CA Report: Top New Cigars (Jan 4 2021)

Here’s a resolution. Let’s not repeat whatever the hell it is that 2020 was. Here’s a better resolution. Let’s get to leaving it behind us with a trio of new cigars from the Famous Smoke Shop humidor! In this edition we’re spotlighting smokes from Southern Draw and Quorum that range from top-shelf boutique to bargain bin gem. Check them out now and you just might discover your next favorite cigar.

Southern Draw Manzanita

Wrapper: Habano Hybrid
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Pelo de Oro, Corojo 99, & Ligero

The backstory on Southern Draw Manzanita deserves a bit more ink than most new cigars, but I’ll still give you the TL;DR version. The cigar’s story started earlier in 2020 when Robert Holt made a simple offer. For Famous to commit to purchasing Manzanita cigar without any details before release. We didn’t even know the name. For some, that may be a tough pill to swallow. But like us, our friends on the Famous side know that Southern Draw always delivers. As it stands, Famous is one of only 10 retailers to offer Manzanita in the U.S.

In true SD fashion, the blend has a spicy sweetness and a warm, full body of layered flavors in its smoke. We found nuts, sweet spices, red peppers, and a velvety smoothness throughout. Not only does it taste great, but it feels great to grab some, because each box benefits First Nations Development Institute to provide food and health services to Indigenous Americans.

Southern Draw Jacob’s Ladder Brimstone Presidente

Wrapper: Pennsylvania Broadleaf
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua

Measuring a whopping 9” x 48, the new Presidente size of Southern Draw Jacob’s Ladder Brimstone is a long cigar lover’s dream. The nuances of nutty leather and dark wood are all still there, but now in a cigar that’ll have you forgetting that long list of holiday bills you’ve stacked up. Get the armchair ready and expect a spicier retrohale along with Southern Draw’s signature full-bodied bang.

Havana Q by Quorum

Wrapper: Ecuador Habano
Binder: Proprietary
Filler: Proprietary

You shouldn’t have to spend a lot for a decent smoke, and with these value sticks, you won’t have to. Admittedly, these Havana Q cigars by Quorum aren’t going to win any awards, but they go down smooth with light spices, earth, and a tart sweetness. Even better, they come in a resealable bag which will keep things fresh for occasional smokers who’d rather not invest in a humidor. Bonus: it’s a great medium-bodied burn while you’re chugging along with the snowblower.