Patrick Mavros – The Silversmith with the Spirit of Africa

We’re big admirers of Patrick Mavros and were thrilled to see him featured in this month’s Cigar Aficionado. A self-taught artisan, storyteller and cigar devotee, Mavros has transformed his wildlife-inspired silver creations into one of the world’s most admired luxury brands — a seamless blend of adventure, artistry and African soul. From the Savannah to Savile Row “Seated…

The History of Tobacco in London – From Drake to the Cigar Divan

The story of tobacco in London stretches back over four centuries — a tale of adventure, craftsmanship, and refined indulgence. It begins in 1573, when Sir Francis Drake returned from the New World with a strange new leaf that would soon captivate the capital. Though English sailors had already bartered for tobacco with Spanish and Portuguese crews, Drake…

Alternatives to Cuban Cigars: Nicaragua, Dominican Republic & Honduras

Looking for an alternative to a Cuban cigar? Try a Nicaraguan. Just because a cigar says “Cuban seed tobacco” doesn’t mean it will taste like the real thing. The magic of a Cuban cigar lies in its soil and climate, not just the seed. You won’t exactly match a Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 or a Cohiba Esplendido, but you will…

Can I buy Tobacco over the internet from another EU country?

We are often asked questions about buying tobacco over the internet from another EU country so we We are often asked about the rules for buying tobacco over the internet from other EU countries. Here’s what you need to know: Buying Tobacco Online from the EU Gifts from the EU Even if tobacco is sent…

Winston Churchill’s 50th Anniversary: Biography, Legacy & Quotes

Few figures in modern history loom as large as Sir Winston Churchill. Statesman, writer, soldier, painter, and above all Britain’s wartime leader, Churchill’s influence continues to echo across generations. On the 50th anniversary of his death, London Mayor Boris Johnson—himself raised in a household where Churchill’s words were often quoted—was invited by Churchill’s estate to…

Have a Cigar: Madison Avenue Managing Equality

With International Women’s Day behind us, it feels fitting to take a puff of nostalgia and look back at the smoky swagger of the 1960s — an era when Madison Avenue men sold everything from lipstick to lawnmowers with equal parts confidence and condescension. Back then, the “modern woman” apparently knew her place: in the…

Cuban Cigar Pronunciation Guide : Learn How to Say Your Favourite Cigar Names

At Simply Cigars, we believe knowledge enhances enjoyment — and nothing should stand between you and the confidence to order your favourite smoke. Have you ever hesitated before asking for a Por Larrañaga or stumbled over Ramon Allones while the cigar merchant raised an eyebrow? You’re not alone. Many of Cuba’s most historic cigar names are steeped in Spanish tradition…

Cohiba Cigars 50th Anniversary

The exact origins of the Cohiba are somewhat obscured by a half century or so of cigar smoke, but this year has been chosen as its 50th anniversary. However, my great discovery (or, rather, rediscovery) has been San Cristóbal, a much less widely known marque – a state of affairs I hope will remain that…

Hoyo de Monterrey Añejado Cuban Havana Cigar Now Available

The new Hoyo de Monterrey Hermosos No.4 Añejado havana cigar have been released by Habanos S.A and is now available in Havana Cigar Specialists and selected catering outlets across the UK. Following on from last year’s successful introduction of the Añejado concept (with the Romeo y Julieta Pirámides and Montecristo Churchill), the Hoyo de Monterrey will…

The Stories Behind Cuba’s Oldest Cigar Brands

Cuban cigars are more than just a luxury product — they are pieces of history, with brands that stretch back nearly two centuries. Each has a story shaped by ambition, innovation, and resilience in the face of political upheaval. Have you ever wondered which was the first Cuban cigar brand, and how these names became…