Rocky Patel to Introduce Three New Cigars

I met with cigar guy Rocky Patel a few weeks ago when he was in New York for a cigar dinner in his honor at De La Concha. I have photos from the event in my post over on Luxist.

De La Concha Introduces New Davidoff-Made Cigar

Check out this interview with Ron Melendi of De La Concha about the store’s new house cigar. You can read the whole story over on Luxist.

De La Concha’s Ron Melendi Rolls a Cigar

On my trip to Nicaragua last month, I had the opportunity to tour Pepin Garcia’s My Father cigar factory, wher some of my favorite sticks are made. Above, you’ll see Ron Melendi of De La Concha, where I hang out, trying his hand at the craft.

An Interview with Eddie Ortega

I had the opportunity to interview Eddie Ortega at a recent De La Concha cigar dinner.

Fight for your Right to Smoke

It was nice to see the Cigar Rights of America come out in force at the most recent De La Concha cigar dinner. I’ve been pretty critical of the organization, as it’s really done nothing but raise money. There has been no presence, no action. Well, Ron Melendi tells me that the new executive director, J. Glynn Loope, has been working his ass off for the cause.

Loose Cig Tobacco Now for Pipes, Manufacturers Fight for Survival

In this interview with Ron Melendi, General Manager of De La Concha, you’ll learn about the differences between pipe and loose cigarette tobacco … not to mention how these products are taxed. The regulatory environment is driving a lot of change in the tobacco industry, and this will help you get a sense of it. You can read the full article on DailyFinance.

How Are Cigars and Mozzarella Cheese Similar?

I don’t know about you, but I never saw the parallels between mozzarella cheese and handrolled cigars. Fortunately, I was able spend a few minutes with Anthony Fauci of Obika, who filled me in on the details. This interview was conducted shortly before the most recent De La Concha cigar dinner that Obika catered.

Conspicuous Consumption: The New Davidoff Cigar Band

This is luxury of a level that I just can’t fathom. If you’re interested, you can pick it up at De La Concha.

Fight the Anti-Tobacco Power!

For once, cigar smokers can vote YES!!! Help continue the spirit of “hope” and “change” that is coming to Washington by signing a petition in support of the Tobacconist Preservation Act. So far, we have 97 signatures, which is a long way off from our goal of 1 million. Do your part, and then spread the world. Let’s help preserve what few rights we have left.

Scotland: Day 1

Well, I’m looking back on my first full day in Scotland, and yes, it has been full. I got on a plane last night after a truly hellish day at day job, few overnight and hit the ground running this morning. Now, I am utterly fucking exhausted and blogging when I should be sleeping. But, I had a great time today, and I feel the need to share.