Cigar News: CAO Flathead V23 Muscles Into Retail This September

MK1 660 Celebrates Le Mans Race Centennial and American Muscle Cars

Continuing their classic American motorcar theme, CAO Cigars has added a new model to the Flathead garage. Set to arrive at retail next month is the CAO V23 MK1 660 cigar. The 6”x60 vitola celebrates the 100th anniversary of the historic Le Mans 24-hour race and the Ford GT40 MK1, the car that beat Ferrari at Le Mans three years straight during the 1960s.

Following in the tradition of the CAO Flathead V19, V21, and V60 cigars, the CAO V23 is a single frontmark, limited-edition powerhouse that fires on all cylinders. Handcrafted in at STG Estelí in Nicaragua, the blend boasts a Honduran wrapper over a Nicaraguan binder and a blend of Honduran and Nicaraguan fillers. Once lit, the smoke issues a heady mix of earth, spice and toast for what the company calls “a high torque smoking experience.”

“V23 has the large-ring, box-pressed, full-bodied attributes of its predecessor blends, and that’s where the similarities end,” said Ed Lahmann, CAO Sr. brand manager. “This smoke is about power, for sure, but it’s more about power and finesse. Just as a legendary race car like the GT40 MK1 had substance and style, so does V23.”

CAO V23 MK1 660 is presented in a uniquely-designed, GT-inspired, 20-count box with classic Ford/Gulf colors. Under the box’s hood is an interior that gives a nod to the GT’s tufted leather seats. The cigar will sell for an SRP of $13.99 and plans to ship on September 1.

“We’re excited to share V23 with the fans of CAO,” added Mr. Lahmann. “This is a cigar lover’s cigar because it’s got body and nuance and is a true pleasure to smoke.” CA