On Monday 2 December 2024, the unmistakable scent of fine tobacco filled the air at the legendary Boisdale of Canary Wharf in London, as cigar aficionados, industry figures and celebrities gathered for the twelfth annual Santa Rita Boisdale Cigar Smoker of the Year Dinner & Awards. A sold-out, black-tie spectacle, the evening was a glittering tribute to the artistry,…
Category: Lifestyle
The Art of Pairing Cigars and Spirits
The timeless ritual of enjoying spirits and cigars together has seen a renaissance across the UK in recent years. From private tastings to ticketed soirées, an increasing number of events celebrate the harmony of a fine whisky and a hand-rolled cigar, each crafted to elevate the other. If you’ve ever wondered how to pair your…
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…
Fidel Castro, Cuban Cigars & Rolex Watches
Ever wondered why so many photographs pair Cuban cigars with Rolex watches? It all started with the man who made both into enduring symbols of power and precision — Fidel Castro. In one of the most famous images of the Cold War era, taken during a 1963 meeting with Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev in the Kremlin, Castro is seen…
Famous Cigar Smokers: The Icons Behind the Smoke
From Churchill’s War Rooms to Hollywood backlots, cigars have been companions to history’s boldest characters. Some used them as a signal of victory, others as a stage prop, a thinking aid, or a simple pleasure after dinner. What unites them is the ritual: the cut, the light, the first aromatic draw. Here’s our curated roll…
Have you Tried Cuban Coffee?
Cigars and Cuban coffee are natural companions—two timeless indulgences that seem made for each other. The bold richness of a handmade Havana pairs beautifully with the dark, potent shot of espresso locals call “un cafecito”. In Cuba, people have been enjoying this ritual for well over a century, and for many, it completes the authentic smoking…
Our Favourite UK Cigar Venues – Reviews & Inside Guide
Cigar culture in the UK thrives in cigar terraces, sampling lounges, and private clubs. Whether you’re in London’s cigar quarter of St. James’s or exploring regional hotspots, here’s our guide to the top places to smoke, complete with contact details so you can plan your visit. ⭐ London’s Finest Cigar Venues The Wellesley Knightsbridge Review: Art…
Women and Cigars: Breaking the Smoke Ceiling
For centuries, the cigar has been a symbol of power, status, and leisure—but almost always through a male lens. The image of a man with a Havana between his fingers has dominated the culture of cigars, while women have often been spectators rather than participants. Today, however, more women are stepping into this traditionally male world,…
How to Travel with Cigars: A Complete Guide for Business and Leisure
There’s nothing quite like sitting back with a fine cigar and a glass of wine at home—but what about when you’re on the move? Whether you’re heading away on business, attending a wedding, or relaxing on holiday, travelling with cigars can be simple if you prepare properly. The key is choosing the right storage, selecting…
The Changing Face of the UK Cigar Smoker
For decades, the stereotypical British cigar smoker was a “fat cat” banker — pinstriped suit, champagne lifestyle, and a Montecristo permanently in hand. It was an image shaped by the 1980s boom years, when City brokers embraced cigars as a status symbol, cementing their association with wealth, indulgence, and a certain kind of bravado. Yet…