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Penn State vs Notre Dame: A Rivalry Renewed in Orange Bowl
Great news for fans of two teams with huge national and NEPA followings – Penn State and Notre Dame advanced to face each other in the College Football Playoff semi-final in the Capital One Orange Bowl on Thursday January 9, at 7:30 p.m. This will be the 20th time these legendary programs play with the all-time record tied up at 9-9-1.
The bad news for Nittany Lion and Fighting Irish fans is that someone is going to lose with the winner grabbing not only bragging rights for who knows how many years, but also the right to play the winner of the Ohio State-Texas semi-final in the Cotton Bowl in Texas for the National Championship on January 20. The loss will sting for years, an opportunity squandered – against a national and regional rival will add an extra level of bitterness for one of these rabid fan bases.
- The first time these teams played was in 1913 with the Irish winning 14-7 in State College
- The last meeting was in 2007 with Penn State winning in a White-Out Beaver Stadium 31-10
- They met in one other bowl – the Gator Bowl in 1976. There Dan Devine’s Irish knocked off Joe Paterno’s Lions 20-9
So the table is set and the stakes are high. The Fighting Irish and Nittany Lions. Golden Dome v Mt. Nittany. Touchdown Jesus meets Happy Valley. The Luck of the Irish and Linebacker U. All to be settled – on the field – Thursday January 9 at 7:30 p.m. Two great programs – two coaches, James Franklin and Marcus Freeman, looking to prove that they can lead his team to a National Championship.
There’s nothing like grabbing a good cigar and a smooth drink and watching a game we know will be discussed for years among fans of each. Maybe grab that special stick – maybe an Opus X – if you’re team wins. It will be one to savor!
College Football Playoff Resume New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day
The traditional Fiesta, Rose, Peach and Sugar Bowls take on their new roles beginning tomorrow night with Penn State and Boise facing off in the “Fiesta Bowl.” This is not the college football we grew up with – and I guess it wouldn’t be – even the year 2000 was a quarter century ago. The 70’s were 50 years back – now transfer portals and NILs rule – but one thing endures – watching the games with some family or friends with a good cigar and drink remains a great way to spend time!
This is the first year under the new College Football Playoff format. If you’re not sure yet of the way things worked – you’re not alone. To help, we’ll explain a little bit of why the system of ranking the 12-team bracket has been problematic; and make some predictions for who meets in the next rounds.
First here’s the bracket so far from the NCAA:
In the bracket above you see the College Football Playoff (CFP) bracket seedings to the left of the team emblem and the final CFP rankings in parentheses to the right. Look at Penn State in the lower right – they were the 6th seed in the bracket yet they were ranked 4th in the CFP rankings going into the playoff.
So, is that a bad thing for PSU? Turns out not to have worked that way.
- the teams seeded 1-4 received a bye in the first round – they advanced directly to round 2
- teams seeded 5, 6, 7, 8 played in their home stadiums in Round 1
- The 5th seed/3rd ranked Texas played at home and beat ACC Champion Clemson who was guaranteed a spot by winning the ACC – a major conference in the CFP – but they were seed 12 and ranked 16
- 6th seed/4th ranked PSU played ACC runner up SMU after losing this year to Oregon and Ohio State
- 7th seed/5th ranked Notre Dame played Indiana which had a strong record but no big wins
- 8th seed/6th ranked Ohio State played at home after not making it to the Big 10 title game and losing at home in their last game to unranked Michigan
The four home teams all won decisively against teams that either won or had great records in conferences weaker than the SEC – widely considered the best and deepest conference. Boise and Arizona State were assured spots as conference champions – SMU and Indiana were committee selections at their rank.
Many of us are Notre Dame or Penn State fans in this region of the country – honestly would we not rather play SMU or Indiana than Alabama or Mississippi?
Another issue is the path to the final.
- Oregon has been the best team all year – their reward is getting having to beat Ohio State (again) and Texas just to reach the final
- Penn State lost to Ohio State (yes, again) in the regular season and Oregon in the Big 10 championship yet get to play the 10 ranked SMU and 9th ranked Boise to reach a huge game against Notre Dame or Georgia and avoid Oregon, Ohio State or Texas in the final.
For this year, it is what it is – the cards are dealt now they play them. Our prediction is the playoff format is changed next year in a way that rankings are more important than seedings.
Other predictions:
-Penn State’s defense is playing at an elite level and controls Boise’s all-world running back Ashton Jeanty and handles Boise
-Notre Dame nips Georgia setting up a classic against Penn State
-Texas takes care of business and ends Arizona State’s Cinderella run
-Oregon beats Ohio State a second time and takes on Texas – with the winner of Oregon/Texas holding the trophy after the national title game.
Feel free to add to the discussion – comment below!
Phillies Legend Dick Allen Elected to Hall of Fame
Dick Allen was finally elected on December 8 to the MLB Hall of Fame by the Classic Era Committee. He will be inducted with this year’s class on July 27, 2025. Maybe you know about Allen, maybe he’s before your time. But pull up a chair, light a cigar and spend a few minutes to learn – or remember.
Richard Anthony Allen was born in 1942 in Wampum, Pennsylvania, a small town about 20 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. He was an All-State high school basketball player, leading his team to a state title. Although offered college basketball scholarships, Allen chose baseball, the game he loved. He signed with the Philadelphia Phillies and broke onto the scene winning Rookie of the Year in 1964 – the year the Phils blew a 6.5 game division leads in the final 12 games of the season – a story for another time. Allen’s legend grew quickly, mostly because of his monster home-runs, sometimes clearing the left-center field roof of Connie Mack stadium in Philly. Swinging a 40 ounce bat, Allen terrorized pitchers in a career that lasted until 1977.
Hall of Famers are players that dominated an era. In the years from 1964-1974 he was electric – simply one of the best players in baseball. His OPS (on-base percentage + slugging) – a stat that measures getting on base and hitting for power – was .940. In that period only one player in baseball had a higher OPS – Hank Aaron. Allen’s career slugging percentage was .534 – the active player closest to that average is a guy named Juan Soto – whose slugging average is .532. Soto is considered one of the best in the game today – he just signed a monster $700 million+ contract. To show how much things have changed, Allen held out in 1967 for a $100,000 contract and settled for $80,000.
In his career Allen hit .292 with 320 doubles, 79 triples, 351 HR, 1119 RBI, 1099 Runs and 133 SB in 1749 games. In addition to his Rookie of the Year, Allen was a 7-time All Star, and was named AL MVP with the White Sox in 1972. On the day the Phillies retired Allen’s #15 in 2020, Allen’s teammate Mike Schmidt said “As long as there’s baseball in Philadelphia, you’ll be one of its legends.” And so he is.
Allen died in 2020, living long enough to see his number retired but not his election to the Hall. His story is a great one and includes many of the same chapters as Philly history and the history of the game. The Wampum Walloper went from a tiny town in Pennsylvania to Cooperstown, forever linked to the greatest who ever played.
2024 TAA Exclusive Cigar Releases: A Highlight Reel
The Tobacconists’ Association of America (TAA) continues to excite cigar aficionados in 2024 with an array of exclusive releases, crafted by renowned brands to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike. Here’s a look at some notable entries:
Ferio Tego Timeless TAA Exclusive 2024
This 6” x 50 toro is a Nicaraguan puro, featuring a Jalapa binder and fillers with an Estelí wrapper. Presented in elegant okume boxes of 10, the cigar features the classic “Timeless Black” motif. Produced by the Plasencia family in Nicaragua, only 900 boxes are available.
Joya De Nicaragua Cinco De Cinco TAA Exclusive
Joya De Nicaragua is one of the most iconic names in the world of cigars, and the Cinco De Cinco TAA Exclusive is a testament to the brand’s storied legacy. Known for their bold, full-bodied cigars, Joya De Nicaragua has consistently delivered cigars with intensity and character, and the Cinco De Cinco is no different.
The Cinco de Cinco TAA Exclusive is a 6 x 60 Gordo, crafted with vintage tobaccos, featuring a Mexican San Andrés wrapper and Nicaraguan fillers and binders. This medium-to-full bodied, complex cigar is rich in earthy flavors with hints of cocoa and dark chocolate. The Cinco De Cinco TAA Exclusive is a perfect choice for those who appreciate a bold, flavorful cigar and want to celebrate the craftsmanship of one of Nicaragua’s finest cigar makers.
Plasencia Cosecha 151 TAA Exclusive Salomon
This limited-edition Honduran puro celebrates Plasencia’s legacy with tobacco from their 151st harvest in 2015. Rolled in the challenging Salomon vitola (6 x 54), this cigar is designed for a complex and rich smoking experience. Only 500 boxes of 10 will be available.
E.P. Carrillo 2024 TAA Exclusive
E.P. Carrillo continues its tradition of excellence with a new exclusive cigar crafted for TAA retailers. This edition features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with a Nicaraguan binder and fillers from Nicaragua and the U.S. The blend is designed to deliver a balanced yet complex smoking experience
These TAA exclusives provide a snapshot of innovation, collaboration, and the commitment to premium cigar craftsmanship in 2024. Whether you’re looking for bold, unique blends or refined classics, the 2024 TAA lineup promises something special for every enthusiast.
Arturo Fuente Cigars: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship and Tradition
When it comes to premium cigars, few names carry as much weight and reverence as Arturo Fuente. For over a century, the Fuente family has been crafting cigars that are celebrated around the world for their quality, consistency, and rich flavor profiles. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or new to the world of cigars, an Arturo Fuente cigar promises an experience unlike any other. But what makes this brand so special? Let’s take a closer look at the history, craftsmanship, and what sets these cigars apart from the rest.
A Rich History Rooted in Tradition
Arturo Fuente Cigars were founded by Arturo Fuente, a Cuban immigrant who arrived in the United States in the early 20th century with nothing more than a passion for cigar making. After establishing his own cigar company in 1912, he faced numerous challenges, from economic hardship to political instability. But through sheer determination and craftsmanship, the Fuente name began to grow in prominence.
In the 1940s, Arturo Fuente’s son, Carlos Fuente Sr., took the reins of the family business and helped elevate it to a global level. However, the brand truly skyrocketed under the leadership of Carlos Fuente Jr., who took over in the 1980s. With a vision to create the finest cigars in the world, Carlos Fuente Jr. emphasized attention to detail, quality control, and the cultivation of a family-oriented approach to cigar making.
Today, Arturo Fuente Cigars continues to be a family-run business, with the Fuente family playing an active role in every step of the process. The company remains committed to the same values that made them successful over a century ago: quality, consistency, and craftsmanship.
The Art of Cigar Making: Craftsmanship at Its Finest
What sets Arturo Fuente cigars apart is their dedication to craftsmanship. Every cigar is made with the finest tobacco, carefully aged and blended to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and strength. The tobaccos used in Fuente cigars are grown in the Dominican Republic, primarily in the Château de la Fuente estate, which has been in the Fuente family for generations.
The estate’s rich, fertile soil and the climate of the Dominican Republic provide ideal conditions for growing tobacco, and the Fuente family takes pride in cultivating their own crops. This allows them to control every aspect of the tobacco’s development—from seed to cigar—ensuring that each cigar meets their exacting standards.
After the tobacco is harvested, it undergoes a meticulous aging process. The leaves are fermented and aged for years before being rolled into cigars. This careful aging process results in rich, complex flavors that can only come from premium, aged tobacco. Whether you’re smoking a Opus X or a more affordable Arturo Fuente Hemingway, the attention to detail in each cigar is apparent from the first puff to the last.
A Range of Flavors and Lines
Arturo Fuente’s lineup is diverse, catering to every kind of cigar smoker. From mild to full-bodied, there is something for everyone. Some of their most notable lines include:
- Arturo Fuente Opus X: One of the most famous cigars in the world, the Opus X is known for its powerful, yet refined, flavor profile. With a rich combination of Dominican filler tobaccos, a Dominican binder, and a rare Anejado wrapper, the Opus X offers notes of spice, leather, and earth. It’s a full-bodied smoke that’s often described as the epitome of cigar craftsmanship.
- Arturo Fuente Hemingway: This line is known for its unique shape (the perfecto) and rich, medium-bodied flavor. The Hemingway series features a blend of aged Dominican tobaccos and is often praised for its smoothness and complexity. It’s a great option for those who want a refined cigar without the overwhelming strength of some of Fuente’s bolder offerings.
- Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva: A classic choice for many cigar enthusiasts, the Gran Reserva series is a step up from everyday cigars but still accessible in terms of price. With a variety of shapes and sizes, the Gran Reserva offers a smooth, medium-bodied smoke with hints of cedar, spice, and a subtle sweetness.
- Arturo Fuente Flor Fina: This is a slightly lighter option from Fuente, offering a mild to medium-bodied experience with a creamy texture and notes of toasted wood and nuts.
- Arturo Fuente Curly Head: A more affordable option in the Fuente portfolio, Curly Head cigars maintain the brand’s signature quality while offering a more accessible price point. It’s a great starting point for those who want to try a Fuente without breaking the bank.
The Opus X Phenomenon
One of the most significant contributions of Arturo Fuente to the world of cigars is the Opus X line. Often regarded as one of the finest cigars in the world, the Opus X is unique in that it uses a Dominican-grown wrapper—a feat that was unheard of when the line was first introduced in the late 1990s. This was made possible by the Fuente family’s dedication to innovation and their commitment to growing the finest tobacco on their estate.
The Opus X line has garnered a cult-like following among cigar smokers. It’s a rare and expensive cigar, often sought after by collectors and connoisseurs. The blend itself is a complex one, with notes of black pepper, earth, and a subtle sweetness that builds in intensity as you smoke it. Many smokers refer to the Opus X as the ultimate expression of what a cigar can be: a perfectly balanced, highly complex experience.
You have a chance to experience the Opus X by attending our Arturo Fuente Annual Cigar Event on Thursday, November 21st at Smoke Rings. We’ll be featuring Opus X, along with several other highly sought after cigars that are released at this time of year!
Commitment to Sustainability and Community
Arturo Fuente’s commitment goes beyond making fine cigars—it extends to the people and communities who help produce them. The Fuente family has a strong focus on corporate responsibility and works to ensure the well-being of their employees, from the tobacco farmers to the factory workers. The Fuente family also supports various charitable initiatives, including funding programs in the Dominican Republic to improve education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Additionally, the company has been working to promote sustainability in its tobacco-growing practices, using eco-friendly methods to protect the environment while maintaining the highest quality standards for their cigars.
The Arturo Fuente Experience
To smoke an Arturo Fuente cigar is to experience a blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship. Each cigar is a product of years of tradition and dedication to the art of cigar making.
The legacy of the Arturo Fuente family is one of passion and excellence, and it’s clear that their commitment to quality will continue to shape the world of premium cigars for generations to come. So, the next time you reach for a cigar, consider an Arturo Fuente—it’s more than just a smoke; it’s a part of a legacy that’s as rich and deep as the flavors themselves.
Brugal Rum: A Taste of the Dominican Republic
When it comes to premium rums, few brands evoke as much heritage and quality as Brugal. Founded in 1888 in the Dominican Republic, Brugal Rum has become synonymous with the island’s vibrant culture and rich history. Let’s dive into what makes Brugal a standout choice for rum enthusiasts.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Brugal’s story begins with its founder, Andrés Brugal Montaner, who immigrated to the Dominican Republic from Spain. He brought with him a passion for rum-making, emphasizing quality and tradition. Today, Brugal remains family-owned and continues to produce rum using methods passed down through generations.
The distillery prides itself on its meticulous production process, using only the finest sugarcane and pure water sourced from the mountains of the Dominican Republic. The rums are aged in American oak barrels, which impart unique flavors and character.
The Varieties of Brugal Rum
Brugal offers a diverse range of rums, each with its distinct flavor profile:
1. Brugal Especial Extra Dry
This rum is a staple for many cocktail enthusiasts. With a crisp, clean taste, it’s perfect for mixing in cocktails or enjoying neat. Its notes of vanilla and almond make it a versatile choice for any occasion.
2. Brugal Añejo
Aged for up to five years, Brugal Añejo is known for its rich, smooth flavor. The aging process gives it hints of oak and spice, making it an excellent option for sipping or in classic rum drinks.
3. Brugal 1888
For those seeking a premium experience, Brugal 1888 is a must-try. This double-aged rum spends part of its aging in American oak and then finishes in sherry casks. The result is a luxurious blend of flavors, with notes of chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. It’s an elegant choice for special occasions.
4. Brugal Papá Andrés
This limited-edition rum is a tribute to the brand’s founder. It showcases a rich complexity, embodying the essence of Brugal’s craftsmanship. Ideal for rum connoisseurs, it’s a celebration of the brand’s legacy.
Pairing Brugal with Food
Brugal Rum isn’t just for sipping—it’s a fantastic pairing for various cuisines. The light and fruity notes of Brugal Especial Extra Dry complement seafood dishes beautifully, while Brugal Añejo pairs well with grilled meats. For dessert, the complexity of Brugal 1888 makes it a perfect match for chocolate-based treats.
Cocktails to Try
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a quiet evening, or stopping by Smoke Rings, Brugal Rum can elevate your cocktail game. Here are a few classic cocktails to consider that can be made with Brugal Rum: a Mojito, a Daiquiri, or a Rum Old Fashioned.
Brugal Rum embodies the spirit of the Dominican Republic—rich in history, craftsmanship, and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned rum lover or a newcomer, Brugal offers something for everyone. So, the next time you’re at Smoke Rings Cigar Bar, consider Brugal for a taste of tradition and excellence. Cheers!
The Art and Experience of Oliva Cigars
A Journey Through Flavor and Craftsmanship
When it comes to premium cigars, few brands have garnered the respect and admiration of enthusiasts quite like Oliva Cigars. Known for their commitment to quality, innovative blends, and rich heritage, Oliva has established itself as a staple in the world of fine tobacco. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the cigar scene, there’s much to appreciate about what Oliva has to offer.
A Rich Heritage
Oliva Cigars traces its roots back to the late 1800s in Cuba, where the Oliva family began cultivating tobacco. The family eventually migrated to Nicaragua, where they continued their legacy. This deep-rooted history not only informs their craft but also reflects a passion for tobacco that spans generations. Today, Oliva Cigars is a well-respected name, known for producing some of the finest blends in the industry.
The Art of Blending
One of the hallmarks of Oliva Cigars is their meticulous approach to blending. Each cigar is crafted using a selection of high-quality Nicaraguan tobaccos, often featuring a combination of ligero, seco, and volado leaves. This careful selection process allows Oliva to create a range of flavors and strengths, appealing to a wide variety of tastes.
The Oliva Serie V, for example, is renowned for its bold and full-bodied profile, featuring a sun-grown Habano wrapper that imparts notes of dark chocolate and spices. On the other hand, the Oliva Connecticut Reserve offers a milder experience, perfect for those who prefer a smoother smoke with hints of cream and cedar.
Craftsmanship and Quality
What sets Oliva apart is not just the quality of their tobacco but also their commitment to craftsmanship. Each cigar is rolled by skilled artisans who take pride in their work. The attention to detail is evident in every puff, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable smoking experience.
Furthermore, Oliva’s state-of-the-art facilities in Nicaragua allow for precise quality control at every stage of production. From seed to smoke, each cigar undergoes rigorous testing to meet the high standards set by the Oliva family.
A Commitment to Sustainability
In addition to their focus on quality, Oliva Cigars is committed to sustainability. They utilize eco-friendly practices in their tobacco cultivation and production processes, ensuring that their operations have a minimal impact on the environment. This dedication not only benefits the planet but also enhances the quality of their cigars, resulting in a product that is as good for the earth as it is for the palate.
Pairing Oliva Cigars
To truly enhance your Oliva cigar experience, consider pairing it with the right beverage. For the robust flavors of the Serie V, a glass of aged rum or a full-bodied red wine complements the rich, spicy notes beautifully. Alternatively, the milder Connecticut Reserve pairs well with a smooth bourbon or a light craft beer, allowing the nuanced flavors to shine. Ask one of our staff members at Smoke Rings for a recommendation on the perfect pairing.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet evening, Oliva Cigars offers a diverse selection that caters to every palate. Their unwavering dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability makes them a standout choice in the cigar world. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a good smoke, reach for an Oliva and savor the rich legacy that comes with each draw. Happy smoking!
The Allure of Hennessy Cognac
When it comes to luxury spirits, few names evoke as much prestige and sophistication as Hennessy Cognac. Founded in 1765 by Richard Hennessy, an Irishman with a passion for the finest things in life, Hennessy has become synonymous with excellence in the world of cognac. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover what makes Hennessy a symbol of elegance and why it continues to captivate connoisseurs worldwide.
The History Behind the Brand
Hennessy’s story begins in the 18th century, a time when the art of distillation was evolving, and the world was just beginning to appreciate the nuances of aged spirits. Richard Hennessy, driven by his vision and a keen palate, established his own distillery in the heart of Cognac, France. Over the centuries, the brand has maintained its commitment to quality and innovation, blending tradition with modern techniques to create a product that stands the test of time.
The Craft of Cognac Production
The production of Hennessy Cognac is a meticulous process that combines centuries-old techniques with contemporary advancements. At its core, cognac is made from grapes grown in the Cognac region of France, which are then fermented and distilled. Hennessy uses a specific blend of grapes, including Ugni Blanc, which is prized for its ability to produce a refined and aromatic spirit.
Once distilled, the cognac is aged in French oak barrels. This aging process is crucial, as it imparts the complex flavors and aromas that define Hennessy. The brand’s Master Blender, a role of great expertise and artistry, meticulously selects and blends different eaux-de-vie (the clear, unaged spirit) to create the distinct profiles of Hennessy’s range of offerings.
The Signature Offerings
Hennessy offers a diverse portfolio of cognac, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Hennessy VS (Very Special): Known for its bold and fruity flavors, VS is a popular choice for those new to cognac. It’s a versatile spirit, perfect for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.
- Hennessy VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): A step up from the VS, VSOP is known for its smoother texture and richer complexity. It’s aged for at least four years and offers notes of vanilla, nuts, and spices.
- Hennessy XO (Extra Old): This prestigious blend is aged for a minimum of 10 years and features a deep, rich flavor profile with hints of chocolate, coffee, and dried fruit. XO is often enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to fully appreciate its depth.
- Hennessy Paradis and Hennessy Richard: These are the pinnacle of Hennessy’s offerings, representing the ultimate in luxury and refinement. Paradis blends eaux-de-vie aged up to 130 years, while Richard is crafted from some of the rarest and oldest eaux-de-vie in Hennessy’s cellars.
Enjoying Hennessy
Savoring Hennessy Cognac is an experience in itself. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, the key is to appreciate the layers of flavor and craftsmanship that have gone into creating each bottle. For a true tasting experience, take a moment to savor the aroma, noting the subtle hints of fruit, spice, and oak. Let the cognac linger on your palate, and enjoy the evolving flavors as they unfold.
Hennessy’s Cultural Impact
Beyond its exceptional quality, Hennessy has made a significant impact on global culture. From its presence in high-profile events and collaborations with artists to its role in shaping the cognac industry, Hennessy has earned its place as a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Its rich heritage and commitment to excellence continue to influence the world of fine spirits, setting a standard that others aspire to reach.
In conclusion, Hennessy Cognac is more than just a drink; it’s a testament to the artistry and tradition of cognac-making. With a legacy that spans over two centuries, Hennessy remains at the forefront of the industry, delighting enthusiasts and setting the bar for excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of cognac, Hennessy offers an unparalleled experience that celebrates the art of fine spirits and is available at Smoke Rings Cigar Bar!
Discovering Ashton Cigars: A Blend of Luxury and Craftsmanship
(Photo courtesy of Ashton Cigars)
When it comes to premium cigars, few brands carry the prestige and craftsmanship of Ashton Cigars. Established in 1985 by Robert Levin, Ashton quickly ascended to the top tier of the cigar world, revered by aficionados for its exceptional quality, consistency, and luxurious smoking experience. In this post, we’ll dive into what makes Ashton Cigars a standout choice for both seasoned smokers and newcomers alike.
A Legacy of Excellence
Ashton Cigars are the product of a deep collaboration between the Levin family and the renowned Fuente family, whose expertise in cigar-making spans generations. This partnership ensures that each Ashton cigar is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using only the finest aged tobaccos. The result is a collection of cigars that not only embody tradition but also embrace innovation, providing a smoking experience that is rich, balanced, and consistently satisfying.
The Ashton Collection: A Cigar for Every Palate
Ashton offers a diverse range of cigars, each with its unique flavor profile, catering to different preferences and occasions. Whether you prefer a milder smoke or something more full-bodied, Ashton has something to offer:
- Ashton Classic – Known for its smooth and creamy profile, the Ashton Classic is a go-to for those who enjoy a mellow smoke with notes of cedar and coffee. Its Connecticut shade wrapper is both elegant and flavorful, making it an excellent choice for any time of day.
- Ashton Aged Maduro – For those who appreciate a richer, more robust flavor, the Aged Maduro series offers a deep, earthy profile with hints of cocoa and spice. The maduro wrapper adds a touch of sweetness, making it a perfect after-dinner indulgence.
- Ashton VSG (Virgin Sun Grown) – A favorite among seasoned smokers, the VSG line is known for its full-bodied strength and complex flavors. With a sun-grown Ecuadorian wrapper, these cigars deliver a rich and spicy experience, perfect for those looking for something bold and intense.
- Ashton Cabinet Selection – This line offers a blend of six different tobaccos aged for over four years, resulting in a creamy, nutty smoke with subtle notes of pepper. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate a cigar with depth and character.
- Ashton Symmetry – A newer addition to the Ashton portfolio, the Symmetry line is a balanced blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican tobaccos, offering a medium-bodied experience with notes of spice, cinnamon, and a hint of sweetness.
(Photos courtesy of AshtonCigar.com)
The Ashton Experience
Beyond the exceptional craftsmanship and flavor, smoking an Ashton cigar is about indulging in a moment of luxury. From the impeccable construction to the consistent draw, every aspect of an Ashton cigar is designed to provide a superior smoking experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply unwinding after a long day, an Ashton cigar elevates the moment, turning it into something truly memorable.
Ashton Cigars have earned their place among the most respected names in the cigar industry. Their commitment to quality and consistency ensures that every cigar bearing the Ashton name delivers a luxurious and satisfying experience. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cigar enthusiast, exploring the world of Ashton is a journey worth taking. With a wide range of blends to choose from, there’s an Ashton cigar for every palate and occasion, making it a staple in any cigar collection. Relax at Smoke Rings Cigar Bar with your favorite beverage and an Ashton cigar or two!
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