CA Report: Top New Cigars (January 8, 2024)

New Year…New Cigars. See the latest blends at Famous Smoke Shop reviewed!

I’m dodging “New Year, New Me” posts on social media like Keanu dodged bullets in the Matrix. I realized long ago that an arbitrary calendar change isn’t going to motivate most of us to go carb free…or to add miles to a nearly non-existent exercise regimen.

There are things, however, worth talking about in 2024. Namely—all the new cigars to try. And keeping up to date on them…that’s a New Year resolution I have no problem keeping.

Check out the latest releases from Drew Estate, RoMa Craft, and Powstanie and get 2024 off to a smokin’ start!

Chateau Real by Drew Estate

Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut Shade
Binder: Honduras Habano
Filler: Nicaragua

Exclusively at Drew Diplomat retailers like Famous Smoke Shop, Chateau Real makes a triumphant return. The original penny-pinching blend was discontinued back in 2011 and finding them had become a frustrating chore. No more trawling the back channels and asking shopkeepers to check their storerooms. Dig into Chateau Real’s easygoing, medium-bodied disposition and treat your taste buds to a chorus of leather, cream, nuts, toast, and earth.

The best part? They’re still budget friendly. Time for a reunion.

RoMa Craft Intemperance Volstead VO 1920

Wrapper: Ecuador Sumatra
Binder: Mexican San Andrés
Filler: Dominican Republic & Nicaragua

Alcohol and cigars have a lot of mutually turbulent history. And while luxury tobacco has dodged an outright ban, our politicians still haven’t gotten the message.

We don’t want to be told how to enjoy our free time.

RoMa Craft blended Intemperance VO 1920 as a stark reminder of the consequences of government overreach. For those who don’t know, the Volstead Act criminalized alcohol during the notorious Prohibition Era.

Let’s make sure not to repeat history and smoke a fine cigar while we’re at it. Check out Volstead’s savory sweetness, bold finish, and warm aroma. No speakeasy required.

Powstanie “Wojtek” 2023

Wrapper: Ecuador Habano / Mexican San Andres (Barber pole)
Binder: Indonesia
Filler: Dominican Republic and Nicaragua

What do you call a bear without teeth? A gummy bear, of course. And what do you call a War Bear? In Poland, you call him “Wojtek.”

Powstanie’s “Wojtek” 2023 carries one of the most amazing WWII stories into future generations. Believe it or not, the Polish Army had a Syrian Brown Bear that served in its ranks and even saw combat. You can see the bear’s full story in my #NowSmoking review of Powstanie Wojtek 2021.

Expect flavors of cream, cedar, coffee, and pepper with a warm, spicy finish. Light up in honor of our favorite furry unsung hero and enjoy!