Last 19th November, the opulent Obsidian Bar in Shenzhen transformed into a den of luxury and intrigue. In collaboration with the legendary Davidoff Cigars, we hosted an exclusive event that celebrated the release of the highly anticipated Davidoff Year of the Snake 2025 Limited Edition. A new era of the Davidoff “Year of” series.

    

A Masterclass in Indulgence

The afternoon unfolded with a captivating masterclass, led by Davidoff of Geneva Asia representative, where attendees were among the first to savour the exclusive Year of the Snake. This limited-edition cigar, a testament to Davidoff's mastery, was elegantly paired with a bespoke cocktail, offering aficionados a symphony of flavours that tantalised the senses.

 

Exclusive Chances to Win

Following the masterclass, an engaging Q&A session was held, providing guests with an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of Davidoff Cigars. To add to the excitement, a lucky draw was conducted, with enticing prizes up for grabs. The lucky winners walked away with coveted items such as the Davidoff The Difference White Band Set, the Davidoff The Ritual Set, and the ultimate prize, the Davidoff Year of the Snake Accessories Gift Set Limited Edition.

A New Era of Cigar Experiences

This exclusive event marked a significant milestone for nextCIGAR, solidifying its position as a leading platform for cigar enthusiasts in China. By curating such extraordinary experiences, nextCIGAR aims to foster a vibrant community of cigar lovers and elevate the art of cigar smoking to new heights.

As nextCIGAR continues to push the boundaries of the cigar experience in China, we look forward to many more exciting collaborations and events in the future.

Oktoberfest, a beloved Bavarian tradition, is synonymous with hearty food, festive music, and, of course, copious amounts of beer. While many enthusiasts enjoy their brews solo, pairing them with a carefully selected cigar can elevate the experience to new heights. The interplay of flavours, aromas, and textures can create a truly harmonious and memorable sensory journey.

Understanding Beer and Cigar Pairings

When pairing beer and cigars, the key is to consider the complementary or contrasting flavours of each. The goal is to create a harmonious balance that enhances the overall experience. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Sweetness: Sweet beers, like stouts or porters, pair well with cigars that have a touch of sweetness or spice.

• Bitterness: Hoppy beers, such as IPAs or pale ales, complement cigars with earthy or woody notes.  

• Malty: Malty beers, like brown ales or bocks, pair nicely with cigars that have a rich, full-bodied flavour.

• Carbonation: Highly carbonated beers, like lagers, can be overpowering with certain cigars. Opt for cigars with a smooth, creamy texture.

Oktoberfest Beer and Cigar Pairings

Now, let's explore some specific Oktoberfest beer and cigar pairings that are sure to delight your palate:

1. Oktoberfest Beer and Oliva Serie V
   A classic Oktoberfest beer, with its malty sweetness and bready notes, pairs exceptionally well with the Oliva Serie V series. The blends's rich, dark flavours and hints of spice create a harmonious balance.
   
   

   

    

2. Märzen and Alec Bradley The Lineage Family Blend
   A classic German amber lager with a clean, rich, toasty, and bready malt flavour. Brewed with Munich malt, known for its bread crumb flavour and aroma. Its rich profile complements an Alec Bradley Lineage Family Blend cigar. The cigar's creaminess and flavourful notes of leather and earth enhance the maltiness of the beer.
   
   

   

    

3. Weizenbier and Zino Nicaragua Series
   A light, fruity Weizenbier pairs beautifully with a Connecticut Ecuador cigar. The cigar's mild, creamy flavours and subtle sweetness complement the beer's refreshing character.
   
   

   

    

4. Doppelbock and Ramón Allones Superiores LCDH
   For a truly indulgent experience, pair a Doppelbock, a rich, malty beer, with any classic Cuban cigar like the Ramón Allones Superiores LCDH. The cigar's complex flavours and notes of spice and tobacco enhance the beer's sweetness and depth.

Experiment and Enjoy

Ultimately, the best way to discover your ideal cigar and beer pairing is through experimentation.  The best way to find your perfect pairing is to experiment and discover what works best for your personal taste preferences. By considering the flavours, aromas, and textures of both the beer and cigar, you can create a truly unforgettable Oktoberfest experience.

Beyond Cuba, the world of cigars offers a diverse range of flavours and aromas. Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, and Honduras have emerged as leading producers, each with its own unique character. Discover the distinctive qualities of these New World cigars and why they're captivating smokers worldwide.

The Terroir Advantage

Honduras and Nicaragua boast distinct geographical features that contribute to the unique flavours of their cigars. Honduras' diverse topography, ranging from coastal plains to mountainous regions, offers a variety of microclimates. This variation allows for the cultivation of tobacco with different characteristics, from full-bodied and spicy to mild and sweet. Nicaragua, on the other hand, is known for its volcanic soil, which imparts a rich, earthy flavour to the tobacco.

Nicaragua: Volcanic Richness

Nicaraguan cigars are renowned for their robust character, a result of the country's volcanic soil and ideal growing conditions. Brands like Oliva, My Father, and Drew Estate have elevated Nicaragua's status in the cigar world, delivering rich blends bursting with spice and earthiness. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, Nicaraguan cigars offer a bold and unforgettable experience.

Honduras: Hearty and Harmonious

Honduras's hearty tobacco produces cigars known for their consistent quality and medium to full-bodied strength. Earthy and woody notes, coupled with a hint of sweetness, make Honduran cigars like those from Alec Bradley and Rocky Patel a favourite among those seeking a satisfying and engaging smoke.

Beyond the Cuban Tradition

While Cuban cigars are renowned for their traditional hand-rolling techniques and meticulous craftsmanship, New World cigar makers offer a diverse and innovative approach. Combining traditional methods with experimentation in blends, fermentation, and ageing, they create a vast array of flavours and styles. This fusion of old and new has made New World cigars a popular choice for those seeking a wider range of options beyond the classic Cuban experience.

The world of non-Cuban cigars is a treasure trove of diversity, offering something to suit every palate. From the bold flavours of Nicaragua to the hearty richness of Honduras, exploring these regions can expand your smoking horizons. As the global cigar community grows, the appreciation for these exquisite cigars continues to deepen, promising delightful experiences for both novice and seasoned smokers.

Happy World Pinot Noir Day! Nothing like a deep dive into the perfect pairing for this elegant and complex wine. Pinot Noir, often described as the "heartbreak grape" due to its challenging cultivation, rewards with a wine that is both delicate and profound.

Davidoff Grand Cru Diademas Finas Limited Edition

The Davidoff Grand Cru Diademas Finas Limited Edition is a harmonious fusion of cigar and wine. Aged in prestigious Premier Grand Cru wine casks, this exceptional blend offers a complex symphony of flavours. Initial notes of citrus and pepper give way to a heart of roasted nuts and dark cherries, all framed by the elegance of oak. The finish is a satisfying crescendo of walnut and spice. A connoisseur's delight.

Understanding Pinot Noir

Before we delve into pairings, let's quickly recap what makes Pinot Noir so special. This versatile grape produces wines with a range of flavours, from red cherry and strawberry to earthy mushroom and forest floor notes. Its acidity provides a refreshing balance, while tannins are typically soft and silky.

Ridge Corralitos Pinot Noir

Ridge Corralitos Pinot Noir is a classic California expression, showcasing ripe red cherry and strawberry aromas with earthy undertones. The palate is balanced with vibrant acidity and firm tannins, offering flavours of red currant, cranberry, and a hint of black tea. A mineral note adds complexity, leading to a long finish of red fruit and spice. An enjoyment where the fruitiness blends seamlessly into the earthy tones, one that’s reminiscent of the Davidoff Grand Cru Diademas Finas.

Canaan Chapter & Verse Pinot Noir

A Pinot Noir from Mainland China’s Hebei’s prestigious terroir, this Canaan Chapter & Verse Pinot Noir offers a captivating profile with aromas of fresh raspberries, strawberries, and subtle pine needles intertwined with vanilla oak. A medium-bodied silky pinot noir with a harmonious oak influence that mingles with the earthiness of the Davidoff Grand Cru Diademas Finas and balances the cigar’s spicy finish with its lingering bramley red fruit note.

Domaine Louis Jadot, Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru

A quintessential Burgundy, the Domaine Louis Jadot Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru is a wine destined for greatness. Its complex profile, marked by dark fruits, violets, and earthy notes, leads to a rich, velvety palate. With firm yet refined tannins and a lingering finish, this wine is a perfect companion to the intricate flavours of the Davidoff Grand Cru Diademas Finas.

With its versatility and complexity, Pinot Noir offers endless possibilities for wine and cigar enthusiasts. Happy pairing!

Cigar ageing is a fascinating process involving a delicate interplay of chemical and physical changes. While often shrouded in mystique, understanding the science behind it can significantly enhance appreciation for vintage cigars.

The Chemistry of Ageing 

At its core, cigar ageing is a complex series of chemical reactions. Key transformations include:

Fermentation Continuation: The fermentation process initiated during tobacco curing doesn't abruptly end. In the ageing process, it continues at a slower pace, breaking down complex sugars and proteins into simpler compounds. These compounds contribute to the cigar's flavour profile.

Oxidation: Controlled exposure to oxygen is crucial. Oxidation softens harsh flavours, reduces bitterness, and introduces nuances like leather, cedar, and spice.

Esterification: This process creates compounds responsible for fruity and floral notes. As a cigar ages, these esters can evolve, adding layers of complexity.

Physical Changes

Beyond the chemical transformations, physical changes also occur:

Moisture Redistribution: The cigar's moisture content gradually equilibrates, preventing dryness and ensuring a smooth burn.

Leaf Structure: The tobacco leaves become more supple and cohesive, improving draw and burn characteristics.

Aromatic Evolution: Volatile compounds responsible for aroma are released and interact over time, creating the cigar's unique scent profile.

A well-aged cigar often exhibits a more complex, refined, and balanced flavour profile, making it highly desirable to connoisseurs. Only a few cigars releases are aged for extended periods, creating scarcity and driving up prices for those that are.

Cigars like the Cohiba Behike BHK 56 (2018 Vintage) evolve with time, transforming their intense character into a smooth, leathery richness. This pleasurable complexity leaves you craving another puff.

The 2018 Cuban vintages have been ageing extremely well despite challenging harvests in the previous years. The Montecristo No.2 is a prime example, showcasing its characteristic vibrant blend of spices which melts into a sweeter and harmonious profile.

Like fine wine, some vintage cigars appreciate in value, making them attractive to collectors and investors.

However, it's essential to note that not all cigars benefit from ageing. Some may become too mild or develop off-flavours. Additionally, improper storage can ruin even the finest cigars, so the time and patience it takes to release a vintage also depends on the initial quality the cigar maintains when it is first released.

Despite these risks, for those willing to invest time, money, and expertise, the rewards can be substantial. A well-curated collection of vintage cigars can provide both pleasure and financial returns.

Understanding the science of cigar ageing empowers enthusiasts to make informed decisions about purchasing, storing, and enjoying these treasures.

Check out our guide here for ageing your own cigars.

While a well-crafted cigar offers a complete flavour experience on its own, with enticing notes of leather, spice, and nuttiness, cigar aficionados know the joy of pairing their smokes. Classic choices include a smooth bourbon or a rich scotch, while smoky barbecue can create a harmonious counterpoint. Yet, a delightful and lesser-known option awaits the marriage of cigars and chocolate.

Chocolate, a culinary masterpiece enjoyed for centuries, boasts a remarkable ability to complement fine cigars. If you're seeking a decadent way to elevate your next smoking experience, consider these delightful pairings that perfectly marry chocolate's richness with the nuanced flavours of a premium cigar.

Padrón 1964 Anniversary Maduro / Dark Chocolate Truffles with Hazelnuts

Dark chocolates coat the palate in an unbelievably decadent manner, especially when laced with crunchy hazelnuts throughout, adding intriguing textures that differ from the velvety taste of chocolate. They’re an amazing dessert when you’re having coffee after dinner, especially with a cigar. 

The Padrón 1964 Anniversary Maduro series uses an oily Maduro wrapper, adding a layer of complexity to its profile. This results in enjoyment with hints of cocoa, roasted nuts, and subtle sweetness—a perfect accompaniment to the flavours of the dark chocolate. 

Davidoff Escurio / Miso Caramel Chocolate Tart

Miso is a fermented soybean paste that first appeared in Japanese cuisine, adding a savoury umami depth to vegetables, meats and even desserts. Experience the silky contrast of chocolate caramel sweetness with a bold, salted and nutty base from the Miso. 

Such an experience is perfectly paired with an equally earthy and salty yet rich cigar like the Davidoff Escurio. Medium-bodied with a creamy yet spicy sweetness, bound with an underlying earthiness and laced with a salty note. A profile that melts into the Miso Caramel Chocolate Tart beautifully. 

Alec Bradley Magic Toast / Chocolate Ice Cream

On a scorching summer day, the irresistible pull of chocolate ice cream becomes undeniable. Whether enjoyed in a classic cone, a decadent malt, or even straight from the tub (no judgement!), the first bite offers a blissful contrast, a rush of icy coolness followed by the creamy indulgence of rich chocolate.

Light an Alec Bradley Magic Toast and savour the delightful interplay of temperature. The cool creaminess of chocolate ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm smoke. Unveiling a complex blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos, this blend offers hints of cocoa, spice, and wood, culminating in a satisfyingly rich finish.

Cigars, like chocolate, come in a spectrum of intensities – mild, medium, and full-bodied. To create a harmonious experience, match the cigar's strength to the cocoa content of the chocolate. Don't be afraid to experiment! With a vast array of possibilities, the perfect pairing awaits your adventurous spirit.

We officially launched our first offline event at the Highland Whisky Bar in Guangzhou on 30th May. Cigar aficionados and whisky lovers gathered for an afternoon of smoky pleasures and evocative conversations.

 
Teaming up with Davidoff Cigars, the highlight of the event was undeniably the debut of Davidoff Cigars’ newest limited release, the Davidoff Maduro. Attendees had the chance to savour this intricate and robust blend paired with a fine dram of Loch Lomond Whisky. The exclusive tasting experience was guided by Vinson Zhang, the Marketing and Business Development Director at Davidoff of Geneva.

The bar event was more than just about blowing smoke rings, although there may have been a few of those too! Vinson hosted an engaging Q&A session where he answered questions about the secrets of Davidoff Maduro and the art of the perfect cigar and whisky pairing with the expertise of a seasoned maestro. It was an educational and lively exchange that fuelled a deeper appreciation for the world of premium cigars among our guests.

 
We added some excitement to the event by organising a lucky draw with great prizes: the Davidoff The Difference Glass Set, the Davidoff White Ritual Set, and the impressive Afidano Year of the Dragon Humidor. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as we drew names, adding a touch of friendly competition to the already thrilling event. The afternoon was a great success, thanks to our sponsors Loch Lomond and Afidano Humidors.

 
News of our inaugural event even reached the discerning palate of a prominent Douyin influencer, CIGAR ROOM! Their presence not only added a touch of celebrity flair but also solidified nextCIGAR's position as a leading platform for the Guangzhou cigar community. It was a true validation of our efforts!

   

 
This first event began nextCIGAR’s journey into the cigar scene in China, fostering a vibrant atmosphere with a promise of future evenings filled with delectable smokes, insightful conversations and the change to connect with fellow aficionados. This was just the first chapter, and we can't wait to write the rest with you. Here's to many more smoky adventures together!

  

Cigars are our lifestyle.

Cigar culture is more than just a puff and a sigh. It's a living history, woven into the fabric of different eras. The humidor, often seen as a modern accessory, boasts a rich heritage, its story echoing with the whispers of cigar aficionados past. Unveiling its history allows us to appreciate how these iconic wooden boxes have safeguarded the art of cigar smoking for generations.

From Basements to Innovation: The Early Days (1907)

Believe it or not, the first humidor wasn't a fancy box. In 1907, Alfred Dunhill, a cigar aficionado, built a giant humidor in his store. It was basically a cabinet with thick walls and a water tank inside, a clever invention that didn't quite catch on. Why? Back then, people used their naturally cool and damp basements to store cigars – a readily available "humidor" in most homes.

The Rise of the First Humidor (1930)

Innovation has always been at the heart of Davidoff's humidor history. In 1930, Zino Davidoff, a true visionary, invented the first walk-in humidor which sparked a revolution in humidor design, a path the brand continues to walk today.

Fast forward to 1957, during a trip to Cuba, he encountered a revelation – the local cigars boasted a depth of flavour and aroma far superior to their European counterparts. The secret? Simple wooden boxes lined with damp cloths, a practice that Davidoff immediately recognized as ingenious. Upon his return, he introduced similar desktop humidors, and these elegant creations quickly captured the hearts (and palates) of cigar aficionados everywhere.

Learn how to season your first humidor.

Humidors were originally made of solid wood and tins

Early humidor designs were all about function over form. Think sturdy wooden boxes, built with simple nails and secured with a hinged door – a far cry from the sleek designs we see today. While some prioritised aesthetics, opting for ornate tins to showcase their wealth, these tins offered little in the way of proper cigar preservation. It wasn't until later that the focus shifted to materials like Spanish cedar, which not only looked beautiful but also played a crucial role in maintaining optimal humidity for the cigars.

Humidors as Collectibles

Today, antique humidors transcend mere function – they are coveted collector's items. These exquisitely crafted pieces, often boasting intricate details and rich wood tones, represent a bygone era of artistry. For collectors, it's the confluence of history and utility that holds such allure. They appreciate not only the craftsmanship but also the stories these humidors hold, having been treasured possessions passed down through generations.

The Modern Humidor

High-tech humidors now come equipped with built-in systems, using fans and digital hygrometers to automatically maintain the ideal environment for your cigars. These beauties are available in a variety of sizes to suit your collection, and many even boast sleek designs with glass fronts or acrylic allowing you to admire your stogies in style.

Of course, for some, the charm lies in the control. Traditional humidors are still very much in vogue, offering the satisfaction of personally managing your cigar's preservation.

Home Collections

Cigar enthusiasts are elevating their passion to new heights. Similar to high-end wine and spirits collectors, everyday aficionados are increasingly investing in premium cigars, building impressive personal collections. To ensure these prized smokes are perfectly preserved, the investment extends beyond the cigars themselves. High-quality humidors, including cabinet humidors and even walk-in havens, are becoming increasingly common. It's no surprise that these cigar connoisseurs are creating their own private sanctuaries for indulging in the art of smoking.

No matter your preference, there's a perfect humidor waiting to elevate your cigar experience.

Cigars aren't just about different shapes and sizes. The impressive spectrum of wrapper colours and their unique flavours are the result of a fascinating interplay between factors like fermentation, sunlight exposure, and the origin of the tobacco leaf itself. This guide delves into the world of cigar wrappers, explaining the most common colour variations and the processes that create them, along with the flavour profiles you can expect.

A Spectrum of Colours and Flavours

Cigar aficionados might distinguish dozens of subtle nuances, but most wrappers fall into seven main categories, each offering a distinct taste experience:

Candela/Double Claro: A rare sight today, this wrapper boasts a unique matte green hue and mild flavour profile with little aroma. Like the Rocky Patel Edge Candela Toro , with soft and smooth aromas of green tea and grassy notes.

Claro: Light brown with yellowish tones, offering a delicate and smooth taste.

Colorado Claro: A touch darker than Claro, with a light brown colour and slightly more pronounced flavours. The Quai d'Orsay No. 50 showcases this shade very well, offering an elegant bouquet of dried flowers.

Colorado/Rosado: Featuring a reddish tinge alongside its light brown colour, this wrapper presents a richer taste profile. A popular example would be the Davidoff Nicaragua Series , featuring a spicy sweet enjoyment.

Colorado Maduro: Medium brown in colour, offering a balanced blend of sweetness and earthiness.

Maduro: A deep, intense dark brown wrapper known for its robust, sweet flavours with notes of coffee, cocoa, and dried fruit. The Davidoff Maduro offers a true Maduro experience with 16 months of fermentation and 2 years of ageing, resulting in a balanced creamy sweetness.

Oscuro/Double Maduro: The darkest category, appearing almost black, Oscuro wrappers deliver the most intense and full-bodied flavours, often with hints of espresso, dark chocolate, and spices. The Drew Estate Liga Privada No. 9 Toro Oscuro , draped in a dark oily stalk-cut Connecticut broad-leaf wrapper would be the perfect example.

The Art of Fermentation

The key factor influencing both the colour and flavour of a wrapper is fermentation. This controlled process involves dried leaves undergoing microbial changes. The duration and temperature of fermentation play a crucial role, along with the inherent characteristics of the tobacco leaf itself.

Candela wrappers stand out for their unusual green colour. These undergo an accelerated drying process that traps chlorophyll within the leaves, creating the green hue. This method produces medium-strength leaves with a mild aroma.

Shade-grown wrappers typically experience shorter fermentation due to thinner leaves, resulting in lighter colour and milder flavours. Conversely, sun-grown tobacco, especially leaves from the top half of the plant or Broadleaf varieties, have a longer fermentation period. This process can take weeks to a year.

Maduro wrappers are the product of long, hot fermentation. The thicker leaves used for Maduros can withstand this intense process, resulting in the characteristic rich brown-black colour and robust, sweet flavours. Oscuro wrappers take things a step further. They require a meticulously controlled fermentation process lasting up to a year, with high humidity and moderate heat.

The Terroir Effect: How Growing Regions Shape Flavour

Similar to how wine connoisseurs value the impact of "terroir" (land characteristics), cigar aficionados appreciate how the growing region influences wrapper flavour. Here's a glimpse into some popular regions and their signature offerings:

Cuban Wrappers: Renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, Cuban cigars boast wrapper leaves (primarily from the Vuelta Abajo region) that deliver a rich, earthy taste with notes of cedar, leather, and spice.

Nicaraguan Wrappers: Volcanic soil and an ideal climate have positioned Nicaragua as a powerhouse in the cigar industry. Their wrappers are known for robust flavours, often featuring a combination of earthiness, pepper, and rich spices. Regions like Jalapa, Esteli, and Ometepe showcase the diversity of Nicaraguan wrappers.

Dominican Wrappers: The Dominican Republic is a haven for sought-after wrapper leaves. The fertile soil and favourable climate produce mild to medium-bodied wrappers with notes of cedar, nuts, and subtle sweetness. Wrapper leaves from the Cibao Valley and the Yaque region are particularly esteemed.

A World of Flavour Awaits

The world of cigar wrappers is a fascinating one, offering a diverse tapestry of flavours. From the subtle nuances of natural wrappers to the rich sweetness of Maduros and the intense boldness of Oscuros, each type promises a unique journey for your palate. So, explore the different options, discover your favourites, and elevate your cigar smoking experience! 

Cigar critics, enthusiasts and aficionados’ hearts raced as the XXIV Edition of the Habano Festival ignited Havana from February 26th to March 1st, 2024. The Caribbean capital once again hosted this prestigious annual event, captivating participants from around the globe with its international flair and exclusive atmosphere.

Over 110 countries were represented, fostering a global community of passionate aficionados. The excitement culminated with the unveiling of captivating novelties by Habanos, S.A., offering a glimpse into the future of these cherished smokes. Stay tuned to see these in our store!

This year's 24th Edition is not only a celebration of the event itself, but also a time to raise a toast to three significant milestones: the 30th anniversary of Habanos S.A., and the Golden (50th) and Emerald (55th) Anniversaries of the Quai d’Orsay and Trinidad brands, respectively.

The festival kicked off with a grand opening of the Trade Fair, a bustling hub where 85 companies from 11 countries had connected. The world's foremost specialists, distributors, and aficionados came together to enjoy unparalleled experiences.

Quai D'Orsay took centre stage at the Mid-week Evening held at the Cubanacán Protocol Lounge in El Laguito, commemorating the brand's 50th Anniversary where they unveiled a special “vitola”, Quai d'orsay Especial d'Orsay. Whilst Trinidad launched Trinidad Cabildos Edición Limitada 2024, and brought back the popular Trinidad Robusto Extra as a regular production in celebration for their 55th Anniversary at the opening of the Gala Dinner on the last day.

These special releases doesn’t end there, Romeo y Julieta are due to release another Reserva Cosecha, and other brands a series of Edición Limitada, Colección Habanos and numbered humidors. These exceptional releases mark a noteworthy year, stay tuned to see some of these in our store!

From trade to tastings, awards to auctions, Habanos, S.A. has yet again meticulously crafted an unforgettable experience, exceeding the expectations of aficionados with their signature dedication to excellence. While the 2024 edition may have concluded, the memories and inspiration linger, leaving enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this legendary festival's story.