We also covered what we’ve been smoking, and Craig’s favorite listener email in quite some time…
Next week...
2014-06-241h 48
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 070: Elogio ExcepcionalesGood day, folks. Welcome to Episode 070 of Half Ashed. We have a big show this week, with a very peculiar Cigar of the Week. It’s the Elogio Excepcionales…which has been likened to a yam in shape. Tune in to find out what we thought of it. We covered several news items this week, including stories from Joya de Nicaragua, CAO, CLE, My Father, and Nomad. Also, we got into a couple of listener emails – but had to save one of the more interesting for next week, so be sure to catch next week’s show if you can.
T...
2014-06-171h 48
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 068: Cohiba Maduro SecretosOur featured cigar for Episode 068 is the Cohiba Maduro Secretos, one of Craig’s selections. Despite being in the “slow season” for cigar news, we did have several items to cover this week, including tidbits from Jose Blanco (Señorial), Miami Cigar (Nestor Miranda Collection), some possiblities with La Sirena/Sotolongo Cigars, a humanitarian award for Carlito Fuente, some cool packaging from Viaje, a question about the whereabouts of Palio, and a couple of significant legislative updates. As always, we talked a bit about what each of us have been smoking this week as well.
This week, we also hit...
2014-05-301h 43
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalfAshed Episode 067: Flor de Gonzalez 90 MilesGood day, and welcome to Episode 067! This week, we’re smoking one of Kip’s go-to cigars, the Flor de González 90 Miles. Tune in to get the full scoop on how it fared. Cigar news was pretty scant this week, but we managed to cover a few items, including Smoke Inn’s new Microblend Series release, further FDA instructions, 1502 lanceros, the new My Father La Antiguedad, Room101’s “Big Payback,” and La Jugada’s “Nunchuck.” We talked a bit more than normal about our respective weeks in smoke, and wrapped up with a listener email. We also made a couple...
2014-05-271h 22
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 065: Tatuaje El Triunfador LanceroGood evening, folks. I apologize for the late post this week…I was distracted by (quite frankly) more important things like family time and making a living. This week on Half Ashed, we’re smoking the Tatuaje El Triunfador lancero, one of Craig’s favorite picks. We covered several late-breaking news items, including new cigars from Camacho and Alec Bradley, the Chattanooga Tweetup, Tatuaje, legislative updates, and Nicholas Melillo’s departure from Drew Estate. As always, we also discussed what we’ve been smoking and reviewed some listener emails. So, tune in and enjoy a couple hours of cigar shenanigans!...
2014-05-141h 41
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 064: Fuente SurpriseThis week on Half Ashed, we’re smoking a very special Fuente cigar, given out at CFC2014. Tune in to get the full details about it, but here’s a spoiler: we loved it. We had quite a bit of news to cover, including items from FDA, General Cigars’ Dunhill, 1502 Cigars, Herrera Esteli, Drew Estate, Luis Sanchez, and a bit more trouble for former Swisher executive Alex Goldman. We also discussed what else we’ve been smoking this week and several listener emails. Keep ’em coming!
In an unfortunate turn, our latest attempt at revamping our chatroom experienced a setb...
2014-05-041h 50
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 059: Anejo & Undercrown DogmaWelcome to Episode 059 of Half Ashed. This week is a wildc*rd show….meaning, we had no planned Cigar of the Week. So, Craig is smoking a Fuente Anejo 46, and I happen to be smoking the new Undercrown Dogma – a special release from Drew Estate celebrating the 1st Anniversary of the Cigar Dojo App. We have lots to say about these two fine cigars, as well as news from My Father, K.A. Kendall, RoMaCraft, and EP Carrillo. Additionally, we cover what we’ve been smoking this week – with one very special cigar in there from me. Finally, we hit a rab...
2014-03-301h 45
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 057: Oliva Serie V Maduro 2012Welcome to Part 3 of our Oliva Serie V Maduro vertical tasting. Tonight, we’re smoking the 2012 edition of this fine series. Here’s a brief synopsis of the show…. In the news, we covered items from Quesada, Epicurean Cigars, Tarazona Cigars, GAR, Tatuaje, and an interesting legislative flop in Utah found in the Salt Lake Tribune. As usual, we talked about what we’ve been smoking this week and a few random rabbit trails. Join us for all the cigar talk and silliness we can muster!
Next week, we will be smoking something TBA…..we still haven’t traded cigars...
2014-03-191h 39
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 056: Oliva Serie V Maduro 2010-11Hello, and welcome to Half Ashed Episode 056! This week, we continue with our vertical tasting of the Oliva Serie V Maduro, smoking both the 2010 and 2011 editions in preparation for the show. As expected, both were enjoyable. That’s four years down, and two to go.
We announced the two winners of last week’s giveaway (graciously sponsored by Michael Stewart) – David Nichols and Ian Winchester. Congratulations to those two fine gentlemen! In the news, we had items about Cuba’s problem with this year’s rainfall and crop rot; new cigars from Herrera Esteli, Crowned Heads, and Tarazona; GAR’s new...
2014-03-111h 33
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed 055: Oliva Serie V Maduro Vertical TastingHello folks. Welcome to this week’s episode of Half Ashed. I apologize for being brief; curt even. I’m in the midst of serious illness within my family and have various related matters to attend to. I wanted to give the full rundown, but for the sake of time and other duties I will be brief. So, at the risk of being blunt here’s this week’s show.
We started the vertical tasting of 2008-9-10-11-12-13 Oliva Serie V Maduro. This week, we smoked and covered years 2008 and 2009. As always, we covered a few bits of...
2014-03-031h 29
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 053: Valentine’s Day Cigars….[EDIT: I am fully aware the graphic at left has the wrong episode number on it. I know listeners would never pick up on it but yes, even I, make mistakes.]When we decided to go ahead and record on schedule – despite it being Valentine’s Day (night) – we took our lives into our own hands. Thankfully, both Craig and I have incredibly understanding wives. So, we have once again provided you with two hours of tobacco geekery. Our Cigar of the Week tonight is a bit different than normal. In keeping with the theme of the holiday, we’ve decid...
2014-02-181h 54
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 052: One Year Anni with Bob & Dale!Welcome to the One-Year Anniversary show for Half Ashed! I apologize for the delay in getting the show posted. I’ve had a bit of a bug the past 2 days. This week we had Bob & Dale of Dogwatch Cigar Radio fame join us. We love having those guys on; it’s always a blast just to hang out with the two of them. We’re smoking the 400th Maduro from Orinoco Cigars – a cigar of which I’m already a big fan. I believe Craig, Bob, and Dale are now as well. So tune in, fire up, and relax….
A...
2014-02-132h 19
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 051: Cigar Coop and UnbandedHello everyone, and welcome back to another exciting episode of Half Ashed. This week, we have special guest William “Cigar Coop” Cooper. William is well known in cigar circles for his outstanding written blog (Cigar_Coop), and most recently for his partnership with Stogie Geeks. They are doing some great things in combining the written word with broadcasting. We are smoking an Unbanded cigar sent in by Coop himself, so tune in to watch Craig and I make all kinds of wild swings at what it might be. We cover a lot of ground in news, legislation, and other related topic...
2014-02-011h 52
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 050: Tatuaje Petite Tatuaje ReservaHello everyone, and welcome to Episode 050 of Half Ashed. This week, we’re smoking one of Craig’s favorite cigars, the Tatuaje Petite Tatuaje Reserva. Here is Craig’s summary of this cigar:
A small cigar that displays all the charisma & flavor of its larger brethren. In the spirit of the Tatuaje website I think it fitting to define this cigar as the above. Often overlooked because of its size, 4-½”x32 the Petit Tat Reserva is slightly expensive but not because of a lesser level of quality. Cherry, leather, espresso, chocolate & citrus explode from these littl...
2014-01-271h 15
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 049: Guest Frank HerreraEpisode 049 of Half Ashed is in the books, and if you missed the live show the download is now available below. This week, we welcomed Frank Herrera to the show. We talked trademark law (his specialty), the Herrera Biography, cigars in general, and various other lively topics. Join us for all the fun. Our Cigar of The Week was the Casa Fernandez Arsenio corojo – one of my alltime favorite cigars, and one that quite possibly might be the best $5 cigar on the market.
Next week’s Cigar of The Week has yet to be determined, but will be one of Cra...
2014-01-202h 03
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 047: We’re Back! Cabaiguan MaduroWelcome back! Craig and I were both recuperating from illness last week, so after making the first 46 in a row we had to miss an episode. But, we’re back this week, smoking the Cabaiguan Maduro as our Cigar of the Week. This is one of Craig’s favorites, but tune in and see how well his palate has recovered after two weeks of healing.
In the news this week ,we covered stories from 1502 Cigars, General Cigar’s new collaboration with Jay-Z, Ezra Zion, and Quesada. We also talked over an article from the UK Telegraph which speculated that ciga...
2014-01-051h 52
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 046: Unbanded 011Welcome to Episode 046 of Half Ashed! This week’s show is a bit abbreviated due to some impending technical issues that might have made it difficult to post the show for the next several days. We’re smoking Unbanded Number 011, provided by Jacob Pinkas (thank you Jacob!). This week, we covered news items from TL Johnson, New York City legislators (sigh), recent controversy on CA’s Top 25 list, La Sirena/Miami Cigar, Fuente, and Crowned Heads. We also managed to cover a couple of the things we’ve been smoking this week, as well as a couple of past-due emails. So, k...
2013-12-211h 13
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 045: Half Ashed – Half DogwatchWelcome to Episode 045, everyone. I apologize for the delay in getting this week’s show posted. I’ve been excessively busy with the ol’ dayjob, and quite honestly it was more important to me to spend what little other time I had playing rummy with my kids :). This week, Craig was not available, for good reason. He was busy welcoming the newest Li’l Schneider into the world (Congrats to the Schnedier family). I was lucky enough to have Dale Roush of Dogwatch Cigar Radio fame join me for an especially relaxed show. We each smoked a cigar that we...
2013-12-171h 39
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 044: Crowned Heads, CigarChat, & CigFedGood evening, everyone, and welcome to Episode 044 of Half Ashed. If you missed the live show, we smoked the Crowned Heads Four Kicks Corona Gorda this week, and had special guests Rob Rasmussen and Logan Lawler from Cigar Chat / Cigar Federation. We had an absolute blast with the guys, and learned a little more about both their show and the Cigar Federation. We also managed to cover a few of our regular segments as well. First off, we had our recently instituted Leaf of the Week segment, covering broadleaf this week – complete with a giveaway (which has now ended….it pays...
2013-12-102h 02
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 043: Gran Habano Corojo #5Welcome to Episode 043 of Half Ashed. This week, we’re smoking one of Craig’s favorite cigars, a Gran Habano Corojo #5, from the original release. Tune in to get our thoughts on how this cigar has progressed, developed, and whether or not it has retained its original character. In the news, we cover items from Altadis/RyJ, Gurkha’s release of the Pedro Martin LE, and a couple of particularly bold legislative attacks on cigars. We also cover what we’ve been smoking this week, a few listener emails, and even delved into some smoking recipes!
Next week, our Ciga...
2013-11-301h 57
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 040: Alec Bradley Fine & RareWelcome to the 40th episode of Half Ashed! This week, we’re smoking the 2012 edition of the Alec Bradley Fine & Rare. The Fine & Rare is a very limited annual release from Alec Bradley. It contains 10 different tobaccos, although little is know about the blend outside of the wrapper – which is Honduran leaf, from the Trojes region of the country. The 2012 edition is a 6″X52 torpedo, produced at the famed Raices Cubana factory. Production for that year was 2000 boxes of 10, and had an MSRP of $16.50. Personally, it is one of my favorite Alec Bradley offerings, and I look forward to it...
2013-11-111h 56
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 038: Quai D’Orsay ImperialesHello again, folks. Welcome to another week of Half Ashed. This week, we were forced to record on Wednesday rather than Friday by some scheduling conflicts. Thanks to the folks who did join us in the chatroom….and if you’ve never joined us on Friday nights, you should! Tune in here at halfashed.com around 9:30pm EST for the show streaming as we record every week. Episode 038 features the Quai D’Orsay Imperiales, one of Craig’s submissions to our stockpile of Cigars of the Week. Here’s what he has to say about it:
Perhaps the mildes...
2013-10-271h 52
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 037: Drew Estate Nica RusticaHello everyone and welcome back to another week of Half Ashed fun. Through an odd series of events, we only selected this episode’s Cigar of the Week (the Drew Estate Nica Rustica “El Brujito”) moments before showtime – a bit out of the ordinary for us, as these are usually planned weeks or even months in advance. Tune in to get our thoughts on this new offering from Drew Estate. In news this week, we cover stories from AJ Fernandez, House of Emilio, Oliva/Tampa Humidor, Joya de Nicaragua, and Torano. We also follow a few tobacco-related rabbit trails, and disc...
2013-10-202h 00
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 036: Unbanded 010Half Ashed Episode 036: Unbanded 010
Good afternoon, and welcome back for another episode of Half Ashed. This week, for episode 036, we’re smoking an unbanded submission from Steve Dorau (Thanks, Steve!). In news, we cover stories from Drew Estate, upcoming cigar festivities for anyone in the central Florida area, the education I recently received in Chicago tobacco taxes (yikes!), Sotolongo Cigars, Miami Cigar, Emilio and Emilio-distributed Nomad Cigars, as well as the upcoming availability of a budget pipe tobacco.
We also cover what we’ve been smoking (a few goodies for me, and one that just wasn’t in Cr...
2013-10-132h 27
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 035: Fuente Unnamed ReserveHalf Ashed Episode 035: Fuente Unnamed Reserve
Welcome to another fun-filled episode of Half Ashed! This week, we’re taking a look at an unexpected (at the time) release from the Fuente family – the Unnamed Reserve. When this cigar showed up on select retailers’s shelves in December of 2012, little was known about it other than the facts that it was somewhat limited in scope and contained some mixture of the Don Carlos blend with a Sungrown wrapper. Join us as we enjoy a couple of the last few remaining in my humidor.
We also cover several news items, inc...
2013-10-062h 04
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 032: A Visit with the Dogwatch Guys!Episode 032
Good afternoon, everyone! Welcome to another week and another episode of Half Ashed, this being Episode 032. Yes, we’ve managed to make it another week without being booed, chased, or otherwise kicked off the internet. Craig was out of town this week, and I had the good fortune of getting Dale Roush & Bob McDuffee on as special guests. Bob & Dale – or the godfathers of cigar podcasting as I like to call them, were the hosts of Dogwatch Cigar Radio for 8 years, ending the show at the end of 2012 with 410 episodes. I owe much to them, including the i...
2013-09-152h 23
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 031: Casa Miranda Chapter 2Hello folks, and welcome to Half Ashed Episode 031, featuring the Casa Miranda Chapter Two and with guest Barry Stein of Miami Cigar. Barry was slated to join us for the whole show, but we had a bit of a mixup with a Miami storm that took down the power grid in Barry’s neighborhood. He was able to join us for a short time later in the show, when he went above and beyond the call of duty by driving down to Neighborhood Humidor and calling in on his phone. We very much appreciate his doing that; it was truly a s...
2013-09-091h 56
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastHalf Ashed Episode 030: illusione ECCJ and a giveaway!Happy Labor Day weekend, everyone, and welcome back for Episode 030 of Half Ashed. This week, we’re smoking the illusione ECCJ, a cigar originally produced for the 15th anniversary of the European Cigar Cult Journal (now known as Cigar Journal). Tune in to get our thoughts on this how time has treated this phenomenal cigar. Our giveaway for this month is coming to a close – the prize this time around is a 10 pack of fantastic cigars. This is a selection of cigars that I enjoy and wanted to share with someone else. They are pictured below. With the exception of the ne...
2013-08-312h 01
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 028: Skip Martin of RoMaCraft TobacWelcome to Half Ashed Episode 028, everyone. This week, we had an surprise visit with Skip Martin, of RoMaCraft Tobac – makers of such fine cigar lines as the Cro Magnon, Intemperance, and Aquitaine. Both Craig and I are huge fans of the RoMaCraft lineup, as well as Skip and his business partner Michael Rosales. I personally smoke enough of the Intemperance and Aquitaine that I could probably support the investment of shelf space from a local Tampa area retailer (that’s a big hint for all you Tampa area brick & mortar shops). This week’s show is a wealth of good...
2013-08-182h 31
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 022: Ramon Allones Petit CoronaRamon Allones Petit Corona
Welcome back for another fun-filled, exciting episode of Half Ashed. This week, we take a look at the 2002 Ramon Allones Petit Corona – one of Craig’s very favorite cigars. He says, “Since its discontinuation in 2002 the PC has remained a “special” cigar in my humidor. Its big brother the corona is viewed as one of the most saught after regular production cigars since the mid 90s. Both being made in small numbers, thus always maintaining the quality, both of these cigars are great. The PC is legendary.” Tune in to the show to get both our full...
2013-07-061h 52
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 021: TL Johnson Tempio and Guest Terry JohnsonHalf Ashed Ep. 021: TL Johnson Tempio
Good day and welcome back for another fun-filled episode of Half Ashed. This week, we host Terry Johnson of TL Johnson Cigars. Terry sits in for the first hour of the show, while we smoke his fantastic Tempio and talk cigars, flyfishing (TL Johnson also produces fly rods), and other gentlemanly topics. We then covered a few news items for this week, and some of the usual suspects in show segments. Thanks for tuning in, and enjoy!
Featured Cigar
This week, we take a look at the TL Johnson Tempio, a ciga...
2013-06-302h 06
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 020: Unbanded & Guest Nate McIntyreGuest Nate McIntyre & Unbanded 005
Good Sunday afternoon, everyone! Welcome back for another week of the most Half-Ashed Cigar podcast floating around the interwebs. This week, we featured an unbanded cigar from our buddy DC and special guest Nate McIntyre, of Emilio Cigars – who had the rare privilege of sharing a headset with Craig.
Featured Cigar
As already mentioned, we had the opportunity to smoke Unbanded 005 this week, furnished by Dan Crouch – thanks, Dan! Tune in to the show for our thoughts about this cigar, and a visit from Dan for the reveal.
Industry News
2013-06-231h 53
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 019: Monte PascoalMonte Pascoal
Welcome back to Half Ashed, and happy Fathers’ Day to all the Dads out there. We’re glad you’ve joined us for another round of fun. This week, we take a look at an old favorite – Monte Pascoal. Craig with a corona, and I the belicoso. So, find your favorite cigar and join us for another couple hours of smokin’ silliness…
News Items
Legislation: In legislative news, those of you in Pennsylvania NEED to take heed: CRA has issued an action alert detailing some potentially devastating proposals from a couple of your state congressmen....
2013-06-161h 48
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 018: 2006 Partagas Serie du ConnoisseurPartagas Serie du Connoisseur
Welcome, folks! We’re back, and only slightly agitated with the unexpected loss of Episode 017 last week. Thanks for joining us. I’ll be brief with the summary this week and try to hit all the details quickly. Our Cigar of the Week is one of Craig’s offerings, the 2006 Partagas Serie du Connoisseur. We had several news items pop up this week, as we begin to enter the season of rapidfire updates in the days leading up to IPCPR. Here are a few we covered:
News Items
* Eddie Ortega has been showin...
2013-06-101h 51
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 016: 2011 EP Carrillo Short RunEpisode 016: 2011 EP Carrillo Short Run
Hello again, folks, and welcome back to Episode 016 of Half Ashed. We appreciate you stopping by. In this episode, we take a look at the 2011 EP Carrillo Short Run. We’re smoking the Bombone (4 7/8 X 50), with its Ecuadoran Habano wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and Nicaraguan/Dominican filler blend. This is Kip’s favorite of the Short Run series so far, but tune in to get full details about how they’re smoking right now.
Show Summary
Rather than the detailed notes I might normally post, I’ll be brief and only include a shor...
2013-05-272h 09
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 015: Quesada Oktoberfest and Cigar CoopWelcome, everyone, to Half Ashed Episode 015 featuring very special guest William Cooper – who many of you know as Cigar Coop from his information-rich website, one of the premier sources of all the news that’s fit to print in the cigar industry.!
2011 Quesada Oktoberfest Bavarian
This week, we’re also taking a look at the 2011 Quesada Oktoberfest Bavaria. You’ll have to forgive the stock image from their website; I absentmindedly forgot to snap a pic before greedily smoking up my last example of this fantastic cigar. It comes in a 5.5″ x 52 double robusto, and features a Domi...
2013-05-192h 20
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 014: Ezra Zion TANTRUMEzra Zion Tantrum
Welcome back to Half Ashed, everyone. We managed to avoid being booed off the air for yet another week, so we humbly present Episode 014 for your listening and viewing pleasure. This week we were honored with special guest Kyle Hoover from Ezra Zion Cigars as we take a look at their new Limited Edition TANTRUM – a very big cigar in a very small package. As should now be evident from opinions I’ve voiced about my love for Ezra Zion cigars, I’m always excited to see something new from the guys. Tune in for all the...
2013-05-122h 11
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 013: 2005 Padron Aniversario2005 Padron Aniversario
Hello again, and welcome back for Half Ashed Episode 013. This week’s episode features the 2005 Padron Aniversario 1964 natural corona as our Cigar of the Week. This cigar, one with which I am not overly familiar in the natural wrapper, turned out to be a phenomenal smoke. These were graciously furnished by Craig, and I was entirely impressed, to say the least. Tune in to get our combined thoughts about how this stick has held up during the past 8 years. I will also be posting an Epilogue review within the next couple of days. Once posted, this will be link...
2013-05-042h 05
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 007: My Father Flor de las AntillasWelcome to Half Ashed Episode 007, everyone! Here’s a quick summary of this week’s show, but be sure to download or watch/listen through any of the means in the final paragraph of this post!
Half Ashed Cigar of the Week
Released last May (2012), the My Father Flor de las Antillas toro was named Cigar of the Year by Cigar Aficionado in 2012. It takes its name from Cuba, sometimes called the “flower of the Antilles.” The FdlA is a Nicaraguan puro, and MSRP for singles is from $6.60 (robusto) – $8.70 (toro gordo 6X56). The line is available in four vitola...
2013-03-251h 43
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 006: 2012 Oliva Serie V MaduroWell, Craig and I managed to put together another show this week, so we proudly present to you Half Ashed Episode 006! I hope you’ll take the time to listen and/or watch the video, and give us some feedback – you can send your questions, comments, compliments, or complaints to us via email, using either of the following address: kip@thecigarmy.com or craig@thecigarmy.com, or reach us by any of the contact means listed on the “Contact” pages here at The Cigarmy. You can find the video for this show over on our YouTube page as well. The Ciga...
2013-03-162h 04
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 004: Blind AmbitionHalf Ashed Episode 004 Summary
It’s that time of week again, folks, when we gather around the proverbial fireplace of our computer screen (or headsets for you audiophiles) for a relaxing chat over a good smoke. This week on Half Ashed, we begin with our first unbanded cigar, selected by an unwitting chap who happened to be visiting a local tobacconist at an opportune time. Craig and I take our chances at showcasing our aptitude and ineptitude by giving our thoughts concerning an unknown cigar, which turns out to be the Romeo by Romeo y Julieta. We also cover sev...
2013-03-022h 08
The Half Ashed Cigar PodcastEpisode 002: Montecristo Especial No. 1Craig and Kip are back this week for Episode 2 of Half Ashed. This week, we take a look at some vintage 1998 Montecristo Especial No. 1 (Laguito#1) as the Cigar of the Week. News updates from La Palina, Sam Leccia, IPCPR, and an interesting bit of potential legislation in Tennessee. Plus, a tour of the recently renovated Arturo Fuente Tampa operations and a discussion of some neat “happy accidents” in what we’ve been smoking this week. Be sure to also check out this month’s giveaway, as well as the ongoing Cigarmy promotion for new and renewing members of the Cigar Right...
2013-02-171h 53