New York – April 11

Cuba Cigars Dominate CA Ratings

If there was any more doubt, the editors of Cigar Aficionado magazine have put it to rest; the quality and taste of Cuba cigars has never been better.   “Cuba cigars led or tied five of six tasting categories in this issue (Tiger Woods), a seldom accomplished feat that shows the remarkable quality of today’s Havana cigars,” said the tasting panel. 

Cuba cigars dominated the ratings.  12 of the 14 Cuban cigars rated received 90+ ratings, CA’s highest scores. (conversely the panel rated 32 DR cigars and only 3 of these were given 90’s.).  The cigars that won each size category were stunning, and included the Cohiba Siglo VI (92), the H Upmann Sir Winston (92) and the Por Larranaga Robusto Edicion Regional (93).  Even the number one selling Cuban cigar, the Montecristo No 4, garnered a 93.

In Toronto, some area shops have lowered the prices of their Cuban cigars.  In Cigar Studio, significant wholesale price declines in the best selling sizes, have resulted in retail prices being lowered 15%-20%.  Foot traffic has been very strong as excellent weather has combined with these price drops to produce smokers anxious to get outside and enjoy a “Habana”.

April 6 - Toronto

Cigar Buyers Benefit from Lower Retail Prices

There may be April showers to start spring, but the weather has not hurt the buying mood of cigar customers in at least one Toronto retail store.

“Business has been very strong to start the season” said Shawn Gordon of Cigar Studio in Toronto.  “While the better weather has helped a lot, even with the rain of the past few days, our foot traffic has been great.  And it is because of the lower retails that our customers are getting.”

Significant decreases in wholesale prices on major brands has translated into price drops at retail.  Brands like Montecristo, Macanudo, Punch, Bolivar and Romeo Y Julieta are down 10% – 20%.  The strong Canadian dollar compared to 12 months ago has provided much of this relief.

Long time Cigar Studio customer James Fleming is thrilled. “Some of my favorite cigars are cheaper now.  It helps me forget the rain out there and I am saving money so maybe I will just buy a bigger umbrella. Or one of Cigar Studio’s caps.”

Santiago – March 7

Pro Cigar Festival a Huge Success

The inaugural cigar festival organized by Pro Cigar came to a successful conclusion last night.  And what an ending as 500 guests attended the Gala Dinner and Auction.  

For three days, attendees were treated to events and tours put on by the Dominican Republic cigar industry.  Highlights included two extremely detailed seminars by Daniel Nunez and Hendrik Kelner of General Cigar and Davidoff.   The festival objectives were to promote the high quality and consistency standards established by the Pro Cigar Association. 

The cultural and culinary traditions of the DR were equally promoted.   Each night of the festival attendees were treated to gala dinners and hospitality.  Friday nights Gala featured a live auction which raised money for the local Saint Vincent de Paul Hospital.

Toronto – March 3

Macanudo Prices Set to Drop

House of Horvath, the distributor of the Macanudo brand in Canada, announced today that wholesale prices of this world class brand were dropping 10% effective immediately.  The strong Canadian dollar is providing HoH this price relief.    

Punch, Flor del Caribe and other General Cigar brands also saw significant prices drops in Canada.

One of the first stores to act on the news was Cigar Studio in Toronto.  Staff  was re-pricing their cigars over the weekend in anticipation of the drop.  “You can’t wait on these things” said Jerry Hartman of Cigar Studio. “It’s always better to be first off the mark on price reductions.  Your customers will really appreciate it.”

According to House of Horvath, Cigar Studio is the number one selling Macanudo account in Canada.

Toronto – January 7

Ontario Tobacco Display Five Months Away

The final act of Ontario’s controversial smoking and display ban, Bill 164,  kicks in on midnight May 31.   This is the date when the display ban comes into effect.  Consumers will no longer be able to see any tobacco on the shelves of any convenience store, grocery store, gas station or any other place where tobacco is sold.

Specialty tobacco stores, those stores that generate the majority of sales through tobacco excluding cigarettes,  are exempt from the display ban.   This means that these store types will not have to cover their tobacco as long as they comply with certain provisions in the Act.

Since June 1, 2006, almost all indoor smoking has been banned by the Province.  Casino’s owned by the province have set up outdoor smoking schelters to accommodate their customers.   And a rather odd exception to the smoking ban has been granted to hotels who are allowed to designated up to 15% of their room space for smokers.

Santiago – December 15

Dominican Cigar Manufacturers Plan Festival

ProCigar, the association of cigar manufacturers in the Dominican Republic, announced the details of their first cigar festival.  The Festival will take place from March 5 to 7 in Santiago, Dominican Republic.

Modeled after the successful cigar festivals held by Habanos each year, organizers will use the 3 days to promote the uniqueness of the DR cigar industry.  A number of events and dinners are planned that will feature key Dominican cigar brands such as Macanudo, Leon Jimenes,  L’Aurora and Davidoff.  Visitors to the Festival will also be able to participate in a number of cultural activities and visit historical sites that are a major part of the cigar industry in the DR.

ProCigar was formed in 1992 as a lobby group for the Dominican cigar industry.

Toronto – November 28

Canada Receives  Regional Edicion Cigars

The first cigar made specifically for Canada by Habanos SA in Cuba arrived in specialty tobacco shops today.

The cigar is the Bolivar Simones, sized 5 x 48.  These specially made cigars are part of the Regional Edition Cigars of Habanos S.A. and are available to each market for a maximum term of two years.  This project from Habanos S.A. started several years ago.

Using the best leaves grown in the traditional tobacco areas of Cuba, Vuelta Abajo, Semivuelta and Partido, this cigar keeps the unique characteristics of Bolivar while giving smokers the opportunity to enjoy sizes not included in the regular brand portfolio.

Produced only in cabinets of 50, each cigar has a double Bolivar band and each box is serial numbered.  The 2007 Regional Edition is limited to 600 boxes only.  They will available exclusively in Canada and Asia Pacific.

Cigar Studio in Toronto was one of the first stores to receive them.

Havana– November 24

Cigars in Abundance at Partagas Dinner

Cigar aficionados from around the world decended upon the Melia Cohiba Hotel in Havana  last night for the annual Partagas Dinner.  The dinner is held each year to promote the very famous brand while raising money for local health clinics for children.

Approximately 200 guests attended the dinner.  The host was Abel Exposito Diaz.  Abel runs the Partagas factory, one of Havana’s largest and busiest.   He insured there were plenty of cigars for each ticket buyer and did not disappoint guests.  Each guest received 6 cigars throughout the night, all rolled under his supervision.

Toronto – November 2

Cigar Prices Prices Drop

Cigar Studio in Toronto announced that effective yesterday, the regular prices of all their specialty tobacco products were reduced by 15%.  This is on top of a price drop of 5% that first occurred in the summer.

“The strong appreciation of the Canadian dollar means that all of our suppliers are landing goods at least 10 % lower and in many cases 15% lower than they were several months ago” said Jerry Hartman, owner/operator of Cigar Studio.  “It has always been our policy to pass these on.  Why wouldn’t we?” 

Several calls made to other stores indicate many of them have yet to make any adjustments in an attempt to keep the extra margin.  “I expect they will not be able to do that for much longer”  said Hartman.  “You can’t afford to be un- competitive in this marketplace”.

Havana – October 9

Partagas Dinner Set for November 23

Abel Exposito Diaz, General Director of the Paragas cigar factory in Havana, announced today that the annual dinner celebrating one Cuba’s most  famous cigar brands will be held Friday November 23.  This will be the 14th dinner held to promote the Partagas brand and raise money for local charities.   The dinner will cap off a 5 days of activities held in conjunction with the dinner.    Over 300 guests are expected.

Toronto – August 10

Great Weather Helps Drives Cigar Sales

What a difference good weather makes.

The premium cigar business in Ontario has exploded over the past two months as perfect weather has kept smokers outside enjoying their cigars.  Customers at a number of specialty tobacco shops have lost very few “smoking days” – golf games, cottage weekends, backyard parties -  to poor weather.

This was not the case this spring as a hangover of a cold and wet winter helped make the start of the season very tough for retailers.  Sales were very sluggish and retailers were all hoping that better weather would help the season improve.  It certainly has and sales have taken off.  Also helpful were the many specials offered by wholesalers to stimulate the marketplace.

Inventories which had been building up have now dropped for many premium brands.  

Toronto – July 20

Cohiba Maduro 5 Arrives At Tobacco Shops

Havana House began shipping the new Cohiba Maduro 5 cigars to retail shops today.  Launched this week at their Golf Tournament, the cigars are the newest to come from El Laguita in Havana.  The cigars come in 3 sizes and feature a maduro wrapper that has been aged for 5 years.  The cigars are priced at the high end of the premium market.

“We are really excited to have them in our store” said Shawn Gordon of Cigar Studio in Toronto.  “There was a real buzz about them when Habanos released them in Havana at the February Festival so our customers have been asking about them.  Give their premium price they may not be for everyone, but we already have several box orders from customers who just want the best.” 

Bond Head – July 18

Cuban Cigar Golf Turnament  A Big Success

136 golfers participated yesterday in Smokes & Strokes, the inaugural golf tournament organized by Havana House.  Havana House is the exclusive Canadian distributor for all Habanos SA products.   The sold out event was held on the north course at Bond Head.

Golfers who participated received some of the worlds best cigars when they checked in, including a Montecristo No 2, Hoyo De Monterrey Double Corona, Cohiba Robusto and Romeo Y Julieta Edicion Limitada No 2.   Since the tournament was also the Canadian launch of the new Cohiba Maduro 5, all guests also received one of each of the 3 sizes in this line.  And as dinner ended, long legged models handed each golfer a Cohiba Siglo 6 Tubo.

Given its success, the event will take place again in 2008.

Los Angeles – June 30

God of Fire Dinner Set For September

Carlos Fuente Sr and his son Carlito announced the date for the God of Fire Dinner yesterday.  It will take place on September 29 at the Hotel Bel- Air in Los Angeles. 

Each year this dinner raises funds for the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation.  This foundation improves the lives of children of families who work in the rural tobacco farms in the DR. 

God of Fire is a premium brand of cigars made by the Fuente’s under the direction of Keith Park of Prometheus Lighters.  Prometheus is a large supporter of the Foundation 

Only 200 tickets will be available for the dinner.

Toronto – June 2

Bill 164 Anniversary

The 1st anniversary of this bullshit smoking bylaw passed quietly yesterday. Enough said.

Toronto – May 14

Toronto Area Cigar Suppliers Report Slow Start to the Season

Specialty tobacco and premium cigar suppliers have all confirmed a slow start to the 2007 cigar business.  

The past several weeks saw suppliers such as Havana House, House of Horvath, Bondele Cigar, Kretek  and Brigham at various trade shows and no-one reported year over year sales increases so far this year.  Everyone said business was down.  While hesitant to disclose the exact amounts, most are experiencing strong double digit declines.

Certainly Bill 164 had some impact - a very cold, snowy winter and late spring kept many consumers inside – and Bill 164 insured no-one could have a cigar at a bar or club.  

But one of the biggest issues impacting sales at retail and ultimately at the wholesale level, is the amount of cigars being brought back into the country by Canadians returning from holiday or business trips from low tax areas such as Cuba, the DR and many southern states such as Florida.   Smokers’ humidors are full of cigars they brought back under their personal exemptions allowing  50 duty free cigars.  They simply do not need any more cigars until they “smoke” through their current inventories.   Until they do, they visit cigar shops less frequently, who in turn place orders to suppliers less frequently.  

Toronto – April 25

Macanudo Vintage 2000 Product Arrives in Canada

Macaudo’s first Vintage cigar of the decade is scheduled to arrive in Canada next week.  Following the success of previous Vintage products,  The Cabinet Selection 2000 will be available in 4 sizes and limited retail distribution.  

Since 1979, only a select number of years have yielded Macanudo Connecticut shade wrapper deemed vintage quality;  1979, 1984, 1988, 1993 and 1997.   The 2000 blend will provide cigar fans a more fuller taste compared to past years.  Similar to previous releases, 2000 has been totally supervised by Macanudo’s cigar master, Daniel Nunez.

Toronto – March 26

2007 Cigar Prices Remain Unchanged In Ontario

2007 price lists for cigar wholesalers in Ontario were released this month and show minimum if any increases. 

Havana House, the exclusive distributor of Habanos, has held prices on all premium product while lowering prices on their best selling small format cigars.   Prices of the puritos, clubs and minis offered by such well known brands like Cohiba, Romeo Y Juliet and Montecristo have declined on average by 7%. 

Other major cigar suppliers David Cigar, Brigham, Bondele Cigar and Kretek are holding prices in 2007. 

With the exception of the Punch brand, House of Horvath has held prices on their premium cigars.  However a number of their smaller cigars, are increasing in price in excess of inflation.

Havana – March 3

Gala Evening Raises Money for Cuban Health System

Approximately € 625,000 euros were raised last night at the Closing Gala to the 9th Habanos Festival in Havana, Cuba.  As is the custom each year at the festival, this money goes to support a number of local and neighborhood health centers in Havana.  The proceeds were raised by a live auction of 5 lots of very rare cigars and humidors.

€ 225,000 euros alone were raised from Lot #5 which featured 400 Cohiba cigars and a stunning sculpture and humidor combination piece.  Standing six feet high, the piece was designed by noted sculptor and goldsmith Raul Valladares Valdes who spent a year on its creation.  The cigars, contained in 3 humidors built into the piece, are from each of the three Cohiba lines; the Classic, the Linea 1492 and the new Maduro 5. 

The evening consisted of live music and a gourmet dinner which brings out the best in Cuban hospitality.  Montecristo was the feature brand of the evening and 6 cigars were handed out to guests including the new Montecristo Reserva #4. 

Havana – February 27

New Cohiba Maduro 5 Launched at Cuban Cigar Festival

New Cohiba Maduro 5 Launched at Cuban Cigar Festival

What an arrival gift last night!

Attendees to the opening night of the Annual Habanos Festival were handed a small gift box with the newest three sizes from Cohiba.  Each box contained a Secretos, Magicos and a Genios, Cohiba Maduro 5.  These Maduro 5 cigars are the first maduro cigars from Habanos officially marketed as such.  The tobacco in each cigar is 5 years old.

Opening Night was held at Club Havana, an elegant resort and banquet facility located just outside Miramar.  Over 700 guests attended the evening, enjoying cocktails, food and cigars along the beach and throughout the palatial facility.   

Toronto – January 17

Ontario Government Grants Itself Exemption From Bill 164

In what many have called the “ultimate hypocrisy”, the Ontario government is allowing its casino’s to build outdoor smoking rooms for their customers.  Bars and restaurants in Ontario are not allowed to do the same.

Faced with steep declines in business following the introduction of their non- smoking law, Bill 164, casinos were faced with the need to protect that revenue.  In both Niagara Fall and Windsor, casinos have built large outdoor smoking rooms with a roof and walls to meet the demand of their customers.  Smoking rooms, indoors or out, are against the law for everyone else.  Even patios that have a roof or overhang are illegal under Bill 164.  That is as long as they are not a government owned patio with a roof.

The hospitality industry is furious over the double standard.   It is difficult not to agree with their point that the government either close their smoking rooms or allow bars and restaurants to open/re-open theirs so that everyone is on an equal playing field.

Toronto – January 8

Smoking Ban Impacts Tobacconist Business

Ontario’s controversial smoking ban has begun to have an negative impact on specialty tobacco businesses.  Retail customers could no longer have a Christmas or New Years cigar with friends or colleagues in any Ontario bar or Club as they could before Bill 164 came into law.  And cigar dinners and tastings which provided like minded individuals the opportunity to enjoy a cigar together, are no longer legal under the law.

“We really saw the impact of Bill 164 during the few days leading up to New Years” according to Cigar Studio’s Jerry Hartman. “Where in the past, we had customers who celebrated New Years in a bar or Club and they would buy a cigar too enjoy for the evening.  They can’t anymore and our News Years business while OK, was not what it has been in previous years.”

This is the first winter in which Bill 164 is in place and many stores and wholesalers are just now seeing the impact, since much of their business is directed at customers whom enjoy cigars outdoors while on the golf course, their deck, or cottage.  Winter weather makes this difficult.

“Our business has always been very seasonal and typically we are very slow in the winter months.  I guess this means we are going to be even more seasonal.”

Toronto - December 21

New Products Greet Cigars Smokers at Christmas

Cigars smokers looking for new products to try are not being disappointed during their visits to cigar stores this Christmas.

Macanudo released its 2006 Reserva Annual into Canada last week.  Distributed by House of Horvath, the Anual follows on the success of earlier 2004 and 2005 Reserva cigars from Macanudo. The Anual boasts a wrapper from the San Agustin Valley in Honduras.  Production of this cigar was limited to 600 boxes in 4 sizes.

The initial success of the Gran Habano brand got even stronger as Bondele Cigar launched a Habano Series to compliment the Corojo released in October.  These medium and full strength cigars have been a huge success with consumers, given their very competitive pricing.  A full size range is available for both series.

Also last week,  Aurora SA and House of Horvath launched the new Auroro Preferido Emerald Tubo.  This cigar, priced at the premium end of the market, is the 5th in a series of Preferido Tubo’s that Aurora has launched since 2002.   Given the desire for innovative packaging options at Christmas, consumers were drawn to the bright green color of the new tube.  The Emerald’s wrapper is from Equador. Consumers now have 5 different finishes to choose from in the Preferido Series.

Christmas shoppers reported seeing all of these new cigars in many fine tobacco shops in Toronto.  

Havana – December 17

Habanos Announces Details for 9th  Cigar Festival

Details for the 9th Annual Cigar Festival were announced by Habanos SA today.  The Festival and Trade Show will take place February 26 to March 2 in Havana.

The program will follow similar formats to previous Festivals and the week will include a wide variety of hospitality events, trade information and sidetrips.   Monday’s opening night will take place at the Museum des Art and highlight the launch of the Cohiba maduro.   Wednesday’s evening, typically designated to an international country to organize and promote (Canada did it in 2005, will take place at Club Havana.  Germany was to be host this year but have declined so Cuba will step in.   Friday’s Gala Dinner will be a celebration of all things Montecristo and will feature the launch of new Reserva product.  Throughout the week, suppliers and trade will be at the Convention Centre.

Approximately 900 industry personal from around the world, along with their guests, are expected at the Festival.

Toronto – December 13

Petit Edmundo Arrives for Christmas

Christmas shoppers now have another cigar choice for their wish list as the Montecristo Petit Edmundo began arriving at tobacco shops in Toronto today.  The newest size from Habanos is 4.25 x 52 and is packed in flats of 25 or boxes of 10.  This size has proved to be popular, as the Hoyo de Monterrey Petit Robusto remains an excellent selling cigar.

“This size will appeal to fans of Cuban cigars who are looking for 2 things” said Shawn Gordon of Cigar Studio in Toronto. “First, this shorter smoke allows you to finish the cigar in the cold weather.  And second many smokers who enjoy the Montecrsito No 5,  want something with more smoke and flavor and this will give it to them.”

Christmas business was reportedly good at Shawn’s store and other Toronto tobacco shops.

New York – November 14

2006 Cigar Ratings Put Cuba on Top

Cigar Aficionado published their Top Fifty cigar list for 2006 and once again Cuban cigars dominated the list. The ratings were once again sponsored by Corvette.

Cuba won the front, the back and overall; every cigar from Cuba received a 90 or better; there were more cigars from Cuba in the Top 50 list than from any other country; and the No 1 cigar and the only cigar to receive a 94 was a Sancho Panza Sancho.

The number one cigar from the Dominican Republic was the La Aurora Preferido Robusto, which was awarded a 93.  Opus X posted 3 cigars on the Top Fifty list.  While only 6 cigars from Nicaragua that made the Top Fifty List, 4 were from the Padron brand.  

The ratings in the December Issue of CA magazine were even more dominant for Cuban cigars as 2 out of 3 cigars rated 90+ were from Cuba.

Toronto –November 1

New 2006 Edicion Limitada Cigars In Toronto

Just in time for the Christmas selling season!

Toronto area specialty tobacco shops received their first shipments of the latest Edicion Limitada product from Cuba today. Habanos SA launched the cigars from Cohiba and Partagas through their Canadian distributor, Havana House.

The Cohiba cigar is a stunning 52 x 6.14”  Piramide. This 2006 EL cigar celebrates the 5th Anniversary of the Edicion Limitada Series from Cuba. Rolled in the legendary El Laguita factory, the cigar is packaged in flats of ten, a box that was designed especially for this cigar. The Partagas, a Serie D No 3, is a corona gorda and is packaged in flats of 25. Both cigars are being positioned at the premium end of the cigar market.  

Toronto store owners were very excited about these products. It is anticipated consumer response will be strong over Christmas even with their premium prices, given the strong momentum Cuban product has seen in the past several years.

Toronto – October 16

Cigar Studio Scores Distribution Exclusive

La Aroma de Cuba, one of the cigar industry’s best rated brands in 2006, is now available in Canada.  Cigar Studio, a specialty tobacco store in the City’s west end, will be the exclusive retail account for the brand in Toronto.  Andre Zabitsky, whose company David Cigar, owns the rights to the brand, made the announcement at their buying show today. 

La Aroma de Cuba is a superbly structured, woody, full bodied cigar from Honduras.  CA magazine has consistently given it superior taste ratings and in the current Shatner issue, CA gives the Churchill a 90.  The cigar’s blend provides Cuban-like boldness and Jerry Hartman, owner of Cigar Studio, was very excited about its potential.  “We are thrilled as we have many smokers who will find the great color, smooth draw and even burn just right.  Its full body is a plus to its superb flavor, and it is great alternative for someone who enjoys Cuban strength and wishes to try something different.”

This is the second time this month that Cigar Studio has secured exclusivity on a highly rated brand.  Currently they are the only store in Toronto to carry Diamond Crown Maximus.  Diamond Crown was one of the cigars enjoyed by guests at the Cigar Family Foundation Dinner and Fundraising Event held last month in Toronto.

Toronto – September 20

Charity Dinner Raises $40,000

Toronto area cigar smokers came together last night and raised over $40,000 for the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation.  The Foundation provides funding for heath care and education for the families of cigars workers who work for the Fuente Cigar Company in the Dominican Republic.   Carlos Fuente attended the dinner.

Organized by David Cigar, the importer of Fuente product in Canada, 150 guests gathered at a local establishment to enjoy themselves while bidding on a number of live auction items.  Items included lots of Opus X and Maximus cigars, a trip to the Dominican Republic, Corporate Suite at the Cueste Rey Box in Tampa for an NFL game, and dinners at some of Toronto’s finest restaurants.  The largest bid of the evening was for a Limited Edicion Humidor with 100 premium cigars that sold for $13,000.

August 28 – Santo Damingo, DR

Eduardo Leon –  August 27, 2006

The Chairman of the Dominican Republic’s largest company died yesterday after suffering a heart attack in his home in the in the US.  Eduardo Leon was 86. The son of the original founding father of the empire, Eduardo was retired but stayed active in the family business which today includes La Aurora SA and Presidente Beer.

Eduardo was instrumental in taking the family business from cigars into packaged goods, beer and banking.  He also served as DR’s ambassador to England for a time.

Las Vegas – July 20

Europe  – The Next Cigar Boom?

The Retail Tobacco Dealers of America held their annual convention in Las Vegas July 16 – 19.  And while industry reports confirmed a 3rd  consecutive year of growth at both wholesale and retail levels in North American, the real buzz was focused on what is occurring in Europe.

Every major cigar supplier and tobacco producer was talking about Europe as the premium cigar market continues to explode in countries like Germany, Sweden and Poland.  And the old eastern block is booming as shipments to countries like Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and Croatia are at their highest levels ever.  Even Turkey and Greece has seen demand explode - sales staff at the Camacho booth at the RTDA said that Istanbul distributors alone would take every cigar that Camacho can produce.

The eastern block growth is what has really taken suppliers by surprise and not so much that it has begun, but by how strong the demand for premium product is currently.  This cigar trend follows what has been occurring with many North American based packaged goods and cultural elements in eastern Europe.  In the late 1980’s after the dissolution of the block, the 10 years that followed was characterized by uncertainty for many food and beverage companies trying to establish businesses there.  This was due in large part by very high unemployment levels as the ‘state’ was replaced as the major employer in most of those countries which in turn presented an environment ripe for corruption and black market activity.  However following the emergence of skilled labor forces in these countries following significant investments in communication, information technology and computer programming, the growth of a middle class has provided income and demand for many western based products, including premium cigars.  When combined with the fact that the per captia smoking rates of Europeans are 4-6 times that of North Americans, it was only a matter of time before the European cigar market exploded.   

Suppliers in at the Las Vegas show noted two separate sales trends in Europe; newer smokers are discovering the flavors and taste of Connecticut shade products, (Macanudo and Ashton can’t satisfy the demand fast enough) while experienced cigar smokers are all over many of the new, stronger cigars that North American smokers are currently enjoying.   While no official numbers were available from Habanos SA for Cuban product, existing retail shops in England and Germany remained concerned about what might happen to their allocations should their Eastern European neighbors’ demands for Cuban cigars outstrip their own.

New York – July 11

Cuban Cigars Dominate Aficionado Ratings

Any concern that advertising pressure produces better cigar ratings in Cigar Aficionado was gone this week as the most recent issue gave Cuban cigars some of their best scores ever.  

The CA tasting panel gave nine Cuban cigars a rating of 90 or better in their blind taste tests  – as many as all the other cigars from all the other countries combined – including a 94 to the Sancho Panza Sancho and a 93 to the Bolivar Royal Corona.  Five out of six category winners were made in Havana.

The improved quality and taste of Cuban cigars has been very clear for the past 3 years and CA has acknowledged this in each issue and in their annual year end summaries.  “Cuban cigars dominated this tasting” said the editors. They concluded by saying that what makes the performance of Cuban product even more impressive is the overall quality level of their competition and strength and flavor of today’s non-Cuban cigars.     

Huntingdon, Quebec – June 26

Stronger Dollar Helps Lower Cigar Prices in Canada

Wholesale cigar costs for premium brands are dropping in Canada as a result of recent gains in the value of the Canadian dollar to its US counterpart.  Consumers are benefiting from this drop as specialty cigar shops covert these lower costs into lower prices at retail.

David Cigar, the exclusive distributor in Canada of brands such as Ashton, Fuente, Opus X, and Davidoff has been lowering prices all spring as the CDN dollar has increased and maintained a range of .87 - .90 US.  This amounts to lower wholesale costs of 15% or more from the same time last year.  “The strong CDN dollar has provided us with much more flexibility than in previous years so we can really help retailers out” said Andre Zabinsky, of David Cigar.

Store visits to several shops confirmed the lower prices.  At Cigar Studio in the west end of Toronto, prices on all Ashton, Fuente, and Davidoff Private Stock had been lowered by 15%-20%.   All Davidoff small cigar were also priced much lower.  “This is great to see” said Zabitsky.  “Everyone wins when regular prices on premium products are lower.”

Other wholesalers are considering similar moves.

Toronto – June 14

New Cuban Cigars Arrive for Fathers Day

The two newest cigars from Habanos SA have arrived in Toronto area cigar shops just in time for Fathers Day.  Today Havana House, the exclusive distributor of Cuban cigar in Canada, shipped retailers their first receipts of the Montecristo 2006 Edicion Limitada  Robusto, and the Romeo Y Julieta  Short Churchill.

The Montecristo is the first 2006 EL product to arrive in Canada.  The Cohiba Siglo II, first launched at the Habanos Festival, was expected to be in Canada by now but production problems with its new tube are holding shipments up.  The Romeo Short Churchill was also to be a tubed product but Habanos decided to package the cigars in flats so as to be in time for this important selling period.

Toronto – May 31

The Last Big Smoke in Ontario?

500 Toronto cigar smokers arrived in mass last night to celebrate their last opportunity to share cigars indoors.  The event occurred at the Drake Hotel the day before Ontario’s controversial Bill 164 kicks into place.

Organized by local cigar wholesalers and the top specialty tobacco stores in Toronto, smokers were provided with 5 cigars, several drinks, and food galore.  Stunning models passed trays of chocolate cigars at the stroke of midnight.  By all reports, the event was spectacular success, albeit frustrating for all attendees.

“I find is absolutely incredible that the government would not make any accommodation for like minded consumers to be able to share a cigar indoors,” said Mike Baldassara, one of last night’s revelers. “The hospitality industry has spent millions on DSR’s and bar management can staff decide to go into them or not.  This is just nuts” said Mike, echoing an opinion shared by everyone at the event.

Smoking will be permitted in outdoor patios as long as they have no fixed roof or canopy.  The Old Mill Inn in Toronto will be hosting “Cigars under the Stars” every Tuesday night on their Terrace to accommodate their cigar smokers.

Toronto – May 3

10th  Anniversary Dinner a Huge Success

Last night 85 guests helped celebrate Cigar Studio’s 10 years in business with a spectacular dinner and at Cru Restaurant.  Customers and suppliers of the store enjoyed 5 cigars and Cru’s award winning cuisine while raising money for the family of Bernardo Gonzales.

“No one in Canada does this like Cigar Studio” raved Andre Zabitsky of David Cigar. “Their events are the best we have ever attended anywhere” said Andre “and we are thrilled to be a part of it”.   The first cigar guest received was an Ashton Cabinet Belicoso provided by David Cigar. 

Joe Horvath of Canada’s House of Horvath gave the toast to Cigar Studio’s owner operator, Jerry Hartman. “He is a total professional and we need more stores like Cigar Studio” said Joe. “Hopefully you will be around for another 10 years so we can do this again in 2016” as he gave Jerry a big hug for the crowd.  

Guests enjoyed the Canadian launch of the new Macanudo Gran Reserva Generoso supplied by Horvath.  Another cigar highlight was the Padron 1926 Maduro No 7 supplied by Joe Bondi of Bondele Cigars.

Toronto – April 24

Cuban Cigar Prices Set to Increase in Canada

The distributor of Cuban cigars in Canada announced modest increases as they published their 2006 wholesale price list.  Havana House, the exclusive distributor for Habanos SA, said prices for some products would increase 2-3 percent.

“The Montecristo No 4 goes up .30 cents and the No 2, up .58 cents” said Roger Lanteigne, Key Accounts for Havana House. “We held our prices last year but could not absorb the increases from Habanos this year”.

Many cigars stayed the same, including best sellers like the Romeo Cedros Coronitas, the Hoyo Petit Robusto and the Fonseca Cosacos.  And there were some products that actually decreased a little.  The Montescristo Edmundo, a huge success for Havana House, actually declined over $2.

Canadian specialty stores are expected to review the changes and decide what should be changed at retail during the month of May.

Toronto- April 21

Final Big Smoke Planned for May 30

Toronto area specialty shops and cigar wholesalers formally announced plans today for a Big Smoke.  The event will mark the last day before Ontario’s Bill 164 becomes law and prohibits all smoking in all bars, clubs and enclosed places.

“It’s a go for May 30” said Colm O’Shea, General Manager of House of Horvath and one of the key organizers of the event.  The event will take place at the Drake Hotel on Queen Street West.  Over 400 are expected to attend.  Tickets and information for the May 30 is expected to be available in specialty stores by May 1.  The event is planned as a protest to the smoking ban given that the Act contains no provisions to allow like-minded individuals to associate with others.

While tobacconists were granted limited display exemptions from the Bill, they are required by law to comply with the rest of the Act including total restrictions that make any smoking in their stores illegal.  This effectively makes it impossible for tobacco shops to conduct business.  In other jurisdictions around Ontario, including next-door provinces and states like Manitoba and New York, smoking is permitted in specialty tobacco shops.

Toronto- April 3

Toronto Cigar Scene Comes Off A Good Winter

If the buzz at the Tobacco Wholesale and Buying Show was any indication, the business outlook for specialty tobacco shops in Ontario in 2006 looks to be strong. 

The industry held their spring buying show in Richmond Hill today and nine of Canada’s largest wholesale groups set up booths for their retail customers.  While the first quarter of the year is always seasonally slow, many attending the two day show were coming off a good quarter and were confident sales increases would continue.  “The warmest winter with the least amount of snow” was how Ian from Brigham Enterprise described the weather from January – March.  All the wholesalers agreed that January was especially strong as local temperatures broke records.  But product introductions were also key.  Brigham’s re-launch of Royal Jamaica,  Kreteks success with Oliva and Havana Sun Grown, the ongoing quality improvement in Cuban cigars and the resolution of the Padron dispute were examples of what the retailers were able to take advantage of this winter.

Retailers were told that new product was going to continue to flow as the spring unfolds.  Kretek will take another kick at CAO, Havana House expects 2006 Edicion Limitada product in May, and David Cigar will be launching a new line of pipe tobacco. 

Huntingdon – March 31

Ashton Cabinet and VSG Prices Decline

The exclusive importer of Ashton cigars in Canada announced major price decreases for the Cabinet, VSG and Maduro lines of this premium brand.  New prices published by David Cigar of Huntingdon Quebec show that effective today, the wholesale price of all Cabinet cigars are lower by 20%, while the Maduro, VSG and small cigars are down on average 15%. 

This is the second time in two years that these cigars have seen price decreases in the 15%- 20% range.  While favorable currency rates are the main driver for the decline, a more competitive marketplace is also behind the announcement.  “We certainly have more room now that the CDN dollar is trading above .85 cents US” said Jerry Prosh as he visited a number of Toronto area tobacco shops on behalf of David Cigar.  “But since big wholesale price declines like this translate into lower prices at retail – similar to two years ago – we are confident that most specialists recognize the new value in these lines.”

Prosh confirmed they are reviewing all David Cigar pricing in light of the stronger Canadian dollar.    

Havana -  March 4

Cohiba Gala Dinner A Huge Success

Cigars lovers from around the world helped Habanos S.A. celebrate Cohiba’s 40th Anniversary with a gala dinner last night.  Over 1300 guests enjoyed a 5 course dinner, live music and entertainment and seven Cohiba cigars from this world class brand.  The dinner was held in conjunction with the 2006 Habanos Festival.

While 800 visitors were registered for the Festival, another 500 came just for the Gala Dinner.  Early rumor was that Fidel Castro would attend the Gala, given his association with the brand.  When he did not show up, whatever disappointment that may have existed quickly disappeared as guests entered Exposition Hall. They were given champagne, mojitos and beer and a welcome gift consisting of a Cohiba Cigar case with 3 Siglo VI cigars.  The pre-dinner cigar was the Corona Especiale.  The first course was followed by a Siglo 2,  the main course by a Siglo 4 and the post dinner cigar was the legendary Esplendido.    

One lucky dinner guest won the door prize of a specialty crafted Cohiba Humidor with 40 brand new Cohiba Bihke, a double lancero.  The evening ended with a live auction of humidors and special cigar lots.  Highlights of the auction, which raised L 650,000 euros, was a winning bid for a Cohiba Humidor containing 250 cigars.  This lot went for L 280,000 euros. 

This was the 8th year of the festival since the government began a series of formal events to bring their international customers together.

Toronto  - March 1

Specialty Tobacco Stores Recognized in Bill 164

Specialty tobacco shops in Ontario were granted an exemption from Ontario’s controversial Smoke Free Ontario Act under regulations released by Queens Park today.

Specialty tobacco shops will not have to comply with a section of the Bill’s display ban prohibiting countertop displays and requiring customers to purchase the tobacco before they handle it.  In addition, specialty retailers do not have to shield tobacco from view by their customers before they purchase it, a rule that comes into effect in June of  2008. 

In order to be classified as a specialty tobacco shop, the regulations require that at least 50% of the stores sales come from tobacco products excluding cigarettes.  Tobacco accessories are allowed within that definition.  The store must also meet the condition that they not permit persons into their store who are under the age of 19 unless they are accompanied by someone over the age of 19.  All other aspects of the law will apply to tobacco shops.

This is the first time that the Ontario government has recognized 2 important criteria related to the specialty tobacco business in the province; a) that a retail channel exists whose primary business focus is cigars and related accessories and  b) the product difference and the consumption behavior of cigar and cigarette smokers.  The specialty industry has always maintained the importance of these differences and is in full support of the government’s policy objective of reducing cigarette consumption amongst youth. 

The more controversial aspect of Bill 164 comes into effect at midnight on May 30 when smoking in all public places and workplaces will be prohibited.   The restaurant and hospitality industry has been lobbying hard against the total ban.  One small victory for this industry was that smoking will be permitted on patios as long as they do not have a roof or walls around them.

Toronto – January 20

Ontario Set To Go Non- Smoking

Ontario’s controversial and province wide anti-tobacco laws are less than five months away from implementation. .

Bill 164, – called the Smoke Free Ontario Act - was passed in June, 2005 and comes into law effective May 31 of this year. The law will increase bans on smoking in enclosed public places and further enforce restrictions on the promotion, handling and display of tobacco products in retail establishments.

The display ban rolls out over 2 years.  Effective June 1, retailers who sell tobacco will no longer be able to use counter displays to show products.  It will also be illegal for store owners to display cartons of cigarettes  - only individual packs will be allowed to be visible on the store’s back wall.  Promotional lighting, panels, and signs are also all illegal as of June 1. The more draconian aspect of the display ban comes into law on June 1st, 2008  when it will be illegal for any retailer who sells tobacco to display tobacco whatsoever!  All tobacco will have to “hidden” from the consumer – in the back of the shop or behind a curtain, totally invisible to anyone – so that the only time a consumer will actually see their choice is after he or she has paid for it.

The province wide smoking bans kicks in fully on June 1.  The law supercedes all current municipal bylaws – some of which permit smoking in designated area- into an across the province ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces, in enclosed workplaces and “prescribed places” to the extent that all smoking  – bars, restaurants, casinos, private clubs etc – will no longer be legal in Ontario. 

Under regulations in the law, tobacconists may apply for an exemption from the display ban.  However, there are no provisions in the law that allow for similar exemptions from the smoking ban.  (Manitoba and New York are examples of jurisdictions that have strong anti-smoking and display laws, but have provided tobacconists with exemptions from the display and the smoking ban in their own stores.   

The specialty tobacco industry continues to lobby the government on this Bill.

New York – December 28

Cuban Cigars Dominate 2005 Ratings

The high ratings given Cuban cigars continued in Cigar Aficionado magazine’s year-end list of the best 50 smokes of 2005.   Similar to 2004, judges included more Cuban cigars on the list than any other country and gave Cuban cigars more 90+ rating than any other country.  These ratings reflect the improved quality of production and tobaccos coming from Cuba since mid 2002.

17 of the top 50 cigars came from Cuba in 2005.   15 of Cuba’s 17 listed cigars received a score of 90 or better.  The Cuban cigars with the highest ratings were the  Montecristo No 4, the Vegas Robaina Famosa and the Cohiba Lancero, all receiving a 92.   

The Dominican registered 13 cigars while Nicaragua had 12 cigars on the list.  Nicaragua had the highest rated cigar on the list, the Padron Serie 1926 , No 6 that scored a 93. The best Dominican cigar was an Ashton Sungrown. 

Fans of Cuban cigars were not surprised, as this pattern has been evident since the Altadis purchase of 50% of Habanos SA.   It is also worthwhile noting that there are no Cuban cigar advertisements in Cigar Aficionado.