DogWatch Cigar Radio

DogWatch Cigar Radio Episode #364 February 03,2012

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:29:12 -0500

Dale shares some experiences from his Cigar Tourism trip to Nicaragua and Honduras. Bob and Dale conduct live interviews with Paul Anctil, owner of the Sans Soucy Winery and Ron Barker from Cigar Volante who reps Panacea cigars. Ron and Paul sponsored a wine pairing and online herf of Panacea cigars. Of course, Bob and Dale participated by making the Panacea Azul Cameroon the Cigar of the Week. Learn about the Sans Soucy Winery Legacy wine. This hand-crafted wine honors Southern Virginia's tobacco “legacy” by using grapes grown in former tobacco fields that are then dried in traditional Virginia tobacco barns. Zedman from Canada gives a review of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial from Cuba. Two listeners check in: Adam Parsons lets us know about a great season 7 episode of South Park on smoking bans. Dave from Toledo responds to Bob's earlier comments on sampler packs. The cigar featured in the What's My Band segment of the show, Tatuaje Black Petite Lancero, was suggested by Jeff Curtis. The winner of January's Palio contest is Paul Przybysz. He will receive a black Palio cigar cutter.

Enter February's Palio contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win. The February contest winner will receive a silver Palio cutter.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

You won't want to miss the live version of show #365 on February 10th. In honor of having a show for listeners to download on every day of the year, Bob, Dale, Liz and Craig Schneider will be giving out sampler packs of some of their favorite cigars. But you must be in the chatroom during the live show to win, so be sure to tune in on February 10th.
Cigar of the Week - Panacea Azul Cameroon

A beautiful Cameroon wrapper filled with the finest filler tobacco and bound with a strong Cuban seed binder. The filler is Panacea's signature Piloto and Olor ligero, Seco Cubano and a touch of Pennsylvania Broadleaf.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review or a comment about the show? If you call and leave a cigar review or comment on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cigar Journal: http://www.cigarjournal.co/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com Origin: Dominican

Wrapper: Cameroon

Filler: Dominican, Nicaragua, Pennsylvania Broadleaf

Binder: Dominican Habano

DogWatch Cigar Radio Episode #363 January 26,2012

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:26:23 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Epifania by El Primer Mundo. An interview with Sean Williams of El Primer Mundo is rebroadcast. The cigar featured in the What's My Band segment of the show, the Ashton Aged Maduro #40, was suggested by Jeff Curtis. Bob and Dale respond to emails from Dan Crouch and David Dennis .

Enter January's Palio contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win. The January contest winner will be announced on the February 3rd show.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Join us on February 3rd for the Panacea Cigars Cyber Herf. Panacea is promoting a live cyber herf with Dogwatch on Feb. 3rd when the Panacea Azul Cameroon is the Cigar of the week. Click here for the invitation from Panacea.
You won't want to miss the live version of show #365 on February 10th. In honor of having a show for listeners to download on every day of the year, Bob, Dale, Liz and Craig Schneider will be giving out sampler packs of some of their favorite cigars. But you must be in the chatroom during the live show to win so be sure to tune in on February 10th.

Cigar of the Week - Epifania by El Primer Mundo

Epifania is the Spanish translation for Epiphany. The wrapper is Ecuadorian but it’s a totally different one from the Liga Miami (also made by El Primer Mundo) and is from a different farm. Both binders are Nicaraguan. Filler is Nicaraguan and Dominican and ihe cigar is finished with a triple capped. I will be releasing two more sizes this year, a robusto and a special size. This cigar is made in at El Titan de Bronze in Little Havana on Calle Ocho, Miami. MSRP around $10.

Size: 6 x 52
Wrapper: Ecuador
Binder: Nicaragua ( dual Nicaraguan binders)
Filler: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur Cameroon - Galahad (6.75” x 47) & Lancelot (7.25” x 54) - The “other” cigar from what used to be the 1066 line. A few weeks ago I smoked a couple Excalibur Dark Knights, this week I smoked a couple sizes of the Excalibur Cameroon line. Rolled in Honduras with fillers from the big 3 and a Connecticut Broadleaf binder under that delicate Cameroon wrapper, this cigar gives up lots of spice, leather and sweet grass flavors. I prefer the Dark Knight’s savory blend, but the Cameroon is a nice change occasionally.

Vegas Robaina Unicos - 156mm x 52 - In the chat room last week, someone was smoking this cigar, and I had to go dig one out my humidor this week. In my book this is close to being the perfect piramide vitola. Subtle sweetness and leather aromas on the darkish wrapper, followed by lots of earthy and mocha flavors in the creamy, full bodied smoke. Not a power cigar, but full of bold complexities. Densely filled, makes lots of aromatic smoke and the ash holds on tight.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Flor Dominicana Chisel, 6 x 54 - For those who remember a La Flor Dominicana cigar sampler that had a Chisel with a Cameroon wrapper, Litto Gomez decided to release it as its own limited-edition brand in December 2011. Origin: Dominican Republic, Wrapper: Maduro, Qty in Box: 10, Size: 6 x 54 . "We did a Chisel sampler that had one cigar with a Cameroon wrapper and it was very popular. A lot of requests came from retailers and consumers, but I didn't want to go into regular production with it, so I made only 500 boxes for December," Gomez said. The Cameroon Chisel is actually blended off La Flor Dominicana's Cameroon Cabinet line and although it isn't intended to be as full bodied as the Double Ligero Chisel, it isn't supposed to mild either. They come in boxes of 20 and retail for $8 each

Royal Nicaraguan Robustos by Jesus Fuego - Sumatra (Natural-5x50) and Oscuro (Maduro-5x50) - This is J. Fuego’s first inexpensive bundled cigar. Bundles of 20 range in price from $43 to $49 depending on the size: Belicoso, (6x52); Churchill (7x52); Grande (6x60); or Robusto (5x50). Wrapper: Ecuador; Filler: Honduras; Binder: Honduras and Nicaragua

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, the Ashton Aged Maduro #40 was suggested by listener Jeff Curtis.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the December Silver Palio cutter was Tim Banic. For January's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. January's prize will be a black Palio cutter and will be announced on the February 3rd show.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review or a comment about the show? If you call and leave a cigar review or comment on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cigar Journal: http://www.cigarjournal.co/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio Episode #362 January 20,2012

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 08:29:35 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Nestor Miranda Grand Reserve. The cigar featured in the What's My Band segment of the show, Tampa Sweethearts No 185, was provided by listener Jay LeDou. Roger from Texas calls in on the Herfline.

Enter January's Palio contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Join us on February 3rd for the Panacea Cigars Cyber Herf. Panacea is promoting a live cyber herf with Dogwatch on Feb. 3rd when the Panacea Azul Cameroon is the Cigar of the week. Click here for the invitation from Panacea.
You won't want to miss the live version of show #365 on February 10th. In honor of having a show for listeners to download on every day of the year, Bob, Dale, Liz and Craig Schneider will be giving out sampler packs of some of their favorite cigars. But you must be in the chatroom during the live show to win so be sure to tune in on February 10th.

Cigar of the Week - Nestor Miranda Grand Reserve Torpedo 6 ⅛ X 52 ( It only comes in one size.)

Handmade in Don Pepin Garcia's Nicaraguan factory, Nestor Miranda Grand Reserve maintains an excellent medium to full-bodied flavor profile with many competing complexities throughout.

The project started off with Nestor Miranda wanting to add an ultra-premium cigar to his portfolio. As usual, he went to the illustrious ‘My Father' factory to have this special project created.

Made in Nicaragua, Grand Reserve was created as a small batch cigar with only 10,000 sticks made.

The blend is comprised of all Nicaraguan fillers with a Connecticut Broadleaf maduro wrapper. The maduro wrapper is a dark brown color with a nice, oily hue. Upon lighting the cigar, you can instantly taste notes of chocolate from the maduro wrapper. Never over-powering, the cigar straddles the medium-full line and never disappoints as notes of espresso and cedar compliment the finish.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Camino Real Cabinet (red label) - The partner line to our COW last week. This version has a more savory flavor and more balanced between strength & body. I’ll buy more of these.

Punch Rare Corojo 10th Anniversary Robusto - 5.5” x 50 Unlike it’s older cousins, the 10th Anny Rare Corojo has a wrapper of Connecticut grown Corojo. The line was previously named due to the reddish hue of the Ecuadorian grown wrapper. The binder is Connecticut Broadleaf and the fillers from the big 3. Outstanding construction, great draw and priced right! Leather, spice and a pie crust type of grain flavors.

La Gloria Cubana Serie N 49 - 5.75” x 49 - A dark Oscuro cured Ecuador wrapper over Nicaraguan fillers & binder that is bold, heady and full of spice. Full bodied, full flavored and not lacking in strength. Enjoyed this one after a great Cuban coffee from Cuba Cuba.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Illuminati Crusade Red Label - Nice leathery, earthy base flavor with only a slight spice.

The Crusade is a medium bodied cigar that features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with Nicaraguan binders and fillers. This is an exceptionally complex yet smooth smoke that is packed with flavor from start to finish.

Wrapper: Ecuador Habano
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Available Sizes: Toro (6 x 54), Torpedo (6 1/2 x 52), Robusto (5 x 50)
Boxes: 20 Cigars per box

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, Tampa Sweethearts No 185, was provided by listener Jay LeDou.

Bob: This was one ugly cigar. Rough, veiny and certainly rustic. The first half of the cigar exhibited a slight woodsy flavor but not much flavor or smoke. The second half things picked up and the cigar had some spice, leather added to the woodsy flavor. Overall I have to say I did not enjoy smoking this cigar.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the December Silver Palio cutter was Tim Banic. For January's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. January's prize will be a black Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review or a comment about the show? If you call and leave a cigar review or comment on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cigar Journal: http://www.cigarjournal.co/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio Episode #361 January 13,2012

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 16:29:22 -0500

Bob and Dale are joined by Craig Schneider, a regular guest host on cigarmedia.tv. The Cigar of the Week is the Camino Real Serie 6. Bob interviews Jon Van Bilderbeek of Route 45 Cigars, the maker of Camino Real. The cigar featured in the What's My Band segment of the show, the San Cristobal Lancero, was provided by listener Jeff Curtis. Listeners Colin Ganley and David Zulch write in.

Enter January's Palio contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Join us on February 3rd for the Panacea Cigars Cyber Herf. Panacea is promoting a live cyber herf with Dogwatch on Feb. 3rd when the Panacea Azul Cameroon is the Cigar of the week. Click here for the invitation from Panacea.
You won't want to miss the live version of show #365 on February 10th. In honor of having a show for listeners to download on every day of the year, Bob, Dale, Liz and Craig Schneider will be giving out sampler packs of some of their favorite cigars. But you must be in the chatroom during the live show to win so be sure to tune in on February 10th.

Cigar of the Week - Camino Real Serie 6 by Route 45 Cigars

Columbian Puro - Dominican, Cuban and Colombian seed tobaccos all grown in Columbia. Camino Real Cigars is a newer brand started in mid 2009. Hear more about the company's background and the making of Camino Real cigars from Jon Van Bilderbeek of Route 45 Cigars.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Illusione HL Maduro - I don’t usually smoke a regular supply of Illusiones but took this one out of my work humidor prior to what was shaping up to be a long ride home. Filled with all of the characteristic lush flavors but dropped down an octive and smoothed out. This did have a couple years or so on it and smoked like a dream. Yet another reason to set a cigar aside for a bit of time.

Cohiba Behike 56 - In preparation for a specific tasting I’ll be doing next month with a couple of friends, I’ve been smoking these to prep. Like smoking the barnyard aroma. Very unique but very reminiscent of other Cohibas. Deep, sweet, citrusy, earthy. A very rich cigar that burns incredibly slowly. Can last easily 3 hours. An hour of burn time yielded only 1-1/2” of ash.

Camino Real Blue Churchill #6- A nice mild cigar. Very light in the hand. Starts out very papery but develops a “soft” flavored cookie taste. Enjoyable value price stick. I’d smoke it again with my own money

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Alec Bradley Black Market - Churchill and Robusto - After trying this new line in the Gordo size, I had to give it a whirl in some smaller ring gauges. The Churchill is 50 ring, the Robusto is 52. The blend is the same - filler is Panama & Honduras, the binder is Sumatra and the wrapper is Nicaragua. In the smaller ring sizes, the flavors are a bit more spicy. The leather core is also more highlighted, but smoother.

Aurora Barrel Aged #4 Corona - This cigar just keep calling me back. I love the sweet and savory notes this Dominican grown Corojo wrapper brings, thanks to the slow and careful fermentation and aging process. Lots of cedar and nuttiness in the Nicaragua/Dominican blend, a great draw & burn every time and a smoking time of about 50 minutes makes this cigar fit well as an everyday smoke for me

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Alec Bradley JAM - tasty with leather, wood and warm savory flavors.

Alec Bradley New York - Deep earthy flavors

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, the San Cristobal Lancero provided by Jeff Curtis.

Bob: I have smoked this before but cannot remember what it is. Lots of complex flavors, great burn and it made me sad to put it down.

Craig: Traditional Laguito #1 7-1/2”x38 w/ pigtail. Amazingly craggy corojo looking wrapper. Thick & textured like a wall with 10 coats of paint. Amazing sweetness upon initial light. Like sweet buttery roasted pecans & root beer. Cinnamon toast w/ sugar jumps in & out. Powdery ash that burns quickly & doesn’t hold more than 1”. Medium strength, medium body. Interesting cigar that develops almost too much smoke, even with such a small amount removed. Nicaraguan, Dominican. What is this? Esencia? I’ve not smoked the limited edition Lancero. Could this be it?

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the December Silver Palio cutter was Tim Banic. For January's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. January's prize will be a black Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cigar Journal: http://www.cigarjournal.co/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio Episode #360 January 6,2012

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 18:36:50 -0500

Bob and Dale discuss bulls, box presses abd the story behind the blend,

Enter January's Palio contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT. You won't want to miss the live version of show #365 on February 10th. In honor of having a show for listeners to download on every day of the year, Bob, Dale, Liz and Craig Schneider will be giving out sampler packs of some of their favorite cigars. But you must be in the chatroom during the live show to win so be sure to tune in on February 10th.

Cigar of the Week - Thunder by Nimish - Robusto

The Rocky Patel Thunder is blended by Nimish Desai, Rocky’s cousin. He supervises all of the Central American manufacturing for Rocky, but has wanted to blend his own cigar for a long time. This year he finally came up with a blend that he wanted to put on the market and Rocky agreed.
Name: Thunder by Nimish
Company: Rocky Patel Premium Cigars
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Binder: Nicaragua and Honduras
Filler: Nicaragua, Honduras, Costa Rico
Price: $5-6.00/stick
Comes in: Box of 20
Three sizes:
Robusto 4.5 X 54
Toro 6 X 52
Torpedo 6 ⅛ X 52

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Oliva Serie V Lancero - 7” x 38 - Nicaraguan tobaccos featuring a high priming Habano Sun Grown wrapper and Jalapa Valley ligero. A full bodied, smooth smoke with great spice balanced with dark chocolate and espresso flavors. Some dark fruit sweetness in the last 3rd and a long, rich finish. A solid “longhorn lounge” favorite for under $5!

Macanudo 1968 Robusto - 5” x 50 - The first of what I like to call the “new style Mac’s”, the 1968 has been out 3 or 4 years now. It has a bold and aromatic expression previously lacking in the Macanudo line. The wrapper is Honduran San Augustin, the binder is Habano Connecticut and the filler is a mix of Dominican and Nicaraguan, with the Nica tobaccos coming from Esteli and Ometepe. The first (official) use of Ometepe tobacco by General Cigar, but they didn’t make a big deal out of it until the Upper Cut and others came out in the last 18 months. Medium bodied, but full flavored with coffee, spice and leather notes accented by roasted nuts.

AB Prensado Corona Gorda - 5.6” x 46 - I’ve smoked this cigar several times now since we featured it on the show last year, and again this week, before CA announced it as their #1 cigar for 2011. Smooth, deep, rich roasted flavors from Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos. The wrapper is from the Trojas valley in southern Honduras and imparts some great leather and chocolate flavors. The filler is savory and has good spice. Lots of complexity, great balance and full in both body and flavor, medium in strength.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Gurkha Assassin Dagger - 3.78 x 60 - Brazilian Wrapper, Dominican Binder, and a Peruvian/Nicaraguan Filler. Comes in four other sizes: Robusto, Toro, Churchill, and Torpedo.

Jesus Fuego 76 Robusto- 5 x 50 - A small batch production cigar, it uses a limited production stalk-cut Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, aged fillers from Nicaragua & Honduras and is held together with an aged triple fermented Nicaraguan binder.

Erez Cigars White Label Natural Churchill - 7 ½ x 50 -Criollo 98 wrapper; Olor Dominicano binder; and a filler consisting of Cubano San Vicente, Olor Dominicano and Criollo 98 tobaccos. All of its tobacco was grown in the Dominican Republic by the Reyes Family, who has been in the business for over 150 years.

Alec Bradley Tempus Maduro A fine smoke with great dark flavors and an earthy base that really makes this shine like a fine chocolate cake.

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, the Sanxho Panza Extra Fuerte Cordoba provided by George Edmonson

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the December Silver Palio cutter was Tim Banic. For January's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. January's prize will be a black Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Stogie Boys: http://www.stogieboys.com/ and www.facebook.com/stogieboyscigars
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #359 December 30, 2011

Sat, 31 Dec 2011 10:54:12 -0500

Bob and Dale are joined by Professor Doug Fiore, a regular columnist on cigarmedia.tv. The three cigar aficionados have an entertaining and informative discussion about their ten favorite cigars of 2011. The Cigar of the Week, The La Palina El Diario, receives outstanding reviews from Bob, Dale and Doug. The cigar featured in the What's My Band segment of the show, the AJ Fernandez Fresh Rolled, was provided by listener Jay Ledou. Tim Banic is this month's winner of a silver Palio.

Enter January's Palio contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT. You won't want to miss the live version of show #365 on February 10th. In honor of having a show for listeners to download on every day of the year, Bob, Dale, Liz and Craig Schneider will be giving out sampler packs of some of their favorite cigars. But you must be in the chatroom during the live show to win so be sure to tune in on February 10th.

Cigar of the Week - La Palina El Diario

The La Palina El Diario Robusto was #20 in Cigar Journal’s top 25 of 2011. The El Diario was released at the 2011 IPCPR Trade Show and there are 5 sizes within the line, with a line extension due out in the Fall of 2012. Country of origin: Honduras; Factory: Raices Cubana; Wrapper: Honduran Corojo ‘99 Rosado; Binder: Honduran Criollo ‘98 (x2); Filler: Nicaraguan Corojo ‘99 and Criollo ‘98.

•Churchill, 7 x 50 - $226/$11.30 (MSRP)

•Torpedo, 6.125 x 52 - $227/$11.35

•Gordo, 6 x 58 - $231/$11.55

•Toro, 6 x 50 - $200/$10

•Robusto, 5 x 52 - $196/$9.80

2011 DOGWATCH CIGAR RADIO FAVORITES (in no particular order)

Dale’s Top 10 Favorites from 2011 Shows

NHC Tatuaje Capa Especiale Maduro
AJ Fernandez Puro Authentico
Lou Rodriguez Edicion Premier Bom Bom
22 Degrees N/83 Degrees W by J. Fuego
Monte Pascoal Minutos
San Lotano Oval Pyramid
Emillio AF1 Robusto
Illusione H1 Maduro
Esencia Lancero/Petite Corona
Torano Vault Liga-A008 Toro

Honorable Mentions: La Casita Criollo, Undercrown, Buena Vista Limitada Reserva

Doug’s Favorites from 2011

Lou Rodriguez Connecticut Corona
Padron Family Reserve No. 85 Maduro
CAO OSA
La Casita Criollo
Casa Magna Domus Magnus
Undercrown by Drew Estate
Quesada Oktoberfest
Buena Vista Limitada Reserva
Viaje Late Harvest
EP Carrillo New Wave Connecticut

Bob’s Favorites from 2011

San Lotano Oval Robusto from AJ Fernandez

This cigar was #2 in Cigar Journal’s top 25 of 2011 and was also included in the list of “60 Cigars That You Should Try” in CJ’s winter edition. AJ’s methods are the result of three generations of tobacco mastery. Raised in Cuba and steeped in the rich tradition of the Fernandez cigar legacy, AJ Fernandez now produces unparalleled, hand-rolled product in Esteli, Nicaragua. The day-to-day operations at Tabacalera Fernandez are managed under the watchful eye of AJ himself. This cigar is produced in a highly unique oval shape. Wrapper: Brazil Habano 2000 Wrapper (4+ years); Binder: Nicaragua; Filler: Nicaragua / Honduras + AJ Fernandez Secret Filler. 6 Sizes: Petite Robusto – 4.5 x 54; Corona – 5 x 44; Robusto – 5.5 x 54; Toro – 6 x 54; Gordo – 6.5 x 60; Pyramid – 6.5 x 54.

Elogio LSV Corona Extra

A Nicaraguan Puro, this cigar was introduced in a very limited production due to the availability of its sungrown Oscuro wrapper. Grown by Carlos and his uncle, Armando Robaina, in a small farm in Somoto. Elogio’s web site says that this lush wrapper receives the highest attention in a detailed fermentation process that Carlos Pereda performs personally. The Corona Extra is said to be the most powerful of the series. (The Elogio Serie Habano Churchill was included in the list of “60 Cigars That You Should Try” in CJ’s winter edition.) Wrapper: Nicaraguan sungrown Oscuro; Binder: Nicaragua; Filler: Nicaragua. 5 Sizes: Churchill – 7 x 52; Torpedo – 6 1/8 x 52; Robusto – 5 x 50; Corona Extra 6 x 42; Petite Corona 5 x 32.

Monte Pascoal Robusto

Monte Pascoal was a winner of Cigar Journal’s 2011 award for Best Brand Brazil. A Brazilian Puro, this cigar is produced in Cruz das Almas - Bahia, Brazil by Tabacos Mata Fina. The beautiful Monte Pascoal® Logo was hand drawn by an illustrator. The Logo is a representation of different elements relating to the discovery of Brazil in 1500 by Pedro Alvares Cabral. Translated into English, Monte Pascoal® means Easter Mountain. Monte Pascoal® (Easter Mountain) was the first piece of land sighted by Cabral upon his arrival to the new land. The date was Wednesday, April 22nd during the week of Easter. Wrapper: Brazil Mata Fina; Binder: Brazil Mata Fina; Filler: Brazil Mata Fina and Mata Norte (All of the cigars in the Monte Pascoal line are blended with these two tobaccos, in different proportions. 6 Sizes: Minutos – 4 3/8 x 42; Petit Robusto – 4 x 50; Robusto – 4 7/8 x 50; Corona – 5 5/8 x 42; Belicoso – 5 ½ x 52; Double Corona – 7 5/8 x 49.

Joya de Nicaragua Antańo Dark Corojo

Joya de Nicaragua, S.A. is located in Esteli, Nicaragua. According to its web site, the JdN factory was established in 1968, and was the very first Nicaraguan cigar factory. The JdN Antano Dark Corojo is a Nicaraguan Puro. According to Dr. Alejandro Martinez Cuenca, Master Maker of Joya de Nicaragua, “A decade ago we created the much-heralded Joya de Nicaragua Antaño 1970 to share the unbridled richness of our Nicaraguan tobaccos with the world. For us, Antaño represents the toil of our people, the fruit of our beloved fields and ultimately, it is a reflection of our souls. We have labored nearly ten years to create the Antaño Dark Corojo, never before has there been a puro so creamy, rich and smooth, yet simultaneously so enthrallingly robust at its core. I promise you, this is a smoke you will remember…” Wrapper: Nicaragua; Binder: Nicaragua; Filler: Nicaragua. 5 Sizes: Peligroso – 5 x 44; Azarosa – 4 ½ x 52; El Martillo – 5 ½ x 54; La Pesadilla – 4 ¾ x 60; Poderoso – 6 x 54.

Cain Daytona 550

The Cain Daytona 550 was included in the list of “60 Cigars That You Should Try” in CJ’s winter edition. Cain Daytona is a Nicaraguan Puro made entirely of Cuban-seed, long-leaf ligeros from the Jalapa Valley. The Cain Daytona is the fourth release from Oliva and Studio Tobac’s “Strait Ligero” Cain line. The Cain Daytona 654 Torpedo was #4 in Cigar Journal’s top 25 of 2011. (The Cain Daytona Lancero was the winner Cigar Journal’s 2011 award for Best Cigar Nicaragua.) Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano; Binder: Nicaraguan Habano; Filler: Nicaragua. 5 Sizes: 646 – 6 x 46; 660 – 6 x 60; No. 4 – 5 x 43; 550 – 5 x 50; 654T – 6 x 54.

Cain F

The Cain F Habano/Sun Grown 550 was #17 in Cigar Journal’s top 25 of 2011. Made in Nicaragua, Cain F is a Nicaraguan Puro made entirely of Cuban-seed, long-leaf ligeros from the Jalapa Valley. The Cain F is the third release from Oliva and Studio Tobac’s “Strait Ligero” Cain line. The filler consists of 3 of the richest, most distinct Nicaraguan Ligero tobaccos the world has to offer, including 32% from Esteli and 25% each from Condega and Jalapa. Wrapper: Nicaragua; Binder: Nicaragua; Filler: Nicaragua. 7 Sizes: 550 – 5 ¾ x 50; 550 Tubos – 5 x 50; 654 Torpedo – 6 x 54; 660 – 6 x 60; Lancero Tubos – 7 x 38; Nub 460 – 4 x 60; Nub 464 T – 4 x 64.

Esencia Robusto

Esencia cigars are Nicaraguan Puros made in Honduras by Brother of the Leaf, LLC. Each has been crafted in an old world Havana style using a traditional blend of Criollo and Corojo leaf of only the highest quality. Production of the Esencia is limited to the availability of the very best in raw materials. Wrapper: Nicaragua; Binder: Nicaragua; Filler: Nicaragua. 5 Sizes: Churchill – 7 x 47; Corona Gorda – 5 5/8 x 46; Belicoso - 5 ½ x 52; Petit Corona – 5 1/8 x 42; Robusto – 4 7/8 x 50.

Perdomo Patriarch Maduro

Created by Nick Perdomo Jr. to honor his father, Perdomo Patriarch is available in an Ecuadorian Connecticut, a Cuban-seed Corojo or a triple fermented Maduro wrapper. The filler consists of aged, long-leaf tobaccos grown in Nicaragua’s three growing regions - Esteli, Jalapa, and Condega. Wrapper: Connecticut (Ecuador), Corojo (Nicaragua) or Maduro (Nicaragua); Binder: Nicaragua; Filler: Nicaraguan Esteli, Jalapa and Condega valleys. 6 Sizes: Churchill – 7 x 48; Corona Extra – 5 5/8 x 46; Lonsdale – 6.5 x 42; Robusto – 5 x 50; Epicure – 6 x 50; Torpedo – 6 1/2 x 54.

Cao OSA Sol Lot 50

Made in Honduras, this cigar was #13 in Cigar Journal’s top 25 of 2011. (The CAO OSA Sol Lot 54 was included in the list of “60 Cigars That You Should Try” in CJ’s winter edition.) OSA is an acronym for the region of Honduras where the blend of tobaccos for this cigar comes from - the Olancho, San Agustin valley. The wrapper is a sun-grown leaf -hence the name OSA Sol. Wrapper: Honduras Olancho San Agustin; Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf; Filler: Nicaragua, Honduras. 3 Sizes: Lot 50 – 5 x 50; Lot 54 – 6 x 54; Lot 58 – 6 ½ x 58.

Torano Master

Made in Nicaragua, this blend was developed by Charlie Toraño, at the helm of a fourth generation family cigar company, and Felipe Sosa, one of the world's finest master cigar rollers. The Torano Master was #3 in Cigar Journal’s top 25 of 2011. Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano; Binder: Nicaragua (Esteli); Filler: Nicaragua (Esteli & Jalapa). 4 Sizes: Robusto – 5 x 50; BFC – 6 x 60; Torpedo – 6 ¼ x 52; Churchill 7 x 50.

What else have you been smokin' Professor Doug Fiore?

La Reloba Sumatra - 5 X 50 - Made by My Father Cigars with a Nicaraguan Sumatra Wrapper and Nicaraguan Binder and Filler. One of three La Reloba releases, with the others being the Habano and the Mexico. Great value cigar.

Viaje Holiday Blend - 5.25 X 54 Torpedo - Nicaraguan Criollo Wrapper, Nicaraguan Binder and Filler. Also available in a 4.25 X 54 Petite Robusto. Not as spicy as previous releases, but a satisfying medium-bodied smoke.

Illusione Maduro 88 - 5 X 52 - San Andreas Maduro Wrapper, Nicaraguan Binder and Filler. My favorite of the Illusione line

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Cain Daytona Robusto - 5” x 50 - Nicaragua puro with a good dose of smooth, flavorful ligero from Jalapa.

Esencia Petite Corona - 5.12” x 42 - I can’t decide... the lancero or the petite corona continue to switch places as my favorite vitola in the Esencia line. Fortunately, the pc is available year round! Outstanding “old world” traditional flavors from great Nicaragua tobaccos - savory, spicy and with huge depth.

Trinidad Coloniales - 130mm x 44 - This petite corona from Havana is finished with a beautiful wrapper & a pigtail cap. Very subtle and complex flavors, mostly floral with caramel sweetness. Light spice in the middle and more cedar in the last 3rd. Creamy medium bodied smoke with an aroma that invokes the old English library.

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, the AJ Fernandez Fresh Rolled, was provided by Jay Ledou.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the December Silver Palio cutter was Tim Banic. For January's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. January's prize will be a silver Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Stogie Boys: http://www.stogieboys.com/ and www.facebook.com/stogieboyscigars
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #358 December 23, 2011

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 13:16:51 -0500

Bob and Dale announce a couple of special upcoming shows. Next week, Bob, Dale and Professor Doug Fiore, a regular columnist on cigarmedia.tv, will share their picks for the top cigars of 2011. Also, you won't want to miss the live version of show #365 on February 10th. In honor of having a show for listeners to download on every day of the year, Bob, Dale, Liz and Craig Schneider will be giving out sampler packs of some of their favorite cigars. But here is the kicker - you must be in the chatroom during the live show to win. Dale talks about the CigarTourism.com trip to Nicaragua that he is planning to take in 2012 and invites listeners to join him and Colin Ganley for an informative and entertaining time. The Cigar of the Week, The Vault Liga A-008 by Torano, was provided by Duque Cigar Company in Indialantic, Florida. The cigar featured in the What's My Band segment of the show, the NHC Surrogates Bone Crusher, was provided by Dan of NewHavanaCigars.com.

The winner of November's Silver Palio Cutter Contest will be announced on next week's show. There is still time to send a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv to enter the contest. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT.

Cigar of the Week - The Vault Liga A-008 by Torano brought to us by Duque Cigars (http://www.duquecigars.com/, 410 5th Avenue Indialantic, FL).

Released at the 2011 IPCPR Tradeshow, Torano Vault gets its name from the vault in which the Torano blend book is kept. Originally called Liga A-008, this blend has a Colorado Shade-grown Habano wrapper from Nicaragua, an Ometepe-grown ligero binder, and a filler of Nicaraguan long leaf tobaccos. It comes in the following sizes:

Robusto 5 x 52
Toro 6 x 50
Torpedo 6.1 x 52

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Pueblo Dominicano Toro - 6.5” x 50 - Dominican cigar from the La Aurora factory that Bob mentioned a couple weeks back, wrapped in a 5 yr old Habano varity wrapper that is Sun Grown and fermented to a dark reddish hue. A very smooth, balanced and complex smoke that I enjoyed thoroughly! Leather, cedar and light spice in a creamy med-full bodied smoke. Very “Dominican” as one might expect, yet with rich flavors and a nutty finish. To me it competes with the Leon G

Pinar Del Rio Liga Cubana No. 5, Habano Sungrown Toro - 6” x 50 - From our friend Abe Flores, the Nicaraguan and Dominican filler blend in these cigars is magnificently rich and deep in flavor. Wrapped in a Sungrown Habano leaf that is oily, silky and refined in appearance. Full bodied with lots of spice (especially in the retrohale), coffee bean and grain flavors, the cigar is very savory. The long finish highlights cedar & walnut tones.

Padilla 1948 Edicion Limitada 2010 Robusto - 5” x 50 - One of those cigars I really enjoy when I’m in the mood for cedar, oak and leather flavors. This cigar also has a buttery component. The Nicaraguan grown Corojo and Crillo blend is covered in a Corojo wrapper that is med brown in color and imparts a peppery tang. The cigar is earthy in character, a touch dry and exhibits excellent construction. Copious amounts of medium bodied yet very full flavored smoke with a short woody finish.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Gurkha Evil - Originally released in 2010, this cigar comes in 5 sizes including the Churchill that I smoked. With a Brazilian wrapper, Dominican binder and Nicaraguan filler, this is a smooth spicy operator in the Gurkha line.

Punch London Club Maduro

Perdomo Patriarch

Antano Dark Corojo

Pinar Del Rio Capa Oscuro

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, the NHC Surrogates Bone Crusher, was provided by Dan of NewHavanaCigars.com.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the November Burl Palio cutter was Craig Rich. For December's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. December's prize will be a silver Palio cutter. Join us next week when we announce the December winner.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Stogie Boys: http://www.stogieboys.com/ and www.facebook.com/stogieboyscigars
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #357 December 16, 2011

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:04:38 -0500

Bob and Dale are joined by listener Derek Mathews who discusses how to repurpose a wine cooler into a 'wineador' for cigars. - Liz shares what else she has been smoking this week and asks another newbie question - this time about lighting cigars. The Cigar of the Week, the Arturo Fuente Special Selection, was provided by Duque Cigar Company in Indialantic, Florida. The cigar featured in the What's My Band segment of the show, the Man O' War Puro Authentico was provided by listener Camryn Freeze.

Enter November's Silver Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT.

Cigar of the Week - Arturo Fuente Special Selection brought to us by Duque Cigars (http://www.duquecigars.com/, 410 5th Avenue Indialantic, FL)

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

(Oliva Studio Tabac) Nub Double Maduro - 4” x 60 - or the Nub Dub as it’s affectionately called..... Really well constructed except they left off about 2” of the cigar! Dark, toasted flavors, rich and wildly complex. Notes of red fruit, leather, vanilla and yes - Marzapan over an oaky base.

Rocky Patel Decade Toro - 6.5” x 52 - More secret tobaccos! Rocky is proud enough to mention the dark maduro Sumatra wrapper, but the filler & binder in this cigar is hush-hush. However, this is one RP cigar I seek out occasionally due to the nice sweetness, dark coffee notes and great balance in a full bodied cigar.

(Hoyo de Monterrey) Excalibur Cameroon Merlin - 5.25” x 50 - From what used to be called the Excalibur 1066 line, now we have the Excalibur Cameroon. A full bodied Honduran cigar with a Connecticut Broadleaf binder and a Cameroon wrapper over a filler blend from Honduras, Nicaragua and the DR. I really enjoyed how the mild sweetness of the binder enhanced the slight spiciness of the wrapper. Both balanced well with the leather & earthy core of the filler blend.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Jameson Black Label - original release; the Black Label is a rich, complex cigar. The medium-full bodied blend features a naturally fermented Brazilian maduro wrapper, Honduran binder, and filler tobaccos from the Dominican Republic. This is a bold smoke that commands attention.

Southbound Latitude by Jameson - Get the southern latitude attitude in a fine cigar, relaxing and smooth but full flavored. Latitude is the first release in the bundled SouthBound Series. A medium-bodied value smoke meant to be enjoyed every day. Latitude features Dominican fillers bound with a Criollo 98 leaf from the Dominican Republic and finished off with a broadleaf wrapper from Pennsylvania.

Chinnock Cellars Terroir - A nice medium-bodied smoke that goes well with other things like wine, cheese and chocolate. However, the cigar does not stand out on its own and becomes a bit boring after awhile.

Pueblo Dominicano Series II - The Series II is a very good cigar and comes at a reasonable price. Made from 100% Dominican tobaccos, it is rolled at the oldest cigar factory in the Dominican Republic, La Aurora. The Series II features a spicy four-year-old Dominican wrapper that perfectly compliments the complex blend of Dominican filler tobaccos. It is a medium-bodied cigar that has the exquisite flavor known to aficionados as that of a pure Dominican cigar, and even more impressively, it holds its own against the likes of more expensive puros such as OpusX and CAO Vision.

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, the Man O' War Puro Authentico was provided by listener Camryn Freeze.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the November Burl Palio cutter was Craig Rich. For December's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. December's prize will be a silver Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Stogie Boys: http://www.stogieboys.com/ and www.facebook.com/stogieboyscigars
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #356 December 3, 2011

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 15:05:27 -0500

Bob and Dale are joined by Craig Schneider in this week's show. They answer another newbie question from Liz about what causes a cigar to burn unevenly. Listener Dan Crouch recommends a couple of value cigars. David Zulch, one of the winners of a 5-pack of La Tradicion Cubana cigars in last month's contest, writes in to thank DWCR and Luis Sanchez. The Cigar of the Week, the Xen by Nish Patel, was provided by Duque Cigar Company in Indialantic, Florida. The cigar featured in the What's My Band segment of the show, the Perdomo Patriarch Maduro Epicure, was suggested by listener Jeff Curtis.

Enter November's Silver Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT.

Cigar of the Week - The Xen by Nish Patel brought to us by Duque Cigars (http://www.duquecigars.com/, 410 5th Avenue Indialantic, FL)

XEN is a box pressed cigar with an Ecuador Connecticut wrapper, Nicaragua binder and a “secret” filler. Sizes: Short Robusto: 4 x 54; Robusto: 5 x 50; Toro: 6 x 52; and Torpedo: 6 1/8 x 52.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Pedro Martin Gold - A typical Connecticut looking wrapper with a unique looking blend of tobacco viewed from the foot. Very different color ligero & seco. Deep spicy prelight but medium bodied, ‘soft’ flavored smoke. Unique orange-zest taste. A nice approachable, yet complex, blend for a mild strengthed cigar.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Pedro Martin Ruby Torpedo -Spicy, clean and bright! Not as much richness or depth as the Corojo

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Pedro Martin Corojo 6x60 - Deliberate draw, full flavored cedar, leather with a touch of spice. Dry finish. This is a lot of cigar. Densely packed, great burn. The last third developes some strong nicotine flavors. Unfortunately, the cigar in this size becomes drier as you smoke it - to the point I had to just stop.

Torano 1916 Cameroon - Smooth as a baby’s bottom and loaded with easygoing flavors of cedar, leather and spice. A delightfully light smoke with flavor.

Chinnock Cellars Terroir - A nice medium bodied smoke that goes well with other things like wine, cheese and chocolate. However, the cigar does not stand out on its own and becomes a bit boring after awhile.

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, the Perdomo Patriarch Maduro Epicure, was suggested by listener Jeff Curtis.

Bob: Very barnyard on the prelight aroma (I liked it); mottled wrapper. Loved the first rush of flavors and an easy draw. Great cedar and bitter chocolate flavors. Throughout, the cigar delivers lots of flavors very consistently. I am enjoying this cigar very much so I hope its an inexpensive one!

Craig: Smells like Nicaragua; the pilon that’s just about ready to be sorted. Deep dark & woody. Lighting reveals a lot of pent up strength. It goes well with my Tanzanian Blackdog Coffee and almost overpowers my underworked palate. Coffee, cedar & BITTER cocoa dominate this enjoyable smoke. Reminiscent of a Pepin smoke but slightly more refined. Perhaps a Jamie Garcia offering or even a new Illusione Maduro. I like this full bodied cigar.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the November Burl Palio cutter was Craig Rich. For December's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. December's prize will be a silver Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Stogie Boys: http://www.stogieboys.com/ and www.facebook.com/stogieboyscigars
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #355 December 3, 2011

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 16:57:13 -0500

Bob and Dale discuss the origin of the word "herf" and answer a newbie question from Liz about why different sized cigars of the same blend vary in taste. The Cigar of the Week, the Brick by Torano, was provided by Duque Cigar Company in Indialantic, Florida. Duque's is running a special right now on one of Liz's favorites, the Xikar Ash Can. The small size fits in a car cup holder; its stainless steel construction makes it durable and clean looking; the 2 spring-shaped cigar holders make it easy to use while driving; and the screw-on lid stops odors from leaking and allows you to store a lit cigar without worry. If you don't smoke in your car, it makes a nice personal-sized inside or outside ash tray. Buy it now for only $16.99 - the lowest price anywhere. The cigar featured in the "What's My Band" segment of the show, the Davidoff Private Stock No. 1, was provided by listener George Edmonson.

Enter November's Silver Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT.

Cigar of the Week - The Brick by Torano brought to us by Duque Cigars(www.duquecigars.com, 410 5th Avenue Indialantic, FL)

The Brick is a bundle cigar from Torano that is made in the Honduras. It is a square pressed cigar - hence the name ”the Brick.” Made of a Honduran binder, a Sumatra wrapper and a Honduran long filler.

Robusto: 5 ½ x 60 ($58.99 per bundle at Duque’s)
Churchill: 7 x 56 ($61.99 at Duque’s)
Torpedo: 6 ½ x 54 ($61.99 at Duque’s)
Available in bundles of 25 and in 5-packs

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Torano Master

EPC Short Run

San Lotano Oval

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Casa Fuente - Expensive cigar; lots of cache and excellent smooth flavors of cedar and well aged tobacco.

J Fuego 777 Corojo - Excellent cedar and dark coffee flavors from one of the best blenders of the modern age. Buy them, smoke them and enjoy them.

Perdomo Fresca- Given to me by Stuminator, sorry to say but this cigar did not meet my expectations for quality or flavor. I do have another one and will be trying it in hopes of changing my opinion.

AJ Overruns

Joya de Nicaragua Antano Dark Corojo

What's My Band?- This week's unbanded, the Davidoff Private Stock No. 1, was provided by listener George Edmonson.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the November Burl Palio cutter is Craig Rich. For December's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. December's prize will be a silver Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbandedcigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Stogie Boys: http://www.stogieboys.com/ and www.facebook.com/stogieboyscigars
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #354 November 25, 2011

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 09:51:53 -0500

Craig Rich is the lucky winner of a Burl Palio cutter in this month's Pailo Cutter Contest. Five additional winners were awarded five-packs of La Tradicion Cubana Coronas provided by Luis Sanchez to commemorate the 16th anniversary of La Tradicion Cubana. The five-pack winners are: Dana Poling, Gary Fritz, Dave & Sharon Zulch, Rodney Duke and Chris Cannon. The Cigar of the Week, the Berger & Argenti Mooch, was provided by Duque Cigar Company in Indialantic, Florida. Duque's is running a special right now on one of Liz's favorites, the Xikar Ash Can. The small size fits in a car cup holder; its stainless steel construction makes it durable and clean looking; the 2 spring-shaped cigar holders make it easy to use while driving; and the screw-on lid stops odors from leaking and allows you to store a lit cigar without worry. If you don't smoke in your car, it makes a nice personal-sized inside or outside ash tray. Buy it now for only $16.99 - the lowest price anywhere. The cigar featured in the "What's My Band" segment of the show, the Guillermo Leon Corona Gorda, was provided by listener D.J. Shalifoe.

Enter November's Silver Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT. FOR THIS WEEK ONLY, THE FRIDAY NIGHT SHOW HAS BEEN MOVED TO SATURDAY, 12/3/11 AT 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Berger & Argenti Mooch brought to us by Duque Cigars (www.duquecigars.com, 410 5th Avenue Indialantic, FL)

Handcrafted with sweet, robust Nicaraguan Cuban seed fillers grown in Esteli; a savory Jalapa-grown binder crop and enveloped in a sun-grown Ecuador Connecticut Seed wrapper; MOOCH® is rapidly becoming what is was meant to be: a cigar enthusiasts’ everyday ‘cigar of choice’!

MOOCH® is available in four uniquely named sizes: ‘Minnie’ (4 ¾”x 42 Corona); ‘Schnorr’ (5” x 50 Robusto); ‘Loll’ (6” x 52 Torpedo); and ‘Windbag’ (7” x 49 Churchill). Thirty (30) MOOCH® cigars are packaged in rustic, perforated slide-top cedar boxes or displayed individually in a 21” striking display tray - with a suggested retail price ranging from $3.99 to $5.49 per cigar, offering exceptional value and affordability.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Aurora Barrel Aged No. 4 Corona - 5.75” x 43 - Featuring tobacco which has been aged for 4 years in oak Rum barrels, the Barrel Aged blend is truly delightful. Creamy, nutty and spicy flavors all well balanced in a medium bodied smoke.

Pinar Del Rio Liga Cubana No. 2 Toro - 6” x 50 - Dominican and Nicaragua fillers surrounded by an oily Brazilian Oscuro wrapper. Coffee, chocolate and a mild sweetness on top of a cedar core of flavor. Bold, balanced and very full bodied, this cigar goes well with a dark Stout or Porter after a heavy meal.

Man O’ War Special Edition Figurado - 7.1” x 58 - Manufactured at Tabacalera Fernandez in Nicaragua, this is a very complex, full bodied cigar with excellent construction. The wrapper is an Ecuadorian grown Habano which has undergone a 3 year fermentation, overseen by AJ Fernandez personally. The filler is all Nicaraguan from 3 different farms. A rich, chewy smoke full of earthy flavors. Also cashew, cocoa bean and vanilla. A peppery finish and a heady room aroma make this a very memorable cigar.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

J Fuego 777 Maduro - An incredible maduro with dark flavors and a smooth finish that will make you fall on your knees and beg for more.

J Fuego 777 Gran Reserva Corojo No. 4 -

Esencia Robusto - Another fine cigar from Esencia. I think the robusto brings out more of the spice than the other sizes but not a heavy spice, just a nice tickle on the tongue.

Illuminati Shield Robusto - A powerful cigar (strongest in the line according to Jack Sanzeri, President). but with mostly smooth dark flavors and a touch of pepper.

Oja Anniversary Maduro Figurado - A very special cigar with smooth flavors of dark bitter chocolate and espresso. Only available at the Little Havana Cigar Factory Store.

What's My Band? - This week's unbanded, the Guillermo Leon Corona Gorda was provided by listener DJ Shalifoe.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the November Burl Palio cutter is Craig Rich. For December's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win. December's prize will be a silver Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbandedcigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/

Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/

Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8

DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6

DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850

Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/

Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/

La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/

La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/

Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/

Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8

Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8

Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/

Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/

Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com

Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8

Stogie Boys: http://www.stogieboys.com/ and www.facebook.com/stogieboyscigars

Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #353 November 19, 2011

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 10:45:05 -0500

Bob and Dale welcome a new sponsor to the show -Stogie Boys, America's fastest growing online cigar retailer. Bob, Dale and Liz answer a question from Wes (FragmagnetEOD) and his wife, Dominique, about what smokers mean when they describe a cigar's taste. (Click here to read Liz's written answer.) The discussion broadens into how altitude and temperature affect cigar tastes and smells. Listener Nelson Pidgeon offers a tip on eliminating cigar smell from a room. The Cigar of the Week, the Padron 2000 Robusto Maduro 5 x 50, was provided by Duque Cigar Company in Indialantic, Florida. On "What's hot? What's not? What's next?" Liz interviews Vincent Duran from the Little Havana Cigar Factory on Calle Ocho in Little Havana, Miami. The cigar featured in the "What's My Band" segment of the show, the Little Havana Overruns "Small Batch," was provided by listener Jay Ledou.

Enter November's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) More winners this month! In addition to awarding the Palio Cutter to some lucky listener, Bob and Dale will also be giving away five 5-packs of La Tradicion Cubana Coronas provided by Luis Sanchez to commemorate the 16th anniversary of La Tradicion Cubana. To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT.

Cigar of the Week - Padron 2000 Robusto Maduro 5 x 50 brought to us by Duque Cigars (www.duquecigars.com, 410 5th Avenue Indialantic, FL)

The Padron 2000 is a Nicaraguan Puro made in Esteli with long-aged Cuban seed tobaccos. Square-pressed shape with dark, oily wrappers. Limited annual production. Affordable price - under $5. Also comes in a Natural Robusto. Offered in boxes of 26 and in four packs.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

GAR Opium STK - 6” x 52 - Craig reviewed this cigar on his last visit to the show & I got so excited about it I had to go find one! The wrapper & binder are Nicaraguan, with the wrapper being a Habano 2000/Corojo 1998 hybrid. The filler blend is not released, just described by George Rico as “a unique blend”. The cigar was very well constructed and had a perfect draw. Flavors throughout the cigar were cedar, light exotic spices and a light, crisp fruitiness (apple or pear). Body was medium in the first half, moving to full the rest of the way. Smooth, sophisticated and very well balanced, this cigar was as unique as Craig mentioned. Very enjoyable and box-worthy! MSRP $9, $10.50 with CO confiscatory taxes.

Devil’s Weed Maduro Churchill - 7” x 48 - Acquired from the buy-out stock at CI (along with several bundles of the natural wrapped Robusto), this is a fantastic bargain for magnificent cigars. When Bob & I discovered Devil’s Weed cigars, we couldn't’ stop smoking them...and again I find myself having one every day. Dominican tobaccos wrapped in a dark maduro leaf provide a medium bodied, full flavored trip down memory lane. Cedar, coffee, toasted grains and some sweetened cocoa flavors.

Illusione 88 Maduro -5” x 52 - Utilizing an oily San Andreas wrapper over binder & filler of Nicaraguan tobaccos, the Maduro line of Illusione cigars, like the core line, highlights one of the skills of a fine blender - namely that each vitola, while similar in flavor, has it’s own characteristics and personality. I’ve smoked the cg4 (corona), the hl (lancero) and now the 88 (robusto) in this line, and all are fantastic. The 88 showcases the spice and dark fruit (raisin) sweetness best. The hl highlights the leather, coffee and earthiness and seems the most complex. The cg4 seems to balance all of those flavors equally. All these flavors are present in the line, just find the one that gives you the most of what you like best!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Cohiba Extra Vigarosa - You know, I am not usually a fan of Cohibas. I typically find them to be underflavored and overall dull. However, the Extra Vigarosa is an exception and I really enjoyed it. The Cohiba X-V is a very limited quantity cigar and the most bold of the entire line from General Cigar. Dark flavors run around your mouth and dance in the air as this cigar fills you with memories of cold winter nights in front of an oak fire. With a dark Capa Corona Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper that is bold, flavorful and smooth. The filler is Nicaraguan Ligero and Piloto Cubano Ligero. The binder is a balancing Connecticut Broadleaf. Available in 5 sizes: the X-V 749 7x49; the X-V 660 6x60; the X-V 652 6x52; my choice, the X-V 645 6x45; and the X-V 550 5x50. An excellent smoke that has made me a fan of Cohiba, at least of the X-V line.

Esencia Petite Corona - The Esencia Petite Corona has become a favorite of ours over the years. At 5 1/8 x 42, this is the perfect smoke for those times that time is in short supply. Like when dinner is just around the corner or you want more smoke before retiring for the evening. Smooth flavors of spice, cedar and a nice leather undertone mark the Esencia line and the Petite Corona delivers a full flavored smoke every time. The perfect match for a glass of whiskey or a great cup of coffee, this cigar stands up to the test of time.

What's My Band? - This week's unbanded, the Little Havana Overruns "Small Batch," was provided by listener Jay Ledou.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the October carbon fiber Palio cutter was Mark Pousard from Colorado. For November's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). In addition to a Palio Cutter, this month we will also be awarding five 5-packs of La Tradicion Cubana Cigars provided by Luis Sanchez to commemorate the 16th anniversary of La Tradicion Cubana. Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbandedcigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Stogie Boys: http://www.stogieboys.com/ and www.facebook.com/stogieboyscigars
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #352 November 11, 2011

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 10:50:08 -0500

In honor of Veteran's Day, Bob, Dale and Guest Host Craig Schneider dedicate this week's show to all veterans and active service men and women. The Cigar of the Week, the Joya de Nicaragua Antano Dark Corojo, was generously provided by Duque Cigar Companyin Indialantic, Florida. Listener Dan Crouch writes a review of the "Chigringo Inaugural Vintage" cigar, a blend developed by Craig Schneider that is no longer in production. The cigar featured in the "What's My Band" segment of the show, Kinky Friedman's Kinky Christo, was provided by Chris from Saturnrising.com. Thanks Chris!

Enter November's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) More winners this month! In addition to awarding the Palio Cutter to some lucky listener, Bob and Dale will also be giving away five 5-packs of La Tradicion Cubana Coronas provided by Luis Sanchez to commemorate the 16th anniversary of La Tradicion Cubana. To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT.

Cigar of the Week - Joya de Nicaragua Antano Dark Corojo

The Antano was made to celebrate the unbridled richness of Nicaraguan tobacco. The Dark Corojo is a power personality of the Antano line, pure Nicaraguan tobacco and rich deep flavors.

Sizes: Peligroso, 5 x 44; Azarosa, 4 ½ x 52; El Martillo, 5 ½ x 54; La Pesadilla, 4 ¾ x 60; and Poderoso, 6 x 54.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

G.A.R. Opium - A beautiful cigar with a very different profile than other cigars coming from Guillermo & George Rico. More akin to the pre-release Aztecas and initial 3-Siglos than any of the other GAR or numbered Gran Habanos. Very little of that Jalapa woody flavor. Lots of zingy citrus sweetness with good basic tobacco. There’s still something a little different about these as well.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Perdomo Reserve Champagne Noir Figurado - 4.75” x 44/56 - Perdomo is a fine cigar manufacturer who not only makes cigars for many other brand owners, but has many varied lines of their own brands. This line is a “go to” for me. It’s a Nicaraguan Puro with a wrapper that has had a 14 month triple fermentation followed by 6 months of aging in oak bourban barrels. It has a lovely oily sheen and a medium dark maduro color. For me it provides a clean, rich, balanced smoke with complex flavors and a smooth medium body. Some caramel sweetness over a core of earthy cedar, coffee and cocoa bean notes with just the right amount of that Nica Zing spice. Avail in 6 other sizes, and all range from $5 - $7 in boxes of 25 cigars.

Ave Maria St. George (belicoso) - 6” x 54 - Nicaraguan made in Esteli, with Nicaraguan fillers & binder wrapped in an Ecuadorian grown Habano wrapper with a wonderful rosado tinge. Construction was flawless and the cigar offered a perfect draw. Depth of flavor, good balance of strength-to-flavor and a medium bodied smoke that is extremely creamy. A very refined cigar with mild spice, roasted nuts and a woody finish. Also, a heady room aroma that was fragrantly floral & spicy. As one might guess, this creation from A.J. Fernadez was a superb cigar. 9 sizes in the $7-10 range.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Gurkha Micro-Batch: C-10

Wrapper: Connecticut Ecuador ‘02
Binder: Nicaraguan Habano
Filler: 50% Nicaraguan ligero, 30% Nicaraguan Viso, 20% Nicaraguan Seco
Strength: Medium
Production: 45,000 cigars
Aging: 120 days, post-rolling

Liz purchased the C-10 Churchills from Cigars International for 10 cigars for$25. (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=SP-GHD7048-B-10)

AJ Fernandez - These were classified as “Overruns” by CI’s website and Liz purchased them for an amazing $29.99 for a bundle of 25 Robustos. (They are now listed at $39.99 on the site.) CI describes them as follows: “From the heralded Tabacalera Fernandez, home of AJ Fernandez and his star-studded lineup of top-notch blends, these cigars burn and taste just like the firsts you know and love. Man O’ War, Diesel, 5 Vegas Triple-A, San Lotano....you name it. Some are box-pressed, some are round, in a variety of natural, maduro, and Habano blends. All long-filler cigars hand-crafted in typical, top-notch A. Fernandez fashion with first-quality, aged tobaccos.”

What's My Band? - This week's unbanded, Kinky Friedman's Kinky Christo, was provided by Chris from Saturnrising.com.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the October carbon fiber Palio cutter is Mark Pousard from Colorado. For November's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). In addition to a Palio Cutter, this month we will also be awarding five 5-packs of La Tradicion Cubana Cigars provided by Luis Sanchez to commemorate the 16th anniversary of La Tradicion Cubana. Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbandedcigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herfline and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Cuban Cigar Creation App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cuban-cigar-creation/id441057146?mt=8
DogWatch Cigar Radio iTunes App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio-weekly/id338128296?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D6
DogWatch Cigar Radio Android App: http://www.appbrain.com/app/dogwatch-cigar-radio/tv.wizzard.android.dogwatchsocialclub850
Duque Cigars: http://duquecigars.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Mobile Stogie Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-by-cigar-research/id395661756?mt=8
Mobile Stogie Ref App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobile-stogie-reference/id431376892?mt=8
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Scotch Pro App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scotch-pro/id457390580?mt=8
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

Cigars One To One - Jorge Armenteros November 10, 2011

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:05:21 -0500

A frank and open discussion with Jorge Armenteros founder of Tobacconist University and owner of two successful retail tobacco shops.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #351 November 05, 2011

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:04:33 -0500

The Cigar of the Week, the Undercrown by Drew Estate, was provided by Duque Cigar Company in Indialantic, Florida. The cigars featured in the "What's My Band" segment of the show were sent by Canadian listener Adam Zed. Adam's selections stumped both Bob and Dale.

Enter November's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT.

Cigar of the Week - the Undercrown Robusto by Drew Estate.

This cigar can basically be called the half-brother to the Liga Privada line. Will this cigar become the black sheep of the family or will it be widely accepted? That is the question that can only be answered over time. The Undercrown is available in 5 sizes: Robusto 5 x 50 ($7.45 MSRP); Gran Toro 6 x 52 ($7.95 MSRP); Belicoso 6 x 52 ($8.45 MSRP); Corona Doble 7 x 54 ($8.95 MSRP) and Gordito 6 x 60 ($9.95 MSRP).

Wrapper: San Andreas Otapan Negro Último Corte
Binder: T52 Connecticut River Valley Stalk Cut & Cured Habano
Filler: Select Brazilian Mata Fina and Nicaraguan Cuban Seed

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Sencillo Platinum Piramide - 6.25” x 54 - The Sencillo Platinum line was developed by God of Fire creator Keith Park in concert with Christian Eirora, and is a Honduran Puro made in Honduras at the Camacho factory. The tobaccos are primarily Habano de Jamastran with some Piloto Cubana added in the filler. The line has been out since early spring of 2010 and is avail in 6 sizes. While being a true premium boutique cigar in the tradition of God of Fire and Angelenos (made for Park by Fuente), the Sencillo line is a bit lower in price. What’s important though is what a marvelous cigar this is! Lots of exotic spice flavors (nutmeg, cardamom & cinnamon) and room aromas with undertones of pepper and mild sweetness, all surrounding a rich leathery core. The cigar is perfectly balanced, medium bodied and full flavored. No bite, no harshness, just silky smooth flavors in a well made cigar.

Alec Bradley Black Market Gordo - 6” x 60 - Alan Ruben’s release at this year’s trade show demonstrates what top quality tobaccos, patient fermentation and masterful blending can produce. It also continues the AB tradition of unique packaging & presentation. The filler blend is Honduran and Panamanian, the binder is from Sumatra and the wrapper is a dark maduro from Jalapa Nicaragua. Avail in 4 traditional sizes plus this 60 ring Gordo. The only reason I smoked this size was it was the only size available at the B&M I was in. The cigar delivers a creamy, rich smoke of medium body. Spicy notes mixed with a semi-sweetness from the wrapper compliment each other well. A subdued chocolate malt flavor was a nice surprise. Cedar flavors built as the cigar progressed. The retro hale was smooth, yet spicy and crisp.

Buena Vista Limited Edition & Buena Vista Reserva - In the past two weeks I’ve smoked 2 sizes of the Ecuadorian Puro Buena Vista Limited Edition line (Churchill and Sublimes) and one of the Buena Vista Reserva line (Corona Larga, 4 ⅞ x 50). The Reserva line has some Dominican tobacco added to the filler which adds a bit of subtle spice. Some commonalities - all 3 cigars were very firmly packed and started with a bit of a snug draw. However, within the first ½ inch they all opened up to a perfect draw. All 3 also presented a floral & cedar character, but the Reserva had more spice and pepper. Both lines were medium bodied at best and the volume of smoke was reserved, yet the flavors came through brilliantly. At the higher end of the price spectrum when first released in the US, but listening to the retailers feedback, the pricing has been reduced. I’m hopeful this will help get the brand in more stores, as these are very, very good cigars!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Gukha Seduction - An amazingly smooth and flavorful cigar from the guys known for power and full flavors. This cigar smokes of luxury and refined tobacco with medium body flavors of leather, coffee and chocolate.

Humo Jaguar - full bodied Honduran cigar named for the annual cigar festival Humo Jaguar in Honduras, from Miami Cigar and Company.

What's My Band? - Bob and Dale reviewed and compared authentic and fake Montecristo No. 2 Habanas provided by Adam Zed. Bob and Dale both liked the "fake" one best.

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of the October carbon fiber Palio cutter is Mark Pousard from Colorado. For November's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #351 November 05, 2011

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:01:25 -0500

DogWatch Cigar Radio #350 October 28, 2011 - Part 2

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 20:19:40 -0400

Lou Rodriquez of Lou Rodriguez Cigars gives some background on the Cigar of The Week, the Edicion Premier Bom-Bom. Bob and Dale get some feedback from listener Jorge on last week's Cigar of the Week, the Buena Vista. On What's hot? What's not? What's next? Liz interviews Kevin from The Party Source in Bellevue, Kentucky. The winner of this month's carbon fiber Palio cutter is Mark Pousard from Colorado. After the guys share what else they have been smoking, Liz adds her review of the CAO Crillio. The 'What's My Band?' cigar is the Humo Jaguar Robusto suggested by Jeff Curtis.

Enter November's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. Remember you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EDT. Note: The November 4th show will be broadcast live on November 5th at the regular time. You won't want to miss this one! Adam Zed from Canada has provided Bob and Dale with two unbanded cigars each and instructed them to smoke the cigars on the same day when they review them. Tune in to find out what they are or download the show later from iTunes.

Cigar of the Week - Lou Rodriguez Edicion Premier Bom-Bom, 4.75 x 42.

Wrapper: San Andres

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Proprietary Nicaraguan Blend

Sizes:

Bom-Bom 4¾ x 42 Box of 10
Robusto 5 x 50 Box of 20
Toro 6 x 50 Box of 20
Churchill 7 x 50 Box of 20
Gordito 6 x 60 Box of 20

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

La Gloria Cubana Artesanos Retro Especiale Habanero - 6” x 52 - One of the newest lines from the Artesanos series, this cigar just began shipping in late September. The wrapper is a cross-breed Connecticut variety grown in Honduras. It has a double binder - Nicaraguan and Mexican. The filler is Nicaraguan and Dominican with a good dose of ligero. Available in 3 other sizes, all between $7 & $8 MSRP. A medium bodied smoke with lots of complexity, good balance and, dare I say, displaying a sophisticated level of blending skill. Earthy, semi-sweet, floral and rich in a format that smokes cool.

Obsidian Belicoso - 6.5” x 52 - From the folks at Pinar Del Rio, this cigar utilizes Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers tucked in a Criollo ‘98 binder, and all wrapped up in a dark, oily Brazilian Habano variety ligero leaf. Now the traditional thinking is that ligero leaves are too oily, too thick and not refined enough to be used as a wrapper leaf, but if that’s what this is, it works perfectly. I found no issues with the burn on the wrapper - it stayed lit and burned evenly. It also is very silky and smooth in appearance. What I liked best though was the flavors! Creamy, rich, bold and smooth in all respects, with some great zingy spice over a core of savory earthy tones. Very full bodied as well, with a thick chewiness to the smoke. Leather, nuts, cocoa, peat, coffee and vanilla are just some of the complex flavors. The finish is long with coffee & spice lingering forever. MSRP is listed at over $7, but can be found for around $3.50 in many locations.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Cedros Deluxe / My Father Cigars - About a 6x46 perfecto with impeccable looks.Great mild spice with undertones of leather and roasted oats. Definitely worth my money and a delight to smoke. Thumbs Up.

El Primer Mundo Rosado Oscuro - A hearty smoke of sweet spice, chocolate and coffee that becomes bitter in the last inch which is OK since the rest is good. Thumbs Up, spend my money.

Monte Pascoal Double Corona - Milder than the smaller sizes but still rich with flavor, grassy with slight bitter. Spend my money.

What's My Band? - The Humo Jaguar Robusto suggested by Jeff Curtis. Bob and Dale both liked this one and want to smoke more. Bob thought it was "a toasty treat for the senses."

Palio Cutter Contest: The winner of this month's carbon fiber Palio cutter is Mark Pousard from Colorado. For November's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars (all the better if they happen to be Esencias, but it will not affect your chances of winning). Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line. Don't forget, you must re-enter the contest every month to be eligible to win.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #350 October 28, 2011 - Part 1

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 20:16:29 -0400

Mobile Stogie Pro - Humidor Tutorial October 24, 2011

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:54:20 -0400

See how easy it is to use the humidor functions on Mobile Stogie Pro. Available for all iOS devices in the iTunes Store

DogWatch Cigar Radio #349 October 21, 2011

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 09:53:31 -0400

This week Professor Doug Fiore, Student of the Leaf sits in for Dale while he is away hunting. Doug publishes a popular cigar column that is published twice a month on our website, www.CigarMedia.tv Bob interviews Gary Heathcott of Buena Vista Cigars to learn more about the featured Cigar of the Week, the Buena Vista Limitada Reserva. On What's hot? What's not? What's next? Liz interviews Ben Pearson from the Burning Leaf Cigar shop located in Plainfield, IL. Ben also reviews cigars on his blog, cigarinhand.com. The 'What's My Band?' cigar is the Nestor Miranda Collection Dominicano lancero suggested by Jeff Curtis.

Enter October's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) September's winner of a Palio cutter is Dan Lawson. To see the contest pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST. Note: The November 4th show will be broadcast live on November 5th at the regular time. You won't want to miss this one! Adam Zed from Canada has provided Bob and Dale with two unbanded cigars each and instructed them to smoke the cigars on the same day when they review them. Tune in to find out what they are.

Cigar of the Week - Buena Vista Limitada Reserva Piramide.

This cigar is an Ecuadorian puro. From the web site:

For several years we have searched the Western Hemisphere to find the one location that most resembles and replicates the famous Pinar del Rio tobacco-growing region of Cuba. Our research resulted in a small valley located in Ecuador, where the soil content, the daily temperatures, and the atmospheric conditions all combine to deliver a tobacco leaf that we feel mirrors identically, the world’s most desired tobacco — CUBAN.

The all new Buena Vista Tobacco Factory is annually producing an extremely limited supply of only 400,000 of its ultra premium cigars for the U.S. market. Buena Vista cigars are produced in nine shapes (also known as vitolas) and premiered as one of the highest quality cigars ever introduced in America. The tobacco for the initial offering of Edicion Limitada was been aged for 3 years, and comes exclusively from our plantation in Ecuador.

Comes in 9 sizes:

Corona Larga 4 7/8 x 50
Robusto: 5 3/8 x 54
Piramide: 6 1/4 x 52
Sublime: 6 1/2 x 54
Prominentes: 7 x 49
Doble Robusto: 5 5/8 x 52
Corona: 5 1/8 x 46
Petite Piramide: 4 7/8 x 52
Short Churchill: 4 3/8 x 54

What else have you been smokin' Doug?

Lou Rodriquez

Oliva O Maduro

Quesada Oktoberfest

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

5 Vegas Limitada 2011 - cedar wrap; great flavors of leather and toasted oats. Nice medium flavor strength; good body to the smoke that just rolls through the air. A real nice smoke.

Blue Ribbon bundled cigars - As you know I am not one to regularly smoke low-priced bundled cigars; however, recent events have caused me to take a closer look at the options. These are made by Drew Estate.

What's My Band? - The Nestor Miranda Collection Dominicano lancero suggested by Jeff Curtis.

Here is Executive Producer Liz's review of the unbanded: I liked this lancero cigar. Before I cut it, I smelled cocoa. After cutting I got a barnyard smell. The 1st puff gave me toast. I had trouble with the draw, it was tight, but Bob had no trouble with his cigar’s draw. As I smoked this cigar, I tasted coffee with a slight bitterness and coffee overtones. I tried retrohaling and got a barnyard flavor, but no spice (which I liked because I hate a nose burn). It ended with more of a cocoa taste. I liked this cigar and would smoke it again. It was a nice change from the mellow cocoa or coffee tastes that I tend to gravitate to. It gave me enough of my flavor favorites to enjoy it, but threw in some twists that were a good change. I also noticed that I finished well ahead of Bob. (I have got to slow down.)

Palio Cutter Contest: The September winner of a silver Palio cutter is Dan Lawson from Louisana. For October's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars. Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #348 October 14, 2011

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 05:15:56 -0400

This week we welcome Craig Schneider back for the biggest smoke ever on DogWatch Cigar Radio. The three of us exchanged cigars this week so we each have three cigars to review making for a total of nine reviews of 6 different cigars (do the math yourself, this one confused me). We also have mail from Palio contest winners, a request from a listener and a question for our team of experts.

Cigars of the Week -

Cigar of the Week: Bob – E.P Carillo Golosos Cigars
Ring Gauge: 60 Length: 6.5 inches Shape: Toro Gordo Strength: Medium
E.P Carillo Golosos Cigars - The creator and the man behind the famous cigar brand La Gloria Cubana has launch a new personal project and another fabulous cigar The E.P. Carillo. The filler in the EP Carillo cigar is a well aged 5 year old Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers that is bound and wrapped with a 3 year old Ecuadorian-grown Habano wrapper. This cigar is a medium bodied cigar that is characterized creamy flavors, and rich notes of pepper.

Cigar of the Week: Dale - Mi Tierra Habano
Ring Gauge: 60 Length:4.5” Shape/Name:Parejo - Grand
Mi Tierra cigars are Dominican Puros, made from tobaccos grown on a single farm. Michael Munoz is the brand face of the line, but the cigars were developed in a joint venture with Jose Blanco. All the blend tobacco has been aged for 3 years and is covered in a silky Habano variety wrapper. A complex cigar with more spice then one might expect, especially right from the start. Rich and bold full flavors that keep the cigar very interesting throughout the experience. The body of the smoke is medium, and the strength level is above the typical Dominican profile.

Cigar of the Week: Craig - Anonymous
Ring Gauge:56 Length:6.375” Shape/Name:Parejo - Sublimes (roughly - Little short, little wide)
This large cigar has a rustic Mexican San Andreas Seco skin on a body of tobacco coming from all one country. It brings a slightly sweet demeanor to the table with an interesting spicy core. It was released to slightly negative fanfare and never received the due I feel it deserved. In my opinion, it did not take off as a cigar enjoyed by the masses. That explains why I may like it, as my tastes tend to lean away from the trends of today. Strength, but with balance; the only way I’ll take it.

Rearranging show dates!
We are moving the the Nov 4 show to November 5 as Liz and I will be traveling that evening.

_______________________________________________
We get Mail: Sometimes it takes a while....
Liz,
Below is a copy of an email I tried to send on 15 JUL 11. I continued to listen to the podcast wondering if you ever received it.
Bob & Dale,
Thank you! Thank you for the selecting me as the May contest winner of the magnificent Palio cutter. I received it in the mail about two weeks ago and have used it for every cut on my cigars since. I was just getting ready to buy one when I listened to your podcast and heard I was selected; now I’ll have to buy a carbon fiber cutter. You mentioned on the podcast that you believed I was military and you was absolutely correct. I am a sergeant First Class in the Army stationed in Germany and recently returned home from Afghanistan. I am very new the good life of cigar smoking but thanks to your podcast (and the power of the internet), I have become educated quickly. Once again thank you for selecting me, for an incredible radio show, and for your support of the uniformed services. Keep up the great work!
v/r
SFC Tim Delaney

More Mail: a call to our listeners
DJ Shalifoe is looking for any retailers that still have pre-General Cigar CAO La Traviatas in stock. DJ writes:
The old pre-GC Traviatas come with the CAO branded Boveda pack in the box whereas the post-GC CAOs do not. I'm partial to the Divino and Animados vitolas in either natural or maduro. The reason I want the older ones is that I find CAO cigars under General's ownership to have fallen off the cliff, so to speak.

If any listener knows of a retailer with pre-GC Traviatas, send the info to theshow@cigarmedia.tv and we will pass it along.

More Mail: Listener feedback

John Magrisso to Liz after she followed up to see how he liked the Palio cutter he won in June

Liz,
I received the Palio cutter sometime at the very end of June and shot
Bob an e-mail when upon its receipt. I've been very happy with it- it
has lived up to all the accolades given on the show each week!
As to the show, I've been listening for a number of years now, and
though I'm not the most vocal listener, I look forward to it every
week and thoroughly enjoy the sense of community it provides us cigar
smokers (especially living here in Massachusetts, where I'll get dirty
looks just for smoking on my own front steps)! So thank you all!
John

Legislative Update

Venezuela has annulled by decree an anti-smoking law, which prohibits tobacco use in public places and offices a day after enforcement.
Venezuela's Ministry of Health announced its new decision just a day after the anti-smoking law was printed in the Official Gazette.
According to the new legislation, smoking was banned in public spaces, cafes, public toilets, dining halls and joined buildings. The new law was planned to be implemented after three months, said a Press TV correspondent.
Get the full story

Craig: Funny how Venezuela’s ban comes right on the heals of their dictator’s struggle with cancer. Wait... I’ve read this again. So they’re annulling the legislation?

Craig’s Esencia Contest
#1 - Adam Zed
Esencia Canonazo
Cut - took off just the cap to produce a good draw. Not tight, but almost perfect.
Pre-light aroma - I don't do this anymore as the smells might get mixed when I have a lot of singles in the same area.
Apperance - Nice color, firm but not hard body. The cap was almost invisible, it was so well placed and pressed into the crown.
Smoke time - 2 hours on the nose
Drink - Pepsi and ice. Also a bottle of water if I want to cleanse well.
Light - Toasted end with triple torch until an ember appears then draw a couple times with a little bit of heat to the end of the cigar.

I decided to break this stick into quarters instead of the typical thirds...no reason, just thought it would work, and it did.
First few puffs ( I don't use these to determine the whole first quarter ) - Big kick to the back of the throat. A lot of black pepper that I get from Nica tobacco. Very heavy.
First quarter - After the first 4-6 pulls, the cigar settled down. I immidiately thought of Illusione MK. Smooth ! The back of throat raspiness went away immidiately. Black pepper lingers for a minute after expelling smoke. Pallet filling, great. The burn is great, straight and not pulling inside at all. The smoke at this point is drying my mouth with every puff, but making me salivate at the same time...I almost equate this to the experience of an almond when you first put it in your mouth, it is drying your mouth, but making you salivate at the same time. There is an underlying peaty/ earthiness that comes in only after smoke is expelled and taste lingers. At this point, it reminds me the only H. Upmann Mag 50 I have had, wonderful !
Second quarter - Started developing a white pepper flavor that I absolutely love, I only get this in T52 Toros and it is the flavor I always search for. Still a drying effect with the smoke in my mouth at the sides, almost like red wine tannins when you first take a drink and it gives you that "bite" at the back sides of your mouth. Still smooth. There is a mineral, almost metallic, taste that comes in now that works well with cigars on the finish.
Third quarter - Settled out now to a lush white pepper flavor predominantly filling the pallet. Still a mineral feeling/taste that works. The body now goes from a steady medium, to medium-full as the smoke seems to get richer and thicker. Now I am getting a roasted deep tobacco flavor at the end of this quarter that fills out my missing piece for what I look for in a great cigar. MMMM ! White pepper and roasted tobacco complement each other so well because they don't bombard your pallet, but complement the experience.
Last quarter - Same tastes at the beginning, but as I get deeper in, the roasted flavor starts to dominate. The flavor and smoke completely coat the mouth. I know when I blow smoke out and it becomes a giant white/grey cloud that floats in the air outside like a cloud, that it has now transcended into full bodied. The white pepper subsided and became a creamy roasted tobacco ending ... oh wow ! Great finish.

I don't usually smoke cigars until I littlerally burn my fingers, most of the time I smoke them down to about an inch, but if the smoke is still cool enough and has flavors other than tar, I tend to incure short term pain for long term gain. I have only done this once, with a Padron Maduro.
I highly recommend these cigars, and would buy more to lay them away for a little bit to see if that mineral taste would subside a little bit, as it was the only thing that wasn't helping earlier, but that mineral taste was not bad in any way.

Now for the non-technical of this email;
I love these cigars, and recommend them to as many people as I can. I have given them away to people, even though it is very hard for me to find them as the retailers are not willing to ship up here, and also turned people onto smoking these wonderful beauties. I have had the Lancero, Canonazo, Robusto, and Corona Extra's. My preferance is the robusto's as the blend just "fits".
It is funny that when I ordered some cigars the last time, my friend who goes down across the border to pick them up for me and bring them back across to ship here informed me of how he had been looking for Esencias for a while as well. He was so happy to know where to get them after we discussed my source; Fullers Pullers. He was even happier when he was gifted a 5 pack of cigars heh.
As far as my "experience" with Esencias, I cannot say that I have smoked them with anyone else at the same time, or done anything wild with them anywhere as I have just been smoking them for a few months now, but what I can say is that my "experience" with Marc of Brothers of the Leaf LLC has been fantastic ! He has treated me well, answered a few questions I have asked in a timely manor, sent me a couple cigars to start me off in down the road of ever-expanding credit card debt, and seems to be doing well at maintaining a great
standard on his cigars. As a consumer, I cannot ask for much more from a brand owner....well I guess I could ask him to come up here to the frozen north for a shop event .......... but somehow I highly doubt that :/

Thanks Craig for reading this long-ass email, I am just so happy that I finally found a way to get these cigars up here, even though there are a bunch of hoops to jump through.

#2 Ralph from Connecticut (Ralph Purificato)
On Mon, Oct 3, 2011 at 10:36 AM, Ralph Purificato wrote:
Hey guys. Long time podcast listener who went to the CRA website to support the Traditional Cigar Manufacturing and Small Business Jobs Preservation Act. Unfortunately the support in CT seem to fall on deaf ears as you can see below. My response from Senator Blumenthal was the same as from Mr. Leiberman. Just wanted to pass this on and see if we could make a little more noise in Connecticut to let our "representatives" know that consenting adults would like to make their own choices on how we spend our time and money.

I also wanted to take the last half of this email to talk about Esencia cigars for Craig's contest. I still consider myself a "new" cigar smoker though I have been enjoying cigars for close to 10 years. It started when I was 18 and a friend and I were given cigars by an older relative. From that point on we've always frequented our local smoke shop, The Owl Shop in New Haven CT. Up until about 2 years ago I never bothered to try and pick out flavors and a cigar simply being smooth was my main criteria. Now since paying more attention and listening to podcasts and reviews I am enjoying cigars more than ever. With that being said, I finally picked up an Esencia cigar last week and enjoyed it on my porch with a glass of water. The first thing that hit me on the first few puffs was gingerbread. As I smoked the cigar more and tried to pick out the individual flavors, I found that the spice and cedar woody flavors I picked out combined to make that initial "gingerbread" that hit me initially. I really enjoyed this cigar and it seemed to fit the fall season that's starting here. The burn was also terrific and the cigar smoked great down to the nub. I will definitely be picking up more of these and really enjoyed it.
--
Ralph from Connecticut

#3 Dan Crouch WINNER - He shared the experience with another.
I gotta say I never thought I would have an Esencia cigar in my life (or any super premium for that matter). There are no Brick and Mortars in the area and to be honest they are really not in my price bracket. However, due to the kindness of Marc Aub I received a few samples and now I am hooked. The cigar smells as good as it smokes and that is amazing. All have been smooth and had a nice touch of sweetness along with hints of pepper in the retro. I even gave one of the few to my dad and he just could not believe how smooth it was. Now I am saving my change in hopes of buying a box should I ever get up to the city (Chicago).

#4 Charlie Platt from Springdale AR
Some of the best NCCs in my man cave! I tried these on recommendation of Bob and Dale. Completely satisfied! A rich and complex smoke. Great work BOTL.
Charlie Platt

What's My Band? - This week we have three unbanded cigars, one from each of the hosts..

Bob:

Dales unbanded (Famous Nicaraguan 7000): Great leather with a slight sweet spice, I enjoyed this cigar tremendously. Now I guess I have to buy some.

Craig (Craigs own blend): unbanded was the best constructed lancero I had had for some time. But the tste did not quite live up to the construction all the way through.

Craig:

From Dale (Famous Nicaraguan 7000): 5x50 Prelight - No tingle,slight sweet spice; cinnamon? Slight Barn funk. Round, like it was from a cabinet or SBN cedar box packed loosely. Curious if it was put in cellophane to fool us or just an older cigar that has lost some shape. Oil lines where the cigar was touched by somethign else for an extended period.
1st 3rd - Immediate Earth & citrus sweetness. made me think of a royal Corona then, naturally of a Monte pascal. Little tangy sweetness similar to the Montecristo fruity tang. Overall, despite having the sweet Cuban flavors, the sweetness was more Nicaraguan in how it came across. More zing than Twang.
Med Body (3/5) - Med/Strong Strength (3.5/5)
Reminds me of the RP 15th at this point but stronger
2nd 3rd - Deepenign up in Flavors & continuing w/ med/high strength (4/5) Slight bready component - Good. Think this might be a blend instead of a Puro. Turning sugary sweet with less deep/dark flavors.
The bread, sugar, and accompanying 1942 Tequila make a wonderful cookie flavor. Starts dropping strength back down to ⅗.
Estelian sweetness, like Pepin gets out of his balsy Nic flavors. Like a JJ or a Black label
3rd 3rd - Sweet tang; more Esteli-an flavors. Less strength than 1st third, (who did we meet that positions leaves “backward”? Stalk than tip? They mentioned consistant flavor & strength.) This is so different from that idea. But, it behaves as if it was opposite traditional flavor/strength progression. Odd. It should be getting stronger if it was normal & staying the same if it was backward...
Overall - Good, too much nicotine for an anytime smoke for me. Finished more to my preferred strength but started w/ more complexity & depth of flavor.
Serie JJ? No real idea.
From Bob (blended dring a Cigar Tourism trip in 2011): 6-1/8”x51 Parejo
Prelight: Barely any wrapper aroma; loads of Saffron & paprika like smoke off of the filler. Very, very unique for a cigar to have this distinct savory spice flavor. Pretty wrapper with a funky cap. I didn’t cut this cigar, I peeled the simple cap off & separated the binder leaf below. Looks a lot like an Equadorian wrapper from the stuff La Aurora puts out but the sizes don’t match their production.
1st Third: Deep, rich flavors; cedary, caramel. Tastes immediately of both Jalapa Nicaraguan tobacco & Olor (?) Dominican. Nice mix of flavors
2nd Third: Sweet creamy depth that has evolved from the Nicaraguan base of initial flavors. Tastes like the sweetness off of a Habano wrapper. Could this be a La Reloba Habano? What happened to the Dominican notes? The appearance continues to shine with oils coming to the surface of this thick wrapper. Almost corojo leathery feel without the appearance. Beautiful veining, color consistency & oils.
More sweet flavor now turning tart & tangy like sorbet
Final Third: Buttery sweetness from the Creamy 2nd third with a wonderful grain. Still woody but a bit softer in how it comes across. Not as much body as initially and the flavors have gotten a little “easier” on the palate. Full flavored & still complex. I really enjoy this stick. Could it be all Nicaraguan or is there more to it?
I would say no stronger than 3 /5 with an equivalent body. Great smoke.
La Reloba? No real idea.

Palio Cutter Contest: The September winner of a silver Palio cutter is Dan Lawson from Louisana. For October's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars. Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #347 October 07,2011

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 06:56:41 -0400

The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the Torano Loyal provided by The Duque Cigar Company of Indiatlantic.

Spots are still available on the Cigar Tourism trips to the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, sign up now before all the seats are gone! A few places on the Dominican Republic trip are also still available. There are two contests this month: 1) Enter guest host Craig Schneider's Esencia Contest by sending in your review or "experience" of smoking an Esencia cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Be sure to type "Esencia" on the subject line.) On Craig's next appearance on DogWatch (Show #348 recorded on October 14th), he will be awarding some cigars from his personal humidor for the best submission (as he judges it). 2) You can also enter October's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) September's winner of a Palio cutter is Dan Lawson. To see the September pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. The 'What's My Band?' cigar is the Nestor Miranda Special Selection provided by Liz.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Torano Loyal.

"Our new brand Loyal is dedicated to my father's long standing commitment to provide exceptional quality cigars without breaking the bank. To him cigars were never a far reaching luxury, but one of life's simple pleasures", said Charlie Torano, President, Torano Family Cigars. Loyal will be available in a 5x56 Robusto, a 6 1/8 x52 Torpedo, a 7x47 Churchill, and a 6x60 BFC, all with an MSRP between $4.95-$5.50.
Displayed in attractive 21 count boxes, the Loyal blend features fillers from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, combined with a Nicaraguan binder and dressed in an oily Ecuadorian Sumatra seed wrapper. Loyal is a solid, medium bodied smoke, that intrigues the palate with a spicy, peppery start and then transitions to a variety of rich flavours with notes of coffee and brown sugar.

We Get Mail:

DC, a regular in the chat room writes:

Hi Bob and Dale I put this up on BOTL forums but thought I would email you and see if you had any insight on the matter. About 2 weeks ago now my dad and I took a trip up to Rockford IL. (Actually he took the trip I just rode along because I knew that the Tinder Box was up by where he was going and we don't have a B&M where I live.) We had a good time and while checking out of said store I picked up a tin of 4 Don Lino Africa Kuros cigars. I always thought the tin was neat and wanted to try the cigar. Well after 2 now all I can say is the things keep falling apart in my mouth. I took a very shallow cut with my Palio on the 1st and the thing practically disintegrated. On the second I used a wedge cutter (a V cut) reckoning that by taking less of the cap the stick my hold up better. It held up, but I was still taking peelings of the wrapper out of my mouth. Are these just bad cigars or is it me? The tin was like 10-14 bucks so I am not exactly thrilled about not getting to smoke the cigars I purchased because they are falling to pieces...literally. I gave 1 away to a friendly mooch at work, so that leaves me with 1 remaining Kuro and I am leaving in the humidor for a minimum of 2 months to see if some time settling out of its tin may help.
As for Don Lino? My bad luck with small cigars continues and I think I will stick to the J. Fuego Origin originals.. 1 more cigar in a bigger better style.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Pedro Martin Corojo Robusto - Another Nicaraguan Puro that I just had the pleasure of smoking last Saturday. Thanks to Kris (one of Longmont’s officers in blue) for sharing this with me while we watched the Packers beat the Broncos. Maria Martin left her position as Camacho National Sales Manager & has successfully run Martin Family Cigars in honor of her father, and has so far produced 3 lines of cigars (Gold, Ruby & Corojo) that were blended by Perdo before his passing last year. Wrapped in a Corojo leaf that’s light natural colored, the binder & filler tobaccos of the Corojo line are all Corojo variety as well, lending a full bodied, full flavor character to the line. Leather, cedar and spice are the core flavors. I find some light sweetness in the middle of the cigar. Kris also gets a buttery flavor, the reason he buys these cigars. Very well made with a great draw, this cigar should be sampled by all experienced smokers!

J Fuego 777 Maduro Robusto - This line of Nicaraguan Puros from Jesus Fuego’s Tabacos S.A. company is one of those go-to dependable cigars that can be counted on for deep flavor, good construction and a good experience every time. The filler is ⅓ Criollo and ⅔ Corojo, the binder is Corojo and the wrapper is a dark maduro Criollo. The Fuego website says this cigar is bold & spicy, and they do not lie! Add to that the earthiness and light citrus tones, and you’ll find these in my humidor all the time.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

A. Fernandez Signature Series from Cigars International - Ok, I admit that I am a fan of AJ Fernandez cigars. This one was picked up by Executive Producer Liz as a sample pack of four sizes sizes, in the A. Fernandez Flight Sampler that provides you with three each of the Robusto (5x50), Toro (6x50), Torpedo (6x52) and the Churchill (7x48). I have only tried the Robusto and Toro so far (like I said, Liz got this sampler so i am dependent on her generosity) and like both. At $30 for the pack a great value and some amazing cigars. Slightly milder than some of the others such as diesel and man o war but very flavorful, leather, roasted grains and slight sweet spice.

J Fuego Originals Gran Reserva Corojo No. 1 and Sangre de Toro - Some new blends in the popular paper bagged sizes of approximatley 5x44. SdT has a Colorado wrapper and produces pleasant notes of leather and rich oak with a slight pepper spice. This is like a concentrated larger version. The Gran Reserva is of course a Corojo wrapper with Nicaraguan, Honduran and Costa Rican tobaccos on the inside. Notes of woody coffee and a sweet pepper is a great combination.

What's My Band? - The Nestor Miranda Special Selection provided by Liz.

Palio Cutter Contest: The September winner of a silver Palio cutter is Dan Lawson from Louisana. For October's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars. Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com
The Duque Cigar Company: www.duquecigars.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #346 September 30,2011

Sun, 02 Oct 2011 13:01:29 -0400

This week Walter Cyran has a question about what to do when a cigarette smoker asks you to put out your cigar in a public smoking area. Dale announces that he will be going on the CigarTourism.com 2012 trip to Nicaragua/Honduras. If you want to join Dale on the trip, sign up now before all the seats are gone! A few places on the Dominican Republic trip are also still available. There are two contests this month: 1) Enter guest host Craig Schneider's Esencia Contest by sending in your review or "experience" of smoking an Esencia cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Be sure to type "Esencia" on the subject line.) On Craig's next appearance on DogWatch (Show #348 recorded on October 14th), he will be awarding some cigars from his personal humidor for the best submission (as he judges it). 2) You can also enter October's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) September's winner of a Palio cutter is Dan Lawson. To see the September pictures, click on the Contest icon on the www.cigarmedia.tv home page. The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the Alec Bradley American Classic. Liz interviews Colin Ganley, Chief Editor of Cigar Journal, on What's hot? What's not? What's next? The 'What's My Band?' cigar is the Torano Master provided by Liz.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Alec Bradley American Classic Blend.

Factory: Plascencia Cigars in Esteli, Nicaragua

Wrapper: Honduras Connecticut

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Esteli, Condega

Comes in 6 sizes:

Corona 5.5x42
Robusto: 5x50
Toro: 50x46
Churchill: 48x7
Torpedo: 6.5x52
Gordo: 6x60

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Saint Luis Rey Double Coronas 49 x 194 (7.6”) - It is officially fall now, and I think of smoking Habanos more this time of year then any other. Don’t know why, just seems like the Cuban flavors fit the season. I pulled out this Prominentes vitola to enjoy during a pre-season hockey game. Maybe one of my favorites in this size, the cigar is medium bodied, smooth and quite complex. A mild sweetness is apparent throughout the cigar, complimenting the floral, coffee, leather and other earthy flavors. With rich aromas, a great draw and producing a lot of smoke, this cigar is a fantastic companion when one is looking for a 2 hr mini vacation!

Master by Carlos Torano Torpedo 6.25” x 52 - After featuring this cigar recently on DWCR, I can’t get enough of these excellent cigars! I find them medium bodied and full flavored with great balance. The room aroma is magnificent, sweet and rich. On the palette, a myriad of flavors can easily be picked out, and all are savory & delish! Caramel, cedar, cocoa, spice and an occasional whiff of citrus. Very smooth and easy to smoke, but also holds one’s interest. Wrapper is Ecuador Habano, binder is Esteli Nicaraguan and the filler is Esteli & Jalapa Nicaraguan. Add the easy-on-the-wallet price of under $6 and you have a real value cigar!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Kristoff GC Signature Series - This week I was afforded an opportunity to try one of these new smokes from Glenn Case thanks to Tom at Duque Cigars in Indialantic, FL. I was excited to try this smoke because as you may recall, I was a big supporter of his earlier efforts to break into the value priced cigar world with tasteful cigars. Unfortunately, by 2010, the Kristoff line of cigars had become distasteful examples of contract manufacturing. It has been that long since I got the courage to try another Kristoff product. And so it was that I looked forward to this stogie as I sat down to enjoy a fine NFL game. Strangely enough, the cigar and NFL experience were eerily similar in that both suffered from a lack of balance, bad taste and inconsistency. For the NFL, this was exemplified by the Jags vs Carolina game that was a war of the worst and it just hurt to watch such a poor example of professional football. In the case of the GC Signature, the experience began hopefully with smooth flavors of leather, chocolate and sweet spice. By the midpoint however, the flavor had begun to degrade into a rather sour, almost acrid flavor base and although the original flavors of leather and chocolate remained, the sweet spice was replaced by the flavor of slightly over-ripe fruit, verging on rancid. This did not turn out to be a very good cigar, similar to the football being played by Jacksonville and Carolina.

Joya de Nicaragua Antano Dark Corojo Doble Fuerte - A full bodied cigar that fits my needs first thing each day with a great cup of coffee. I prefer the Pelogroso (5x44) but have also enjoyed the Azarosa (4.5x52). The cigar comes in 3 other sizes as well: El Martillo (5.5x54), La Pesadilla (4.75x60) and the Poderoso (6x54). This cigar epitomizes the “power” cigar with its rich, deep and dark flavor profile that is not nicotine heavy but still packs a whallop. A creamy Nicaraguan puro that performs magnificently.

What's My Band? - The Carlos Torano Master Robusto provided by Liz.

Palio Cutter Contest: The September winner of a silver Palio cutter is Dan Lawson from Louisana. For October's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars. Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #345 September 23,2011

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 12:29:31 -0400

This week Marcian Knowles has a pipe tobacco question for Bob and Dale. The herf line has three callers: Roger from Texas wants a recommendation for a table top lighter; Angry Bill checks in from the mobile law dog lounge to let us know about some cigars that listeners might like to try; and a listener from Pennsylvania talks about Ashton cigars. There are two contests this month: 1) Enter Craig Schneider's September Esencia Contest by sending in your review or "experience" of smoking an Esencia cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Be sure to type "Esencia" on the subject line.) On Craig's next appearance on DogWatch (Show #348 on October 14th), he will be awarding some cigars from his personal humidor for the best submission (as he judges it). 2) You can also enter September's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the San Lotano Oval. The 'What's My Band?' cigar is the Ilusione mj12 provided by Liz.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - San Lotano Oval - by AJ Fernandez.

Wrapper: Habano 2000 Wrapper (4+ years)
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua / Honduras (AJ Fernandez Secret Filler)

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Indian Tabac Super Fuerte Robusto - 5 x 50 A cigar I have smoked for years, this is one of the sticks that put Rocky Patel on the map. Made in Honduras with Nicaraguan, Honduran and Costa Rican tobaccos wrapped in a Corojo wrapper, this blend provides creamy rich flavors - coffee, chocolate and nutty, with some tangy exotic spices.

Don Lino Africa Gordito Torpedo - 4” x 58 Tobaccos from Honduras, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and Africa combine for a bold smoke in a short “me too” size. Smooth and complex, but full of hearty flavors

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Sirena - The Prince : 5x50 version of the cigar launched in late 2010 by Miami Cigar & Co, produced by My Father Cigars. Utilizes Nicaraguan Criollo 98 and Nicaraguan Corojo 96 in the filler plus a dual Nicaraguan Habano and Nicaraguan Corojo binder wrapped in a hearty Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper. A hearty and sumptuous smoke with coffee, leather and a savory sweetness. I like them so much I bought a box. Oh and you have got to love that band that covers at least a third of this size, I remove it before lighting to avoid flash fires. La Sirena is offered in the following 5 sizes:

Sea Sprite – 5.5 x 42
The Prince – 5 x 50
Divine – 5.5 x 52 (figurado)
King Poseidon – 6 x 60
Trident – 7 x 50

Padron 1964 Anniversary - When you want a full flavored cigar that will transport you back in time to a simpler place where men smoked cigars, dogs were allowed in the saloon and gas cost less than a dollar a gallon, grab yourself one of these. This is the most expensive cigar I smoke regularly, not daily but a couple a month because this cigar is perfectly balanced, well aged and smooth flavored. Everything a guilty pleasure should be without the guilt. Choose your pleasure in maduro or natural wrapper.

La Reloba Sumatra - Another product of My Father Cigars. This is still one of my favorites and I have decided I prefer the Sumatra to the Habano. Medium to full bodied these cigars are affordable and flavorful. The Sumatra has a woody-leather flavor profile that balances out nicely with the savory accents and sweetness of this cigar.

What's My Band? - The Ilusione mj12 provided by Liz.

Overall, Bob was not particularly fond of this cigar. He felt that the flavors were OK but that there was no particular balance.

Palio Cutter Contest: The August winner of a classic black Palio cutter is Gregory Dunn from Massachusettes. For September's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars. Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #344 September 16,2011

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 12:38:28 -0400

Colin Ganley calls in to announce Cigar Tourism's 2012 trips in January to the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. Sign up now before all spots are taken! There are two contests this month: Enter Craig Schneider's September Esencia Contest by sending in your review or "experience" of smoking an Esencia cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Be sure to type "Esencia" on the subject line.) On Craig's next appearance on DogWatch (Show #348 on October 14th), he will be awarding the best submission (as he judges it) some cigars from his personal humidor. You can also enter September's Palio Cutter Contest by sending a photo of you or your friends enjoying a cigar to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. (Don't forget to include your mailing address and type "Palio" on the subject line.) Listener Jeff Curtis lets us know about a Fuente event he attended with Cynthia, Carlos and Carlito at Holt's Cigar Company in Philadelphia. The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the Illusione Cuchillos Cubanos provided by Joe Fuller. The 'What's My Band?' cigar is the Tatuaje Series P Sumatra White Label suggested by Dan Crouch.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Illusione Cuchillos Cubanos- A 60/40 blend of long and medium filler tobacco.

Tobacco origin: Nicaragua

Cuchillos Cubanos - Picadura Supremo Sizes:

~40~ 5 1/4 x 40 (5-pack)
~42~ 4 3/4 x 42 (5-pack)
~46~ 4 1/2 x 46 (5-pack)
~47~ 7x47 (4-pack)

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Buena Vista Reserve Torpedo 5.63 x 54 Doble Robusto - Ecuadorian puros, this line comes in a total of 9 vitolas. The tobacco is all grown in one valley in Ecuador. In their promotional material, Buena Vista makes a big deal out of using Cuban seed and Cuban rollers to create these cigars - not a bad thing, but leaning heavily on the Cuban mystique to market the cigars. Do the cigars hold up to the hype? I enjoyed the one I had this week, but it won’t make my regular rotation list. Medium bodied and fairly complex, it had floral and leather characteristics. Well made and it burned well. Unfortunately, it had that soapy taste that puts me off a bit. I will try some other sizes - perhaps a smaller ring gauge won’t exhibit that flavor as much.

Satori Zen 6.75 x 52 Double Torpedo - Many thanks to Kevin at Winston's Humidor for passing this cigar along to me to try! The Satori is another of the micro-batch lines made by Andre Farkas (Viaje). Satori is Japanese for “enlightenment”. This is a Nicaraguan puro, but made in Honduras at Raices Cubanas. The wrapper is an oily, dark Oscuro and the cigar is square pressed and closed on both ends. Two other sizes were available (a Robusto called Karma and a Toro called Nirvana), but only 150 boxes of each size was released this year. The cigar has a very earthy character, and the top thought in my mind from the first half dozen puffs was pepper crusted charred elk steak. There is some cocoa and coffee notes, although very subdued. Medium bodied and not very complex, I still enjoyed this cigar tremendously

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

CAO OSA: CAO OSA SOL

Wrapper: Olancho San Agustin Sun Grown
Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf
Filler: Honduras, Nicaragua

La Palina Pasha: 7.25 x 50 - The Pasha is named for Bill’s father, William S. Paley. As founder and chairman of CBS, William reached into every home in America. It was his interest in promoting the sales of the family cigar company through the use of radio that led him to the broadcasting business. Though known as The Chairman at work, he was jokingly known as Pasha at home.

Santos Miami from Jameson Cigar and La Tradicion Cubana - Beautiful square pressed Dominican product that is the strongest of the Jameson line, not dark and oily but sneakily strong.

Also previewed some smokes for upcoming shows:

Buena Vista Ecuadorian Puro
Lou Rodriquez
Torano Loyal
Reinado
San Lotano Oval
EP Carillo Maduro

What's My Band? - The Tatuaje Series P Sumatra White Label suggested by Dan Crouch.

Palio Cutter Contest: The August winner of a classic black Palio cutter is Gregory Dunn from Massachusettes. For September's contest, we are looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars. Send your entry to theshow@cigarmedia.tv. Please include your mailing address with your entry and type "Palio" on the subject line.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #343 September 9,2011

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 17:45:07 -0400

Craig Schneider, published author of cigar topics, co-hosts with Dale and Bob this week. Mario Fanego tells why he joined Cigar Rights of America and discusses his grandfather's passion for rolling cigars. Chris Cannon, who earlier asked Bob and Dale how they would spend $50 to obtain a variety of cigar flavors, gives an update to his progress. Listener Loren Molders reviews the new La Casita Criolla. The August winner of a Palio cutter is Gregory Dunn from Massachusettes. Congratulations Gregory! Starting in October, we will be revising the Palio contest so start thinking now. We will be looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars with every entry. The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the Master by Carlos Torano. The 'What's My Band?' cigar is the La Aurora Cameroon Double Corona suggested by Dan Crouch.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Master by Carlos Torano

From the Carlos Torano web site: A perfect collaboration creates a new premium Cigar. Charlie Toraño, at the helm of a fourth generation family cigar company, and Felipe Sosa, one of the world's finest master cigar rollers, invite you to enjoy this unique blend. Determining the final blend for Master was a long and experimental journey. With two passionate tobacco experts working side by side, only the very best blend would suffice and ultimately be worthy of the name "Master".

Wrapper: Habano from Ecuador
Binder: Esteli, Nicaragua
Filler: Esteli & Jalapa, Nicaragua

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Liga Privada L40 - 7 x 40 Lancero - Finally, the LP blend in a Lancero size! Although admittedly tweaked for this format (from 38 ring to 40 ring to add an extra leaf), the LP blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos is bound by a Brazilian Mata Fina leaf and a Connecticut Sun Grown Habano wrapper. Pre-light aroma is very barnyard/earthy with deep rich scents not unlike opening a tin of English pipe tobacco. From the start this cigar provides blasts of spice over a woody, leathery core. Also touches of coffee and dark fruit. Not perfectly balanced in the first ½” or so, but smooths out and balances the spice with the other flavors the rest of the way. Full bodied, full flavored and leaning towards the strong side, yet never gets harsh or bitter. This format now beats the T52 as my favorite Liga Privada - more refined and complex with a tad less strength.

La Carrida del Cobre Jabalina - 7.25 x 38 Lancero One of the “Vitolas Especiales” our friend Frank Herrera has added to his line, this lancero has a closed foot and head, both with a sharply pointed end, thus the Jabalina (Javalin) moniker. The fillers are Dominican and Nicaraguan, the binder is of the Criollo ‘98 variety and the wrapper is a Pennsylvania Broadleaf maduro. The sample I smoked last Sunday at the 2nd Annual Rocky Mountain Cigar Fest was entirely hand bunched w/o the benefit of a mold and exhibited perfect construction! Molds for regular production will be delivered soon and these will be available this fall. Very smooth and med-full bodied with medium strength. The flavors are savory and complex. Another outstanding LCDC cigar in a fantastic format!

My Father El Hijo

San Lotano Oval - 6 x 54 Toro Nicaraguan & Honduran fillers, a Nicaragua binder and a 4 yr aged Habano 2000 wrapper in a unique oval shape. Outstanding construction exhibited by a slow, cool burn that lasted over 2.5 hours! Tremendous flavors of well aged tobacco - cedar, caramel, almonds, espresso, black tea and balanced with red wine tannins. A superior cigar.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Le Bijou 1922 Petite Robusto - The petite robusto is a an exciting new size from My Father Cigars. It is a perfect way to enjoy this flavorful Le Bijou and I believe, makes it the best of the Le Bijou line and maybe the best in the My Father line as well. The cigar starts with just a hint of spice, cedar and sweetness and then transitions in to a leather and floral experience with just enough body to make you sit up and take notice. The cigar ends with a little spice again and a fond farewell to the floral leather. A 4.5 x 50 Nicaraguan Puro with a Habano Oscuro wrapper.

Jameson Declaration - Brad Mayo is the living embodiment of what many every day cigar smokers aspire to - an enthusiast turned brand owner. The Declaration comes out of the Dominican Republic factory of Luis Sanchez of La Tradicion Cubana fame. Declaration was created with purpose and passion to celebrate independent spirit and personal liberty. “Smoke to be Free” is the favored catch phrase of Brad and the crew at Jameson. The Declaration features an aged Habano ’98 wrapper paired with a Criollo ’98 binder and select filler tobaccos from the prime growing regions of the Dominican Republic. This is a deep, bold flavored cigar that has a wonderful room aroma, just ask Liz. That is a nice bonus when smoking around others; however, the real prize is the deep floral and mild spice that is all wrapped in a subtle sweetness.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Cohiba 1966 - I’m normally a smart cigar smoker; I swear. This time I let my lack of patience get the best of me. I received one of these as a gift last week and lit it immediately without thinking of the cigar’s condition. My experience suffered exceptionally. I tasted nothing but generic tobacco sweetness and had to endure a rather spongy & wet smoke. The one salvageable thing I’ll take from the experience is that the wrapper leaf, when smoked separately, did exhibit some enjoyable flavors.

Gran Habano (GAR) Opium - This cigar was so intriguing. It reminded me of other GHs but at the same time showed some flavors RARELY found in any N/C cigars. I can’t pinpoint what it tasted like or even what other cigars it reminded me of but whatever it was, I liked it. Look for these cigars and decide if they’re for you. I have a feeling this line might be a real sleeper among the consuming public. Look for more people to erupt about it’s terrific flavors as it becomes more widely available.

What's My Band? - Unbanded #978, the La Aurora Cameroon Double Corona suggested by Dan Crouch.

Bob: Pre light aroma, sweet spice, hay/grassy flavor slightly, mild cocoa and cedar flavors are very smooth and tastefuly done. Smoked with a blackberry port that really overwhelmed the cigar with its sweetness. Very cedar on the retrohale and a slightly sharp acidity.

Craig: A lot of sweet spice on the start. Reminiscent of the Tatuaje Boris. The flavors left almost immediately and continued with tobacco & pepper. Nice full strength and medium body. 2nd third was very jalapa-esque. Transitioned to a more milder character & medium body. Continuing sweetness & slight coffee character. Decent cigar. If not for the Jalapa characteristics I’d enjoy it more.

Palio Cutter Contest: The August winner of a classic black Palio cutter is Gregory Dunn from Massachusettes.

will be announced next week. Enter the September contest now. Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter. Starting in October, we will be revising the Palio contest so start thinking now. We will be looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars with every entry. More information coming soon.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #342 September 2,2011

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 08:07:11 -0400

Colin Ganley, editor of Cigar Journal is back with Dale and Bob this week. Cigar Research Updates the Mobile Stogie App with over 1000 new cigars bringing its inventory to over 10,000 cigars. The guys talk about Pete Daly's (aka BigPete's) email and how a cigar's label may affect how we perceive a cigar's flavor. Big Pete thanks Craig Schneider, DWCR's regular guest host, for his advice on how to taste a cigar's flavors. The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the NHC (New Havana Cigars) Tatuaje Capa Especial from Pete Johnson. Liz talks to Bryan Newbury of Centro Cigars in Kansas on this week's What's hot? What's not? What's next? segment. The 'What's My Band?' cigar is the Macanudo Cru Royale suggested by Dan Crouch.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - NHC (New Havana Cigars) Tatuaje Capa Especial from Pete Johnson

In 2010, Pete Johnson produced the NHC Seleccion Limitada for us in both Natural (Habano) and Reserva (Broadleaf) wrappers. This year, on a factory trip, Dan from New Havana Cigars was sampling the Tatuaje 7th Capa Especial and fell in love with the Sumatra wrapper. "Wonder what the NHC SL would be like with this wrapper?" He asked Pete. "Let's find out" was the reply, and he had the rollers whip up some samples. They both LOVED it. "How many NHC bands you have left?" So they checked the stock and there were enough to produce around 70 boxes of 20. The factory made new boxes to house 20 cigars each and that was that.

If you are a fan of the Natural and Reserva, you will love this new one!

NHC Seleccion Limitada Capa Especial (Sumatra) (6 3/4 x 42).

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Lou Rodriguez Edicion Premier Maduro - 5 x 50 Robusto - I’ve had two of these in the past week, the first given to me by Bill Featherston while visiting his home in Overland Park, and the 2nd given to me by Lou Rodriguez himself at the Rocky Mountain Cigar Fest. These are awesome smokes, available in 7 formats. The two I need to smoke next are the Bom-Bom (4.75 x 42) and the Lancero (7.5 x 38). The filler blend and binder are Nicaraguan, covered with a gorgeous San Andres wrapper. Lou only describes the blend as “proprietary”, meaning he won’t give up the exact varieties and growing regions. I’m always curious, but it really doesn’t matter. The cigars are marvelous! Full bodied and full flavored, the tobacco is supremely fermented & aged, the formats are many yet traditional and the experience is what cigar smoking should be.

CAO OSA Sol - 6 x 54 Toro - With an MSRP of about $6, this cigar will fit a lot of smoker’s budgets. Wrapped with a light colored Olancho San Agustin leaf (from the Honduran valley of the same name), the filler is Honduran & Nicaraguan. The binder is Connecticut Broadleaf. Medium bodied with a rustic character and smooth, creamy flavors. The wrapper imparts a unique earthy/spicy taste that I haven’t yet been able to pin down. The leather and light spice from the filler is what I expect from Honduran tobacco, and the Broadleaf binder gives the blend a subtle sweetness that balances well.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Reloba Sumatra Torpedo - I have decided that the Sumatra is my favorite La Reloba; the flavors are smooth, with a little spice and a wonderful hint of sweetness.

Le Bijou 1922 Petite Robusto - a very sexy new size in a great cigar.

What's My Band? - Unbanded #980 the Macanudo Cru Royale 6.5x42, suggested by Dan Crouch

Palio Cutter Contest: The August winner will be announced next week. Enter the September contest now. Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter. Starting in October, we will be revising the Palio contest so start thinking now. We will be looking for photos of you and your friends enjoying cigars with every entry. More information coming soon

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #341 August 26,2011

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:24:38 -0400

Dale is back from a well earned vacation during which he visited Kansas retailers Centro Cigars and Outlaw Cigar. This week Bob and Dale are joined by Colin Ganley, editor of Cigar Journal. The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the 22 Degrees North / 83 Degrees West cigar blended by Jesus Fuego. Keith Brown calls in on the herf line to take Bob to task about his comments on big box retailers. The 'What's My Band?' cigar, the My Father Edicion Limitada 2011, was graciously supplied by Adam Zilinski this week.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - 22 Degrees North / 83 Degrees West

Two Guys Smoke Shop named this as the 2010 Cigar of the Year. It comes in boxes of 20 in the following sizes: 5 1/2 x 46, 4 7/8 x 49, and 6 x 50. Here's what Two Guys had to say about this cigar:

22N/83W is the Latitude and Longitude where you will find Hacienda el Corojo, a plantation that once (1930 – 1990) grew arguably the best tobacco in the world. Today, that tobacco seed is no longer used because of its low yields and susceptiblity to disease. However, the seed still exists and is used in the entire blend of this unique cigar.

22N/83W uses authentic El Corojo seed in its entire 5-Country blend, from its Nicaraguan, Honduran and Dominican el Corojo filler, to its Costa Rican certified el Corojo binder and ending with its lush, oily Brazilian el Corojo seed Wrapper.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Don Pepin Garcia Blue label “A”- 9” x 48 Picked this A size cigar up at the Outlaw event last weekend after seeing Bill Featherston smoke one during the entire event on Saturday! I’ve raved about this blend in the Lancero size, so it was only natural to go for the gusto and try it in the longest traditional format. It made 2.5 hours of my 8 hour drive home most memorable! Spice, pepper, cedar, molasses and some tangy citrus flavors. Med-full bodied with a smooth, creamy smoke.

Tatuaje Havana VI Verocu No. 5 - 4” x 40 Following the sucess of the 4 original limited release Verocu cigars, Pete released the line as an extension of the Havana VI line. Packaged in a cabinet of 50 with the traditional triple cap and no band, this is the smallest format of the Tatuaje lines, although this little stick is big on flavor. A mini spice bomb with all the savory flavors you’d expect. Also one finds a bit of floral notes on the palette and in the retrohale. All Nicaraguan blend with a Habano variety wrapper.

La Casita Criolla HCB - 5.12” x 42 Corona An old Cuban brand name brought back to life by Pete Johnson, this blend (well, a blend only in the sense of Seco, Viso & Ligero) is pure Connecticut Broadleaf tobacco. The darker maduro leaves are used in the wrapper, and the other grades are used for filler & binder. Cedar, nuts and a mild licorice sweetness vary in intensity throughout the cigar in this med-full bodied smoke. Towards the end, a bit of chocolate and exotic spices become more apparent. A truly marvelous cigar that I will smoke often! All three sizes are traditional, the other two being the HCBC at 5.63 x 46 and the HCBF at 6.5 x 48.

Fausto FT153 - 6” x 50 Toro The T110 blend (Nicaraguan filler & binder, Ecuadorian Habano Maduro wrapper) is now the Fausto line, but the T110 size is not a part of it since it was a limited release. Said to be Pete Johnson's strongest cigar blend, I find it well balanced and very flavorful. Indeed, it’s got some power, but not unapproachable by most. Most notable is the spiciness, pepper and subtle sweetness over a leathery core. Also in 3 other sizes: FT127 - 5 x 54, FT140 - 5.5 x 52 and FT156- 6.5 x 48. As with the La Casita Criolla, the Fausto brand is an old Cuban brand resurrected and trademarked by Pete.

Gurkha Beast - 6.5 x 58 Bob talked about this cigar a couple weeks ago and I had to try it. Dominican, Honduran and Colombian fillers are surrounded by a Nicaraguna binder and a Costa Rican Maduro wrapper from the 1996 vintage. I found it med-full bodied, full flavored and medium in strength. Very high quality construction and a sweet room aroma made it a joy to smoke in spite of it’s massive girth. Dark fruit, coffee and cedar are the core flavors with some cocoa coming on in the last third. The finish is smooth and sweet.

As with it’s companion cigar, the Gurkha Beauty, when I can pick these up on sale, I will, but at almost $700 for a box of 35 cigars, they’re not on my everyday list.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

J. Fuego Gran Reserva Corojo No 1 Originals - Loaded with cocoa in a full bodied experience that out shines the size of this tasty cigar from master blender Jesus Fuego, and at a great price

Art Deco - A sweet, slightly spicy offering from the minds at Miami Cigar & Co. I like these and yes I like the metal Art Deco box as well.

Jesus Fuego's Sangro de Toro Original - Gotta love this format, 5 sticks in a paper package at a great price. Tremendous flavor - I just can’t remember what it was, but I remember I liked the slightly organic spice and leathery base.

What's My Band? - Thank you to Adam Zilinski for supplying the My Father Edicion Limitada 2011's for the unbanded segment this week.

Palio Cutter Contest: Steve Morgan from Alabama won the July contest and received a classic black Palio cutter. Enter the August contest now to win a silver cutter. Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #340 August 19,2011

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 10:47:50 -0400

Dale is on vacation so executive producer Liz joined Bob for this week's show. Liz and Bob discuss her journey to becoming a cigar smoker and lessons learned along the way. The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the 22o N / 83o W by Jesus Fuego. Roger from Texas calls in on the herf line to ask a humidor question. Since Liz knows all of the cigars scheduled for the 'What's My Band?' blind smoke test, it was not included in this week's show. 'What's My Band?' will be back next week when Dale returns.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Oliva Connecticut Reserve

What else have you been smokin' Liz?

Jesus Fuego’s 22o N / 83o W – The pre-smoke aroma was a light cedar and the first draw tasted like seasoned wood. Then I got a great cocoa flavor. This cigar is just right for my palate and has been added to my favorites list.

EP Carrillo New Wave Connecticut – I find that I enjoy Connecticut wrappers and this one fits the bill. A mild cigar with cedar flavor.

San Lotano Maduro – The first draw gave me slight sweetness which I love in a cigar. This is a smooth cigar with great cocoa flavor that is not spicy or harsh to my palate.

Xikar HC – This great cigar is another one that is blended by Jesus Fuego. It contains all of my favorites: woodsy, coffee and later on, cocoa.

Elogio – One of my absolute favorites. I taste sweetness with the first puff, then a deep cocoa. It has a little spice and the smoke feels slightly creamy on the inside of my mouth. After all of my feedback on the cigars that I smoked this week, can you tell what my flavor profile is?

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Anarchy - one of the MicroBlend Series from Smoke Inn by Pete Johnson

In the Spring of 2009 Smoke Inn owner, Abe Dababneh, approached Pete Johnson with the Tatuaje Anarchy project idea. The hope was to create something special in a limited run. The size is something never seen before and symbolic of the movement. The cigar is made with a very limited leaf of Ecuadorian Habano Wrapper that Pete and the Garcia Family hand selected.

Dark, rich and oily, this cigar exudes character and dissonance. The flavors are smooth although bold and exciting. Is it Anarchy in a cigar, yes because of its origins and no because of its flavors which are spot on terrific.

Padron 1926 Maduro No 1, 54x6 3/4 - Every time I smoke one of these I kick myself for not having bought three or four of the samplers being offered at the Nicaraguan airport that day. You see, buying the samplers you get these cigars at an incredible discount to their shelf price in the US, making them slide from luxury to “you deserve this” status. One of the great smokes of our times and one of the best ever from Padron. This cigar delivers bold flavors in a smooth smoke that comes from a cigar that is beautiful - not like a model, but rather in a craftsman sort of way - with each cigar showing some little sign of being handcrafted. The tobacco shows that it has earned its status and not inherited it. Released in 2002 to commemorate the 75th birthday of Jose Orlando Padron, family patriarch and guiding light of Padron Cigars. Originally offered in 4 sizes it has since been extended to six sizes.

Elogio LSV Corona Extra - For my sake I am glad the rest of you have not discovered the Elogio cigars because when you do they will get scarce. I got a fresh box from Winston's Humidor this week and have I been missing these cigars. Unique spicy flavors on a bed of wood and roasted hops, the slight bitterness really drives the other dominant flavors. Full flavored and medium-to-full bodied this cigar delivers nothing but flavor from its well aged, Nicaraguan tobaccos. Masterfully blended and carefully constructed - these are masterpieces.

What's My Band? - will return next week.

Palio Cutter Contest: Steve Morgan from Alabama won the July contest and received a classic black Palio cutter. Enter the August contest now to win a silver cutter. Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #339 August 12,2011

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 07:56:22 -0400

This week guest host Craig Schneider joins Bob and Dale. The featured 'Cigar of the Week' is the Emilio AF1. Gary A. Griffith from Emilio Cigars gives listeners some background on the development of the cigar. Jeff Curtis sends in a review of the Viaje Limited Edition. Robert Brown informs listeners about the Habanos Fantasy Football League. Bill Kolb asks for lancero cigar suggestions. Dale discusses his plans to attend the 2nd Annual Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival - Aug 28th in Boulder, Colorado. The cigar featured on the 'What's My Band?' blind smoke test is the Don Pepin Garcia Black Edition Cuban Classic.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Emilio AF1

This cigar was not only created and manufactured by, but also named in honor of AJ Fernandez out of Esteli, Nicaragua. AJ is one of Bob’s favorite cigar makers. He has produced some very fine smokes but mostly for other people’s lines. AJ's own line, the San Lotano, is just now becoming available across the US.

Size:Toro
Wrapper: San Andreas Maduro (Mexico)
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Available in cabinet boxes of 20 in four sizes: Robusto, Toro, Torpedo, and the massive BMF, a 6x58 powerhouse.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Montecristo #2 - Everything this cigar should be: tangy fruit, deep mocha flavors & a tiny, but vocal, core of sweet roasted peanuts. This was from an HQ box from Friends of Habanos and was a gift from one of my friends. I’m upset that I now need to pay him back even more because it was such a good experience. Crap!

My Uzi Weighs a Ton - The newest (first?) release out of Joyo de Nicaragua and the ‘Subculture Studios’ at Drew Estate in Esteli, this mammoth cigar turns out to be quite the gentle giant. With the name it has I packed a tongue scraper for a mid-smoke break but was pleasantly surprised by how approachable it was. The cigar was still youthful, exhibiting a considerable amount of sponge during the experience, but it was also well balanced. A perfect medium body to go along with medium strength, the flavors were modern Nicaraguan with an additional sweetness I attribute to the Mata Fina Brazilian tobacco in the blend. Worth sampling even if you don’t prefer the 6x60 size. Might even be worth buying regularly if you’re looking for a cigar to fit that size for your humidor. I liked it to the point where I’ll say that I’m glad the cigar was released. It’s just not my cup-o-tea.

J.Fuego Gran Reserva Corojo No.1 - Continuing with a subtle theme of the show recently I decided to light up another cigar that demonstrates how tobacco strains can have specific (and consistent) impact on a cigar’s flavor. This Corojo wrapped stick from a truly gifted manufacturer, Jesus Fuego, does a wonderful job of displaying the savory undertones of the corojo leaf without making them the prevailing theme of experience. Sweet nutty tobacco is the lingering taste of this tiny but memorable stick. Seek out the core lines from Fuego for a few oft overlooked gems on your favorite retailers shelf.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Gurkha Centurian Toro - Dark Maduro, nice smoke. I would smoke it again.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

CAIN Daytona - I have been impressed witht his smoke for a long time since first trying it in Nicaragua last January. a benefit of travelling with Cigar Tourism. This is the first one i have smoked since, well I guess it was mid June at an Oliva event, not really that long ago. At that time I bought two boxes of various sizes and smoked them up within weeks. These are tremendously good smokes with a medium to full flavor profile dominated by the Jalapa Valley ligero in its filler that brings you a slightly spicey espesso experience, mellowed by the Habano wrapper, that can be enjoyed without the overpowering feelings of its stronger brothers, the Cain F, another of my favorites. Smooth and subtley complex this is one fine smoke. Wrapper: Nicaragua Habano; Binder: Nicaragua Habano; Filler: Nicaragua (100% Jalapa Valley)

Gurkha Beast - The Gurkha Beast is a limited production blend with only 1,000 boxes produced annually. The Beast is a massive 6.5 x 58, allowing for several hours of smoking time with a large ring gauge to ensure the cigar never burns too hot. Medium to full-bodied and full-flavored, the Beast draws much of its flavor from the aged Costa Rican Maduro wrapper that covers the cigar. This wrapper is accentuated by a tri-country filler from the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Columbia

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Don Pepin Garcia Black Edition Cuban Classic, was selected by executive producer, Liz.

Bob: Nice light pre-light aroma. Paired it with some Dove Dark Chocolate and they were an excellent pair. Flavors were light cocoa with a black pepper spice and cedar and roasted nuts. Very smooth blend and well combined flavors. It seemed well aged and although the last third got a little harsh and smoked hot, it was an excellent cigar and pleasant experience.

Dale: Seemed Nicaraguan with maybe a corojo wrapper. Some fruttiness. Very nice cigar, spice towards the end.

Craig: Typical Robusto - 4-7/8x50~ish Very Nicaraguan off the bat. Seems to be Habano wrapper. Sweet right away. Cherry fruit flavor with a nice pepper core. Tangy, almost astringent. Tang dies down throughout the first third. Pepper picks up & is very sweet & enjoyable.

Palio Cutter Contest: Steve Morgan from Alabama won the July contest and received a classic black Palio cutter. Enter the August contest now. Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #338 August 05,2011

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 07:54:05 -0400

This week Wes Gensel of Monte Pascoal Cigars talks about winning Cigar Journal's 2011 award for the best cigar from Brazil. Bob and Dale smoke the San Cristobal Seleccion Del Sol as the Cigar of the Week. Steve Morgan from Alabama is the July contest winner of a classic black Palio cutter. Roger, a new cigar smoker from Texas, calls in on the herf line to talk about the show and the Mobile Stogie iPhone app. Dale discusses his plans to attend the 2nd Annual Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival - Aug 28th in Boulder, Colorado. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Cohiba Churchill 7 x 49.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - San Cristobal Seleccion Del Sol from Ashton

Crafted by Pepin Garcia in 2009, the del Sol features a sun-grown wrapper grown on the Garcia’s “Estrella” farm in Esteli, Nicaragua. 100% Nicaraguan tobacco makes these special cigars a special event for your palate.

Wrapper: Nicaraguan
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Made In: Nicaragua
Sizes: Robusto - 5 x 52; Belicoso - 5.5 x 52; Toro - 6 x 52

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Cusano 18 Paired Maduro Robusto - 5” x 50 Manufactured in the Dom. Rep. using all Dominican filler. The wrapper is a Connecticut maduro, and Brazilian Mata Fina maduro wrapper leaf is also added. Packaged 18 to a box, but the “18” refers to the claim that the Dominican Oro filler has been aged for 18 years. Medium bodied and flavorful, but just a touch of a bitter edge in the last 3rd that fights with the savory nature of the cigar. Up until then, a well balanced mix of nuttiness, coffee and some salt was the profile. Avail for around the $6 mark most places, MSRP is closer to $7.

Cusano 18 Double Connecticut Robusto - 5” x 50 A Connecticut shade wrapper and binder cover a filler blend of Dominican Piloto, San Vincente Olor and 18 yr old Dominican Oro. The first half of this cigar was very nice. Creamy herbal and citrus flavors in a medium bodied smoke. None of the dry, grassy bitterness I was expecting. However, just past the halfway point, the double layer of Connecticut shade tobacco jumped up and revealed it’s normal character. The cigar became harsh and bitter. Maybe Cusano cigars are meant to be smoked Davidoff style - only half way........

Illusione ~HL~ Maduro Lancero - 7.5” x 40 From the special run of maduro wrapped Holy Lance in 2010, leading up to the release last month at IPCPR of the original “numbers” line of Illusione in maduro for 2011. It’s no secret that one of my preferred vitolas is the lancero. I also prefer maduro wrapper quite often. Add those to the Illusione line of Nicaraguan puros and I’m in cigar heaven! This cigar is outstanding is all respects - construction, burn, flavors, room aroma, body - and provides one of those special smoking experiences. It has the pig-tail cap. The wrapper is full of tooth and oils. The cigar is complex, with earthy flavors and a semi-sweet chocolate tone. Also some dark fruit. I’ve enjoyed one of these occasionally over the past few months, and now look forward to trying many of the other sizes in the maduro capa.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Brickhouse - At $4.99 it is a value priced cigar. Although I did not enjoy the first few I tried, since it has received such high praise, I decided to try it again. For this event I chose the Corona Largo at 6.25x46 (having previously smoked the robusto and Toro vitolas). I chose to smoke this cigar with a fresh palate and a cup of Black Dog Coffee by making it the first cigar of the day. I immediately noticed a sweet fruit flavor, much like cranberries without the acidity. The cigar produced voluminous smoke and a slight spice tang as it burned smoothy and evenly. The wrapper is a Habano Subido and the guts are pure Nicaraguan. This turned out to be a decent smoke and I think I shall try some more. The cigar does have a slightly harsh edge to the flavor so it may not always be appropriate but it does have its place. It smokes very dry so I prefer it with a coffee or other non-sweet beverage.

La Reloba Seleccion Sumatra - A Pepin Garcia true value cigar with bigger-than-its-price flavors and construction. Flavorful and not quite as powerful as other DPG creations, this is one fantastic smoke. This cigar will let you drift away on a luxury liner while paying for a rowboat. With suggested retail prices starting at $4.50 for the corona (which at 5 5/8 inches long by 46 ring gauge is very large for that vitola) and going as high as $6.50 for a Torpedo, which measures 6 1/8 by 52 ring. The brand comes in two other sizes, Robusto (5 by 50, $5.60) and Toro (6 1/4 by 52, $6.00) and in a Habano wrapper as well.

Cusano - I recently smoked 4 Cusano cigars of various styles and I disliked every one. Harsh and not evenly constructed they do not showcase the best of the cigar maker's art. The biggest surprise is I have liked these in the past. So was it a bad batch, a bad retailer or has the brand slid downward since being consumed by Davidoff? Based on the recent shakeup at Davidoff, it may be growing pains for what is surely a fine brand.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Cohiba Churchill 7 x 49, was selected by executive producer, Liz.

Palio Cutter Contest: Steve Morgan from Alabama is the July contest winner of a classic black Palio cutter. Enter the August contest now. Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #337 July 29,2011

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 07:24:02 -0400

This week's special guest is Colin Ganley of Cigar Journal magazine. Colin gives some background on Cigar Journal's 2011 industry awards. He also shares his impressions of the recently held International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailer (IPCPR) trade show and gives his cigar picks for best new releases of the show. Bob and Dale smoke the HC Connecticut as the Cigar of the Week, while Colin smokes newly released La Casita Criolla by Tatuaje. Bob, Dale and Colin give their suggestions to new smoker Chris C., in response to his question about how to spend $50 and end up with a good variety of cigars. Jeff Curtis gets his question answered about aging tubo cigars. Liz wants to thank Dan Crouch for the cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test, the Carlos Torano Cigar Rights of America (CRA) membership limited edition. (Don't forget the special CRA deal for DogWatch listeners: If you follow the CRA membership directions on our website, www.cigarmedia.tv, you will not only receive two free cigars, but also a free CRA t-shirt.)

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Bob's & Dale's Cigar of the Week - HC Connecticut by J.Fuego.

A cigar 5 years in the making. Jesus Fuego and XIKAR have been working to perfect this blend. Made with Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade, this blend proves to be slightly stronger than the average Connecticut Shade cigar, while staying true to a Connecticut's character!

Wrapper: Connecticut Shade - Ecuador

Binder: Sumatra

Filler: Costa Rica, Mexico, Nicaragua

Robusto: 5 x 50; Lonsdale: 6 x 46; Belicoso: 6 x 52; Toro: 6.5 x 52; Grande: 6 x 60

Colin's Cigar of the Week - La Casita Criolla by Tatuaje

This new line from Pete Johnson features 100% Broadleaf tobacco. An homage to the broadleaf cigars made in the U.S. many years ago, this is a departure from the other Tatuaje lines.

I was fortunate enough to smoke these on a factory trip to Nicaragua this year when they were being produced. In fact, we smoked a ton of them. One would expect 100% broadleaf to be sweet and chewy in flavor, and that it is. While the factory buys a ton of great broadleaf to be used for wrapper leaf, there are filler leaves from the plant as well - seco and viso - and these are used in the blend. They are not as dark in color as the wrapper leaves that you are used to on broadleaf wrapped vitolas, but don't be fooled by the normal looking filler - it is all broadleaf and it is unlike anything in the Tatuaje family to date.

La Casita Criolla falls in the medium range, with a distinctly pleasant taste profile of sweetness. An everyday, or multiples per day, smoke.

HCB - Corona - 5 1/8 x 42; HCBC - Corona Gorda - 5 5/8 x 46; HCBF - Short Churchill - 6 1/2 x 48

$50 Cigar Shopping Spree - Bob, Dale and Colin answer a listener's question

I'm new to cigars, and I'd like to know what you would recommend. I try to get a good idea of the different kinds of cigars out there. I've seen many people in forums talk of online retailers selling variety packs, but nobody is specific about what is good or not, etc. Lets say that in a week I'm going to walk into my local B&M with about $50 in my pocket... what should I buy to get a good variety of cigars to try? Chris C.

Colin's recommendations

La Reloba Sumatra
Ashton Heritage Puro Sol
Alec Bradley Family Blend
Padron 3000
Fonseca Classic
Camacho Triple Maduro
Punch After Dinner Maduro

Bob's recommendations

$5 - Oliva G Cameroon
$7 - Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic Black label
$4 - Sancho Panza Double Maduro
$6 - La Aurora 107
$8 - E.P. Carrillo Short Run etc.
$6 - Nestor Miranda Dominicano
$7 - Padilla ‘68
$2 - Padron 2000
$4 - Perdomo Lot 23

Extras:

Elogio
Esencia
Primer Mundo
El Titan de Bronze
Guillermo Leon
Jameson Declaration

Dale's recommendations

Dale gives Chris choices from the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Brazil, Nicaragua and the U.S.A. Click here to see his detailed list and his dialog with Chris as he developed the list.

Dominican Republic

La Aurora
Davidoff
A. Fuente

Honduras

Camacho
Alec Bradley
Casa Magna line from Quesada
Nestor Miranda

Brazil

Monte Pascoal

Nicaragua

Oliva
Joya de Nicaragua
Ilusione
Padron
Brickhouse
Anything by Don Pepin Garcia
J. Fuego

U.S.A

Tatuaje Cabinet line (brown label)
Padilla Miami

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the Carlos Torano Cigar Rights of America (CRA) membership limited edition. A Big thank you to Dan Crouch for his generosity in providing this week's unbanded cigar.

Bob: Very tasty, just enough spice and a darkness to the flavors. A little sourness in the mouth; retrohale is sour.

Palio Cutter Contest: The July contest winner of a classic black Palio cutter will be announced in next week's show. Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #336 July 22,2011

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 10:55:40 -0400

This week's special guest, Doug Fiore, fills in Bob and Dale on the International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailer (IPCPR) show in Las Vegas. (For the first time in five years, neither Bob nor Dale were able to attend the IPCPR event, but have big plans for next year when the show will be held in Orlando.) Check out Professor Fiore's column to read more about this year's IPCPR. Bob talks with Mark Brownlee of Cigar Rights of America (CRA) about CRA's newly created Consumer Advisory Board. Bob is proud to be one of the eight new board members. Dale talks about his plans to attend the 2nd Annual Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival on Aug 28th in Boulder, Colorado. Stan Wojculewski from New Jersey pushes Bob to explain his previous comments on internet retailing practices. The Cigar of the Week is the 777 Zero by J. Fuego. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Siglo IV Limited Reserve.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - 777 Zero by J.Fuego.

A Nicaraguan binder and filler to compliment the Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper. Offered in 4 sizes: 5.5x46 Corona, 5.5x54 Belicoso, 5x50 Robusto, and 6x52 Toro.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

La Reloba Habano Robusto - 5 x 50 One of the most affordable cigars from the My Father factory in Nicaragua, the La Reloba line is all Nicaraguan longfillers and binder. The Habano line is wrapped with a beautiful, toothy Nicaragua Habano leaf that has a reddish hue, and is aromatic, with scents of deeply fermented tobacco. Medium bodied at the start, growing to a fuller bodied smoke by the halfway point. Tons of great savory flavors - oak, grains, spices and a mild sweetness. The finish brings out some pepper and some nuttiness. Available in 3 other sizes, all priced from $4.50 to $6.50. The line also is available with a Sumatra wrapper for those who prefer a spicier, slightly sweeter character. Highly recommended!

Saint Luis Rey Serie G Maduro - 5 x 54 Another value cigar that was brought back to my humidor from the unbanded segment a few weeks ago. This cigar features a thick, oily Connecticut Broadleaf maduro wrapper over a Connecticut Broadleaf binder. The filler is all Nicaraguan tobaccos. A bold, full flavored cigar with full body, good construction and great balance. The core flavors are earthy, with cocoa, coffee, cedar, and exotic spices. There is a solid natural sweetness that supports and enriches the other flavors. In boxes of 25 cigars for around $100 - truly lots of bang for your buck.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Viaje Satori - One of those rare limited production cigars from Viaje the Satori (japanese for enlightenment, more on that later). This cigar boasts a dark Oscuro wrapper and pure Nicaraguan innards that at first may not seem to be anything different than a number of other Nicaraguan puro cigars. But when smoking the Satori, you are truly blessed with enlightenment as the flavor envelopes your brain and your palate begins to float amongst the woody, spice flavors of this distinct cigar. I had mine in my humidor for a year waiting for the right moment but I must say, any moment is right for enlightenment.

Elogio LSV Robusto - Certainly one of my favorite smokes and one of Liz’s as well.The LSV is a Nicaraguan puro sporting a sungrown Oscuro wrapper fermented by the blender himself, Carlos Pereda. A complex cigar with great soft spices and a subtle sweetness that is entirely unique.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the Siglo IV Limited Reserve.

Bob: Very pleasant pre-light aroma of fresh cut straw. But what a bland cigar; best flavor was the aftertaste that was slightly cedar. Boring.

Dale: Ugly mottled wrapper, good draw, messy ash. Dry and bitter. Flavors of cardboard with a touch of oatmeal being the only savory component

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a Cigar Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #335 July 15,2011

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 12:36:03 -0400

This week Bob interviews Sean Williams of Primer Mundo Cigars. Listener Peter Daly asks Bob and Dale about soapy tasting cigars. Listener Nelson Pidgeon shares his reviews of J Fuego Origins and Esencia Petite Coronas. The Cigar of the Week is the La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amore Robusto. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the 898 Collection.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Ashton's La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amore Robusto

Manufactured and blended by Don Pepin Garcia in Nicaragua, La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amore is an example of the new style La Aroma de Cuba cigars from Ashton.

The blend brings a full-flavored but medium-bodied maduro to the mix and creates a hearty finish. Outside, you'll find a dark Cuban-seed Mexican maduro wrapper that conceals a flavorful concoction of Nicaraguan long leaves from Nicaragua's top growing regions

Available in 5 sizes: Belicoso 5.5x54; Churchill 7x50; Magnificao 6x52; Robusto 5x50 and the Valentino 5.7x58.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Ashton VSG Eclipse 6” x 52 in a black aluminum tube - 4-5 year old aged Dominican tobaccos and Ecuadorian grown wrapper are skillfully blended by Carlito Fuente to make the VSG series of Ashton cigars. The entire lineup is magnificent, and with the recent addition of the Eclipse Tubo, there is now a size and style of VSG for everyone (11 sizes in total). A very deep, rich and intoxicating journey into well aged, well fermented and perfectly balanced tobaccos. Smooth and creamy in character, earthiness, dark fruit and spices all peg the flavor dial.

J. Fuego Origens Originals - 5” x 44 and ruggedly beautiful, this cigar is the perfect every-day smoke for those who like bold flavors, a bit of strength and don’t need a fancy band or a high price tag to make you like yourself. Very full bodied cigar blended by Jesus Fuego from Honduran/Nicaraguan fillers, Costa Rican binder and a dark maduro Brazilian wrapper; and rolled in the old school Cuban farm perfecto style. Packaging is in paper wrapped 5 packs, the cigars are open at both ends. Depending on your local confiscatory tax situation, you can find these for $13-15 per 5 pack!

DPG Blue Label Lancero - Nicaraguan Corojo and Criollo tobaccos blended by DPG into one of my favorite lancero cigars. Bold, spicy & balanced, yet not overpowering.

Mi Tierra Habano 1959 Robusto 5” x 54 - A great cigar from Michael Munoz, the Mi Tierra is a Dominican puro (all tobacco grown on one farm) that has a similar bold & sophisticated flavor profile that could easily be compared with the most famous Nicaraguan or Dominican cigars. Dusty cocoa, coffee, hickory smoke, spice and a caramel sweetness all rolled up in a superbly constructed cigar. Also currently available in 4.5” x 60 and 6” x 60 sizes. Mi Tierra has been out about 2 years, with sales starting in Miami and now spreading across the country. Michael’s a roller, his father & grandfather were rollers, extending back into the RyJ factory in Cuba.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Angelenos Toro - (6 x 50, $9.95): The Toro tastes of gingerbread, and it is earthy with a nice leathery flavored base. The taste of pepper is in the background. Hey, Joe Montegna smokes these! This cigar is from Keith K. Park, the same man who created the elegant Prometheus line of cigar accessories and critically acclaimed God of Fire cigar. Made in the Dominican Republic by Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia, the Angelenos combines Dominican and Ecuadorian tobaccos into four sizes - Lonsdale, Toro, Gran Toro and Double Robusto.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the 898 Collection.

Bob: Loved the lightness and soft floral flavors of this delicate cigar. The wrapper is very light and delicate. I found this cigar to be joyful and light while taking my palate to a fantasy of flight soaring through the smoke and ash of this cigar.

Palio Cutter Contest: John Magrisso of Cambridge, Massachusetts won a black carbon fiber Palio cutter in the June contest. Enter the July contest now to win a classic black cutter! Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #334 July 08,2011

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 06:20:11 -0400

This week Bob and Dale are joined by cigar connoisseur Craig Schneider. Cigar ER Doc calls in and shares his review of the Lou Rodriguez Bom Bom. Listener Brian Parent asks about recommendations for his flavor profile. As a follow up to the July 2nd DWCR episode, George Edmonson sends in an email clarifying HR 1639's (Traditional Cigar Manufacturing and Small Business Jobs Preservation Act of 2011) definition of traditional premium cigars. The Cigar of the Week is the Monte Pascoal Minuto. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Vegas de Santiago Toro Maduro in the Puro series. A special thanks to listener Magnus Stensson in Australia for sending in the cigar samples used in this week's unbanded segment.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Monte Pascoal Minuto (4 ⅜ x 42)

Wrapper: Brazil Mata Fina
Binder: Brazil Mata Fina
Filler: Brazil Mata Fina and Mata Norte
Box of 25

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Camacho Liberty 2005 - This year’s Independence Day celebratory cigar! With 6 years of age, I was expecting great things, and I was not disappointed. Opening the red, white & blue flag theme individual coffin, I see an 11/18 size cigar wrapped in tissue paper. Upon removing the tissue, I was greeted with a plume covered stick, still glistening from the oily dark wrapper. Flavors were typically Camacho, with a very smooth earthy character. Cane sugar sweetness underscored the peaty, smokey core. Deep leather, toasted almond and malted barley flavors danced around each puff. Very full bodied and bold, but age has tempered the Camacho strength. Truly a magnificent cigar befitting the occasion!

Gurkha Beauty - I received another of these in a sampler pack. My opinion remains the same, a really good medium bodied cigar but the large ring size is not comfortable for me.

Calle Ocho Churchill 7” x 50 - Also arriving in a sampler pack, this cigar left me wanting more. The light wrapper and mild-med blend wasn’t unpleasant, but just lacked in balanced flavor and excitement. Good construction, great burn and a nice herbal room aroma were the only highlights..... and the price is low - can be found for around $40 per bundle of 20. Made in Nicaragua with Nicaraguan fillers & binder and wrapped with a Ecuadorian grown Sumatra leaf.

Padilla Series ‘68 Golden Bear 6” x 60 - Nicaraguan Corojo wrapper over a Nicaraguan filler blend of Jalapa and Condega grown tobaccos. This line has been consistently outstanding, and although I don’t prefer the 60 ring gauge, the cigar was excellent! The wrapper is a dark reddish color and provides a molasses sweetness to the smoke. Coffee, cedar, lemon and light spice notes accentuated the core of toasted, well aged tobacco flavors. A creamy, thick full bodied smoke with great complexity.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

El Hijo - A Smoke Inn exclusive. The complete run was only 650 boxes, packed 15 cigars to a box.

The stick will retail $9.75 ea / $146 a box. This is an amazing smoke and offered in such limited quantities. My Father cigars has continued to grow and sophisticate over the years. There is nothing lost from the orginal Cuban classics but much gained in the added smoothness, fine tobacco, excellent construction and a burn that goes for days. Great smoke. Thank you Abe Dababneh, proprietor of Smoke Inn, for sending these outstanding smokes for Bob to experience!

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Quesada Espana Robusto - If I was writing a top 10 list for 2011, this would be included on it. The ‘young ones’ have proven their maturity with this outstanding new blend that is making an impression throughout the industry. Expect that at the upcoming IPCPR convention, Quesada’s booth will be all a flutter with people interviewing & trying to get the new scoop on this hot new product from the Dominican Republic.

Ashton La Aroma de Cuba - Mi Amor Robusto - What a little rocket! I love this blend and think of it as perhaps my favorite blend out of the My Father factory in Esteli, Nicaragua. A must try that will always have a place in my humidor.

J. Fuego - 777 Maduro - Yumm!!!

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the Vegas de Santiago Toro Maduro which was provided by listener Magnus Stensson. Thanks Magnus!

Bob: Very nice cigar with a touch of spice on a solid leather foundation. It was a little tough getting smoke out of this at times but over alll I really enjoyed it.

Palio Cutter Contest: John Magrisso of Cambridge, Massachusetts won a black carbon fiber Palio cutter in the June contest. Enter the July contest now! Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com/
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #333 July 02,2011

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 06:17:50 -0400

This week Bob and Dale celebrate July 4th. ER Doc calls in and shares his review of the Entubar. The Cigar of the Week is the Ernesto Perez Carillo New Wave Connecticut. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur Limited Edition. DJ Shalifoe calls in to report on his new Burl Palio Cutter that he won in April's contest.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - E.P. Carrillo New Wave Connecticut.

The New Wave, which both Bob and Dale enjoyed, is a favorite of Liz's.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Brand Name: E.P. Carrillo

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Siglo Limited Reserve Siglo VI - 6” x 54 - From the Nica Altadis factory comes this line of cigars borrowing on the Cuban Cohiba Siglo line name. Filler is Dom. Rep. and Nicaraguan, binder is Nicaragua grown Broadleaf and the wrapper is Ecuadorian Cubano. I really like these full bodied mid-priced cigars! Lots of oak woodiness with good spice, pepper and some anise. Construction is good. Room aromas are earthy floral.

Esencia Belicoso - 5.5” x 52 - A beautiful representation of the Belicoso format in a cigar that has it all! Full bodied, full flavored and wonderfully complex. Perfectly balanced in flavors, covering a wide spectrum of savory tastes with good spice. For me, this format brings out just a touch more sweetness and a little less tannins then the other sizes.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Gloria Cubana Artesanos de Obelisco - There are days that I hate this cigar and days that I love it. It seems to have a flavor profile that does not always agree with me, and so I smoke them infrequently which is unfortunate because overall I really like this cigar. The secret to enjoying this cigar is to smoke it slowly. We have said many times on this show that too often cigar smokers smoke too fast and that can seriously damage the flavor. Well this cigar is a way to prove it. Smoke it slow, and then slow down some more for the best flavors.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur Limited Edition.

Bob: Very sweet on the tongue, mild pre-light aroma. First flavors are citrus, leather and bean (savory). As I smoked it, there came a slight edge to the flavors (spice) that I really liked.

June Palio Cutter Contest Winner: John Magrisso of Cambridge, Massachusetts won a black carbon fiber Palio cutter in this month's contest. Enter the July contest now! Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #332 June 24,2011

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 07:08:59 -0400

This week Bob and Dale discuss an email sent in from Bill in Rochester NY on internet sites that sell cigars at prices far below the manufacturer's suggested retail price. Check out Professor Fiore's June 20th column and Bob's written response to the column for more on this topic. The Cigar of the Week is the Berger Argenti Entubar. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Saint Luis Rey Reserva Especial Serie G. John Magrisso of Cambridge, Massachusetts won a black carbon fiber Palio cutter in this month's contest. (Remember, each month starts a new contest and you must re-enter to be eligible to win.)

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Berger Argenti Entubar.

ENTUBAR® is a truly unique creation that pays tribute to the time-honored Cuban cigar making technique known as ‘entubar’ while also establishing an innovative patent-pending process of cigar manufacturing not seen in the premium cigar industry before. Each deeply aged Nicaraguan filler leaf is carefully rolled into itself creating delicate ‘scrolls’ of rich, flavorful tobacco. This age-old method ensures open chambers of air flow from the foot to the head of the cigar, creating a superior draw. What makes this new brand stand apart from all others is the revolutionary manufacturing process and appearance of the ENTUBAR® cigar. The ligero tobacco that lend the cigar its unique full body is bunched independently before being ‘re-bunched’ directly into the center of the remaining ‘entubar’ rolled filler blend. This ligero ‘channel’ ranges the full length of the cigar and extends ¼ inch beyond the finished trimmed foot, creating a startlingly unique ‘fuse like’ appearance that virtually assures a perfect conical burn, long white ash and a rich, complex mosaic of flavors directly focused to the aficionado’s palate. Due to the meticulous small batch production of ENTUBAR®, only a limited number of tobacconists are authorized as ENTUBAR® merchants in the United States.

Comprised of all Cuban seed Nicaraguan filler and binder tobaccos, ENTUBAR® is graced with an Ecuadorian ‘Desflorado’ Connecticut-seed wrapper which lends its characteristically long, sweet finish. ENTUBAR QUAD MADURO®, which is box pressed ‘Habano’, is cloaked in a Nicaraguan Cuban-seed Sun-Grown Maduro wrapper aged in oak barrels since 2002. ENTUBAR® is available in five (5) unique vitolas characterized by sumptuously large ring gauges: Corona Macho (4 5/8” x 48); Robusto (5 3/8” x 54); Double Corona (7 5/8” x 54); Torpedo (6 7/8” x 56) and Gran Toro (6 5/8” x 64 – this size not available for ENTUBAR QUAD MADURO®). Available in rustic Spanish cedar boxes of 20 cigars, the suggested retail price of each cigar ranges from $7.99 to $11.99.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Cohiba (red dot) Churchill 7” x 49 - The famous Cohiba brand from General Cigar’s Dominican Republic factory. Camaroon wrapper, Indonesian Jember binder and Dominican Piloto Cubano filler. Nice spice from the wrapper and a good example of the flavors from Dom. Piloto Cubano - cedar & leather with a nice acidic component. A good cigar, but way over-priced (trading on the famous Cohiba name) at $20+ MSRP.

Partagas Serie D No 4 (2008) - For many people, the favorite robusto coming from Habanos SA. Creamy and full flavored stick with outstanding aroma! Traditional Cuban tobacco character with honey, cocoa, plum and spice complexities.

Man O War Puro Authentico - I smoked the last stick from the box I bought last month, and my opinion remains the same. A powerful, magnificent cigar. Deep in flavor, well constructed and a pure joy to smoke. This will join the list of cigars I will always keep on hand

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amore

La Aroma de Cuba San Cristobol

Art Deco

Nestor Miranda Dominicano

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the Saint Luis Rey Reserva Especial Serie G.

Bob: Very sweet barnyard aroma; slight dustiness on pre draw; dry acidic taste. Nice light flavor for after dinner - like a sorbet. Quality construction. Good draw. Nice leather retrohale. Picked up a little spice in the last third.

Dale: Excellent mild-med double robusto sized cigar with a light wrapper. Nuts, oats and a dried fruit (raisins) sweetness.

June Palio Cutter Contest Winner: John Magrisso of Cambridge, Massachusetts won a black carbon fiber Palio cutter in this month's contest. Enter the July contest now! Remember, you must re-enter each month to be eligible to win the featured Palio cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #331 June 17,2011

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 07:10:19 -0400

This week's show features an interview with Leslie B. Mann, Executive Vice President of Colibri. Bob and Dale discuss a news item sent in by listener Jay Ledou on the recovery of Cuba's cigar industry. Other topics include the retirement of Jose Blanco, master blender for La Aurora, and the latest Sam Leccia news. The Cigar of the Week is the Alec Bradley SCR, Select Cabinet Reserve Corona. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the H. Upmann Vintage Cameroon Toro 6 x 50.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Alec Bradley SCR, Select Cabinet Reserve Corona.

The careful selection of mid- and upper-priming tobaccos were hand-picked to create the rich and balanced SCR line. The limited yield, dark caramel colored wrapper adorns a skillful selection of premium leaves from the valleys of Central America, creating a perfect union of balance and flavor. SCR is presented in elegant lacquered boxes of 20 cigars, without cellophane, in five sizes. The smoke is buttery smooth, and possesses an abundance of complex flavors and aromas that will hold your attention from start to finish.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Oliva Serie V Lancero 7” x 38 - A Nicaraguan puro with plenty of Jalapa valley ligero as the keystone of the blend. Wrapped in a Habano Sun Grown leaf that almost drips in oils. Tons of nuttiness, spice and sweet cedar notes, with some dark cocoa in the last half.

Esencia Lancero 7” x 38 - Another Nicaraguan puro in this refined and elegant size that is only available in seasonal or corporate gift packs. The Corojo & Criollo blend is absolutely perfect, delivering a wide range of flavor, a full bodied profile and a truly sublime experience. Espresso, cocoa, roasted nuts, and a touch of red wine tannins balance perfectly with well fermented, rich tobacco tastes.

Cuba Libre One Robusto 5” x 52 - This line from Nestor Placensia is bold and flavorful, thanks to a blend with several tobacco varieties from several regions. The filler is predominantly ligero from Esteli and Condega Nicaragua. The cigar has two binders - a Habano from Jalapa and a Costa Rican leaf. All this is covered in a Habano ligero wrapper from the Jamastran valley in Honduras. As one might expect, it is a powerful stick, yet balanced and complex. Burn characteristics were surprisingly good, given all the thick ligero leaves involved. Lots of earthy, savory flavors with coffee and spice on the finish. Full bodied and creamy.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Once the grandkids left I hit the humidor for the trusted and familiar, Esencia, Monte Pascoal, Daytona and a few uniques.

Mederos Torpedo - The Corojo wrapper is from Jalapa, Nicaragua and the binder and filler are from Esteli. A pleasant smoke; I enjoyed it very much.

Gurhka Beauty - A sweet monster of a cigar that is enjoyable and smokes very smoothly. Leather and sweet caramel seem to dominate this pleasing smoke from Gurhka.

Diesel - A powerful smoke with rich dark flavors of wood, grains and leather. Smoke it slowly and enjoy it or pay the piper for smoking it too hot and being overwhelmed by the strength.

Torano Master - Sweet tobacco and caramel flavors merge mightily with the fina aged tobaccos in this true masterpiece of a cigar.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the H. Upmann Vintage Cameroon Toro 6 x 50.

May Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Tim Delaney, a proud member of our military, won the Classic Black Palio Cutter. Enter the June contest now to win a Carbon Fiber Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #330 June 10,2011

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 09:24:27 -0400

Bob and Dale are joined this week by new father Craig Schneider and Colin Ganley, author of soon to be released Le Snob Guide to Cigars. Colin also discusses his Cigar Research company's apps available from iTunes: Cuban Cigar Creation, Mobile Stogie Pro and Mobile Stogie Ref. This week's show features an interview with Jose Blanco from La Aurora Cigars. Canadian listener Tim Banic checks in from his "Stogie Malone Cigar Bar." Listeners Mark Hall from TobaccoEvents.com and Bryan Newbury from Centro Cigars comment on recent shows. The Cigar of the Week is the Oliveros King Havanos Oscuro and the cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Hoya de Nicaragua Antano Dark Corojo Doble Fuerte.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Oliveros King Havanos Oscuro.

The Nicaraguan binder secures the all Ligero (Jalapa and Condega) filler for the application of this oscuro wrapper. Full bodied and not to be trifled with, this cigar comes from the Habano Cuba Cigar Company.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Illusione F9:2007 - What a cigar. Dion’s birthday was in May and I took advantage of it to smoke an older F9. I did the cigar injustice by enjoying it during a stint mowing the lawn but actually had to stop & sit down during the process. Not only was the cigar excellent but it was substantially stronger than I expected! Loaded with full rich deep tobacco flavors, this well balanced, well aged example did nothing but please. Stock some away and treat yourself in a few years.

Pinar Del Rio Capa Maduro Petit Corona - In an attempt to follow up the monumental F9 I decided to light another cigar I expected great things from. Unfortunately, I was greeted by an overwhelming unbalanced strength (not from nicotine). Imagine a burned cup of coffee. Too bad. I’ll give another a try shortly to refresh my opinion on these (usually) pleasing cigars.

Quesada Espana

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Macanudo 1968 Robusto - 5’ x 50 Lower pricing (as reported here recently) and back to the solid, rich flavors as when first released! Med - full bodied, savory & a bit of light spice. A mild natural sweetness on the finish is particularly pleasing. Assuming the flavors stay consistent, I’ll be buying a few from time to time.

Don Pepin Garcia Blue Fundadores Lancero - 7.5” x 38 - Nicaraguan fillers and binder with a Corojo Oscuro wrapper. This size really displays the fine aromas and deep flavors of this blend. Very refined with leather and cedar core flavors, yet with a bold pepper/spice component. Dark earth overtones and a heavenly aroma round out this complex, balance smoke.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Greycliff Professionale (Blue) - A very light bodied but enjoyable smoke that burned well and provided a modicum of flavors; however, it failed to excite my palate. These days a cigar must bring the flavor - not strength but certainly flavor - to be on my repeat list and this one did not.

Padilla Series 68 Signature - Controversy and turmoil seem to follow Ernesto Padilla every step of the journey. Recently forced to relinguish control of his personal project, the shop on Calle Ocho, he continues to produce some outstanding cigars. The 68 is a full-bodied cigar with a touch of sweetness. This one was a 60 ring gauge model that filled my senses with wonderfully aged tobacco flavors of leather, cedar and just a hint of sweetness.

Padilla Series 68 is the final chapter in the trilogy Ernesto released in honor of his father, one of the world's most renowned poets. Rolled with a Nicaraguan corojo wrapper around Havana seed fillers from Jalapa and Condega, two of Nicaragua's premier growing regions. The Series 68 stands for 1968, the year Enesto Padilla's father compiled his most controversial work, one that ultimately led to his imprisonment in Cuba for speaking out against Castro's communist regime. The Series 68 is the only cigar in the Padilla tribute line that is hand rolled in Honduras.

Oliva G Maduro - Oliva cigars are often overlooked by those that do not smoke them regularly. But do not dismiss these as low end smokes because of their most reasonable p[rice tag. These are excellent smokes with quality construction and excellent dark tobacco flavors of expresso and leather. An excellent smoke at an excellent price.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the Hoya de Nicaragua Antano Dark Corojo Doble Fuerte.

May Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Tim Delaney, a proud member of our military, won the Classic Black Palio Cutter. Enter the June contest now to win a Carbon Fiber Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #329 June 03,2011

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 17:24:29 -0400

This week's show features an interview with Sam Leccia of the recently launched Sam Leccia Cigar Company. On What's hot? What's not? What's next? Liz interviews Abe Dababneh, proprietor of South Florida's six (soon to be seven) Smoke Inn locations. The Cigar of the Week is the Partegas Cifuentes. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Siglo Limited Reserve VII.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Partegas Cifuentes from General Cigar.

The Partagas Cifuentes Blend is a limited-availability extension to the Partagas portfolio of cigars. It builds upon the legacy of Ramon Cifuentes by introducing a cigar specially blended for the Fall season by Ramon’s protégés, Daniel Nunez and Benji Menendez. Cifuentes Seasonal Blend cigars are medium-to-full bodied, rich in flavor, and use a special Honduran Medio-Tiempo wrapper, as well as Nicaraguan filler and binder tobaccos.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Arganese ML3 Torpedo - 6 ⅞” x 52, Corojo binder & filler in a Brazilian maduro wrapper. Cocoa, espresso and creamy. Not quite as preferred by Dale as the CL3, but a good cigar that never really got any traction.

Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic 1979 Robusto - 5” x 50, All Nica tobacco using a Corojo wrapper. Earthy, with cedar, black pepper and a molasses sweetness on the finish.

J. Fuego 777 Maduro Robusto (White Label) - 5” x 50, Nica puro with Corojo blend and a Criollo maduro wrapper. Full bodied & full flavored with spice and maduro richness. I hope Jesus never stops producing these!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Esencia Lancero - One of the rarest of Esencia cigars, this delightful lancero brings back the soft glow of gas lights, the hum of a 57 Chevy and the sound of Cuban music wafting through the streets of Havana. It does not taste just like a Cuban but it does take my imagination and my soul back to a simpler time. The flavors are all fresh, complex and yet it's so easy to smoke. Perhaps the most poignant of the series.

East Ender - A thoughtful gift from a listener that turned out to be a worthwhile smoke. Although a little rough around the edges it hit the mark for age, leather and a bit woodsy.

Monte Pascoal Figurado - Tapering to a fat 60+ ring guage in the middle, this smoke continued to deliver clean bright flavors all the way through. Typical Monte Pascoal flavors of straw and age that are highlighted by mellow leather and oak

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the Siglo Limited Reserve VII.

May Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Tim Delaney, a proud member of our military, won the Classic Black Palio Cutter. Enter the June contest now to win a Carbon Fiber Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #328 May 27,2011

Sun, 29 May 2011 08:47:23 -0400

This week Bob and Dale discuss the latest in the cigar industry, including Michael Herklots moving from Davidoff to Nat Sherman, Sam Leccia returning to the premium cigar business, Guillermo León Herbert becoming the independent owner of La Aurora, and Vanderburgh Humidors being selected by the Indianapolis Speedway to build its limited edition cigar humidor. The Cigar of the Week is the Punch Upper Cut. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Licenciados Toro.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? Call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send written reviews to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Cigar of the Week - Punch Upper Cut by General Cigar.

The history of General Cigar began in 1848 when Ferdinand Cullman immigrated to the US from Germany. His grandson made one of the greatest contributions to the cigar world: the Connecticut Shade wrapper. In 1960, Cullman Brothers bought General Cigar Company and became the largest manufacturer and marketer of premium cigars with impressive brands. In 1997, General Cigar acquired Villazon, the maker of such iconic brands as Punch, Hoyo de Monterrey, and Excalibur. Later, General Cigar assumed responsibility for marketing and selling El Credito, whose brands include La Gloria Cubana and El Rico Habano. In 1999, General Cigar sold its mass market business to Swedish Match in order to concentrate strictly on premium brands. In 2000, Swedish Match assumed majority control of General through a stock purchase from Edgar Cullman and family members. Other important brands have been acquired recently, including Helix, Don Tomas and Astral in 2004. Their factory in Santiago, Dominican Republic is run by General Cigar Dominicana, a subsidiary of General Cigar Co., which began processing tobacco in 1975, and started producing cigars in 1978.

The Punch Upper Cut was released in October 2009. Handmade in Honduras with its filler and binder tobaccos grown in Ometepe, Nicaragua, this cigar is perfectly finished with an attractive dark and oily Ecuador Sumatra wrapper. Each cigar has a footband complete with the image of Ometepe and its twin volcanoes

Toro | Length: 6.62 | Ring: 54

Grand Corona | Length: 6 | Ring: 45

Robusto | Length: 5.25 | Ring: 50

Dark Side - - No Dark Side this week.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Man o’ War Salomone

El Credito Perridos

Bolivar Belicoso Fino

Cohiba Siglo VI

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

PDR 1878 Cubano Especial Seleccion RL 2000 - Wrapper is Lancaster, Pa leaf; binder is the Criollo 98 from the Dominican Republic; and the filler is Nicaraguan and Dominican Republic. Medium bodied but full of great flavors of aged tobacco; slightly sweet with a salty sensation on the tip of the tongue. A mind melting experience that will cleanse the body of stress and free the mind.

Tatuaje Especiale - Great opening pepper that mellows into a sweet spicy joy punctuated with leather and mocha.
Size: 7.5 x 38 (Especiales/Lancero)
Wrapper: Nicaragua Corojo 99
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium

Black Pearl Morada - Doug Woods has survived more ups and downs and pure crashes than perhaps anyone in the cigar business. In 2008 the Morado Torpedo was named Best Cigar of the Year, although the title came with an asterisk, “That you can't find and never heard of.” We first interviewed Doug way back at the 2006 IPCPR, before he was famous. Doug has one of the most extensive and beautiful collections of cigar art to be found anywhere and he uses that art on his cigars. The Robusto that I smoked had sweet chocolate, coffee and fruity elements in the flavor that finished with a distinctly herbal twist. A well constructed cigar with outstanding draw and flavor. A keeper and yes I would buy one again IF I could find someplace that carries them.
Doug Wood states: "We wish we had enough of this tobacco to produce several years' worth of our new Black Pearl Morado (Purple) premium cigar but, its featured Cameroon wrapper is in shorter supply than we expected, so we can only offer limited supplies of Morado in three shapes: Robusto (4.75" x 52) Toro (6" x 50), and Torpedo (6.25" x 52)."

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar is the Licenciados Toro 6 1/2 x 50.

May Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Tim Delaney, a proud member of our military, won the Classic Black Palio Cutter. Enter the June contest now to win a Carbon Fiber Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
Vanderburgh Humidors: www.vanderburghhumidors.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #327 May 20,2011

Sun, 22 May 2011 09:50:53 -0400

This week the Cigar of the Week is the San Lotano Maduro by A.J. Fernandez. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Perdomo Lot 23, suggested by listener Dan Crouch. In the "What's hot? What's not? What's next?" segment of the show, Liz interviews Luis Molina, General Manager of the Habana Port Cigar Merchants in Covington, LA. A special thanks to listener Dan Lawson for putting Liz in contact with Luis. Bob and Dale receive answers to their questions regarding available sizes of last week's Cigar of the Week, the Curivari.

Check out the live show! Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? Call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send written reviews to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Cigar of the Week - San Lotano Maduro by A.J. Fernandez.

San Lotano is the first line from AJ Fernandez NOT to be sold under someone else's banner. Already well known for blends like Man O War and Diesel, AJ has also built a fabulous reputation making cigars for such brands as Rocky Patel and Esteban Carreras. AJ is a master cigar blender and magnificent roller - I saw him roll a cigar on a board balanced on his knee. He has secured enough farmland to begin producing his own tobacco and that means he can now experiment with different varietals and blends so I expect some outstanding new cigars from him very soon. As a matter of fact, last week on the show Dale raved about the new Man O War Puro Authentico (Liz and I saw pre-release boxes in Nicaragua in January).

Dark Side - - No Dark Side this week.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Man O War Puro Authentico 5 x 42 Corona - This a wonderfully full bodied, very full flavored cigar with a superbly balanced dark earthy & spicy character. I hesitate to say how magnificent I think this cigar is for fear they will all sell out before I can buy them up! Rich and satisfying with lots of complex flavors, but not much change in those flavors from front to back. Espresso, hazelnuts, pepper and a touch of vanilla bean are evident throughout the cigar. From the middle on, some sandalwood is more obvious and near the end, some cocoa bean. The cigar is powerful without being over-powering.

Gurkha Beauty - 6.5” x56 limited edition - The complimentary cigar to the Gurkha Beast, this behemoth is filled with 5 yr old premium long fillers wrapped in a 7 yr old Ecuadorian grown Connecticut wrapper. Creamy, toasty flavors come across as elegant and refined. Medium bodied, smooth with a heady room aroma. A Conny wrapped cigar I could get behind if it wasn’t so damned big (and pricey). The cigar is packaged in the K. Hansotia style - a large Gurhka band, a second Beauty band over a cedar sleeve, and all resting upright in gold capped glass tubes in a fancy lacquered box. At $695 for a box of 20 (even if there were only 500 boxes made), not a cigar I’ll buy, but one I’d happily smoke if gifted to me again.

Punch Rare Corojo 10th Anniversary - The last one from my box, I still think these are good cigars, but not quite up to the regular Rare Corojo line in depth of flavor. Something in the blend just gives me a bit too much of that metallic/astringent component that overtakes the savory flavors, especially in the last half.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Puro Autentico - Allegedly this blend originates from the personal blend of AJ Fernandez himself. I always hesitate when I hear that because the cigar makers that I have spoken with tell me they smoke several different cigars depending on what they may be working on; however, each does have a favorite and I can see why this might be AJ’s favorite smoke. A powerful smoke not unlike the other Man O War selections (and its cousin the Diesel), this cigar makes all of that flavor and power a little more manageable. Using Habano ligero wrapper from Esteli and a filler/binder packed with ligero, this is a cigar that will give “Straight Ligero” a run for its money.

EPC Elencos - This is the top of the line from Ernesto Perez Carillo and commands a staggering $11 each. That is really not much in today’s cigar world but compared to the paltry sums required to experience the great Core Line and New Wave Connecticut, the Elencos is a luxury item, but one that all of us can enjoy. The most powerful of the current line, this cigar delivers unique flavors and a mystic experience thanks to its Dominican binder, Nicaraguan filler and Brazilian wrapper. Give yourself the taste of luxury, give yourself an Elencos.

Alec Bradley Family Blend M23 7x50 - I smoked through a box of these so fast that I soon forgot how good they were. Then I found one while making room for boxes of Daytona and Oliva G’s from a recent event. Now I want more, again, and then some more and don’t forget I want more. Reasonably priced at a mere $120 per box, you guessed it, I want more.

Esencia Belicoso - A flavorful package of well aged tobaccos that exemplify the cigar maker's art. Excellent smoke in a nice-to-handle size that produces voluminous smoke and flavor.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Perdomo Lot 23, was suggested by listener Dan Crouch

April Palio Cutter Contest Winner: DJ Shalifoe from Big Bay, Michigan, won the Burl Palio Cutter. Enter the May contest now to win a Classic Black Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at http://www.cigarmedia.tv/live/ where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #326 May 13,2011

Sun, 15 May 2011 07:44:31 -0400

This week Bob and Dale are joined by Craig Schneider, cigar passionado and regular contributor to CigarMedia.tv. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Illusione H1 (also known as the Holy Lance). The Illusione was suggested by Jeff Curtis and purchased from FullersPullers.us. The Cigar of the Week is the Curivari Reserva Limitada (Red/Gold Label). The Curivari Seleccion Privada and the Gloria de Leon - two other brands from this cigar maker - were also smoked by the guys during the week. Thanks goes out to Andreas Throuvalas of Curivari Cigars for his generosity in supplying sample cigars to smoke. We also want to thank Jim Luftman of Blue Havana II in Georgia for putting us in contact with Andreas and helping us to obtain the samples.

Just announced - The new version of the DogWatch Cigar Radio app is iPAD compatible.

The Cigar Rights of America membership special for DogWatch listeners is still running! Get two free cigars exclusively crafted for CRA members and a free CRA T-shirt when you sign up for a one-year membership for $35. Go to www.cigarrights.org; click on the microphone in the upper right corner to go to the VIP section; enter "dogwatch" (one word, all lowercase) to sign in; then use promo code "dogwatch" when completing your payment information.

Check out the live show! Go to www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Curivari Reserva Limitada (Red/Gold Label).

A dark oily wrapper, medium to full-bodied, this cigar offers toasty flavors with notes of coffee, leather and spices. Authentic Cuban Seed Criollo and Corojo.

Filler: Nicaragua; Binder: Nicaragua; Wrapper: Nicaragua

Sizes: Epicures: 4 ½ x 52; Imperiales: 6 ¼ x 54; Piramides: 6 ¼ x 52

Dark Side - - No Dark Side this week.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Esencia Belicoso (early release)

Curivari Seleccion Privada

Gloria de Leon

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Curivari Seleccion Privada

Gloria de Leon

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

777 One

EPC

Curivari Seleccion Privada

Gloria de Leon

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Illusione H1 (also known as the Holy Lance) was suggested by Jeff Curtis and purchased from FullersPullers.us.

April Palio Cutter Contest Winner: DJ Shalifoe from Big Bay, Michigan, won the Burl Palio Cutter. Enter the May contest now to win a Classic Black Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #325 May 6,2011

Sun, 08 May 2011 05:36:13 -0400

This week Bob and Dale discuss Operation Cigar Liberty which was launched by Cigar Rights of America to support federal legislation (H.R. 1639) that calls upon the U.S. Food & Drug Administration – Center for Tobacco Products not to regulate premium/traditional cigars, as they do other tobacco products. In commemoration of this proactive piece of federal legislation, as the first of its kind in history in the form of H.R. 1639, Cigar Rights of America is starting a national petition drive for 1,639 petitions from each Congressional District in America. With 435 members of Congress, that's 712,965 petitions. That's over 7,000 petitions to each member of the United States Senate. When elections are being decided by dozens, hundreds and a few thousand votes, they will listen. So with one simple click, where all you submit is a name, email address and zip code, you can have a place in history.

At the request of a listener, Dale keeps a diary of his cigars over the last week. ER Doc calls in on the Herf Line to talk about Para Japon, by La Aurora and Cigar Tourism. The cigar featured on the "What's My Band?" blind smoke test is the Oliva Series V Churchill Extra 7 x 52, which was provided by Liz. The Cigar of the Week is the Punch After Dinner.

The Cigar Rights of America membership special for DogWatch listeners is still running! Get two free cigars exclusively crafted for CRA members and a free CRA T-shirt when you sign up for a one-year membership for $35. Go to www.cigarrights.org; click on the microphone in the upper right corner to go to the VIP section; enter "dogwatch" (one word, all lowercase) to sign in; then use promo code "dogwatch" when completing your payment information.

Check out the live show! Go to www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Punch After Dinner Maduro.

This is a 7.25 x 46 version of the basic Punch line - well except its Maduro. Wrapper is Ecuadorian Sumatra; filler is Honduran, Nicaraguan, Dominican (Piloto Cubano); and the binder is Connecticut Broadleaf. Factory: Honduras American Tabaco S. A., Cofradia, Honduras.

If you like, as Bob does, a strong flavored cigar without any harshness or bitterness that also comes in at a value price ($78.95 / box of 25) then do yourself and your wallet a favor by trying these out. The flavors are deep and dark with overtones of coffee and chocolate but with an overwhelming aged tobacco flavor. Hits the spot any time of the day and is especially good with DogWatch Dark coffee from BlackDogCoffee.net.

Dark Side - - No Dark Side this week.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

I received an email asking what my “normal” week’s worth of cigars looks like. I’m sure my cigar weeks are anything but normal, but I kept track of every brand of cigar I smoked this week. Some I smoked several of, most I smoked just one..........

Tatuaje Havana VI Artisitas- La Requiza #4 - Oliva Serie G Maduro - Cain Daytona - Quesada Tributo - Padron 3000 Maduro - Famous Nic 7000 - Cain Habano - BOTL - Joya de Nicaragua Dark Corojo - Illusione 4/2g Candela - Illusione 888 - Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic 1979 - A.F. Don Carlos #2 - CAO Brazilia - EPC Short Run - J. Fuego Origin - LFD Air Bender - Famous Nic 3000 - Punch Rare Corojo.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Santos de Miami Haven (6x54) from Jameson Cigars - A powerful offering from the La Tradicion Cubana factory in the Dominican Republic made for Jameson Cigars, Brad Mayo. This is really what power is all about in a cigar. No harshness, smooth tobacco flavors with a very slight sweetness to offset the spicy concoction. This is a square pressed (boxed in square forms to preserve the shape) beauty that smokes the way the finest Opus X’s should smoke! Made with all Dominican grown tobaccos with a Havana Corojo wrapper, Criollo ’98 binder, and Corojo and Criollo fillers. A value at $80/box of 10.

Cuba Libre One - I opened the humidor the other day and pulled out a cigar that I had been looking at for awhile - the Cuba Libre One (a gift from a fellow cigar enthusiast). At that moment I knew nothing about the cigar having lived in a cave for the last several months. I hesitated slightly as I pulled it from the box. I was looking for a good morning smoke to finish off my coffee and this was an unknown to me, but I clipped the torpedo head and lit up anyway. That was perhaps the best decision I made until later that day I decided to take a break from work by enjoying my third cigar of the day, a Curavari red label.

Turns out that Cuba Libre One is a new cigar for 2011 from Nestor Plascencia and the Segovia factory masters. This cigar flooded my palate with bold flavors of coffee, pepper and aged tobaccos with a decidedly umami character. The cigar is well balanced and does not overwhelm with nicotine; a testament to its fine aging. Made with a blend of Nicaraguan ligero from Esteli and Condega with a dual binder of Habano from Jalapa and a spicy leaf from Costa Rica. The wrapper is a slick Honduran ligero that seems to bring the whole thing together. Robust and refined, this will make an excellent addition to your humidor. A mere $80 per box on-line.

Punch UpperCut - Did they change this blend? I ask because I find the latest ones much more smokeable than before. A decent cigar that may not meet the expectations of the famed island tobacco it is made from but it is a sweet spicy bundle of joy that pleases my palate morning and night. Maybe these just needed a little more time to settle in to their prime smoking age?

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Oliva Series V Churchill Extra 7 x 52, was provided by Liz.

April Palio Cutter Contest Winner: DJ Shalifoe from Big Bay, Michigan, won the Burl Palio Cutter. Enter the May contest now to win a Classic Black Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #324 April 29,2011

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 10:02:47 -0400

This week Dale calculates how many cigars he and Bob have smoked during the 7 years that the DogWatch Cigar Radio podcast has been broadcast. (At 3 cigars per day, they have each smoked about 6,500 stogies - or a little over 600 boxes of cigars together.) Also in this week's show, Bob interviews Brian Berman from Cigar Rights of America (CRA) to update listeners about CRA actvities including the FDA attempts at regulating tobacco. (Click here to learn more.) Brian also answers questions about the inclusion of pipe tobacco in the CRA fight. Liz and Bob discuss how Men Smoke on Mars and Women Smoke on Venus in a special edition of "What's hot? What's not? What's next?" DJ Shalifoe from Big Bay, Michigan is the winner of the Burl Palio Cutter in April's contest.

The 2011 edition of the Nestor Miranda Cigar Day is on May 6. Get a free Art Deco from Miami Cigar & Company when you buy ANY cigar from your local authorized retailer. Go to http://vimeo.com/22924205 to learn more.

Check out the live show! Go to www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Pasha from La Palina.

Pasha is part of The Family Series from La Palina. The “Pasha” is named for Bill’s father, William S. Paley. As founder and chairman of CBS, William reached into every home in America. It was his interest in promoting the sales of the family cigar company through the use of radio that led him to the broadcasting business. Though known as “The Chairman” at work, he was jokingly known as “Pasha” at home.

Size: 7.25 x 50

Wrapper: Ecuador or Costa Rica
Binder: Costa Rica
Filler: Honduras and Nicaragua

Dark Side - - No Dark Side this week.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

BOTL by Abe Flores - Corona Gorda Thanks to Rob (patron at Burning Leaf cigar shop) and Justin for gifting me a box of these fabulous cigars! Rich, bold and spicy with deep earthy flavors.

Quesada Tributo Julio Robusto - This cigar was released in 2010 in Tribute to the Quesada family members lost in a tragic airplane crash. Wrapper is an Ecuadorian grown hybrid (Habano 2000, Corojo, HVA and Sumatra), the binder is Honduran Ligero and the filler is Jamastran Nicaragua & Domincan Criollo 98 Ligeros. Very rich and earthy, with mouth filling sweet spiciness, cocoa and coffee flavors. The aromas are delightfully herbal and woody. A wonderfully complex & balanced cigar!

Cain Maduro 550 Robusto - We’ve talked about thes cigars extensively, so not much to add this week other then they remain consistently well made. Bold flavors, chewy body and outstanding construction. This week the maduro is my favorite, last week it was the Habano.

EPC Short Run Delirios - The 2nd release from the new EPC venture, the Short Run is just that - only 1500 boxes of each size (3) were made on the initial run. Nicaraguan & Dominican longfillers wrapped up in a Nicaraguan binder and a gorgeous Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. I love the nutmeg spiciness and core of wood & well fermented tobacco flavors all presented in a creamy, full bodied smoke. The Short run is a bit fuller then EPC’s inaugural cigar

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Punch After Dinner Maduro - 7.25x46 version of the basic Punch line, well except it's Maduro. Wrapper is Ecudorian Sumatra; filler is Honduran, Nicaraguan, and Dominican (Piloto Cubano); and the binder is Connecticut Broadleaf. If you like, as I do, a strong flavored cigar without any harshness or bitterness that also comes in at a value price ($78.95 / box of 25) then do yourself and your wallet a favor by trying these out. The flavors are deep and dark with overtones of coffee and chocolate but with an overwhelming aged tobacco flavor. Hits the spot any time of the day for me and is especially good with DogWatch Dark coffee from Black Dog Coffee. Factory: Honduras American Tabaco S. A., Cofradia, Honduras.

Partagas Cifuentes Seasonal Blend - Partagas Cifuentes Blend is a limited availability extension to the Partagas portfolio of cigars. It builds upon the legacy of Ramon Cifuentes by introducing a cigar especially blended for the Fall season by Ramon’s protégés, Daniel Nunez and Benji Menendez. Cifuentes Seasonal Blend cigars are medium-to-full bodied, rich in flavor, and use a special Honduran Medio-Tiempo wrapper, as well as Nicaraguan filler and binder tobaccos. A surprisingly good cigar from a large cigar maker. No that’s not fair but it is true, this cigar has wonderful flavor IF you like a lighter cigar. Some do not like it as it is lighter but I find it is a great way to start the day with a cup of very strong coffee or very weak coffee if that’s what you are in to.

Wrapper: Honduran Medio Tiempo
Filler: Nicaraguan
Binder: Nicaraguan
Country: Dominican Republic
Factory: General Cigar Dominicana
$77 to $85 per box

Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series Maduro Monarca

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the La Flor Dominicana Careroon Cabinet Lancero (a non-production cigar), was provided by Carl Holtman.

March Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Darren Powell from Urbana, Illinois, won the black carbon fiber Palio Cutter. Enter the April contest now to win a Burl Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #323 April 22,2011

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 10:57:37 -0400

This week Bryan Newbury, Manager of Centro Cigars in Lawrence, Kansas and regular contributor on "What's hot? What's not? What's next?" is a guest on the show. Bob interviews Christopher Fernandez and Julio Quinones, owners of Cigar Bros. The Encendido from Cigar Brothers is the Cigar of the Week. Carl Holtman provides this week's unbanded cigar, the La Flor Dominicana Cameroon Cabinet Lancero. David Dennis from Toledo suggests this week's show topic: branded cigar lounges.

Don't forget to check out the show while it is being recorded at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Encendido from Cigar Bros.

This is a 100% Costa Rican Puro. It is a medium- to full-bodied cigar and packed full of flavor! Cigar Brothers specially selected each and every leaf that has gone into this cigar to make sure that it is not only up to their standards but also up to the cigar connoisseur's standards.

Dark Side - - No Dark Side this week.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

CAO America Robusto - First one of these I ever had did not suit me at all, but this one this week really satisfied! Deep flavors with a wonderful sweetness. Gotta love that fine natural stripe on the maduro background too. A beautiful cigar.

Punch Rare Corojo 10th Anniversary Toro - New blend in this line for 2011, with a Conny Broadleaf binder over Hond, Dom & Nica fillers. The wrapper is a Connecticut grown Corojo leaf, where the regular Rare Corojo line uses an Ecuadorian grown Sumatra wrapper. Banding for the 10th Anny edition is also different, more white than red. Not a bad smoke, but I far prefer the regular blend. The 10th Anny is a tad harsher and not as rich.

J. Fuego 777 Maduro Robusto - Having revisited all the 777 line up in the last few weeks, the maduro still comes out as my favorite. Although the Brazilian grown Corojo wrapped version is very good, I think the Maduro wrapper and the blend gives more complexity and richer flavors. The whole line is nice, but given my druthers, make mine a Maduro!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Miami Cigar Art Deco - A collaboration of Nestor Miranda nad Don Pepin Garcia, the blend consists of 60% Nicaraguan and 40% Dominican San Vicente, dual Dominican Criollo ’98/Nicaraguan Habano ’00 binder, and a dark, oily and aromatic Nicaraguan Corojo ’06 wrapper leaf affixed with a triple cap. A metallic band gives the cigars a finishing touch with a striking contrast. Don Jose ‘Pepin’ Garcia, renowned for his creativity with Nicaraguan tobacco, has also chosen a Dominican San Vicente leaf, which comprises more than a third of the blend’s core leaves. An amazing blend using 40% Dominican tobacco. In lieu of the traditional wood boxes, Nestor Miranda Art Deco is presented in a handsome, metallic art-deco designed tins of 21 cigars, in three popular sizes:

Coffee Break - 4.5 x 50
Robusto Grande - 5.5 x 54
Gran Toro - 6 x 60

EPC White Album errr....E.P. Carrillo New Wave Connecticut -

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Brand Name: E.P. Carrillo
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua
Wrapper: Ecuador

777 One - Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, Nicaraguan Corojo Binder, 2/3 Nicaraguan Corojo and ⅓ Nica Criollo filler

777 Corojo wrapper is Brazilian Corojo, the binder is Nicaraguan Corojo and the filler is 2/3 Nicaraguan Corojo and ⅓ Nica Criollo

EPC Elencos - From the creator of the original La Gloria Cubana comes the Elencos Series. Following the outstanding success of the Elenco (2010 LE rated 94 by Cigar Aficionado and their No.8 cigar of 2010), Ernesto decided to launch an entire line based on the blend. The cigar features a beautiful Brazil Habano wrapper, with a Dominican binder and a Nicaraguan blend of filler. Medium to full bodied, complex and full flavored.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the La Flor Dominicana Careroon Cabinet Lancero (a non-production cigar), was provided by Carl Holtman.

March Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Darren Powell from Urbana, Illinois, won the black carbon fiber Palio Cutter. Enter the April contest now to win a Burl Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

* Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
* Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
* Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
* Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
* La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
* La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
* Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
* Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
* Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
* Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
* TouchDown Domains: http://touchdowndomains.com/

DogWatch Cigar Radio #322 April 15,2011

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 07:16:10 -0400

This week Craig Schneider, cigar passionado and regular contributor to CigarMedia.tv, joins Bob as guest host while Dale has the night off to fulfill other commitments. Bob interviews Antonio Lam from Reinado Cigars. The Reinado was the Cigar of the Week on episode #320, but due to technical difficulties the interview with Antonio had to be re-recorded. Carl Holtman provides this week's unbanded cigar, the Curivari Gloria de Leon Dominante. Look for the Curivari in a future Cigar of the Week segment. Liz interviews Dan Welsh from New Havana Cigars, the Online Humidor, on What's hot? What's not? What's next?

Don't forget to check out the show while it is being recorded at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Warlock Robusto.

Warlock, introduced by Altadis USA, is a full bodied cigar created by legendary cigar maker Omar Ortez in Nicaragua. Dominican and Nicaraguan aged long filler tobaccos, a spicy Nicaraguan binder and a hand selected, robust Ecuadorian Cubano wrapper.

Dark Side - - No Dark Side this week.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Cohiba Gran Reserva Siglo VI - Tons of sweet vanilla with a tangy flavor that I am not a huge fan of. Lots of flavor but not a 100 point example.

Gran Habano Corojo 5 original release - Tons of sweet spice, middle third with a lot of earthy depth and some pepper.

Padron Anniversario Natural Corona - Yum. Had a conversation with Colin about how these seem like old school Nicaraguan. Sweet & caramely.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Punch After Dinner Churchill

CAO America

PDR Liga Cubano

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Curivari Gloria de Leon Dominante, was provided by Carl Holtman.

March Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Darren Powell from Urbana, Illinois, won the black carbon fiber Palio Cutter. Enter the April contest now to win a Burl Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

* Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
* Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
* Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
* Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
* La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
* La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
* Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
* Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
* Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
* Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
* TouchDown Domains: http://touchdowndomains.com/

DogWatch Cigar Radio #321 April 8,2011

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 07:11:35 -0400

This week, at the suggestion of Canadian listener Tim Banic, Bob and Dale focus on value cigars. Colin Ganley, Editor in Chief of Cigar Journal, is live in Bob's studio. Listener Cigar Don calls in on the herfline. Thanks to Bryan Newbury of Centro Cigars for helping us obtain this week's Cigar of the Week, the Arsenio. Liz interviews Jim Luftman from Blue Havana II in Georgia on What's hot? What's not? What's next?

Don't forget to check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Arsenio.

Blended by Arsenio Ramos and manufactured by Tabacalera Tropical, these cigars feature Nicaraguan Cuban seed tobacco from Condega, Jalapa and Esteli. Available in six sizes, tonight we are smoking the Arsenio, a 5.5 x 52 parejo. Also available in: Robusto, Toro, Torpedo, Lancero and Salamon.

VALUE CIGARS - The Best of The Best, Selections from Bob, Dale and Colin

Colin

* Hoyo de Monterrey Edicion Especial
* Alec Bradley Family Blend

Bob

* Oliva G - can’t go wrong with these fine cigars and they range in price from $4 to $5
* J Fuego Origens Originals - $12 to $14 per package of 5 ($2.50 each or there abouts)
* J Fuego 777
* Arturo Fuente 858 - $4.50 each
* La Aroma De Cuba Monarch - $5-$6 each
* Padron 2000 and 3000 - $4 to $5.50 each
* Ambos Mundos - $5.60 each
* La Reloba - $5
* Macanudo Cru Royale - $5 to $6
* La Tradicion Cubana - $3.25 to $5
* La Caridad del Cobre - $4 and up
* Jameson Cigars - $4 and up, bundles like the SouthBound Latitudes are an excellent cigar with great value.
* Cain Daytona - $6
* Alec Bradley Family Blend
* Esencia Churchill
* Monte Pascoal
* Elogio Corona Extra
* Guillermo Leon
* La Aurora 107
* Art Deco
* Primer Mundo

Dale

$2-$4

* Punch London Club
* Padron Londres
* Oliva Serie G Special G Maduro
* Famous Nicaragua 3000, 7000
* Elogio LSV Petite Corona
* Por Larranaga Panatela

$4-$6

* Fuente Chateau Fuente Sungrown
* La Gloria Cubana Wavell Maduro
* Perdomo Lot 23 Toro Maduro
* Pinar Del Rio Habano Sungrown Corona
* Bolivar Corona Junior
* El Rey Del Mundo Choix Supreme
* Partagas Petite Coronas Especial

$6-$8

* Oliva Serie V - Lancero, Double Robusto
* DPG Cuban Classic 1979 Robusto
* Romeo y Julieta Exhibicion #3
* E.P.Carrillo Short Run or Core Line
* Guillermo Leon Corona
* Esencia Petite Corona
* NHC Seleccion Limitada by Tatuaje

$8-$10

* Tatuaje Havana VI Artistas
* La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Chisel
* Illusione - any!
* Romeo y Julieta Cazadores
* Hoyo de Monterrey Edicion Especial

High end

* Ashton VSG
* My Father Limited Edition Toro
* Padron Serie 1926 #9 Maduro
* Vegas Robaina Don Alejandro
* Cohiba Magicos Maduro 5

Dark Side - Punch Punch

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Romeo y Julieta Churchill 7 x 50, was provided by Liz.

Palio Cutter Contest: Enter the April contest now to win a Burl Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

* Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
* Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
* Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
* Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
* La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
* La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
* Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
* Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
* Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
* Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
* TouchDown Domains: http://touchdowndomains.com/

DogWatch Cigar Radio #320 April 1,2011

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 04:47:14 -0400

This week Bob and Dale discuss two topics sent in from listener Peter Daly in Australia (Dale's practice of tasting the cigar head before lighting and how an old DogWatch podcast saved Big Pete from losing his lunch). Carl Holtman provides this week's "What's my band?" cigar, the Curivari El Gran Rey Emperadores. With Easter coming, Bob discusses jelly bean pairings with cigars. An April Fool's joke is played on the audience.

Don't forget to check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Reinado.

A Nicaraguan puro that comes in three sizes: Robusto 5.5 x 50, Torpedo 6 1/8 x 52, Churchill 7 5/8 x 48. Reinado is a Nicaraguan puro from premium crops aged up to 5 years. The Reinado blend uses a proprietary fermentation process to enhance the flavors.

Dark Side - - Ramon Allones Specially Selected ?

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Camacho 2008 Liberty
Graycliff Turbo
Elogio LSV Churchill

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Padron 1964 Anniversary
Padron 1926 Serie
NUB Maduro
Brun del Re Premium (White and Green Label)
Fuego Origens Original

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Curivari El Gran Rey Emperadores, was provided by Carl Holtman.

March Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Darren Powell from Urbana, Illinois, won the black carbon fiber Palio Cutter. Enter the April contest now to win a Burl Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

* Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
* Cigar Tourism: http://cigartourism.com/
* Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
* Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
* La Palina: http://www.lapalinacigars.com/
* La Tradicion Cubana: http://www.tradicion.com/
* Miami Cigar and Company: http://www.miamicigarandcompany.com/
* Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
* Palio Cigar Cutters:http://paliocutters.com/
* Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
* TouchDown Domains: http://touchdowndomains.com/

DogWatch Cigar Radio #319 March 25,2011

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 08:33:48 -0400

This week Bob and Dale discuss topics sent in from listeners Don Hubbell from Virginia (What is the biggest contributor to the cigar aroma? Filler, binder or wrapper?), Frank Wagner from Wisconsin (Why not give CRA memberships to anti-smoking proponents?) and Frank Reiter from Missouri (DogWatch's recent appearance on The Cigar Authority). Angry Bill from California checks in on the herf line to review the La Flor Dominicana Air Bender. Darren Powell from Illinois is this month's lucky winner of a black carbon fiber Palio cutter. Thank you to Justin Bill from Illinois for this week's "What's my band?" cigar, the Partegas Havana Cifuentes Y Cia, and to Bryan Newbury from Centro Cigars in Kansas for providing Bob with some great "What else have you been smokin'?" cigars. Don't forget to check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Cigar of the Week - Cain Daytona.

A kinder, gentler Cain for cigar smokers that still exhibits lots of outstanding flavors. The CAIN DAYTONA is a medium bodied offering blended using only Jalapa Ligeros. Jalapa Valley is Nicaragua’s northern most tobacco area. It is well known for producing the country’s most medium and smooth fillers and the CAIN DAYTONA takes its flavor profile from this distinct area. I have been smoking these heavily for the last week and I just cannot believe the rich flavors that come with this medium bodied all ligero smoke. Oliva did an outstanding job with this cigar by retaining the character of the much fuller bodied "F," yet softening the body and bringing out the flavors that are harder to get in an F. This is my new favorite Oliva cigar.

5 Sizes: Robusto, 5x50; Corona, 6x46; "60," 6x60; No. 4, 4.5x43 (petite corona); and Torpedo, 6x54.

Dark Side - - Saint Luis Rey Regios

A classic Cuban cigar that demonstrates that special straw flavor but adds a nice sweet spice throughout the entire smoke.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Graycliff Double Espresso - 4.5" x 54 The Double Espresso is a limited line extension of the Espresso series. Made from tobaccos grown on Graycliff's organic farms in Central America, the tobacco is triple fermented and cured for 12 months. The Double Espresso has an extra "shot" of ligero and is covered in a Costa Rican wrapper. The cigar is very strong yet very smooth, delivering earthy flavors of, what else....coffee! Not much complexity, yet a good cigar for certain occasions if you can stomach the strength.

Graycliff Platinum Edition - (same one Bob smoked last week - red & silver band) Didn't measure this bad boy, but a large ring gauge cigar that was not only uncomfortable to hold & smoke, it also wasn't nearly as good as the Double Espresso. Medium strength, full bodied with a lot of spice in the last 3rd. The cigar just didn't have any personality and was not interesting in the least. All Nicaraguan filler tobacco wrapped in a Brazilian leaf. Nowhere near worth the MSRP of $20.

Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Superior 6.5" x 42 This example was in the Sun Grown wrapper and delivered tons of Padron goodness! Smooth, earthy, complex and very well balanced. Flavors of mildly sweetened coffee, honey, roasted nuts and light cedar are the core components. This is a cigar worth every penny.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Pinar del Rio Oscuro Corona - Thanks to Bryan Newbury at Centro Cigar in Lawrence, Kansas - This vitola really brings out the best of the line with pepper spices to tingle your tastebuds. Full flavored but not strong, this cigar is a joy to smoke.

J Fuego Delirium- Again, thank you to Bryan Newbury for this fine cigar - Sometimes a cigar hits you just right and today the Delirium was just the right cigar for the moment. Full bodied with dark roasted flavors and just a hint of spice.

Romeo y Juiliette Anniversary - I was fully prepared not to like this large ring guage implementation of a classic brand but I found it easy to smoke; not challenging to the palate but a nice change-of-pace.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Partegas Havana Cifuentes Y Cia, was provided by Justin Bill.

March Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Darren Powell from Urbana, Illinois, won the black carbon fiber Palio Cutter. Enter the April contest now to win a Burl Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

* Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
* Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
* Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
* Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
* Palio Cigar Cutters: http://paliocutters.com/
* Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
* Vanderburgh Humidors: http://www.vanderburghhumidors.com/

DogWatch Cigar Radio #318 March 18,2011

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 08:11:51 -0400

This week Bob and Dale discuss listener email from Peter Daly in Australia and Marcian Knowles in Atlanta, Georgia. Liz interviews Micah Dennison from The Party Source in Bellevue, Kentucky on this week's segment of What's Hot? What's Not? What's Next?

Check it out! Bob and Dale will be guests on The Cigar Authority show at 1pm EST on March 19th. The show runs from noon to 2pm on four radio stations in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Check out TheCigarAuthority.com for links to the live video feed and archived shows.

Cigar of the Week - J. Fuego Origin Robusto.

I have been smoking these daily for over two weeks now and I gotta say, this is one outstanding cigar. A 100% Corojo cigar from the famed Segovia factory in Esteli, Nicaragua. Wrapper is Brazillian Corojo; binder is Costa Rican Corojo; and the filler is a mix of Nicaraguan and Honduran Corojo (50/50). Available in six sizes: Original (5x44), Corona Gorda (5.5x46), Robusto (4 7/8x49), Belicoso (5.5x52), Toro (6x50), Lancero (7.5x38).

Dark Side - - ???????.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Fuente Fuente Opus X Double Robusto - 5.75” x 52 One of the things I like best about Opus X cigars is the heady room aroma. Full of exotic spice and rich tobacco notes, the aroma is absolutely intoxicating. The Double Robusto presents typical OpusX flavors, but tends to accentuate the nuttiness and depth of spice variation more than many of the other vitolas. Full bodied, full flavored but not too strong.

La Perla Habana Black Pearl Belicoso - 6.25” x 52 A very dark Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper over Nicaraguan, Mexican and Dominican tobaccos leads to a brawny cigar filled with meaty, toast and cedar flavors. A mild cane sweetness comes on after the first inch or so, and lingers for the remainder of the smoke. One of those “interesting” cigars, not to my everyday liking, but every now & then it just hits the spot! Medium bodied but very full flavored.

Graycliff Crystal Edicion Limitada 2010 - Appeared to be the same size as the Crystal Presidente (7” x 48), although I did not measure it. This cigar broke through the previous Graycliff experiences for me and was outstanding. Very firm construction, slightly square pressed and none of the light grassy flavors I have found before with this line. Mild to medium in body, the cigar was classy in the flavors it delivered. Smooth light coffee, an oak woodiness, walnut type of nuttiness and a buttery smooth finish.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Hemingway from Fuente - A classy smoke with an easy draw. Very pleasing tobacco and light smoky flavors.

San Lotano Maduro - Drove all over Florida to find these after having tried them. Rich flavors of dark cocoa and bittersweet chocolate with a slight citrus spice to make it interesting.

Cain Daytona - Another winner from Oliva. A slightly less strong version of the Cain cigar that seems to please a much wider group of smokers. Roasted flavors of leather and a hint of citrus spices make this one heck of a cigar that is sure to be a market winner.

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Cuba Aliados Toro (6 x 53), was provided by Liz.

February Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Jared Street from Akron, Ohio, won the silver Palio Cutter. Enter the March contest now to win a carbon Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

Please visit our sponsors and let them know you heard about them from DogWatch!

* Black Dog Coffee: http://www.blackdogcoffee.net/
* Esencia Cigars: http://www.esenciacigar.com/
* Friends of Habanos Cigar Forum: http://www.friendsofhabanos.com/forum/index.php
* Monte Pascoal Cigars: http://www.montepascoalcigars.com
* Palio Cigar Cutters: http://paliocutters.com/
* Primer Mundo Cigars: http://www.primermundocigars.com
* Vanderburgh Humidors: http://www.vanderburghhumidors.com/

DogWatch Cigar Radio #317 March 11,2011

Sun, 13 Mar 2011 10:08:26 -0400

This week Bob and Dale are joined by guest host Craig Schneider. They discuss listener email from Dan Lawson in New Orleans and Piet de Groot in the Netherlands. Bob interviews Kristin Jurczak about the MidWest Smoke Out in "Chicagoland" happening on April 7 in Hammond, IN. Liz interviews Bryan Newbury from Centro Cigars in Lawrence, Kansas on this week's segment of What's Hot? What's Not? What's Next?

Cigar of the Week - San Lotano Habano.

Ever hear of AJ Fernandez? You might not have but you soon will. Raised in Cuba working in the cigar industry, he used to study at the knee of famed tobacco grower / cigar maker Alejandro Robaina. The brand name originated with Fernandez’ grandfather in San Luis, Cuba. Released in 4 sizes, Churchill (7x52), Toro (6x52), Robusto (5x52) and Torpedo (6.5x52).

Fillers - Dominican, Nicaraguan, Honduran
Binder - Honduran
Wrapper - Brazilian Habano

Dark Side - - Montecristo Grand Edmundo LE 2010.

This week Dale and Craig are reviewing the Montecristo Grand Edmundo LE 2010, a limited edition release from last year. Vitola name - Canonazo; 5.9” x 52; boxes of 10.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Benny Gomez 30 yr Aged Honduran Petite Corona - smooth leather and light coffee notes. A good cigar in the old school style.

A. Fuente Hemingway Signature 6 x 47- med bodied DR tobaccos with a Camaroon wrapper. Mild earthy flavors, cedar and a wonderful spice in the last half.

DPG Cuban Classic Robusto - one of my regular rotation sticks.....

Elogio LSV Churchill - a rich, full bodied, full flavored Nica puro. Great for hockey games or any other time you have 2+ hrs to smoke a savory, spicy cigar with tons of complexity & great balance

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Casa Fuente Lancero

EP Carillo Robusto (core line)

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

San Lotano Maduro Box Pressed

Padron Anniversary 1964

Behike 56

Santos de Miami

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Montecristo Churchill 7 x 50, was provided by Liz.

February Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Jared Street from Akron, Ohio, won the silver Palio Cutter. Enter the March contest now to win a carbon Palio Cutter.

Check out the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #316 March 04,2011

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:29:39 -0500

This week Bob and Dale are joined by Colin Ganley, Chief Editor USA - European Cigar Journal. DogWatch welcomes Vanderburgh Humidors as a show sponsor. Angry Bill from the Law Dog Lounge calls in on the herf line to discuss the H. Upmann Winston Churchill and the Palio Cutter. Dan Clegg calls in a review of the Tatuaje Black. Justin Bill provides this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Tatuaje T110. Liz interviews Doug Fiore from Winston's Humidor on this week's segment of What's Hot? What's Not? What's Next?

Cigar of the Week - La Gloria Cubana Artesanos de Obeliscos.

Bob and Dale first reviewed this cigar about 9 months ago when it was first released. Now they review it again to see if their initial impressions have changed any.

Dark Side - - Punch Punch.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Juan Lopez Asia Regional Release 2011

Joya de Nicaragua Antano Dark Corojo

EP Carrillo

Quesada Tributo

BOTL Small Batch (made by PDR)

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Jameson SouthBound Series Latitude - Latitude is the first release in the bundled SouthBound Series. A medium-bodied value smoke meant to be enjoyed every day. Latitude features Dominican fillers bound with a Criollo 98 leaf from the Dominican Republic and finished off with a broadleaf wrapper from Pennsylvania. This is an excellent cigar at a reasonable price of right around $80 for a bundle of 20. Smooth smoking with excellent spices and a medium body. Jameson is also a supporter of Cigar Rights of America. I received this email from them when I ordered my bundle:

As always we appreciate your business and wanted to let you know as a result of your order we donated $5 to Cigar Rights of America, http://www.cigarrights.org/. We do this on all orders over $50 because it's important to fight for our rights to enjoy a smoke!

What's My Band? - this week's Unbanded Cigar, the Tatuaje T110, was provided by Justin Bill.

February Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Jared Street from Akron, Ohio, won the silver Palio Cutter. Enter the March contest now to win a carbon Palio Cutter.

Check out the live show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #315 February 25,2011

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 06:16:44 -0500

This week Bob interviews Abe Flores about Pinar del Rio cigars. Bob and Dale discuss cigar rituals, the New York City outdoor smoking ban, and the upcoming Studio Tobac Tour. They also field several chat room questions from listeners viewing the show at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio (where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST). Thanks goes out to Adam Zilinski from Canada for providing this week's unbanded, the Gran Habano SLS 3 Salomones.

Cigar of the Week - Pinar del Rio 1878 Cubano Especial Capa Natural

Darkside - HOYO DE MONTERREY LE HOYO DU DEPUTE

Length: 110mm (4.3”) Ring Gauge: 38

One of the 7 Global Brands (as defined by Habanos SA), HdM is made to be a lighter character cigar. The Du Depute is a Trabucos vitola, more commonly referred to as a Short Panatela, and is a pre-1960’s release. No longer sold in the slide lid box of 50 or in the cardboard 5 pack, they only come in boxes of 25 today due to Habanos SA tightening their portfolio.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Romeo y Julietta 1875 Reserve Toro - 56 x 6”
From the Flor de Copan factory in Honduras, the filler is Honduran & Nicaraguan, the binder is Nicaraguan and the wrapper is Honduran. This stick is a couple of notches above the regular RyJ line in richness and smoothness. A very good cigar that should be re-visited if you like earthy flavors surrounded with some complexity of mild spice, vanilla and hearty herbal notes.

Esteban Carreras 5150 Toro - 50 x 6”
The binder and filler all come from Corojo tobacco grown in Nicaragua and the cigar is covered in an Ecuadorian Sumatra leaf that is dark brown & silky. Medium bodied with wood, spice and some fruity sweetness (pears came to mind). I’ve had several of these now and all exhibit great construction, perfect draw and an even burn. The price is right too - the 5150 and it’s companion release, the 187 are around $5-$6 - a good value!

Ernesto Perez-Carillo new release - This week I’ve smoked another each of two new cigars coming from the new EPC factory in Santiago. They were both toro size, one had a light Ecuadorian wrapper and one a darker Nicaraguan wrapper. No line names had been decided when I picked these up from Yunior Torrez at the EPC factory a few weeks ago. This new line, as with all the EPC cigars exhibit outstanding construction - very firm and even bunches, silky smooth and top grade wrappers and a perfect draw. Deep rich flavors on the savory side of the spectrum from both, with the lighter cigar leaning a bit towards an herbal character, the darker cigar having more developed sweetness and body. Hopefully these will be named and released this summer - I saw a few thousand sitting in the aging room in several sizes.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Jesus Fuego Origen Robusto - wrapper: Brazilian Corojo; binder: Costa Rican Corojo; filler: 1/2 Dominican Corojo, 1/2 Nicaraguan Corojo; price: MSRP $7.00

Padron Anniversary 1964

Romeo y Julietta Viejo Gold Band Box Pressed - Viejo, a recent addition to the Romeo y Julieta family, features a San Andres maduro wrapper and a multi-country blend of fillers. The flavor boasts notes of wood and bread, provides a moderate finish, and is medium in body. Each cigar is box pressed and comes packaged in traditional boxes of 20. Unfortunately I did not like one of two of the cigars that I had. The first one was OK, not a bad smoke and actually pleasant and unassuming though not as complex as they would have you believe. But the second version of this cigar I tried was a difficult smoke and half way through I gave up. No smoke, hard to draw and therefore no flavor. I felt it was a waste of my time.

What's My Band? - #951, the Gran Habano SLS 3 Salomones, provided by listener Adam Zilinski.

February Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Jared Street from Akron, Ohio, won the silver Palio Cutter. Enter the March contest now to win a carbon Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

"Stump the Chumps" Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions or donations for the "What's My Band?" segment (or as Craig Schneider refers to it, "Stump the Chumps"), please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #314 February 18,2011

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 06:45:17 -0500

This week listeners were heavily involved in the content of the show. Bob and Dale answered emails from listeners Bryan Newbury and Kris Allen; herf lines from Don Hubbell and Norbert; and a chat room question from Todd, who was viewing the show live at www.livestream.com/cigar_radio (where the show is broadcast live most Friday evenings at 9 PM EST). This week's unbanded, the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur 1066 Dark Knight III Maduro, was suggested by Jay LeDou.

Cigar of the Week - La Sirena - The Prince 5x50

Distributed by Miami Cigar & Company (Nestor Miranda & Rene Castenada); brand champion is Arielle Ditkowich. Manufactured in Nicaragua at My Father Cigars.

5 sizes - 5.5 x 42; 5 x 50; 5.5 x 52 figurado; 6 x 60; and 7 x 50.

MSRP between $8 and $10.50 before confiscatory taxes.

All Nicaraguan blend of Criollo ‘98 & Corojo ‘96; a dual binder using Nica Habano & Corojo; topped off with a Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper.

Darkside - Fonseca No 1

Also....an unbanded dark side cigar from one of the DR trip participants.

Mercer Pinar del Rio Custom roll - Piramides 6.5” x 52 Dark wrapper & large ring gauge, would not have guessed all Cuban tobacco from PdR. Slight leather, but mostly bold spice with some hot chili character and a great sweet/astringent combination like toasted walnuts. Excellent construction, great burn and a med-full bodied smoke.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Illusione Epernay LaMonde - The LaMonde is the newest size (released in 2010) in the Epernay line. At 6.25” x 52, it’s the largest vitola in the line, and perhaps the one I like most behind the original Epernay released for European Cigar Journal’s 15th Anniversary. The line is of all Nicaraguan grown Criollo and Corojo with a Cafe Colorado wrapper. Very creamy & smooth with honey, coffee & herbal flavors.

La Flor Dominicana Air Bender Chisel - The famous Chisel shape (6.5” x 54) in the Air Bender blend, the line also includes 6 other parejo sizes. Other than a Ecuadorian wrapper, all tobaccos are grown in the DR on Litto Gomez farm. In this size the blend expresses a strong coffee flavor on top of a leather core. It’s well balanced, but not extremely complex.

Fonseca Vintage Robusto - A true Robusto size with the old style Dominican character yet provides lots of flavor and satisfies as well as any “new style” cigars coming from any factory today. Cedar, leather & light coffee flavors are dominant, with a slight Rum sweetness, floral aromas and rounded spice notes, especially in the last half of the cigar. Excellent construction & burn, approachable and suitable for any occasion.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Tradicion Cubana Anniversary - These cigars are no longer in production and that is unfortunate, in fact I think I got the last full box that Luis had on the shelf in Miami. These are really good cigars with complex flavors, long burns and packed with smoke. The cigar burns so well that the other day I left one sitting in my car while I went in to Walgreens. When I came out, the cigar was still burning and required absolutely no effort to get back to smoking. how many cigars can you do that with? Barely a handful to my knowledge.

Perdomo Estate Seleccion Vintage (ESV) 1991 from Justin Bill. The fillers are a mix of tobaccos grown in Esteli, Nicaragua and harvested in 1991. The wrapper is a Connecticut Broadleaf. Today's size is a 6 x 54. Nice nuttiness - no bitterness and a short finish combined to make this a very nice after dinner relaxing smoke. Retrohale was slightly disturbing - very bitter almond aroma evoked an unpleasant flavor.

Tatuaje Black Torpedo Tubo - I was really disappointed in this cigar. I had it in my humidor for a year waiting for an opportunity to compare it to the one I had a year ago. In my opinion, this was not a very good cigar; the flavors were off and the draw was awful. I liked this cigar a year ago although I did not think it was spectacular. Now it is just mediocre and it was difficult to finish.

What's My Band? - #949, Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur 1066 Dark Knight III Maduro. Suggested by listener Jay LeDou.

January Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Craig Burcky from Wellington, Florida, won the black Palio Cutter. Enter the February contest now to win a silver Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

"Stump the Chumps" Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions or donations for the "What's My Band?" segment (or as Craig Schneider refers to it, "Stump the Chumps"), please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #313 February 11,2011

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 08:56:45 -0500

Bob and Dale are joined by guest host Craig Schneider. Dale and Craig talk about the CigarTourism.com trip to the Dominican Republic from which they recently returned.

Cigar of the Week - Pinar del Rio 1878 Cubana Especial Capa Oscura

Wrapper: Arapiraca Brazil
Binder: Criollo ‘98, D.R.
Filler: Nica & D.R. Criollo
Avail in 8 sizes, boxes of 20 cigars Mfg. in the D.R. at Tobacos Don Leoncio S.A.

Dark Side - Cohiba Magicos

4.5” x 52 Petite Robusto. One of 3 sizes in the first Maduro line from Habanos S.A. Other two are Genios, 5.5” x 52 and Secretos, 4.3” x 40. Maduro wrapper aged 5 years, filler & binder aged 3 years, released 2007 and avail in boxes of 10 or 25.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #312 February 4,2011

Sun, 06 Feb 2011 06:47:30 -0500

Dale talks about his cigartourism.com trip to the Dominican Republic that he took with his wife, Terry. A herf line submission from Carl Holtman about his experiences on the D.R. trip. Listener mail from Jay LeDou about last week's unbanded. The unbanded cigar this week, a CAO - LX2 Belicoso, was suggested by Jay LeDou.

Cigar of the Week - La Aurora Broadway.

Currently the Broadway is available in one size, a Sumo Toro (5.75 x 54) and features a double wrapper of Ecuadorian-grown, Sumatra-seed and Nicaraguan leaves, a Dominican Corojo binder and filler tobaccos grown in the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and Peru. The La Aurora Broadway Series is only available from tobacconists in New York for $12.75 (price includes NY 75% tax). Made especially for New York keeping in mind the confiscatory taxes levied in that market.

What's My Band? - #948, CAO - LX2 Belicoso, suggested by Jay LeDou

Palio Cutter Contest: Craig Burcky from Florida won the black Palio Cutter in January. Enter the February contest now to win a silver Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #311 January 28,2011

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:14:34 -0500

Dale prepares for his upcoming cigartourism.com trip to the Dominican Republic. Bob interviews Carlo Corazza of Brun del Re. Craig Burcky is the winner of a black Palio cutter in this month's Palio contest. The unbanded cigar this week, a Rocky Patel Decade Robusto, was suggested by Jay LeDou.

Cigar of the Week - Brun del Re Colonial

The Colonial is the strongest of the Brun del Re line and incorporates Nicaraguan tobaccos in a Costa Rican Maduro wrapper. Available in 5 packs in 5 sizes:

Churchill: 7x48
Torpedo: 6x54
Corona: 6x44
Robusto: 5x50
Perfecto: 5.5x54

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Dale had the flu this week, so no cigar smoking for him.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Cain F Lancero - The lancero will not be in regular production and therefore will not be for sale to the general public. It will only be available in The Limited Edition Studio Tobac Cigar Sampler. Expect to see The Cain F Lancero packaged in an aluminum tube, making it one of the only lanceros ever available in the “tubo” format. The Cain F Lancero, and the entire Studio Tobac Cigar Sampler, will be available as a “gift with purchase” at Studio Tobac World Tour events in 2011. The Cain F Lancero is a Nicaraguan puro in a classic lancero size (7×38) with a finished three-seam cap instead of the traditional pig-tail cap. The blend is based on the the popular Cain F line of cigars, but adapted to fit the lancero format. A full bodied smoke composed almost entirely of 3 types of ligero leaf from the three major growing regions in Nicaragua: Jalapa, Condega, and Esteli. The ligero leaves (upper most on the tobacco plant and the strongest of the leaves) are put through a triple fermentation process to temper their strong flavors.

Plasencia Organica - I discussed this cigar at length with Nestor Plasencia JR last week and found out some interesting things. The tobacco was planted in virgin soil that had never grown a crop of tobacco or anything else on it prior to this so there are no pesticides resident in the soil when the tobacco gets started. In addition, no pesticides are used during the growing of the tobacco. This may be a marketing effort but it is truly an organic cigar from start to finish.

What's My Band? - #947 Rocky Patel Decade Robusto, suggested by Jay LeDou

Palio Cutter Contest: Craig Burcky from Florida won the black Palio Cutter in January. Enter the February contest now to win a silver Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #310 January 21,2011

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 17:41:22 -0500

Bob shares some experiences from his and Liz's trip to Nicaragua last week hosted by CigarTourism.com. Fellow travelers Vincenzo, Joe Jr., Joe Sr., Adam, and Chris also share their feedback. This week three listeners called in on the Herf lines: Norbert reviews the La Riqueza #5; Roy from Montana shares his thoughts on DogWatch’s 300 Episodes; Angry Bill checks in. Carl Holtman is the winner of a La Tradicion Cubana Toleton.

Cigar of the Week - My Father Cigars Limited Edition 2010 provided by listener Bill Cartwright.

Each cigar comes in its own coffin box that is numbered and accompanied by a DVD with a certificate of authenticity. Limited to only 2000 boxes, priced at $300/box of 12.

Cigar: My Father Limited Edition 2010
Size: 6.5 x 52
Wrapper: Hybrid Ecuadorian Habano Rosado Criollo
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua

Dark Side - MONTECRISTO ESPECIAL NO.2

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Cubao Maduro Toro - a very rich & spicy treat!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Cain Daytona - a new release from Oliva designed to offer a more medium bodied experience. Will be available in March as part of the Studio Tobac Tour which kicks off March 12 in Tamp at the Tampa Humidor.

San Lotano Habano - Introduced at IPCPR in 2010 by A.J. Fernandez.

la Reloba by Pepin Garcia of My Father Cigars.

What's My Band? - #946, El Rey Del Mundo Robusto Largas submitted by David Dennis

Palio Cutter Contest: Bryan Wolters from Menasha, Wisconsin won the Burl Palio Cutter in December. Enter the January contest now to win a black Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #309 January 14,2011

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 06:51:41 -0500

Bob and Dale are joined by Craig Schneider. Craig, a long-time contributor to DogWatch Cigar Radio and a columnist on our website, www.cigarmedia.tv, is a guest host on an episode of DWCR every month. Listener Dan Crouch provides the ultimate answer on how to handle a good intentioned neighbor who regularly gifts you with lower quality drugstore cigars that you will never smoke. Dan will be receiving a DWCR patch for his suggestion! Bob interviews Matt Urbano of Urbano Cigars whose cigars are featured this week. Eddie DeJong of Vanderburgh Humidors takes time out to talk to Bob about his line of unique humidors that are handcrafted from glass, wood, rock and leather and his new Outback4 travel humidors.

Toleton giveaway! In one week (on show #310), Bob will be smoking a La Tradicion Cubana Toleton, a unique cigar presented to him by Luis Sanchez. He will also give one away, compliments of Luis, during the show. The winner will be selected from Palio cutter contest entrants who have submitted their entry by January 20th.

Cigar of the Week - Bob and Dale smoke the Urbano Corojo. Craig smokes La Palina Alison, last week's Cigar of the Week.

The Corojo line by URBANO Cigars have a medium to full body with a reddish hue. Blended from carefully aged Dominican tobacco, these cigars have a hearty complex flavor with a hint of spice at the open, followed by hints of roasted nuts and smooth cedar undertones. Wait until you spark one up with its Cuban-like flavor, this cigar offers a mesmerizing and delectable aroma.

Available in the following sizes: Churchill, Torpedo, Robusto and Toro.

Dark Side - JUAN LOPEZ PETIT CORONAS

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Cinco Vegas Miami Robusto - The one in the blue bands, the Miami line from 5 Vegas is a solid cigar that fits many occasions. Smooth, well behaved and elegant in appearance. Cedar, molasses, espresso and some yeasty biscuit undertones blend well.

Famous Nicaragua 7000 by Pepin - Yes folks, another value bundle from the folks at one of the large internet retailers, but this one made in Nica by Pepin. Very earthy, savory and lots of in-your-face flavor. Not very unlike the Cuban Classic line.

Esencia Robusto - One of our all time favorite lines, the red wine-like tannins, rich smoky notes and mature sweet tobacco flavors still elevate this to a “wow” cigar. Nothing has been lost or changed and these continue to be consistently GREAT cigars!

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Partagas 165 Sublimes - Excellent exotic spicey flavors, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, lots of aged tobacco, perhaps even a bit of mint. Quick burn - 90 minutes.

Cohiba Sublime - Tons of earthy tobacco. Savory in core and slightly sweet at times. Like the perfect bit of acidity to a heavy meal. Cocoa & nuts. Wow. Very strong but the 6 years of box time have smoothed out the edges.

Montecristo Especial - The perfect ‘everyday’ cigar. Fruity, mocha flavors. Perfect draw, perfect burn, long experience; 120 minutes. Wonderful.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

PUNCH PETIT CORONAS DEL PUNCH - What a delightful smoke. Wonderful rich flavors with a hint of spice. The kind of cigar experience you cannot stop smoking. The strong barnyard aroma of the unlit cigar gave testament to treasures found after lighting. The flavors were rich with hints of sweetness, spice and the bitterness of fine chocolate.

Brun Del Re Premium - a mild bodied cigar from the lineup that is described by Carlo (the owner of Brun Del Re) as a great morning cigar. Truthfully, it is a good match for the coffees I like, but I find it to be a refreshing change of pace cigar any time of the day.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #308 January 07,2011

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 07:19:33 -0500

Bob and Dale answer questions from listeners Mark Franks, Nelson Pidgeon, Walter Cyran and Brian Fox. Liz interviews Michael Herklots, General Manager of Davidoff of Geneva, New York on this week's "What's hot? What's not? What's next?" segment. Toleton giveaway! In two weeks (on show #310), Bob will be smoking a La Tradicion Cubana Toleton, a unique cigar presented to him by Luis Sanchez. He will also give one away, complements of Luis, during the show. The winner will be selected from Palio cutter contest entrants who have submitted their entry by January 20th. Cigar of the Week - La Palina Alison from the Family Series.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #307 December 31,2010

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 08:22:18 -0500

Bob and Dale bring in the new year with a live show! Bob interviews Walter Briggs of WB Brand Cigars. Angry Bill calls in on the herf line to review the Anarchy. Bryan Wolters from Menasha, Wisconsin wins the Burl Palio Cutter in the December contest.

Now you can get the same great DogWatch episodes delivered to your Android device! Click here for details.

Cigar of the Week - Walter Briggs Torpedo Maduro.

The Maduro is medium strength with a Brazilian wrapper. The filler is long leaf Dominican and Nicaraguan. The binder is a Connecticut Shade from Ecuador. This cigar has sweet spiciness with nuances of roasted coffee and cocoa. It received a 3.5 of 4.0 rating from CigarCyclopedia. The Maduro comes in the following types and sizes:

DogWatch Cigar Radio #306 December 24,2010

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 08:21:28 -0500

DogWatch Cigar Radio Podcast Episode #306

Bob and Dale took Christmas week off, but we still have fresh show material and an old favorite. Bob interviews Frank Herrera of La Caridad del Cobre and Colin Ganley of CigarTourism.com. On What's hot? What's not? What's next? Liz talks with Bryan Newbury from Centro Cigars in Lawrence, Kansas. In a rebroadcast of a segment from another show, Bob, Dale , Jorge Armenteros of Tobacconist University and Colin Ganley of European Cigar Journal and CigarTourism.com discuss Body vs. Flavor.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #305 December 17,2010

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 14:51:06 -0500

This week Bob interviews Benny Gomez of Casa Gomez. Next week the show (#306) will be pre-recorded and feature our favorite segments from the past. Hey, we need a day off too......

Now you can get the same great episodes delivered to your Android device! Click here for details.

Bob and Dale are planning another live show for New Years Eve. Check out livestream.com/cigar_radio the new home for our live recording sessions and enhanced chat room. You might catch Bob & Dale at 9 pm EST on Fridays as they test the capabilities of their equipment in preparation for the live show on New Years Eve.

Cigar of the Week - Hoyo de Monterrey Reposado en Cedros – Nov. release.

This cigar is manufactured with a proprietary Inmersión process - an advancement in aging.

• Limited quantities

• Enveloped in cedar; medium-bodied with a uniquely rich, spicy taste

• Packed in rustic wooden boxes with cedar shavings

• Wrapper: Ecuadoran Sumatra

• Binder: CT Broadleaf

• Filler: Honduran, Nicaraguan, Dominican

• Three frontmarks

o Sueño (5 ¼” x 54) $6.49

o Liso (7” x 49) $6.75

o Marco (6 ¼” x 54) $6.99

.

Dark Side - Hoyo de Monterrey Churchill.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

La Aurora 107 Corona - First cigar after my bout with the guys in white coats.....Rich, spicy, savory and bold!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Alonso Menendez - Felix Menendez is the brother of Benji Menendez the master blender for General Cigar. Seems the two of them worked together for a few years at this factory in Brazil prior to Benji moving on to other endeavors. Great taste seems to run in the family. Alonso Menendez was the founder and creator of the original Cuban brands Montecristo and H. Upmann. Alonso Menendez was a legend in the cigar industry, and who better to take on a cigar bearing his name than his son Felix Menendez, owner of Menendez Amerino and the creator of the Dona Flor brand as well. Available in four classic sizes (Corona, Robusto, Churchill and Double Corona) the cigar begins with a pre-light aroma of sweet chocolate and the standard barnyard additions. A good looking cigar, it lights well, burns even and has a nice slightly deliberate draw. Retrohaling the smoke you may notice a slight resemblance to clove but the dominant flavor is mild, sweet chocolate and easy spices. Not yet well known in this country, the Alonso Menendez is worth a visit to the cigarfrombrazil.com sight to find out more about where you can purchase these fine cigars.

Dona Flor Robusto - Another fine cigar from the Menendez Amerino factory and Felix Menendez. Smooth smoking with a hint of that beautiful Brazilian spice. This is a smoke that will please most palates.

Bizarre cigar of the week was a Romeo y Julieta (non-cuban) that prior to lighting gave me a definite taste of spoiled fruit. I even double checked the flavor with Liz and she got it too. Needless to say this ruined the cigar. Was this an intentional flavor or was this from a ‘spoiled’ batch of cigars? I will probably never know as I will not try another..

What's My Band? - #942: H Upmann Sun Grown Short Churchill 4 1/2x54

November Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Bob Baranek from Weymouth, Mass. won the carbon fiber Palio Cutter. Enter the December contest now to win a burl Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #304 December 10,2010

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 05:38:18 -0500

Cigar of the Week – La Aurora 107

La Aurora is not one of the best known cigar makers in this crazy business but they should be. Guillermo Leon and Jose Blanco do not chase trends, ride motorcycles or sport rock n roll tattoos and they do not rush products to market. What they do is continually produce some of the finest, best aged and blended cigars on the shelves. With the end of the Cien Anos line ( the stock of tobacco required for this fine cigar was finally exhausted in late 2009) they have released a fine replacement, the 107 celebrating 107 years of cigar making in the Dominican Republic. An impressive for achievement for any business b ut especially a cigar company. With over forty years in the business Jose Blanco has developed one of the finest palates around and more importantly a knack for teaching it to others.

The La Aurora 107 sports an Ecuadorian wrapper, a Dominican binder, and a combination of Dominican and Nicaraguan filler tobaccos.

Although showing a hint of bitterness in the first few puffs, the cigar quickly gives way to toasty flavors with a hint of spice. The cigar exhibits a slight bit of sweetness similar to many maduros. As the medium bodied smoke evolves a pleasant cherry flavor emerges that is a nice contrast to the base woody flavors present throughout this medium bodied smoke.

Excellent construction but be sure to smoke this cigar slowly to avoid overheating and delivering a bitterness that cannot be overlooked.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #303 December 03,2010

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 05:38:27 -0500

Angry Bill checks in from the LawDog Lounge and reviews a Punch Punch. Bob talks about his visit to the Ybor City Cigar and Heritage Festival where he met up with DogWatch listener Mark Hall from Dayton, Ohio. In addition to being a long-time listener, Mark administers a cigar friendly web site (http://www.tobaccoevents.com/) that lists cigar events for Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, and Illinois. The site also includes great articles of interest, product reviews, photos and videos, product offers from local retailers, and smoker-friendly locations. Bob and Dale are planning another live show for New Years Eve! Details coming soon. Check out livestream.com/cigar_radio the new home (maybe) for our live recording sessions and enhanced chat room. You might catch Bob & Dale at 9 pm EST on Fridays as they test the capabilities of their equipment in preparation for the live show on New Years Eve.

Cigar of the Week - Art Deco.

Developed by Nestor Miranda and rolled in the My Father Cigar factory in Estelli, this cigar is distributed by Miami Cigar and Company. Introduced at the 2010 International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailer convention (IPCPR), this new cigar's blend is 60 percent Nicaraguan Corojo 99 and 40 percent Dominican San Vicente, dual Dominican Criollo '98/Nicaraguan Habano '00 binder, and a dark, oily and aromatic Nicaraguan Corojo '06 wrapper leaf with a triple cap "We wanted to get Pepin out of his comfort zone, which is using Nicaraguan tobacco," said Nestor Miranda. "He accepted the challenge and came out with an amazing blend using 40% Dominican tobacco."

Instead of using traditional wooden boxes, the Nestor Miranda Art Deco will be sold in metallic art-deco designed tins with 21 cigars each. The sizes are:

Coffee Break / 4.5 x 50

Robusto Grande / 5.5 x 54

Gran Toro / 6 x 60

Dark Side - Romeo y Julieta Churchill

First produced in the 1850’s by Alvarez Rodriquez and Jose Garcia, the brand was named after the famous Shakespeare characters. In 1903 the brand was purchased by Jose Rodriquez Fernandez also known as Don Pepin. This was the personal cigar (produced only for him) of Winston Churchill until about 1947.

Factory name: Julieta 2
Ring Gauge: 47
Length: 7 inches

A true classic that ages well and is best with at least 3 years of age.Also available in an aluminum tube

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Padilla Miami Churchill - 7 x 48 - One of the old line made for Padilla by Pepin Garcia, this cigar utilized Corojo tobacco for the wrapper & binder and Criollo for the filler. The cigar has a base of creamy smoothness with cedar, earthiness and leather being the main flavor components. There is also a definitive “Cuban Twang” type of spiciness in the last 3rd which is very nice. Room aroma was surprisingly mild, but on the palette there was plenty of flavor.

Vegas Robaina Edicion Regional Canada - 4.3” x 52 Petite Robaina - One of the 2009 ER releases, this cigar has the standard Robaina band with an additional Exclusivo Canada band below it. The factory size is actually a Petite Edmundo. Examples I smoked last year all had a tight draw, so I let a few sit a while. This latest one still was a bit snug in the draw, but very acceptable. Flavors very much like the Famosos, but perhaps a bit smoother. Lots of coffee bean, cocoa and peaty earthiness, with a creamy texture. Good spice in the middle of the cigar, growing to a sharp pepper in the last third. A wonderfully long finish accented by the coffee, but with a vanilla overtone. Thoroughly enjoyed this cigar and will dip in the box again more frequently now!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

HC Habano Colorado - Grande 6x60 - Pre-smoke aroma is a sweet barnyard that lures you into the cigar. Although I am not typicaly a fan of 60 ring guage cigars, the aroma from the foot caused me to anxiously cut and light this fat boy. The HC Series is produced for Xikar by famed Cuban blender Jesus Fuego. The Habano Colorado engulfs the smoker in deep chocolates and a hint of sweetness that emphasizes the cigar's finely aged tobaccos. The filler is well packed with a dense ash, as if that really matters. What does matter is that the cigar smokes cool if you are careful with the draw which is gentle with only a slight hint of resistance. This is not a mild cigar but the strength is in the pure tobacco flavors and not borne of nicotine like some of today's macho blends. This is a long, engaging smoke not to be taken lightly or quickly. Just as a fine wine is meant to be savored, this is a cigar best enjoyed slowly - sipped and savored while one reflects on life and the glorious enjoyment of smoking fine cigars and the success of one's favorite sports team. Pardon me while I drift away for a few minutes enjoying this fine cigar.
I’m back, reluctantly, from a land where cigar smokers are free to enjoy their passion without oppressive laws or critical disdain from family and friends. But I digress, lets get back to the HC Series from Xikar. I have been smoking this darkly enticing cigar for about an hour now and it still shines through with its complexity shrouded in the simplicity of fine tobacco expertly blended. This is a fine cigar from Xikar and the hands of Jesus Fuego.

What's My Band? - #940: Siglo Limited Reserve VII

Bob: Another churchill, nice barnyard aroma on the foot. Slightly tannic flavor.

November Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Bob Baranek from Weymouth, Mass. won the carbon fiber Palio Cutter. Enter the December contest now to win a burl Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #302 November 26,2010

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 15:32:32 -0500

During this week's show, Bob and Dale discuss retrohaling. On the What's hot? What's not? What's next? segment, Liz interviews Micah Dennison from The Party Source in Kentucky. Bob Baranek, from Weymouth, Mass., wins the November Palio Cutter contest.

Cigar of the Week - Illusione Slam 888 (6 3/4" x 48)

The 888 box press was one of a couple of recent experiments that Dion made for Fumare in Reno, Nevada. Having to remove a leaf from the filler in order to press it correctly, the blend changes slightly and it's a subtle yet exquisite change. Asked if he would make more of them, Dion replied "I haven't decided yet". So, it could be the end of an experiment - or maybe the beginning some new offerings from Illusione. Either way - they are a real treat! Made at the Raices Cubanas factory in Honduras from 100% Nicaraguan tobacco.

Dark Side - H. Upman Sir Winston

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Bad Dog Special Blend -

NHC Seleccion Limitada (natural Tatuaje) - After featuring the Reserva version as our Cigar of the Week recently and falling head over heels in love with it, I ordered some from NHC last week. Dan threw in a single of the natural wrapped version for me to try, after our discussion on the phone about me preferring the Conny Broadleaf wrapper. I gotta say, that is also one mighty fine cigar! Although I still prefer the darker wrapper, I’ll happily buy and smoke either style for as long as Dan has these available. To me, the Reserva has a more malty, character, while the natural has a touch more spice and brightness. Both excellent cigars!

Tatuaje Verocu No. 5 - A 5” x 40 addition to the Havana VI line with the Verocu touch, only presented with no band. A very rich, earthy and savory cigar in a superb format.

Perdomo Lot 23 Toro - I always keep a few of these around. I find them a pleasant medium bodied cigar with semi-sweet, roasted nut and bready flavors. I find this a very good cigar to gift to those just starting on the cigar lifestyle - never harsh, always dependable in smooth taste and priced right.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Caridad del Cobre - I ran into Frank Herrera at the Ybor City Heritage and Cigar Festival this past weekend and after we patched things up I purchased a few different sizes of this new blend from Frank. Produced by Luis Sanchez at La Tradicion Cubana, the line has been extended with new sizes, a maduro and natural wrapper version and some great medium bodied flavors. I’ll be sitting down with Frank next week in Miami to get more details.

Brun del Re -

Macanudo Cru Royale -

A 30 yr old petite corona from Benny Gomez made from 100% Honduran tobacco. Any time you talk with Benny its like having a party, his enthusiasm, humor and joy are contagious. More on this after after I sit down with Benny in Miami.

Tatujae Anarchy - a brand new release from Pete Johnson that is quite a departure from his usual. Made by Pepin Garcia, this blend features a wrapper that is a proprietary crop of Ecuadorian Habano leaf personally chosen by Pepin and Pete. The binder and filler are pure Nicaraguan. National release is scheduled for December 10th; box count of 15 for $149.85. A super dark cigar with a unique shape, the foot is fatter -bulbous even. The flavors are expectantly dark with NO SPICE overtones, Dark chocolate cocoa and coffee flavors feed my need for a very creamy mouth feel that brings one dreams of coffee and dancing chocolate bears while being whisked away on its curling smoke trail.

What's My Band? - #939: Carlos Torano Liga IV, provided by Ronald Regnier

Bob - Sports a light brown wrapper that is wrinkled in appearance, with a slightly squishy feel. Flavor: First impression is dry and sharp. Mellowed a little to a subtly sharp bitter flavor. Nutty flavors.

November Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Bob Baranek from Weymouth, Mass. won the carbon fiber Palio Cutter. Enter the December contest now to win a burl Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #301 November 19,2010

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 06:31:46 -0500

Correction to last week's show: La Caridad del Cobre is made for Frank Herrera by Luis Sanchez of La Tradicion Cubana. Bob incorrectly stated its manufacturer in last week's show. Frank Herrera forgives Bob when they run into each other at the Ybor City Heritage & Cigar Festival on 11/20/10.

Cigar of the Week - LA GLORIA CUBANA ARTESANOS de OBELISCO

Created as a tribute to the virtuoso cigar makers at El Credito’s® “fabrica” in Santiago, Dominican Republic, La Gloria Cubana Artesanos de Obelisco is the third installment in the Artesanos trilogy. Inspired by the iconic “Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration” situated high atop the center of Santiago, La Gloria Cubana Artesanos de Obelisco heightens the innovation that has become a trademark of the Artesanos series.

Handcrafted of a blend of Dominican and double Nicaraguan ligero, this ground breaking figurado is a feat of cigar-making artistry, for it replicates the shape of the monument that inspired its creation. Novel construction evident at the first blush is bolstered by a triumph of superior blending by Benji Menendez, Michael Giannini and Rick Rodriguez, aka Team La Gloria Cubana. When the blend combines with the Ecuadoran Sumatra wrapper and is exalted by its obelisk shape, this firecracker of a cigar “pops” with balanced, full-bodied flavor.

According to Debo Mukherjee, vice president of cigars for General Cigar, parent company of La Gloria Cubana, “Creating Artesanos de Obelisco was an artistic exercise. After much experimentation, we arrived at an exciting blend with the proper staying power to remain intriguing throughout the smoking experience. It is with great pride that we debut Artesanos de Obelisco in celebration of the artisan cigar rollers who worked tirelessly to create this standout new product.”

A cigar of such ingenuity demands an equally alluring package. In this, Team La Gloria Cubana developed a wooden demilune box, a first for the premium cigar category. This visually stunning presentation spotlights 25 of the 5” x 44 x 57 Obelisco cigars.

Perhaps as surprising as the cigar and packaging is the suggested retail price of $9.00 per cigar.

Dark Side - Saint Luis Rey Churchill 7x47

The Saint Luis Rey Churchill's factory name is Julieta 2. Production during the 60's and 70's was very small, but increased slowly through the 80's and is now a very popular brand. Made primarily in the Briones Montoto (Romeo y Julieta) factory, all models are handmade except the cigarillos and mini cigars. It has a unique aroma that is not quite straw or barnyard. Cocoa, coffee and vanilla are the most easily recognized flavors. The cigar begins quite mild with subtle flavors that allows you to slowly maneuver into a mood of relaxation as you get more comfortable with the length of the cigar and its unique flavor profile. As with all good relationships, as you become more comfortable the cigar begins to increase in strength and its presence in your consciousness. By the final third of the cigar, the flavors are no longer subtle but stand right in your face with flavors of roasted beans. Savory and inviting this is a very good cigar.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Aurora 107 Lancero Maduro - what a wonderful flavorful cigar. Lancero's can often be tricky to manufacture as the small ring gauge and extra length make plugging common. But not in this finely crafted special from La Aurora. Made as a result of repeated requests via Twitter, this may be the first social networking cigar. With only a hint of dark flavors, the cigar is well balanced and cool to smoke. A slight spice really embraces the darkness and the flavors of roasted grains really comes through for me.

LGC Serie N - Finally got my official box with the N in the wrapper. A very good cigar with dark flavors of cocoa and toasted grains. Heavy smoke and lots of it with a molasses-like mouth feel. Wonderful after dinner smoke yet works well with a dark coffee in the morning.

Casa Fernandez Aganorsa Robusto - Deep flavor of chocolate and roasted grains, produces nice medium body smoke and the mouth feel was relatively clean. However, Liz complained that the room aroma was that of rubber so no more of these!

Diamond Crown Maximus - One of the CRA Holiday pack cigars. Great flavor, great construction. A special cigar

What's My Band? - #937 suggested by Jeff Curtis; Cubao lancero

October Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Carl Holtman from Amarillo, Texas won the gold Palio Cutter. Enter the November contest now to win a carbon fiber Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #300 November 12,2010

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 10:07:38 -0500

This week, Bob, Dale, Liz, Craig Schneider and Colin Ganley celebrate the 300th DogWatch episode. Listeners comment on what the show means to them in entries to the DWCR 300th Episode Contest and the winners to the contest are announced. Go to http://www.cigarmedia.tv/300th-episode-contest-entries/ for a complete list of the entries.

* Bill Cartwright was the winner of a gift package including a box of Esencia Corona Gordas and an Esencia logo Palio cutter from Brother of the Leaf, LLC.
* Carl Holtman was the winner of a box of La Aurora 107 Coronas from La Aurora Cigars, Miami Cigar & Company.
* Bruce Berg was the winner of a 12-pack of New Havana Cigars Seleccion Limitada by Tatuaje (6 natural and 6 Reserva) and an etched Tatuaje Lotus Table Lighter from NewHavanaCigars.com.

Bryan Newbury from Centro Cigars in Lawrence, Kansas is the guest on "What's Hot? What's Not? What's Next?"

Bob interviews Dan Welsh of New Havana Cigars about the Cigar of the Week.

Cigar of the Week - New Havana Cigars Seleccion Limitada Reserva

Produced by Pete Johnson and rolled at the My Father Cigars factory in Esteli, Nicaragua, The NHC Seleccion Limitada is based on an original Tatuaje blend and available in both Natural and Reserva (Broadleaf) wrappers.

The project came about as there were many boxes lingering at the factory, which were originally made for the tubos series in 2009. As luck has it, exactly 20 cigars at 6 3/4 x 42 fit in each side of the box with the tubos inserts removed. A short phone call and a few samples later and New Havana Cigars was on board for this project. (OK - they were on board even before the samples arrived, but after smoking them ... the excitement hit the roof)

Deciding on two wrappers, the boxes contain 40 cigars, 20 Natural and 20 Reservas. The Reservas are made with a Broadleaf wrapper and the Natural with Habano. Both are the same blend, based on the original Tatuaje blend. About 500 boxes will be produced.

Dark Side - Bolivar Corona Gigante - 7x47 (Julietta No. 2)

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Montana Azul - The house blend from Blue Mountain cigars, this Cigar is also named after the factory it comes from in Esteli. The dark torpedo vitola I smoked is a Nicaraguan puro and delivered lots of creamy cedar flavor throughout. Touches of exotic spice and aromatic vanilla were prominent in the last half. Towards the end of the cigar a bit of astrigent nuttiness (walnuts) came on and finished off the experience nicely. Very good construction, a great draw and a delightfully smooth, creamy finish.

PDR 1878 Cubano Especial - With an Arapiraca Maduro wrapper from Brazil, a Criollo '98 binder from the DR and a filler blend from Nicaragua and DR, this latest release from Abe Flores has the structure and depth to keep any cigar passionado in Nirvana! Lately I've smoked several of the 7.25" x 38 Lancero and just can't get enough of them. They are avail in 6 other traditional sizes, plus a 6" x 60 for those infatuated with this large size trend.

Esteban Carreas Habano -

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Gran Habano Corojo #5 Churchill - Made in Honduras with Costa Rican and Nicaraguan filler, Nicaraguan binder and a Nicaraguan wrapper. As you may recall, two weeks ago I listed the Habano #3 in this review and commented quite nicely about it. However, the #5 blend does not receive the same love. The blend, for me, was very strong and lacked any flavors other than strong tobacco making it an unpleasant smoke. Not to my liking.

El Titan de Bronze Redemption Maduro - Gets better every time I smoke one.

La Caridad del Cobre - Another blend out of Cuban Crafters made for our friend Frank Herrera this is is a fine polished smoke with lots of flavors but not harsh on the palate.

H.Upman Sun Grown - A forgettable cigar that tastes like every other Sun Grown on the market. Light and airy with no spice and little else to make this cigar anything but forgettable.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Ashton La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor - Loaded with savory flavors that dance on the tongue, this medium strength full bodied cigar is a can't miss. Samples smoked at and after the show are 100% identical to regular production. A little reminiscent to Pepin cigars from the past but much more elegant & refined. Lovely.

Gran Habano Azteca - I loved this cigar at IPCPR. I did not love this cigar off the shelf. It is a shame that the production version of this performed as poorly as it did. 4 friends and I had a group review of the stick and all had similar thoughts, despite getting different flavors. The lovely sweet syrupy (almost Cola) tastes from the pre-production model were nearly all gone. The Mexican wrapper seemed flat & nearly flavorless which was so different from the originals. I hope this is just a product of being so close to manufacture date & not an indication of the line as a whole.

Tatuaje Regio Reserva 2009 - In the spirit of the C.o.W. NHC Reserva, I lit this cigar up while reviewing entries for the 300th episode contest. While brimming with flavor & an overwhelming Connecticut Broadleaf cocoa taste, this cigar was outshone by its unbelievable construction. I'm not someone who focuses on aspects of a cigar other than taste very often but this cigar was constructed as perfectly as a cigar can be. Cap, draw, burn, ash, heft, band, durability. It had it all.

What's My Band? - #938 from Liz; Illusione mk Petit Corona

Herf Line Reviews: Martin Couch reviews the Bolivar Royal Coronas and Bill Featherston reviews the Gurkha Viper.

November Palio Cutter Contest: Enter the November contest now to win a carbon fiber Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #299 November 06,2010

Sun, 07 Nov 2010 04:03:54 -0500

This week, Liz sits in for Dale as co-host of the show. John Richardson of A Little Taste of Cuba is the guest on "What's Hot? What's Not? What's Next?"

Next week's show will be broadcast LIVE on November 12th in honor of DogWatch Cigar Radio's 300th show. Go to www.stickam.com/cigar_radio at 9 pm (EST) to watch the show.

Don't forget to enter the 300th Show Contest! Send a short written, audio or video statement describing what the show means to you to theshowATcigarmedia.tv. You can also record on the herfline at 321-594-4373 or at cigar.radio on Skype. All submissions must be received by 5 PM (EST), November 11th to be considered for prizes. Bob and Dale want to thank New Havana Cigars, La Aurora Cigars and Brother of the Leaf, LLC for providing the following contest prizes:

* A 12-pack of New Havana Cigars Seleccion Limitada by Tatuaje (6 natural and 6 Reserva)
* A box of La Aurora 107 Coronas
* A gift package from Brothers of the Leaf LLC including a box of Esencia Corona Gordas and an Esencia logo Palio cutter

Cigar of the Week - La Gloria Cubana Serie N

A sister brand to the critically-acclaimed La Gloria Cubana Serie R® collection, La Gloria Cubana Serie N debuts into a lofty position. This new, four-cigar collection delivers in spades by marrying proprietary Nicaraguan tobacco with the brand’s signature Ecuadoran Sumatra wrapper. Through artisanal blending and by employing specific frontmarks to maximize the unique flavor, this stimulating, full-bodied offering is punctuated by spicy notes and balanced to reveal a refined smoke.

La Gloria Cubana Serie N is the brainchild of Yuri Guillen (General Cigar Dominicana’s production manager of manufacturing) who developed this new collection in concert with Benji Menendez, Michael Giannini and Rick Rodriguez, collectively known as Team La Gloria Cubana.

According to Debo Mukherjee, vice president of cigars for General Cigar, parent company of La Gloria Cubana, “In creating La Gloria Cubana Serie N, our intent was to provide tenured smokers with a flavorful powerhouse of a cigar, one worthy of its pedigree, and I believe we have delivered that in spades. We are confident that consumers will respond to the new taste dimension brought forth by the proprietary Nicaraguan tobacco.”

La Gloria Cubana Serie N is sure to capture the attention of tenured smokers, for its fire-engine red, hexagonal wooden box, replete with a gold Serie N logo opens to reveal an eye-catching angular configuration of 24 of the handcrafted cigars.

This striking new collection debuted in October with four exciting new frontmarks. The JSB (5 ½” x 54) will be available for a suggested retail price of $6.35 per cigar, while the Rojo frontmark (6 ½” x 46) will sell for $6.20 per cigar. Generoso (5 ¾” x 49) will carry an SRP of $5.95 per cigar, and Glorioso (6 ½” x 58) will sell for $7.00 per cigar.

Dark Side - Cohiba Esplendido

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Chateau Real - very smooth, medium bodied and a worthy smoke with hints of cedar.

NHC Limited Edition Natural - These are classy smokes produced by Pete Johnson and Pepin Garcia. Truly limited to about 500 boxes they are only available at New Havana Cigars. Suggested to me by our own Angry Bill, I finally got a chance to try this outstanding smoke. Comes in a Broadleaf wrapper version as well. Based on the original Tatuaje blend, the Natural sports a Habano wrapper and makes this a perfect match for my Black Dog Coffee.

WB Cigars - Produced in Nicaragua for former NFL star and ESPN broadcaster Walter Briggs, this cigar was presented in New Orleans but I did not get my first taste until very recently. It is a smooth blend with sophisticated flavors, so good that I have scheduled a full review during an upcoming episode.

Punch Champion - Unusual shaped cigar that has stood up well since it was introduced in 2001 with a blend of Nicaraguan, Dominican and Honduran tobaccos wrapped in a beautiful Sumatra leaf. Considering the price, the unique perfecto shape and bouquet of flavors, this is an outstanding value cigar that competes with any of the higher priced cigars in the market.

E.P. Carillo Core Line Encantos - 4 7/8 x 50 - It seems that since completing his contractual obligations to General Cigar (which has practically erased him from the history of La Gloria Cubana), EPC has gained a new excitement for cigars and the art of blending them. Now working with his children (who are successful adults in their own fields) Ernesto and family have produced a line of fine cigars that are not like anything he ever did at LGC. A decidedly modern looking cigar, Core Line features a beautiful Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper with a Nicaraguan binder and a blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican filler. Find 'em, try 'em.

El Titan de Bronze Maduro Redemption - Toro - 6 x 52 - Handmade in Miami, Fl with an Ecuadorian wrapper and binder and filler from Nicaragua, this cigar offers consistent quality and wonderful dark flavors of coffee and bitter cocoa in a smooth package that was meant for pleasure. Not sure if this smoke redeems the maker or the smoker but it is a staple in my humidor.

Esencia 2008 Corona Gorda - 5 3/8 x 46 - A nicaraguan puro that transports you back in time when cigars came from Cuba, men wore ties to work and women could be wooed. The 2008 LTD is a rare treat that never fails to please.

What's My Band? - #936 from Liz; Cabaiguan Corona Extra (from Pete Johnson's line)

October Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Carl Holtman from Amarillo, Texas won the gold Palio Cutter. Enter the November contest now to win a carbon fiber Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #298 October 29,2010

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 09:11:31 -0400

This week, Brian Berman, Certified Tobacconist and Director of Membership of Cigar Rights of America (CRA) tells us about new CRA Board members and the upcoming CRA TV on "What's Hot? What's Not? What's Next?"

Don't forget that DogWatch Cigar Radio's 300th show is coming up and you can help celebrate this event. In honor of the event, listeners are being asked to send a short written, audio or video statement describing what the show means to them. What was the first show to which you listened? What show did you find the most interesting? the funniest? the most educational? Why do you like listening? Send audio, video and written submissions to theshowATcigarmedia.tv. You can also record audio submissions on the herfline at 321-594-4373 or at cigar.radio on Skype.

All submissions must be received by 5 PM (EST) November 11th to be considered for prizes. Bob and Dale want to thank New Havana Cigars, La Aurora Cigars and Brother of the Leaf, LLC for providing the 300th Show Contest prizes.

Cigar of the Week - Macanudo Cru Royale

Masterfully blended by Benji and Francisco, along with team of GCD cigar masters. Medium-bodied, aromatic smoke with a long, clean finish. Handcrafted with tobaccos exclusive to GC.

Wrapper: Ecuadoran Habano

Binder: Proprietary Dominican “La Vega Especial”

Filler: Dominican and Nicaraguan Viso with exotic Brazilian Mata Fina

Four frontmarks: Robusto (5” x 50) and Lonsdale (6 ½” x 42), both $5.79; Toro (6” x 54) $6.49; Gigante (6” x 60) $6.99

Dark Side - VEGAS ROBAINA FAMOSOS

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Nestor Miranda Collection Art Deco

Man of War Virture

5 Vegas Gold

Gurkha Empire V

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Augusto Reyes Criollo

Elogio Salamone

Declaration from Jameson

What's My Band? - #934 from Liz; Gran Habano #5

September Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Kris Allen from Mineral Wells, Texas won the classic black Palio Cutter. Enter the October contest now to win a gold Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #297 October 22,2010

Sun, 24 Oct 2010 06:40:22 -0400

DogWatch Cigar Radio's 300th show - In three weeks, Bob and Dale will celebrate DogWatch Cigar Radio's 300th show. In honor of the event, they are asking listeners to send an audio or video clip (three minutes or less) or a written submission describing what the show means to them. Send audio or video clips or written submissions to theshowATcigarmedia.tv. Audio submissions can also be recorded on the herfline at 321-594-4373 or cigar.radio on Skype. Prize(s) for the best submission(s) to be announced soon.

This week, Doug Fiore, a Certified Retail Tobacconist at Winston's Humidor in Midlothian, Virginia is the guest on"What's Hot, What's Not, What's Next."

Cigar of the Week - La Aurora Corojo

FILLER: 65% Dominican Cubano, 20% Dominican Olor, 15% Nicaraguan Habano 2000

WRAPPER: Ecuadorian Corojo

Dark Side - VEGAS ROBAINA FAMOSOS

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Nestor Miranda Collection Art Deco

Man of War Virture

5 Vegas Gold

Gurkha Empire V

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Augusto Reyes Criollo

Elogio Salamone

Declaration from Jameson

What's My Band? - #934 from Liz; Gran Habano #5

September Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Kris Allen from Mineral Wells, Texas won the classic black Palio Cutter. Enter the October contest now to win a gold Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #296 October 15,2010

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 16:21:36 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Esteban Carreras 187
The 187 is a Nicaraguan puro, made in Esteli for Craig Cunningham by AJ Fernandez. Released in 2010 & only avail currently in a toro 6x50 and a torpedo 6.75x52. MSRP is $5.50 & $6.00. Scheduled for release later this year is a 6x46 (yea!) and a 60 ring version for those who just have to have the mega stick.
What else have you been smokin' - Dale

Four more from the Twitter Herf bag at IPCPR;

Viaje Fifty/Fifty Red No. 1, 5 5/8" x 46 - 'Viaje' is Spanish for Journey, and the Fifty/Fifty Red is the next leg on the journey for Andre and the gang. The blend is a two-fer, with two distinct blends, combined to provide two flavor profiles in one cigar. The construction takes considerable time as it also has a double binder. The Red label 50/50 came out in 2010, following the Black label in 2009. The Red is targeted to be more med-full in strength, while the Black is a full on powerhouse. A Nicaraguan puro with an oily maduro Corojo '99 wrapper & pigtail cap, the Red's flavors are rich & slightly sweet in the first half with some nice nutmeg & meaty core flavors, transitioning to bold & spicy in the last half. Not a completely different cigar, but definitely a serious complexity change. MSRP about $9 & worth every penny. Definitely more to my liking than the Oro or Platino lines, and in the running for the best new cigar from this year's IPCPR!

CAO LX2 Gordo, 6" x 60 - Domincan & Nicaraguan ligero fillers in a dark maduro Nic wrapper. Lots of leather, coffee and earthy tones. One of the few large ring cigars that I feel highlights the blend better than the smaller ring versions. Still,....too big for me.

We the People, Corona - A very nice cigar made by El Titan de Bronze for Bidwell cigars, We the People was introduced in 2009 and is packaged in a patriotic fervor - the band and box harken back to the founding of the US and the signing of the Constitution. Wrapped in a light Connecticut leaf and mild-med in body & strength, it has sweet grass and toasted nut flavors that go great with morning coffee.

Augusto Reyes Signature - Sour, flat and very disappointing.
What else you been smokin' - Bob

La Carolina - A much better smoke than I anticipated

Alec Bradley MAXX Connecticut - 56 rg with pleasant creamy smoke and wonderful flavors of nuts and leather. A very nice smoke.

Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva - an exceptional cigar in a Churchill size that reminds us that it does not have to be new to be good. Classic aged tobacco flavors, excellent burn and pure pleasure to smoke.

Dark Side - Trinidad Reyes

DogWatch Cigar Radio #295 October 8,2010

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 08:52:08 -0400

Regular guest host, Craig Schneider, joins Bob and Dale this week. Bob interviews Bryan White from 13th Floor cigars. The guys offer differing opinions about the Cigar of the Week, the 13th Floor Foundation Series Robusto. Also this week, Dan Welsh, owner of New Havana Cigars is the guest on"What's Hot, What's Not, What's Next."

Cigar of the Week - 13th Floor Foundation Series Robusto

13th Floor is a very new cigar from Bryan White. The cigar features a flavorful Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, and filler from Nicaragua. Bryan worked with Willie Herrera at El Titan de Bronze to develop this cigar. The Foundation Series comes in three sizes: Robusto (5X50), Toro (6x52) and Churchill (7x50). You can follow Bryan on Twitter as smokinonthe13th and the web site is http://www.13thfloorcigars.com/.

Dark Side - CUABA DIVINOS

Rob from Friends of Habanos has this to say about the Cuaba Divinos:
With older siblings like Traditional and Generoso plus parents like Diadema and Salomones....you may think that the baby Divino will carry on the anemic flavour bloodline. Not so. I sit here before you smoking a March 07 Divino and it is a wild child of the highest order. What a mongrel it is. Full of pepper spice and deep rich tobacco. Full bodied powerhouse whose only intention is to smack you in the mouth. How embarassed of its famiy it must be....no doubt it will be seeking a court hearing to disassociate itself from the bland siblings and Brady Bunch parents. Outside of some opening bitter chocolate I got nothing out of this Divino except tobacco, pepper and pain....I am thrilled. Way too young to evaluate but it will be a cracker of a cigar with some time to age.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Hoyo de Monterrey Reposado Robusto, 5.25" x 54 - Packaged in cedar sleeves with a total of 3 bands, this cigar screams up from the shelves "buy me!". The cigars are rested in cedar for 4-6 months while aging, thus the Reposado en Cedros moniker. Medium bodied with an intense cedar aroma and flavor, the cigar is quite pleasant for the first 2/3. Not many other flavors can rise up above that strong cedar woodiness.

Room 101 - A more reasonably sized Toro than the monster I had a couple weeks ago. Still strong, but this time with flavor and no harshness. I really enjoyed this one.

Liga Privada Flying Pig - the cigar I ended up smoking as my quiet time/birthday cigar.

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Tatuaje SW Reserva Maduro - Absolutely excellent experience. Possibly the best Tat I've ever had.

Tatuaje Boris - A good cigar with nice 'baking spice' flavors. This has matured and started changing in the year since its release. Not as full flavored as it once was but it is shaping up to be a cigar that performs well with its age.

Diamond Crown Maximus Robusto - Lovely honey core with decent strength and terrific flavor. Worth trying. Worth trying AGAIN.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Herencia Black Label, Red Label, Yellow Label, White Label - Manufactured in Ybor City by a father / son team. (See our interview with Abraham and Roberto on smugmug.) Excellent construction, the cigars range in strength from mild to full but all exhibit soft shoulders from being well blended and aged. Smoke is smooth and flavorful across the line. Also available on-line and Tabacalera Ramirez is now opening a factory in Nicaragua while working to begin distribution across the country. If you are in the Tampa area, stop and say hello and get a deal on some fine cigars.

Joya de Nicaragua Classico - Joya de Nicaragua was once an extremely popular cigar here in the US. Then came the Sandinistas and an embargo to suddenly shut off their largest market and their factory. But the people behind JdN were stubborn and they fought to reopen the factory with new ownership and developed new markets around the world to wait out the political whims of their own and our governments. When JdN returned to the US they found their old distribution channels gone and a new generation of smokers that did not recognize the brand. Undeterred, the factory family (jobs are obtained through family members and personal recommendations) drove on creating the Antanos, the multi-wrapper Celebration, and in 2000 a reblend of their flagship, the Classico. Available in five sizes, Churchill, Toro, Lonsdale, Torpedo and my selection the Robusto. This is a mild-medium flavored cigar with a Nicaraguan grown Criollo wrapper. JdN is a finely crafted cigar (some of the rollers have been there for 50 years) that is skillfully aged with great attention to detail and finish. This cigar has been made in the same factory since its introduction in 1963 and by a proud ensemble of workers that fought for the survival of the brand. This pride is evident in every cigar bearing the name. Great aged tobacco flavors with slight leather and nuts. Excellent smoke.

Illusione Cuchillos Cubanos - Thanks to Joe Fuller of Fuller's Pullers for sending these out. A mixed filler cigar with nice flavors and a respectable price. Easy recommendation as a value cigar at just over $3 each in five packs.

What's My Band? - #927 from Bruce Berg; Punch London Club

September Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Kris Allen from Mineral Wells, Tx won the classic black Palio Cutter. Enter the October contest now to win a gold Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #294 October 01,2010

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 07:46:51 -0400

This week Bob interviews Abe Flores from Pinar del Rio. Also this week, John Richardson, General Manager of A Little Taste of Cuba cigar shops in New Jersey and Pennsylvania is the guest on"What's Hot, What's Not, What's Next."

Cigar of the Week - La Aurora Guillermo Leon

Dark Side - SAN CRISTOBAL MURALLA 7x54

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

San Lotano Maduro Toro - from TBOTLCH

Master by Carlos Torano

PDR 1878 Cubano Especial

Fonseca Cubano Limitado

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

13th Floor Robusto - This is an interesting cigar with some unusual flavors and great construction.

Don Kiki Brown and Green - Not something I would have normally picked up to smoke as they do not resonate with me; well they didn't before now. This is really a well made cigar with smooth flavors of tobacco, very slight spice and a light savoryness that made for a very pleasant smoke.

Di Fazio Red Label - Honduran Puro

La Aurora 107 Robusto

Tatuaje La Verite - Thanks to Tobacconist University for providing me with this fine cigar to review.

I was fortunate to see these cigars while still in the aging room at My Father Cigars in Estelli. Pete was like a proud Papa when he showed us the shelves full of these beautiful sticks. For those of you that may not know, the la Verite is a special project of Pete Johnson and Pepin Garcia to produce a cigar containing only tobacco from a single year and a single vega (farm). Something that has not been done or even considered in the cigar business before now. When the project was first announced it caused a wave of discussion amongst cigar enthusiasts, not for its proposed recipe but for its proposed sales methodology. Pete had intended to sell futures in the cigar much like is done with wines. In the wine business it is common for certain vintages to be 'pre-sold' prior to being tasted outside of the vineyard. This is in essence a speculation on the final quality of the product with the hope that the investor will realize financial gain by buying in early at a discount and that the final street price will be higher. It was a revolutionary concept for the cigar industry and unfortunatley for Pete and Pepin, it was not well received by enough of the consumer market to be a success. Nonetheless, the cigars were being produced anyway and now they are available to the public with a production of 20,000 cigars - 400 boxes of 25 and 1000 boxes of 10.

This cigar has a very nice body and a clean burn. It tastes very peppery with a grass undertone and a metallic retrohale. But the pepper was the dominant flavor. Pepper is easy to identify once you learn to recognize the sharpness on the edges of your tongue and the back of your jaw.

One thing I really enjoyed was the aroma of this smoke. It was beautiful through the nose, intensifying the flavor without being overpowering. The entire smoke was consistently smooth. There was a bit of a dry finish but nothing harsh or unpleasant to me. Cedar was especially prominent at the beginning of the smoke, but more complexity with earth flavors came forward as the smoke continued.

This is not a powerhouse, but a medium bodied smoke with some lovely characteristics. At $20 a stick it isn’t a daily smoke, but one for special occasions. As they are from a single crop and vintage, they are limited. I think this will be a nice addition to the Tatuaje line.

What's My Band? - #932 from Liz; AJ. Fuego Natural

September Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Kris Allen from Mineral Wells, Tx won the classic black Palio Cutter. Enter the October contest now to win a gold Palio Cutter.

Herf line from ER Doc on the LFD Air Bender and a Happy Birthday to Dale herf Line from Angry Bill.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #293 September 26,2010

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 16:25:26 -0400

Flying solo here today, I was not feeling 100% on Friday so I gave Dale the night off and now its Sunday and time to do the show.
This is episode 293 on Sunday September 26.
Now I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my morning cup of Black Dog Coffee
Today I am smoking a Bad Dog 42 and some of you may remember Dale talking about these cigars on a previous show. Pre smoke aroma etc....

Herf line from Martin Couch on the Dona Flor line

On Saturday, Executive Producer Liz and I made the trek to Miami to attend the Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival.

On the way in we stopped at Cuban Crafters for a little lunch.
Smoked a bandless cigar that Andreas handed me, he handed my wife a Cuban Crafters By the time we got out of the humidor we had $75 worth of cigars including a couple of La Aurora 107’s, the new Bad Dog 42, a JL Salazar and a sampler of Cuban Crafters cigars that I am sure will be talked about in future shows.

At the festival:
Walking in the aroma of some great latin food, inspired art work and plenty of live music.
We arrived at the VIP Smoking Lounge which they just finishing the set up.
The first people we see are Brian Berman and Mark Brownlee manning the CRA booth.
Chatted with Pete Johnson for awhile
Also spent a few minutes with

Whats Hot with Executive Producer Liz and her guest this week is Jorge ‘Professor” Armenteros.

Herf Line - Don Hubbell - La Tradicion Perdomo Reserve Cabinet SeriesElogio

What else you been smokin' - Bob

Cuban Crafters Medina 1959 - A classic smoke from the bench of Kiki Berger, one of the top blenders in the business. A medium bodied smoke with savory flavors of nutmeg. Asmooth comforting cigar with class and highly underrated in the press. From TBOTLCH.

Cuban Crafters J L Salazar

Elogio Edicion Limitada Lancero - Another fine cigar from the talented Carlos Robaina and Nabil Sabbath of Elogio CIgars in Estelli. Elogio is a small (6 pairs of rollers) factory in the heart of Estelli. Carlos grows most of his own tobacco and is the master blender/roller.

Next week:
Cigar of the Week - La Aurora Guillermo Leon
Dark Side - SAN CRISTOBAL MURALLA 7x54 Considered a niche product by Habanos, SA,
Whats My Band - #932

Call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at , 321-594-4373! - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv

DogWatch Cigar Radio #292 September 18,2010

Sat, 18 Sep 2010 13:31:15 -0400

This week Bob interviews Berta Bravo, "The Guayabera Lady" and artist Emilio Sauma to learn more about the inaugural Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival that will be held on September 25th in Miami. As part of the event, more than 30 top cigar manufacturers will showcase their products in the "Smokin' in the Gables Cigar Lounge." Also this week, Kurt Kendall from Twins Smoke Shop in New Hampshire is the guest on"What's Hot, What's Not, What's Next." Kurt lets us know what his customers are buying and what new releases he is expecting in the upcoming weeks.

Cigar of the Week - Dona Flor Selecao

SELECAO ROBUSTO - 5x52
Mata Fina Maduro wrapper. All Brazilian

Dark Side - ROMEO Y JULIETA CHURCHILL

Churchill - 7" x 47 (178 x 18.65 mm), Julieta No. 2, a churchill

Romeo y Julieta marque was established in 1875 by Inocencio Alvarez and Mannin Garcia. The brand is named for Shakespeare's famous tragedy, Romeo and Juliet.

Between 1885 and 1900, the brand won numerous awards at different tasting exhibitions (as still evidenced by the gold medals on the brand's logo). However, the brand truly bloomed after it was acquired by Jose "Pepin" Rodriguez Fernandez, former head of the Cabañas factory in Havana, and his firm, Rodríguez, Argüelles y Cia, in 1903. Being a very cosmopolitan man, Rodriguez constantly travelled across Europe and the Americas, actively promoting his brand, and entering his horse, the aptly named Julieta, in racing events across the world.
As a result of his salesmanship, the brand became exceptionally popular around the world among wealthy customers, many of whom demanded personalized bands for their cigars. At its height, as many as 2000 personalized cigar bands were produced for customers. The brand was also known at this time for specializing in figurado cigars, such as perfectos and pirámides, with over a thousand such shapes believed to have been in production.

Sir Winston Churchill was perhaps the brand's most famous devotee. The flagship vitola of the brand is named in his honor, a long 7" by 47 ring gauge cigar known as the Churchill. Nellie Tayloe Ross, the first woman to serve as governor of a state in the U.S., also frequently smoked them.

After Rodriguez's death in 1954 (he was 88 years old), the revolution, and the subsequent nationalization of the tobacco industry, the brand was moved to La Romana in the Dominican Republic, where production of a Romeo y Julieta cigar for the American market continues today under the direction of Altadis SA. The Cuban government nationalized the brand and still produces and distributes it worldwide as one of its top-selling global brands.

In 2006, a new addition was made to the regular Romeo y Julieta lineup. The Short Churchill size, a Robusto, was introduced at the 8th Annual Habanos Festival in Havana, Cuba in 2006.

Romeo y Julieta also produces three machine-made cigarillos: minis, clubs and puritos.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

La Caridad Del Cobre - the new blend from Frank Herrera. A very nice cigar with tons of flavor, great construction and available in several sizes. Deep, rich flavors that excite the pallate with full body and medium strength. Leans to the earthy, savory flavored side of the spectrum.

Room 101 - Probably the strongest cigar I've smoked in a long time. The blend has it's moments, but is not well balanced. The strength overpowers and is several notches above a LFD Air Bender or Double Ligero.

Avo Heritage Short Robusto - Outstanding complexity and depth of flavor! Definitely my favorite AVO cigar, this new line has a well balanced kalidascope of flavors that features some great spice, some mellow sweetness, a wonderful grain/bread flavor and varied earthy notes. The wrapper is oily & elegant, the construction & burn is perfect.

Rocky Patel Fifteenth Anniversary - Truly very good and fully pleasurable cigar! Coffee, nuts, a touch of citrus and faint fruity sweetness combine for a mini-vacation for the senses.

Bad Dog Patch 56

Cain F Habano

Joya Cubana

Padilla Miami

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Hemingway Short Story - another of my old favorites that I had not smoked in a good long while. The Hemingway line from Fuente is an old favorite of mine. Abandoned in the 70's and resurrected in the 80's, what was once the Fuente TALES line, became the Hemingway. Originally a line of Cuban Perfectos, the resurrection ocurred when the Fuentes opened shop in the Dominican Republic. The line had been abandoned in part because the master rollers who knew how to roll these magnificent cigars had all retired or passed away. Carlos Fuente Sr. was the only one left who knew how to make these shaped cigars and with a little prodding from Jr, he dug up the old molds in Ybor City and began to teach a new generation how to make the Cuban Perfecto shapes that give this line a unigue character. My favorite in the line is the funky Short Story. At 4.5" x 46/49 it is a marvelous shape to behold. When you first light up the little nipple tip, the draw is resistent, even difficult but within seconds as the burn line advances towards the shoulder on this tiny foot, the draw opens up and the flavors begin to swell in your mouth. This is the experience that I look for in every perfecto I smoke, that crescendo of flavor as the cigar opens up. Grab yourself a Short Story and experience not only a blast of history, but that experience of blossoming flavor.

Man-o-War Ruination - Manufactured at Tabacalera Fernandez in Nicaragua, Man O’ War is by far one of the best full-bodied cigars currently available.
Man O’ War was developed by Abdel "AJ" Fernandez, a protégé of Don Alejandro Robaina, the man who is considered to be the “Godfather” of tobacco. After spending most of his life studying in Cuba under Don Alejandro, Abdel Fernandez moved to Nicaragua to begin producing his own cigars. After only 6 years, Abdel currently produces Rocky Patel’s Fusion, Indian Tabac 10th Anniversary, Padilla Habano, and Sol Cubano Cuban Cabinet. However, of all the cigars produced at Abdel’s factory, he personally considers Man O’ War to be his best blend.
Habano Ecuador wrapper - The leaf is taken from the upper middle portion of the plant, known as viso, These viso leaves are then put through a three-year fermentation process that is personally overseen by Fernandez himself. Once this wrapper is ready, it is combined with a blend of aged Nicaraguan filler, harvested from three separate farms.
Man O’ War produces hearty, earthy flavors with hints of cashews and almonds that are masked by a peppery aftertaste and a touch of sugar.

Liz smoked an Oliva G Maduro Robusto and loved it. She enjoyed the sweetness. This is one of the all time value cigar choices at $4.50 per on average. Liz also enjoyed these brands this week: Brun del Re Premium; Davidoff Lancero; Guillermo Leon; Monte Pascoal; Elogio Lancero; and Carlos Torano Virtuoso.

What's My Band? - #931 from Liz; A. Fuente Gran Reserva 5.75 x 52

August Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Dave Wallace won a gold Palio Cutter in the August contest. Enter the September contest now to win a classic black Palio Cutter.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to Don Hubbell for his promotional message and Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #291 September 10,2010

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 10:28:01 -0400

This week Bob and Dale are joined by Craig Schneider. Dale talks with Colin Ganley of CigarTourism.com about the January 2011 trip to the Dominican Republic in which Dale will be participating. Also this week, Brian Berman, Director of Membership, Cigar Rights of America (CRA), is a guest on"What's Hot, What's Not, What's Next."

Special CRA membership deal for DogWatch listeners! Get two free cigars exclusively crafted for CRA members and a free CRA T-shirt when you sign up for a one-year membership for $35. Go to www.cigarrights.org; click on the microphone in the upper right corner to go to the VIP section; enter "dogwatch" (one word, all lowercase) to sign in; use promo code "dogwatch" when completing your payment information; and be sure to type "0101" in the "Referred by" field (this is Bob's CRA ambassador number).

Cigar of the Week - Di Fazio Maduro

We did an interview with these folks almost a year ago before any one had heard of the cigars. We liked what we smoked then and now they have become a hot stick getting reviewed by all the major blogs and such since an appearance at the International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers (IPCPR).

Dark Side - Punch Punch - Ramon Allones

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

New Tatuaje releases: Veracu #5(unbanded 4x40), Petit Cazadores (uncut wrapper) & Petit Reserva - 4x28 was the most enjoyable.

1998 Punch Monarcas en tubo

Hunters & Frankau Selection.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Bad Dog Maduro Torpedo

God of Fire Robusto (2006)

Fresh Rolled LGC, Leo Perez

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Zino Platinum Sceptor Master Edition 2009 Maduro from Davidoff - One fine smoke with terrific flavors of sweet peppers and subtle but charming hints of cocoa. Zino Platinum Master Edition 2009 Maduro cigars come in a variety of shapes and sizes inspired by the urban, pop-culture spirit. The blend consistes of 3 Dominican filler tobaccos, a rare Peruvian filler leaf, a 4-year-aged Connecticut binder and a 1-year-aged Ecuadorian wrapper. Really a great smoke.

Tatuaje Havana VI (red label) Nobles - The 5x50 Nobles is an excellent example of the cooperation between its maker, Don Pepin Garcia and the creator Pete Johnson. The Havana VI is the product of Pete Johnson's vision and Pepin Garcia's craftsmanship. A Nicaraguan puro, the filler is a blend of Nicaraguan tobaccos (the Havana VI blend), the binder is from Nicaragua and the wrapper is Nicaraguan Corojo 99. It is a medium- to full-bodied cigar released in October 2006 in 6 models. The cigars have a simple red band with white print.

La Aurora 107 Robusto - Still one of my favorite go to cigars for great Dominican taste. Full of flavor but not too strong, these cigars fit the definition of and are a testament to the great blending skills of Jose Blanco and Guillermo Leon.

EP Carillo Short Run Populares - I only hope that the Short Run runs long enough to get some more sticks from the hands of EP Carillo. Makes you wonder what we may have missed out on all those years he was working at General Cigar. EP is taking advantage of a new environment that allows him to make cigars in smaller batches, taking advantage of tobaccos that are in limited quantity but of outstanding quality.

Hoyo de Monterrey Reposado en Cedros - Actually was looking forward to these after seeing them at IPCPR, unfortunatley I find they are not my cup of tobacco. The flavors seem to be disjointed and in opposition. Too much going on in this complex cigar to let the smoker get comfortable and relax.

What's My Band? - #930 from Liz; La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero; 6 x 52 Chisel tip, nice dark oily wrapper.

August Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Dave Wallace won a gold Palio Cutter in the August contest. Enter the September contest now to win a classic black Palio Cutter.

Herf Line Review from Dan about travelling with cigars.

Do you have a Herf Line Review? If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Thanks to ERdoc for promotional messages and Michael Howe for bumpers and special effects in this show.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #290 September 03,2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 09:26:59 -0400

This week Colin Ganley of CigarTourism.com and Bob talk about the January 2011 trip to Nicaragua in which Bob will be participating. Also this week, the debut of "What's Hot, What's Not, What's Next" - Cigar retailers from around the country share buyer passions and passes and let us know what new releases are on order. This week Michael Herklots from Davidoff of Geneva, New York city stores (Madison Avenue and The Shops at Columbus Circle); Heather Haddad from Fumee Cigar Lounge in Austin, Texas; and Doug Fiore from Winston's Humidor in Midlothian, Virginia share their insights.

Cigar of the Week - Esteban Carreras 5150 -

The Esteban Carreras 5150 series is a medium bodied Corojo with an Ecuadorian grown Sumatra wrapper and Nicaraguan fillers and binder.

Dark Side - RAMON ALLONES SMALL CLUB CORONAS

Length: 110
Ring: 42
Format: Minuto

Ramón Allones is one of the big names in the history of Habanos. Founded in 1837, it is also one of the oldest brands in production. A Galician by birth, Ramón Allones was the first cigar manufacturer to pack his cigars in boxes decorated with labels and stamped with his brand's emblem. He was the pioneer of the packaging that we know today. All of the Ramon Allones cigars are filled with a blend of tobaccos from the Vuelta Abajo region, characterised by their intense and complex taste.

What else have you been smokin' Colin?

Cruzado Mario

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Torano Single Region Serie Jalapa Robusto 5 x 52 - One of the most exciting releases from IPCPR if you are into understanding how tobacco from one specific region tastes. In this case, all the tobacco in the Jalapa series comes from one farm in the Jalapa area of Nicaragua. It's very hard to make a deep, rich, complex blend from just one area, but Torano has done it with this cigar! Well balanced in strength, roundness and body, with earthy flavors & natural sweetness. The room aroma is a touch spicy and intoxicating! Try one of these to sample the character of Jalapa tobacco.

Don Francisco Lancero - A gift to me from ER Doc during his visit last month, this cigar was perhaps the most flavorful cigar I smoked this week. Layer upon layer of tastes kept building, providing one of the most complex cigars I've had in a long time. Superb construction allowed a slow, cool smoke. Full bodied and medium in strength, the list of flavors noted is way long, but in the main; nuts, citrus, espresso, cedar and vanilla were the highlights.

Casa Magna Colorado and Casa Magna Sungrown

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

CAO La Traviata Maduro - La Traviata Maduro is everything the La Traviata cigar should have been last year; why it took CAO a year to make the right cigar is beyond me. They ruined the Brazillia by making it in a monster 60 rg; however, this cigar makes up for it. The La Traviata Maduro proves that CAO can make good cigars without going all Hollywood.

Torano Master - New blend from the Torano family. Carlos Torano has broken the mold at Torano CIgars and produced a slightly more full flavored cigar that is complex and pleasing. An outstanding cigar with complex flavor and great construction. Year after year the Torano family continues to put out fine cigars and now they are once again in charge of their own distribution. If you thought they only did mild-medium cigars, smoke this and you will change your mind.

Macanudo Cru Royale - For me this was the biggest surprise of the IPCPR; it has flavor; it has style; and it has great construction. I want more of these. The Cru Royale demonstrates that General Cigar is not stuck in the past nor are they afraid to take a chance. I was disappointed in the results of using Ometepe tobacco in their other blends and this cigar shows you don't need trickery or gimmicks to make an excellent cigar. The PUNCH Upper Cut was a bland result of too many taste tests and committee work that resulted in a bland and disappointing cigar. The Cru Royale landed a hook on the Uppercut to put it on the mat.

What's My Band? - #921 from Liz
H. Upmann Reserve Maduro 5x50 Robusto with wonderful pre-smoke barnyard aromas.

August Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Dave Wallace won a gold Palio Cutter. Enter the September contest to win a classic black Palio Cutter.

Herf Line Reviews - If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #289 August 27,2010

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 08:26:25 -0400

Colin Ganley (European Cigar Journal, CigarTourism.com) and Craig Schneider (columnist, The Shoulders We Stand On) are special guests this week.

Cigar of the Week - Adrians Havana

The Havanna 2000 (Criollo) wrapper, is more of a medium, full-bodied cigar, created specifically for the smoker who wants a cigar that is not too light but not too strong. Sweet on the lips at first pre-light, the strength starts to kick in as the cigar burns, heightening to levels of pure ecstasy.

ECJ Awards - Review of Winners

BEST BRAND
Cuba – not yet announced
Dominican Republic – Macanudo 1968
Honduras – Rocky Patel Vintage 1990
Nicaragua – Nub Habano | Sun Grown
USA – Don Pepin Garcia Blue - http://www.elreydeloshabanos.com , http://www.myfathercigars.com/

BEST CIGAR
Cuba – not yet announced
Dominican Republic – Davidoff Maduro, Robusto
Honduras – Flor de Copan Linea Puros, Robusto -
Nicaragua – Padrón Family Reserve 45 Years Maduro

BEST VALUE
Dominican Republic – Santa Damiana
Honduras – Flor de Selva - Facebook: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=80552404279
Mexico – Te-Amo World Selection Series
Nicaragua – Oliva Connecticut Reserve

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Benjamin F. Menendez

OUTSTANDING ART
Vrijdag Premium Printing

CHARITY & COMMUNITY
Cigar Family Charitable Foundation

AMBASSADOR
CRA – Cigar Rights of America

BEST ACCESSORY
Palio Cutters

Dark Side - Por Larranaga Petit Coronas

Name: Petit Coronas Cab 50
Ring gauge: 42
Length: 12.90 CM / 5.0 inches
Por Larranaga Petit Coronas SLB CAB - 50 cigars [5.0 x 42]

Por Larrañaga is a brand with a long history. Founded in 1834 it enjoys well-earned reputation for its quality and the attractiveness of its presentation. All the tobacco in the Por Larrañaga range comes from the Vuelta Abajo region and the cigars are made using methods of production — "totalmente a mano, tripa larga" — totally hand made, long filler, "totalmente a mano, tripa corta" — totally hand made, short filler.

What else have you been smokin' Colin?

Tatuaje Red Churchill

J. Fuego Origen (other sizes)

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary

Davidoff Puro d'Oro Notables

Augusto Reyes Vintage

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary - A medium dark, trunk-pressed cigar that's wrapped in Ecuadoran tobacco grown from Habano seeds. The binder and filler tobaccos are entirely Nicaraguan, and one of the filler varieties is grown on a farm that was specially dedicated to this cigar. The cigars come in dark boxes with metallic plates, and the double bands are the color of gun metal steel.

Bucanero Canon Cubana Maduro Blend: Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper; Nicaragua 2000 Maduro and Dominican fillers

PINAR DEL RIO 1878 CUBANO ESPECIAL Another very good smoke from Abe Flores with strong flavors but not the spice of his earlier efforts. I need to smoke more of these to do an adequate review. A medium bodied smoke blended from small-batch Nicaraguan and Dominican long fillers, a Nicaraguan binder, and your choice of a Connecticut or Maduro wrapper.

Xikar HC Series Habano Colorado A nice smoke that does not hold up against some of the better smokes of the day. Flavor is good but one dimensional and not very exciting. Relaxing smoke but not outstanding. Created by Jesus Fuego.
Wrapper: Habano Colorado - Jalapa Valley
Binder: Esteli
Filler: Costa Rica, Jalapa, Honduras

AVO Heritage Great smoke with medium flavors of Dominican sweet spice and a barnyard tobacco flavor. Thanks to Michael Herklots, this is a very good cigar. New Release from AVO cigars and Davidoff.

What's My Band? - A "special edition" from Bob.

Blended and rolled by Bob McDuffee. The cigar that Bob rolled in the Dominican Republic while visiting the La Aurora factory in February.

Herf Line Review from Angry Bill.

August Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Dave Wallace won a gold Palio Cutter.

Herf Line Reviews - If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by the 25 Smokin' Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #288 August 20,2010

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 06:06:08 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Calibre 58 from Miami Cigar and Company
"Originally an event cigar, available only at Miami Cigar events, the Calibre was not meant to be a production line. However, due to increasing pressure from retailers, the line will soon be available with a foot band in slide lid boxes. This is a 4x58 100% Nicaraguan Puro. It comes in both a Robusto and a Toro with the same dimensions and this sample sports a rosado wrapper although it will also be available with an oscuro."

Dale talks about his impressions from IPCPR

"Dark Side - PARTAGAS 8-9-8 VARNISHED
The 8-9-8 cigars from Partagas are favorites of Cuban tobacco lovers. They get their name from their presentation in a box of 25 cigars, divided into tree layers of 8, 9 and 8 cigars. It is one of the current vitola range: strong, well balanced, with rich aroma and flavor, and ideal measures for the smoker who can spare the time.
Length: 6.6 inches (170mm)
Ring Gauge: 43
Factory Shape: Dalias
Strength: Full"
Dark Side - Dale -
Dark Side - Bob -
"

Cigar of the Week - Calibre 58 from Miami Cigar and Company
"What else have you been smokin' Dale?-

Don Pepin Garcia Blue Label, churchill -

Paradigm 262 -

La Traviata Maduro robusto -

Guillermo Leon corona -

Cain Nub Maduro - "
"What else have you been smokin' Bob? -

CAIN NUB Habano - Like the CAIN Habano but I just cannot get used to this form factor. I have an uncomfortable feeling the whole time I smoke the NUB format.

CAO Brazilia monster 5x56 - The ring guage is just overwhelming for a cigar that I actually like. All of the subtleties of the flavors get lost in an overwhelming rush of strength and tobacco. It loses the flavor of the wrapper.

Elogio Salamone - A sweet tasting cigar that builds dramatically as you smoke in to it.
La Herencia de Cuba - A winner of tobacco, spice and leather. Get these while they are still available.

La Traviata Maduro -Better than the original La Traviata as it carries more flavor seems to be more consistent throughout the experience."
"Interview with La Herencia, Tabacalero Ramirez."
Don't forget our monthly Palio Contest! In august the prize is a Gold Palio.

"Whats My Band - suggested by Nelson Pidgeon

Bob - Very subtle, slight aroma at the foot, First draw is very nice mild flavors of spice and tobacco. Overall a pleasant mild cigar with good flavors, an easy burn and good draw."

"Next week Cigar of the Week is the Adrians Havana and on the Dark Side, and a very special Unbanded from Liz. Sitting in for Dale next week will be Colin Ganley and Craig Schneider"
Call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at , 321-594-4373! - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv"

Music provided by the 25 Smokin' Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #287 August 15,2010

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 10:01:53 -0400

Bob and Dale are at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR) convention in New Orleans this week. Jacob Roush, Dale's son, and Trent and Troy Keifer from Indiana are special field reporters.

Cigar Rights of America (CRA) - Bob discusses the CRA seminar. Go to here to view cigarchannel.com's video including additional comments from Bob.

Maker's Mark (Ted's Cigars) interview by Trent and Troy Keifer.

Palio Cutter receives Best Accessory Award from European Cigar Journal. Interview with Mike DeVersa and Marc Aub of Palio.

La Aurora releases new Guillermo Leon cigar at Bourbon Street party. Interview with Guillermo Leon.

Interview with Roseline and Nabil Sabbah of Elogio Cigars.

More IPCPR updates in future shows!

Music provided by the 25 Smokin' Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #286August 5,2010

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 05:50:48 -0400

This week Bob and Dale are joined by special guest Bill Featherton, a long-time listener.

Cigar of the Week - Panacea Green Label Toro

Over a year in the making, the Panacea Green label uses a specially fermented Pennsylvania Broadleaf wrapper to balance out a triple Ligero filler in a very exciting 2010 release from Flatbedcigars.com.

Dark Side - HOYO DE MONTERREY LE HOYO DU GOURMET

Origin: Cuba Manufactured: Hand Made
Gauge: Thin Length: 170
Format: Palma Ring: 33
Weight: 6,76 gr.
Presentation: Slide lid box of 25

"Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo du Gourmet" Review:

Discontinued in 2002, this cigar has what some call the "experts" size, long and slim. With a peculiar creamy sweetness, Le Hoyo du Gourmet needs to be smoked slowly so that it does not overheat, what would give the cigar a different taste than it was meant to have.

Herf Line Reviews - If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Bow Tie Green - my last sample from BowTie Cigars, a light Conny Shade wrapped rubusto without that typical airy-grassy flavor I usually find from that wrapper. Mild bodied, lots of cedar & leather flavors and smooth. Not much complexity, but far better balanced then the other two lines. Good mid-morning cigar I'd recommend to mild cigar lovers.

Famous Nicaragua 3000, 2008 - Dark flavors have smoothed over time - coffee, cocoa and some of that meaty savoryness all still come through with that Nic Zing. Still one of my favorite everyday cigars.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Padron 1926 Torpedo - What a beautiful box pressed cigar this is. Foot aroma was distinctive barnyard. It's a complicated smoke - I mean with three bands to remove, it almost took an engineering degree to get them off with the overlap and wrap around....

Gurhka Triad Churchill 7x52 - Adorned with a 10-year-old Connecticut Ecuadorian wrapper around a 7-year-old Dominican binder and a 7-year-old Nicaraguan/Honduran filler, this is one of the smoothest cigars you may ever smoke. Kaizad only made 300 boxes of these and they are a special treat. Great medium-to-mild cigar with toasty flavors of leather and sweet spices.

Whats My Band - #920 from Liz, Padilla Cazadores
Bob - I had high expectations at the beginning of this cigar because of its light barnyard pre-aroma and good flavors of slightly bitter dry grasses. But the excitement faded as the cigar began to burn lopsided and the flavors got decidedly sour and the stench of poorly fermented tobacco came out. Could not wait to put this one down.

July Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Robert Brown. The August prize will be a gold Palio cutter! Enter this month's contest by clicking here. (You must be a registered member to enter. Not a member? Join now!)

Music provided by the 25 Smokin' Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #285 July 30,2010

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 10:24:30 -0400

Welcome to DogWatch Cigar Radio episode 285 for July 30th, 2010. Meandering roads.
Brought to you by CigarTourism.com - Now booking trips to Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. Immerse yourself in the world of cigars in style and comfort. Colin Ganley will introduce you to your favorite cigar makers, show you where tobacco is grown, cigars are rolled, and we wrap up each day with tastings in the tropical air. CigarTourism.com

Also brought to you by FullersPullers.com, While you're listening to the show, take a few moments to browse Fullerspullers.com for the latest in boutique brand cigars.

This week Joe added the new La Reloba line of cigars from Don Pepin Garcia - a medium bodied blend available in 2 wrapper styles - Habano and Sumatra.

You can always expect to find one of the widest selection of boutique brands of cigars when you visit FullersPullers.com, the preferred retailer of Dogwatch Cigar Radio.

Cigar of the Week - Alec Bradley Prensado Robusto

The 5x50 Alec Bradley Prensado was built around a new wrapper, the Corojo dos mil seis (Corojo 2006). The wrapper was grown in late 2006 on the farm in Trojes, Honduras and was in fermentation and aging through mid 2008. Alex Rubin started smoking and learning about the nuances of this wrapper in July 2008 and worked on this blend for over six months.

Dark Side - El REY DEL MUNDO CHOIX SUPREME

At 5x48 the Choix Supreme may be the perfect size for enjoying this particular blend. The brand is believed to have been created by a German, Emilio Olmstead, who registered this brand and the Sancho Panza brand in 1848. Min Ron Nee, author of "An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Post-Revolution Havana Cigars," says these are only to be appreciated by those with excellent palates and after 15 years of aging. Not always very popular, it comes and goes in importance with the buying public and yet it remains an enthusiast's pick at all times.

Herf Line review of Outlaw Tatuaje from Bill Featherston (ERdoc).

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Tres Hermanos Toro - From the little shop in the French Quarter of NO last year....most folks who bought some in our group weren't too impressed - reported obviously young charateristics, so I held mine a year. Well worth the wait! Deep rich flavors in a full bodied smoke. Good construction, behaved well.

Cinco Vegas Limitados

Adrians Corona - The last of my Adrian samples from a year ago, and this was the best. Had I smoked this a year ago I might have bought some! Very smooth, nice woody tones with mild sweetness. None of the harshness or conflicting flavors of the other vitolas I tried.

La Estrella Cubana Torpedo - I was not expecting much of this cigar based on Bob's experience a couple weeks ago, but was pleasently surprised. Not a great cigar, but one I'd smoke occasionally. Some coffee & nuttiness around a core of mild leather. Med bodied, some rough edges, but a decent outdoor (fishing, hiking, etc....) stick.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Gurkha Evil Toro - Gurkha is known for their full flavored cigars and this is no exception. I broke out this beauty first thing one morning and was amazed at the pairing of the dark, citrusy Brazilian wrapper, milder Dominican binder and the spicey Nicaraguan filler. This is a strong cigar but because it is well blended and well aged it sits well on the palate and is a remarkably good choice with a cup of coffee or a petey scotch such as Islay. A fine cigar that drove me back to the store for more..

Esencia Churchill - Esencia has perhaps one of the least known and most underrated cigars on the market, except by those who smoke them. Getting an Esencia in a Churchill size is like getting the Super Burrito at your favorite mexican restaurant. The flavor just keeps coming at you in wave after wave of spice, leather andstraw that, while being somewhat reminiscent of the finer Cubans, is a large step beyond in the fullness of flavor, complexity and satisfaction.

Whats My Band - #919 - Montecristo Serie C.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

July Palio Cutter Contest Winner: Robert Brown. Enter this month's contest by clicking here. (You must be a registered member to enter. Not a member? Join now!)

If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Music provided by the 25 Smokin' Figurados from their new album, "Lesson Two," and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #284 July 23,2010

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 11:17:54 -0400

Bob interviews Mark Carlos McGinty, the author of "The Cigar Maker."

Cigar of the Week - Joya de Nicaragua Cabinetta Serie No. 7 Toro.

The Joya de Nicaragua Cabinetta is a beautiful two-tone cigar. The two wrappers create not only a pleasing look but also a new tasting concept. The cigar is first rolled with the Ecuadorian wrapper and then the tip is covered with a rich, dark, sweet Nicaraguan wrapper. The smoker experiences a combination of flavors: a creamy, mellow taste coming from the burning side of the cigar and a sweet and spicy character from the rich Nicaraguan wrapper.

Dark Side - BOLIVAR BOLIVAR NO. 1 TUBOS.

Introduced in 1901, the powerful flavor of the Bolivar cigar range is almost as widely know as it's namesake, Simon Bolivar (1783-1830), the celebrated Venezuelan warrior who liberated what is today Venezuela, Columbia, Peru and Bolivia. The Bolivar cigar brand was developed by the Jose Rocha Cigar Company and manufactured at the El Crepusculo cigar factory, but was later acquired by Menendez, Garcia y Cia cigar manufacturers, and is now produced at the Partagas cigar factory.
In 1901, the Rocha company in Havana, Cuba commemorated Bolivar by naming a new brand of Havana cigars after him, and featuring his portrait on the label and cigar box. At one time the brand included the smallest Havana cigar - the Delgado, measuring 1 7/8 by 20 ring gauge.

Today it is one one of the most sought after Cuban cigar brands delivering quality construction, full flavor and tasty earthy characteristics with a spice overtone and just a hint of caramel sweetness. A well blended and rich habano for your humidor.

Length: 178mm
Ring: 42
Format: Corona
Weight: 9.29 gr
Year brand established: 1901
Tobacco Region: Vuelta Abajo
Cigar Factory: Partagas Factory

Herf Lines from ER Doc (262 Paradigm) and Angry Bill (Jaime Garcia JJ). If you call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and it is played on the show, you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Cain 550 Habanos 5" x 50 - made by Oliva in Nicaragua, these cigars were released a year ago and have become wildly popular. Three different ligero's make up over 80% of the filler blend, creating a rich, exciting carnival of flavors with enough strength & body to keep the seasoned cigar smoker on their toes. The Habano wrapper provides some smoothness and pepper flavors. Deep flavors of leather, roasted nuts and exotic spices provide a complex smoke.

Cubao Maduro No. 5 6.25" x 50 - Filler and binder are all Nicaraguan grown. Wrapper is an Ecuadorian Sumatra Oscuro. Tons of great flavors with that "Nic Zing"! Full bodied and some strength, but well balanced. Rich earthy tones, natural sweetness and some great spices.

Torano Noventa Torpedo 6.5" x 54 - Wrapper & Binder are of the Habano varietal, grown in Nicaragua. Filler blend is also all Nicaraguan from the Pueblo Nueva, Esteli, Condega and Jalapa regions - all aged 5 years. A very smooth, medium bodied smoke with subtle flavors.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Fuente Reserva Xtra Fuerte Anejo - A deep, dark well of flavor and an intoxicating experience. I don't know how long I had been hanging on to this churchill sized cigar. Each time I started to pull it out to smoke I would read Anejo on the band and decide that it deserved more attention. On this evening though I decided to light it up knowing it would be my first and last cigar of the evening (since dinner).

La Flor Dominicana Chisilito - As many of you know, I don't go in for really strong cigars (not talking flavor strong but pure nicotine strength). And so LFD is not my usual smoke, but like many things in life, there are exceptions and the Chisilito is one of the outstanding exceptions. I truly enjoy the berry flavors and spices of this fine perfecto. Perhaps because it is a small perfecto it smokes much lighter than you would expect and that's a good thing because otherwise you might miss the wonderful swirl of flavors from this cigar. If you have wondered what the fuss is about but have have not been able to pull the trigger on a cigar line known for its power, the Chisilito might be the cigar for you. Plus, my wife liked the cigar for its room aroma. She reported a noticeable aroma of berries while I was smoking this cigar.

Padron Londres Natural - At $3.30 each you cannot beat these medium filler cigars from Padron. A true value and worth smoking.

CAO Cameroon - Another of the box pressed cigars on the market. Surprisingly tasteless, this cigar lacked body and character. It was a tag-along smoke for my morning routine neither interferring with nor adding to the experience of my Black Dog Coffee and soft boiled eggs. An average smoke.

La Estrella Cubana Oscuro- Origin: Nicaragua; Wrapper: Costa Rican Maduro; Binder: Brazilian; Filler: Dominican and Nicaraguan; Cost: $34.99 per bundle of 20. This is certainly the value cigar for this week. Not a pretty cigar. The pre-light does not reveal much at all as the aroma is very slight. First tastes are chocolate on top of a subtle coffee mixed with occasional tastes of burning paper. The ash looks good and seems solid enough, no burn problems. Overall a milder cigar than you might think which is probably good, as the one dimensional flavor and slight harshness would really kill if this were a stronger cigar. Overall not too bad and worth the price paid. Honestly though, I could not recommend this to anyone with a palate.

La Reloba Habano from Pepin Garcia - really an outstanding cigar and a very nice change up from My Father Cigars. MSRP on a five pack is $28 making these I think, a very reasonably priced cigar. I recommend trying out the La Reloba.

2000 Partagas Lusitania (could also have been 1997???)

Whats My Band - #928 from Joe Fuller at FullersPullers.com- Viaje Platino Reserve No. 5.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #283 July 15,2010

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 10:05:14 -0400

Joining Bob Dale tonight is Colin Ganley of CigarTourism.com and European Cigar Journal

Cigar of the Week is The Crown Jewel Premium Boutique Cigar - Specially created by Master Cuban Blenders whose tradition and history date back to the early 1900’s. Our product has been uniquely blended utilizing only the finest and rarest leaves to include; a Silky Rich Ecuadorian Sun Grown Wrapper, an exclusive specially cultivated Dominican “Piloto Cubano” 5 year aged long leaf tobacco from the North Central Region of the Cibao Valley precisely blended with, a sweet selected Peruvian tobacco from the San Martin region of the Northern Amazon. The final product is then hand rolled by a select few of skilled Master Cuban Rollers. http://www.crownjewelcigars.com/

Herf lines from Adam Estrem and Angry Bill

This week's Dark Side - Dale and Colin review the Cohiba Lancero.
Cohiba is the flagship line of Habanos SA. Cohiba accountesd for 8.1% of the exports in 2001. Paying prices with 30% to 50% premium over other Habanaos has never resulted in a shortage of customers for Cohiba. Cohioba is the only Habanos cigar where the tobacco undergoes a third fermentation with the seco and ligero being cured for 18 months in cedar barrels. Altough smokable after 3 years, it is recommended to have at least 5 years of additional ageing before they reach their full promise.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?-

1997 Cusano Corojo -
Guantanamera 310 -
Liga Privada T52 toro -
Viaje TNT -
Oliva Serie V Lancero -

What Else you been smoking Colin?

Square pressed Epernay, Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary, Plasencia Reserva Organica

What else have you been smokin' Bob? -
Torano Copper - Wonderfully smooth smoke with lots of subtle flavors, savory leather, slight mild chocolate flavor. Pre smoke aroma is barnyard with a hint of cedar. Smooth well aged tobaccos.

Kristoff Sumatra - Although it is not a bad smoke, it does exhibit some nuances of youth, the binder burns very black which could indicate a short fermetation period and the flavors just dont really come together like in the Torano.

Gurhka Assasin - A dark devilish smoke with very smoky flavors of wood and leather. A heavy smoke with lots of body and a hidden strength. This cigar is a bit stealthy in its pure strength but the flavor is consistent throughout. Not for the mild smoker.

Whats My Band - #922 - Camacho Corojo

Colin - easy draw, thick wrapper burns uneven but smokes nicely, so good! I can't see it but it tastes great. chocolaty, spicy cedar, nicely complex and balanced, reminds me of a multi-country blend, well aged/fermented wrapper. Robusto. little dry.

Bob-Pre smoke aroma is distinctive barnyard.
Very promising. Easy draw. Much lighter than expected smoke from a very dark cigar. Very astringent retrohale.
But I never got any flavor from the cigar. In my book it was a complete bust.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #282 July 09,2010

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 15:38:12 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Monte Pascoal Double Corona
Origin : Brazil
Format : Double Corona
Size : 7 x 49
Wrapper : Mata Fina
Filler : Mata Fina e Mata Norte
Binder : Mata Fina
Monte Pascoal Corona $5.50
Monte Pascoal Minutos $4.25
Monte Pascoal Robusto $6.75
Monte Pascoal Petit Robusto $4.95
Monte Pascoal Belicoso $7.25
Tabacos Mata Fina Ltda is a business unit of the Orsi Family Group which also has a winery (Italy), steel company (Brazil) and real estate holdings (Brazil).
Established in 2007, Tabacos Mata Fina launched an ambitious project aimed at reviving Brazil famous cigar industry and gaining recognition for the quality tobacco and cigars produced in Brazil. The factory is located in Cruz das Almas - Bahia in the middle of the Recôncavo Baiano area, a privileged region for the
growth of the highest quality Brazilian Tobacco.
The name Monte Pascoal means Easter Mount, this was the first piece of land sighted by Portugese explorers in 1500 and it was on Easter.
Dark Side - SAN CRISTOBAL De La Habana LA FUERZA
Although existing prior to the revolution, this is a new brand launched in 1999. The San Christobol brand that existed rught up to the revolution is not related to the modern brand. Named for the original name of Havana, this brand is still too young by some standards for a conclusion on its worthiness. The La Fuerza is a 50 rg by 5.5 Parejo.
Interview - Wesley Gensel and Lorenzo from Monte Pascoal
Herf Line from ER Doc - Panacea Green
What else have you been smokin' Dale?-

Esteban Carreras Habano -

Esteban Carreras 187 -

Punch Uppercut -

La Escepcion -
What else have you been smokin' Bob? -
El Rico Habano - This is a harsh cigar with few redeeming factors. Although it has a lot of flavor, the harshness is overwhelming.

Esencia Petite Corona - A Wonderfully f\ull flavored cigar that continues to entertain well into the short nub. Introduced in 2008 this outstanding line of cigars is still at the top of my favorites list.

Nestor Miranda Special Selection Breakfast Break - still a very good cigar, sometimes after trying a cigar and then not smoking one for several weeks, you find that it was not as good as you thought, this cigar held up well and is still a faborite.

Casa Torano - Terrific mild smoke at an affordable price.
What Else you been smoking Craig? Padilla Edicion Especial 2006 Obsidian Belicoso - Good typical Nicaraguan flavors with a strong core of pepper and prototypical Padilla spice. Mediocre burn, high strength & fairly heavy body. Bitter finish quick into the final 3rd.

Padron Anniversario Coronas Natural 2005 - Bready sweetness with loads of caramel flavors. Matches the core of flavors expected from Padron but very unique to the wrapper leaf.
Whats My Band - #926 suggested by Bruce Berg - Turns out to be a Padron Londres. Bob - Nice spice, very smooth and medium bodied. Excellent tastes of roasted something or other. The retrohale accentuated the spice only slightly and the savory flavor of roasted something provided a strong base for the cigar. The construction was excellent and the burn was perfect with an excellent draw. The cigar made me want to smoke it till I ate my fingers. I would rate this an excellent smoke and one I would like to smoke more of.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #281 July 02,2010

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 05:31:21 -0400

A special Fourth of July episode celebrating some of our favorite interviews and one very special Dark Side.

Featuring:

Tony Hyman from the National Cigar Museum discussing the early marketing of cigars in America.

Jose Blanco of La Aurora talks about blending cigars and consistent manufacturing practices.

Pete Johnson creator of Tatuaje cigars talks about La Verite and truth in the cigar industry.

We srap up the show with a piece from 2008 that appeared in episode 27 of Adam Curry's Podfinder show featuring Mark Neff of Cigarmony.com and Dale reviewing that weeks Dark Side.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #280 June 25,2010

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 06:25:11 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Quesada Serie Limitada 35th Anniversary
Origin : Dominican Republic
Format : Toro
Size : 6 x 49
Wrapper : Equadorian Arapiraca
Filler : Dominican Republic, Nicaragua
Binder : Cuban seed, Criollo-98 (DR)
In June 1974, Manuel Quesada, his brother Alvaro and their father, Manuel Sr., opened a cigar factory called Manufactura de Tabacos S.A. (Matasa) in Santiago, Dominican Republic. The Quesada family had worked with tobacco since the late 1800s in Cuba, but this was its first venture into cigar making. At the time, Dominican cigars were virtually unknown in the cigar world, but Matasa grew from making thousands of cigars a year to millions, thanks to the popularity of house brands such as Fonseca and Cubita, as well as a host of brands made under contract for other companies importing cigars to the United States.

LA GLORIA CUBANA MEDAILLE D'OR NO.4
Global economic woes and the worldwide spread of smoking bans are taking their toll on Cuba's famous cigar industry, with the just-completed harvest of the country's finest tobacco down 14 percent over 2009, local media said on Monday.

What else have you been smokin' Dale?-

Gran Habano Corojo #5 Robusto -

Perdomo Grand Cru Double Corona -

A. Fuente Chateau Fuente Sungrown -

Oliva Serie V Lancero -

La Reloba Torpedo -

Vegas Cubanas by DPG Toro -

What else have you been smokin' Bob? -
Arturo Fuente Anejo from 2009 - how luck was i to find an Anejo from last year in the bottom of my humidor. Full of tangy spices and a savory meety flavor this cigar is worthy of an expedition to track them down when they appear each year. But, you will want to save each one for at least a year before setting them ablaze. The extra year allows the flavors to really come together and round out. The 'fresh' Anejo is a good cigar, but an Anejo with one or more years on it is even better.

Arturo Fuente Rosado Sungrown Magnum R - new sizes would most likely be on display at the upcoming IPCPR trade show in August. He said the new sizes would likely be quite fat.
Fuente launched the line in December as a trio made with old Ecuadoran Sumatra wrappers, grown by the Olivas in Tampa, Florida. Fuente said the leaves were eight to 10 years old.
"We set those wrappers aside when we first created the [Arturo Fuente] Sun Grown line," he said. These wrappers are not only old, but are from much lower on the plant, the second and third primings, than the traditional primings that he has used in the past.
The three original sizes are Vitola Fifty-Two, which measures five inches by 52 ring gauge, Vitola Fifty-Four, 6 1/4 inches long by 54 ring, and Vitola Fifty-Six, 5 5/8 by 56.

Ernesto Carillo Short Run and INAUGURAL

Whats My Band - #925 suggested by Adam Haught - CAO Brazillia Samba
Bob-Unbanded
Dark slightly dusty flavors, heavy smoke and a deliberate draw that got better as I smoked it. The cigar was very well made and burned well. This cigar needed more age although the experience was not unpleasant. But the flavors were a little harsh. Overall the cigar was too heavy and lacked excitement

DogWatch Cigar Radio #279 June 18,2010

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 17:17:17 -0400

Bob and Dale are joined by Colin Ganley of European Cigar Journal and Craig Schneider, regular guest host and soon-to-be columnist on cigarmedia.tv

Cigar of the Week - Nestor Miranda 1989 Torpedo 6-1/8 x 52

The Nestor Miranda 1989 is a cigar that celebrates the beginning of Miami Cigar & Company. The cigar is being manufactured by My Father Cigars (Pepin Garcia) based on a blend that Don Pepin created with Nestor Miranda. Mr. Miranda inspired Pepin's blending telling him what he wanted in terms of flavor and body and asking for it to be sold for a reasonable price in deference to the prevailing economic situation. The cigar is reportedly a combination of Nicaraguan tobaccos from Esteli and Jalapa and is available with either a rosado for those preferring a medium bodied smoke, or an oscuro wrapper for a more full bodied experience. The Nestor Miranda Collection 1989 comes in three (3) sizes:

Robusto 5 x 50

Toro 6 x 50

Torpedo 6-1/8 x 52

Dark Side - QUAI D'ORSAY GRAND CORONAS

Herf line submissions:

Angry Bill from the Law Dog Lounge reviews Nestor Miranda 1989 and Adam Estrem from the Newbie Cigar Blog reviews the Epernay.

Call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

Man at the bar interview

From Corona Cigar in Orlando, Florida, Dennis Murphy talks about the Nosotros.

Interview with Mark Misti of Crown Jewel Cigars

La Palina Launch Event Report by Colin Ganley

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Oscuro Lancero - A wonderfully glossy, oily, dark oscuro wrapper from Ecuador covers the Dominican LFD grown filler & binder. The wrapper is elegant, in a "country" kind of way. Deep dark flavors match the appearance, yet the smoke is very complex. Some buttery/creamy flavors balance out the roasted nut, licorice, almond and exotic spices against the espresso and cocoa bean core. So obviously, very full flavored. As well, full body delivers a chewy, thick smoke. And don't forget to eat a bit before you spend the 80-90 minutes of power this small ring gauge cigar brings! It is strong and demands your attention.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Davidoff from Craig- great tasting cigar that really shows how good Davidoff,s really are. The burn was excellent, the taste was medium bodied but full flavored with savory roasted leather and grains.

LFD AirBender - "The Air Benders will come in four sizes. The wrapper is Habano from Ecuador and the filler and binder are from our farm in La Canela. The result is a very smooth, flavorful cigar with lots of body." - Litto Gomez

What else have you been smokin' Craig?

LFD AirBender

La Aurora 100 Anos

What else have you been smokin' Colin?

Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary

What's My Band? - A double header this week:

(1) Sancho Panza (a blast from the past - in 2005, this was the first cigar that both Dale and Bob reviewed during the show), suggested by Bruce Berg.

(2) #918, Isla De Cuba Blend 376, from Liz.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by Cory Ratzlaff, 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics

DogWatch Cigar Radio #278 June 11,2010

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 10:15:04 -0400

Bob interviews Sean Williams (El Primer Mundo Cigars) and Willie Herrera (El Titan de Bronze Cigars) about their new collaboration and ongoing business.

Also, Angry Bill from the Law Dog Lounge gets his own cigar review page on Cigarmedia.tv - Angry Bill will be bringing his unique style and wit to the pages of Cigarmedia.tv. If you have enjoyed his herf line reviews then you will love his blog reviews. Check it out today and leave a comment to let us and Bill know what you think.

Cigar of the Week - Padron 3000 Natural

Robusto, Size: 52 x 5 1/2

Wrapper: Natural

Package: 26 per box

Also available in a box of four. Also comes in a maduro wrapper. Not much information given out about the blend as Padron is very secretive; however, the tobacco is reported to be all Nicaraguan.
Padron began making cigars in Miami in 1964 but the family had produced cigars in Cuba since 1853. Padron was burned out of Nicaragua during the Sandinista wars of the 1990's and forced to move all operations to Honduras. In the 1980's Padron was boycotted by Cuban Americans and his Miami locations burned, bombed and defaced for a photo that showed him handing a cigar to Fidel Castro; Padron had travelled to Cuba to negotiate the release of hundreds of political prisoners. Castro asked for the cigar and Senior Padron gave it to him.

Dark Side - Jose L. Piedra Cazadores

Origin: Cuba

Manufactured: Machine Made

Gauge: Medium

Length: 153

Format: Cazadores

Ring: 43

Weight: 11.27 gr.

Herf line submissions:

Call and leave a cigar review on the herf line and you will receive a DogWatch Cigar Radio patch! You can reach the Herfline at 321-594-4373 - or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv.

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Pepin Garcia JJ

Esencia Robusto

My Father La Reloba - Robusto 5x50 and Torpedo 6.25x52. New from the My Father factory in Esteli, this line is all Nica filler & binder with either a Habano or Sumatra wrapper. The two sizes I tried were in the Habano version. A wonderfully medium bodied smoke. Nice flavors of well aged tobaccos, good construction and a very enjoyable cigar. Priced right, in the $5-$7 range.

Rocky Patel Old World Reserve Lancero - This one tasted the way the original release tasted, rich, sweet and wonderfully spicy!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Macanudo something or other. Well made, burned very well, and was a pleasant smoke.

Zino Platinum Sceptor 2009 Master Edition Robusto - 5.25 x 50, tins of ten - $14.50 - Made in Santiago, Dominican. Filler is Dominican, Nicaraguan, Honduras and Peruvian. Binder is Dominican and the wrapper is Ecuador. Pre-light aroma was wonderful - barnyard components of straw, earthiness and yes a little manure. An excellent start for the day as this was my first cigar with my first cup of coffee. The wrapper is a dark Ecuadorian wrapper that almost looks maduro. This cigar really lit up my morning and I have to admit that although it is a little expensive, it is a fantastic cigar. Full flavored with a deep roasted savoriness that blends well with a hint of spice and sweetness. With coffee, without coffee its one heck of a smoke.

What's My Band? - Unbanded #924, La Aroma de Cuba Edicion Especial, suggested by Bryan Newbury at Centro Cigars.

Do you have a suggestion for the unbanded cigar of the week? Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by Cory Ratzlaff, 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics

DogWatch Cigar Radio #277 June 04,2010

Sat, 05 Jun 2010 08:30:23 -0400

DogWatch Cigar Radio Episode #277: Ding Dong Ditches & Dancing Delays

Bob interviews Bill Paley of La Palina Cigars.

Cigar of the Week - Illusione Epernay

Dion Giolito, the man behind the highly sought after Illusione cigars and Cruzado cigars, has created the Illusione Epernay. The Illusione Epernay pays tribute to the famous Epernay region in France, the Capital of Champagne, and has been blended to pair perfectly with a glass of champagne.

The Illusione Epernay originally debuted in 2008 through the European Cigar Cult Journal's 15th Anniversary limited release. From this blend, Epernay has been made with a combination of Nicaraguan Criollo and Corojo tobaccos. The Illusione Epernay is finished with a superior-grade Café Rosado wrapper.

Dark Side - Montecristo No. 3

Factory Name: Corona
Ring gauge: 42
Length: 14.20 CM / 5.5 inches

Herf line submissions: Angry Bill reviews Nosotros. If you would like to review a cigar or leave a message for the show, call the Herfline, 321-594-4373 or cigar.radio on Skype. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv

Origin of the term HERF: From Cigar Craig, http://cigarcraig.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/the-origin-of-the-word-herf/

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

It's been a boring cigar week for Dale. Oliva Serie G Maduro Belicoso on the way to work and Elogio LSV Extra Corona on the way home.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Bucanero Z- exotic spice, medium flavor strength with an absolutely unique flavor profile. So unique that I freely spend my own money on this cigar.

Ecuador Sumatra Wrapper
Nicaragua Fillers
Aged 5 years

Punch Gran Cru - Not a bad cigar but I had to regularly relight it and the draw required more attention than I prefer. From a flavor perspective, the cigar delivered slightly more than a medium flavor strength and lots of leather with toasted bread but it lacked any sort of spice or sweetness that would have made this a more complex smoke. In the end, I would NOT spend my own money on this cigar.

The Monte Pascoal is touted as “the real flavour of Brazil”. The cigar is from Tobacos Mata Fina Litda and is owned by the Orsi Family Group. Tobacos Mata Fina was launched in 2007 making this a new company in the cigar industry. Tobacos Mata Fina goes on to guarantee the best Brazilian tobacco available. Some interesting facts about the Mata Fina region of Brazil. It gets over 47 inches of rainfall a year and all tobacco in the region is sun grown. Wrappers are hand cut and dried in a barn while the binders and fillers are stalk cut.

Size: 7 x 49 (Double Corona)
Wrapper: Brazil (Mata Fina)
Binder: Brazil (Mata Fina)
Filler: Brazil (Mata Fina & Mata Norte)

What's My Band? - 916 From Liz: Casa Magna Oscuro (Honduras)

Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics

DogWatch Cigar Radio #276 May 28,2010

Sat, 29 May 2010 09:42:28 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Savinelli Liga Especial Torpedo - brought to you by FullersPullers.com

May Palio Cutter Contest Winner (Black Classic Palio): Gregg Rabb.

[Nicaragua: available in 4 sizes]
This line debuted in 2005 and is also made at Tabacos Puros de Nicaragua. It’s double banded with the words “Liga Especial” (in Spanish, “special blend”) below the same band as on the Savinelli Fuerte.

The Liga has a dark, oily wrapper and showcases both caramelized sweetness and a spicy finish right from the start. This parallel taste experience offers a complexity that’s easy to appreciate and is accented by the richness of the caramel-like flavors in mid-course.

The flavors are more muted in the second half and the spicy aspects come out more strongly toward the close. It’s once again a bargain at retail prices of $4.50-$5.75 each (before local tobacco taxes).

Growing from a small pipe shop opened in 1876 in Milan, Italy, Savinelli became so respected that the Savinelli pipe factory was opened in 1948 and remains in operation today. However it was not until the 1990's (taking advantage of the cigar boom) that Ruben and Robert Ysidro, heading up Savinelli here since the 19070's, began to branch out to the cigar industry.

Dark Side - Quintero Nacionales

Origin: Cuba Manufactured: Hand Made
Gauge: Medium Length: 140
Format: Nacionales Ring: 40
Weight: 7,6 gr. Score: 6.2
Presentation:

Semi Plain Box: (With cellophane) Boxes of 25; (Without cellophane) boxes of 25.

Cardboard pack: (With cellophane) Boxes of 5 in boxes of 50; (Without cellophane) boxes of 5 in boxes of 50.

Herf line submissions: Call the Herfline, 321-594-4373! - or cigar.radio on Skype, to leave a message or a cigar review. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Padilla Signature 1932

Tabacos El Triunfador #4

Jaime Garcia Reserva Especiale

Punch Rare Corojo

A. Fuente Rosado Gran Reserva

Cohiba Puro Dominicana

5 Vegas 'A'

G.A.R.

Jose Piedra

Romeo y Julieta Short Churchills

La Aurora 107

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Aurora - 1495, 107 and a couple of new ones, the 107 Corona and an unnamed new cigar for IPCPR.

Davidoff Maduro Robusto - Blended by Henke Kelner. He used specially selected Dominican filler and San Vicente binder specifically to complement the unique flavor of its wrapper - a dark, Cuban seed, Nicaraguan leaf sun-grown in the Jalapa Valley to create a 'natural maduro. This is a cigar that demonstrates what can be accomplished when the right tobacco is treated in the proper manner. It does not have that dark or black look that we usually expect from a maduro but when you light it up, the flavor comes rushing at you in a glorious bath of dark bitter chocolate and coffee carried on a bed of savory roasted bread.

What's My Band? - 917 From Liz: Occidental Reserve

Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in their show in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics

DogWatch Cigar Radio #275 May 24,2010

Mon, 24 May 2010 20:31:10 -0400

Bob talks about his trip to the La Aurora factory.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #274 May 14,2010

Sun, 16 May 2010 03:58:15 -0400

Guests this week: Craig Schneider and Troy Keifer

Cigar of the Week - La Aurora 107 Robusto (4.5x50)

The 107, which uses a Sun Grown Ecuador wrapper over 6-year-old fillers and a binder from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, will come in boxes of 21 with a suggested retail price between $6-$8, plus any local taxes. There will be 3 sizes: Robusto (4.5x50); Toro (5.5x54); and a Belicoso (6.25 x 52). The 107 will only be available at brick and mortar tobacconists.

Dark Side - Vequeros Especiales No 2
A post-revolution handmade brand that comes in 4 sizes, Seoane (short panatela 5x33), Mareva (petite corona 5.5x42), Especiales No1 (long panatella 7.5x38) and tonight's Especiales No. 2 (Panatela 6x38). First exported in 1997 after being offered as a local brand to visitors to the Pinar del Rio region of Cuba.

Herf line submissions: Angry Bill reviews the New Havana Limitado. Call the Herfline, 321-594-4373! - or cigar.radio on Skype, to leave a message or a cigar review. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv

What else have you been smokin' Troy?

La Aroma de Cuba and Indian Tabac Corojo Boxer
What else have you been smokin' Bob?

La Traviata Divino - Around $5. After Dale's comments last week concerning this cigar, I had to try a couple to see if I agreed. Well, I don't see the same excitement in the cigar that he did. I still found it to be boring and easy to put down. Not that it had any disagreeable characterstics just that it had no character.

Jaime Garcia JG Reserva Especial Robusto - All character, all the time.
La Aroma de Cuba (new blend)

What's My Band? - #915 from Liz: New Quorum Toro NT (Nicaragua)

Every week Bob and Dale include an “unbanded cigar” segment in which they smoke a cigar without any markings and give their honest opinions. Bob then opens a sealed envelope and discovers the cigar’s name and manufacturer. If you have suggestions for the "What's My Band?" segment, please send them to liz@cigarmedia.tv.

Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados The Surfonics and Cory Ratzlaff.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #273 May 7,2010

Sun, 09 May 2010 05:38:44 -0400

Special guest Colin Ganley from European CIgar Journal - cigar-cult.com
Cigar of the Week - Dominicano from Nestor Miranda
With his new cigar, Nestor Miranda’s desire was to pay tribute to the tobacco and cigar heritage of the Dominican Republic. The collaboration brought together the tobacco growing expertise of Guillerom Leon of La Aurora, the blending and manufacturing genius of José "Pepin" Garcia and the marketing talents of Miranda and his associate Rene J. Castañeda. The cigar comes packaged in boxes of 20 and is produced in 5 vitolas and will be available in both a Rosado and Oscuro wrapper. Today's featured cigar is the 5.5-inch by 54 RG Robusto Grande.
Wrapper - Dominican
Filler - Nicaraguan

The FDA is coming after cigars! Aren't you fed up already? Enough is enough! Join Cigar Rights of America and start fighting for your rights before we are taxed and legislated to death. http://cigarrights.org/

Dark Side - Ramon Allones Gigante
Name: Gigantes
Factory Name: Double Corona
Ring gauge: 49
Length: 19.40 CM / 7.6 INCHES
What else have you been smokin' Dale?-

La Flor Dominicana Air Bender Guerrero - 6.25" x 54, beautiful Habano wrapper over all LFD grown filler & binder. I smoked the Maestro previously & loved it, so had to try it's big brother. A bit more intense in aroma and strength, but the same great dark tobacco flavors. A long lasting cigar best reserved for the last cigar of the day after a full heavy meal & paired with an aged ruby port. Next up will be the Poderoso, the 5.5" x 42 corona size as I work my way through the line.

Joya de Nicaragua Fuerte Serie B Corona Gorda - 5" x 46, a wonderful value line from JdN that is based on the Antanos blend, but packaged in bundles and offered through a couple of the major internet retailer outlets. The filler blend is all long filler Criollo from Esteli, Condega and Jalapa, and it uses the same wrapper as the Antanos - a silky Colorado hued Nicaraguan grown leaf that provides plenty of spice and richness along with great visual appeal. Deep earthiness and spice in a thick & chewy full bodied smoke. Very well balanced in all three major characteristics; strength, body & flavor. $40 -$50 per bundle of 20 in 4 sizes.

CAO La Traviata Divino - 5" x 50, this is a cigar many folks liked right from the launch at IPCPR last August, but many more seem to be liking it better now, including me. An Ecuadorian grown Habano wrapper & a Cameroon binder over a filler blend of Nicaraguan & Dominican tobaccos - with some emphasis on the ligero - makes for a complex and interesting smoke that is smooth, creamy and full of cedar, leather & pepper flavors. As well, this line is another value offering with MSRP around $5-$6. The La Traviata name is another resurrected Cuban brand from the turn of the 20th Century & the artwork on the 24 count boxes is "old school Cuban" and true to the packaging from 1901-1904.

What else have you been smokin' Bob? -

Gurkha Status - Churchill, A wonderful cigar with distinct flavors reminiscent of old Havana. Kaizid Hansotio makes beautiful boxes, and fills them with tasty cigars. Gurkha cigars are sometimes expensive but they deliver tantalizing flavors.

Diesel - Unholy Cocktail, I had let this sit in my humidor for months as I avoided smoking something that I perceived as too strong. I was wrong, this cigar is strong but it delivers some powerful tastes and although it lacks complexity, it delivers.

La Flor Dominicana Limitado IV - Churchill, Smtimes we let our own misconceptions and fears keep us from trying new things. CIgars are no exception, however, after my positive experience with the Unholy Cocktail I felt empowered and perhaps a bit invincible. So I lit up another cigar I had been holding in the humidor as too strong for the moment. Too bad because I deprived myself of enjoying a tremendously flavorful cigar that delivered full on smoky spice flavors and kept me entertained for more than an hour.

Carlos Torano Maestro Baton, Torano makes terrific cigars that exhibit grace in the blending of their rich spice and leathery flavors. An elegant cigar with premier flavors.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #272 April 30,2010

Sat, 01 May 2010 06:56:16 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Cain Maduro

The Oliva Cigar Company and Sam Lecia introduced a new cigar during 2009, called the ‘Cain.’ It comes in three sizes: 550 Robusto 5.7x50, 654T Torpedo 6x54, and a 660 Double Toro 6x60.
The Cain is available in a Maduro or Habano wrapper. The CAIN is primarily ligero tobacco!
Sam Leccia (Mr. ‘Nub’) has challenged all of us to try this very interesting blend and see how it measures up to Oliva’s Serie V, which is a double ligero.The cigar is a blend of aged ligero tobacco from Esteli, Condega, and the Jalapa Valley in Nicaragua, some of the tastiest growing regions in the world. Tonight we focus on the Maduro which sports a dark, rich, San Andreas wrapper to the 25% Esteli Ligero, 27% Condega Ligero and 30% Jalapa Ligero blend (I am no math major but that leaves 18% unaccounted for).

According to the Cain website:
Esteli Ligero is the strongest of all the Ligeros and as such needs to be tempered with other flavors or types of Ligero to prevent overpowering the cigar. Condega Ligero is a medium body Ligero grown north of Esteli that exhibits complex richness and a tame strength. Jalapa Ligero is the smoothest of these Ligeros and grown in the northern most area of Nicaragus. The Jalapa Valley is a unigue tobacco growing region that enjoys less direct sunlight and produces a full body leaf with a broader range of flavor.

Dark Side - PUNCH ROYAL SELECCION NO 12

Length: 5 1/8 inches (129mm)
Ring Gauge: 42
Factory Name: Marevas
Shape: Parejo

A cigar of real substance that requires some aging for best results, 5 years being the recommended time.

The Punch brand was first registered in 1840 by a German named Stockman. This was at the beginning of an era that saw Cuba carved up by three major powers, US, Germany and Britian. The official Habanos web site skips over this part of history instead claiming the brand was founded by Don Manuel Lopez of Juan Valle & Co in the mid 19th Century with an eye to the booming British market. However, reality shows that the brand was transferred to Louis Corojo in 1874, the midst of the "10 Year War" for independence, one of many uprisings in Cuban history.

In 1925 Punch moved to the factory where Hoyo de Monterrey was made and this long association continues to the present day.

From then until 1930 the brand changed ownership twice finally settling in after the stock market crash of 1929 with Fernandez & Palicio y Cia S en C. . By 1958 Punch was a solid market cigar accounting for %13 of cigars exported. Punch shared the market with Belinda, Hoyo de Monterrey and La Escepcion. Punch has remained a leading brand of Habanos cigars since the 1959 revolution.

Many have claimed that the cigar was named for the famous British humour magazine Punch, however that magazine did not exist until 1841, one year after the cigar name was registered.
Punch’s distinct medium flavour created with a blend of tobaccos from the Vuelta Abajo region is available in a wide variety of sizes "totalmente a mano, tripa larga" - totally hand made, long filler.

Herf line submissions: Angry Bill calls in to talk about the Nosotros cigar and the H. Upmann Magnum 50. Call the Herfline, 321-594-4373! - or cigar.radio on Skype, and leave a message or a cigar review. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

La Gloria Cubana Artesanos de Tabaqueros 650 - a new line from LCG, the 2nd edition in the Artesanos series. Unlike the Artesanos de Miami, this line is made in the El Credito factory in the Dominican Republic by a "hand picked group of 18 master cigar makers, chosen by Benji Menedez himself". The blend is all 5 year aged tobaccos from the DR and Honduras with a combination of Connecticut Shade AND Ecuadorian Sumatra wrappers. The lighter Connecticut wrapper covers about the first 3rd of the cigar, with the darker Sumatra wrapper visible from there to the head. The line is available in 3 sizes, named for their dimensions - 650, 652 Belicoso and 750, ranging from $8 to $9 before all the confiscatory tobacco taxes in your local area.

Punch Gran Cru Robusto Claro - This 5.25" x 50 beauty is filled with Dominican, Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos, covered with a Honduras binder and wrapped with a Connecticut Shade leaf that is smooth, oily and aromatic. This is a cigar with tons of complexity in a smooth, lighter bodied style than other Punch lines. Lots of leather, sweet herbals and a touch of nuttiness. For me, a great mid-day cigar when you have the time to really let it carry you away.

CAO Brazilia Gol! - 5" x 56 - Bob mentioned this line last week and that reminded me to go back & smoke it again. I used to smoke these by the box a couple years ago, but with so many new cigars always coming out, had just not bought any in a while. Nicaraguan filler & binder are wrapped up in a dark Arapiraka wrapper from Brazil. Yummm!

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Punch Uppercut Grand Corona - First thing I noticed was the sloppy application of the cap, certainly not a deal breaker and at $6.50 per stick I was wiling to overlook such a harmless defect. The interesting thing though was that it even registered with me since I don't normally notice such characteristics. Retrohale exhibits some interesting subtle spiciness which then becomes noticeable in the flavors. Noted a sour spice that is not like grass or straw but is really very pleasant with coffee.

Padilla Dominus Double Robusto - Corojo 2006 wrapper
Several complex savory flavors including spice and black pepper; this blend keeps your interest from start to finish. Excellent construction, great burn and has a long pleasant finish.

Graycliff Blue Label Profesionale PGX 6x50 - Smooth-burning, Indonesian wrapper and tobacco from Brazil, the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. The most pleasant Graycliff I have ever smoked. Brazilian, Nicaraguan, and Dominican fillers and a very tasty Indonesian Sumatran wrapper. One of the most beautiful cigars with no imperfections. Slightly more full flavored than other Graycliffs, I found this to be an excellent experience.

What's My Band? - #911 from Liz: Tabacalera Tropical Casa Fernandez JFR Connecticut

Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics

DogWatch Cigar Radio #271 April 23,2010

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 20:16:53 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Illusione MJ12 - Majestic 12 54x6

The Illusione line of cigars was created by a dream team of tobacco master blenders. Illusione cigars are constantly rated highly in Cigar Aficionado and Cigar Insider and the Illusione MJ 12 is no exception. Each cigar is hand-crafted to meet the needs of even the most demanding cigar smokers. The Illusione cigars are great smokes, have a pleasant aroma and wonderful construction, and provide an overall cuban-like experience. Each cigar has the distinctive triple cap for which cuban cigars are so well known. The Illusione cigar is made from first generation corojo tobacco wrapped in a Cafe Colorado wrapper. These cigars are fairly hard to get because they are made in small quantities to ensure quality of product

Dark Side - RAFAEL GONZALEZ CORONAS EXTRA

Origin: Cuba Manufactured: Hand Made

Gauge: Thick Length: 143

Format: Corona Gorda Ring: 46

Weight: 11.41 gr.

Presentation: 2 Layers in a Box of 25

According to “An Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Post-Revolution Havana Cigars,” this brand is believed to have been created in 1928. Initially it was called “La Flor de Marquez,” after Marquez Rafael Gonzalez, a Spanish aristocrat, and was distributed in the British Market. Later the Rey del Mundo Cigar Company acquired the brand and renamed it “Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Marquez.”

Production was temporarily discontinued in the early 1960’s. In 1965 the Rafael Gonzalez was resurrected by the Rey Del Mundo Factory (now called the Romeo y Julieta Factory) and is still primarily produced by them today.

In the 1990’s, the brand was produced in a limited quantity and was very difficult to find. It is considered a high-end brand with floral, herbal, mellow woodiness and honey sweetness as the main flavors and a mild tobacco taste.

Herf line submissions: This week Angry Bill called about the death of Alejandro Robaina. Call the Herfline, 321-594-4373! - or cigar.radio on Skype, and leave a message or a cigar review. You can also send email to theshow@cigarmedia.tv

What else have you been smokin' Dale?

Oliva Serie V Double Robusto 5 x 54 - Nicaragua tobaccos with ligero from the Jalapa Valley and Habano Sungrown wrapper. Very rich with subtle spice. All the Nic Zing one could want balanced with some dark chocolate, sweet coffee and well fermented tobacco flavors.

Pinar Del Rio PDR 1878 - Smoked another corona - same great creamy, nutty flavors with pepper & spice developing throughout the stick.

Esteban Carreras 187 - Craig Cunningham was in town yesterday & today, called to see if I'd smoked these yet. I love the savory, meaty flavors and smooth smoke. Full bodied with a chewiness to the smoke that's incredible.

What else have you been smokin' Bob?

Cubao Maduro Rothschild - Deep dark chocolate spice, A savory cigar that really brings out the traditional tastes of maduro, chocolate, espesso with a nice addition of spice to keep you on your toes. Produced in Esteli by Pepin Garcia. Company: EO Brands / 601

Line: Cubao

Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra Oscuro

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Flavor: Medium-Full

Strength: Medium-Full

La Aroma de Cuba New Blend Monarch - New blend of the long time LAdC that I used to love. Taking off the band removed the wrapper. And not a little-the whole wrapper began to unravel. New blend had some spice but was also a little harsh; overall not as enjoyable as the old blend. Burned too hot and tasted too harsh. Made in Nicaragua by Pepin Garcia.

CAO Barizillia - Wrapper from Brazil and everything else from Nicaragua; pleasurable smoke with nice spice and a solid ash. Respectable and yes, I would buy another one.

What's My Band? - #910 from Liz: Rocky Patel Vintage 1990

Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics

DogWatch Cigar Radio #270 April 14,2010

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 08:22:32 -0400

Colin Ganley, editor of European Cigar Journal, joins Bob and Dale this week. Cigar of the Week - Adrians Maduro Naturally aged and fermented maduro wrapper. Ecuador Havana 2000 wrapper. It's the same wrapper as the habano 2000 only aged longer and you can taste the difference. Costa Rican Filler and binder. Dark Side - JUAN LOPEZ PETIT CORONAS According to Perelman's Pocket Cyclopedia of Havana Cigars: "Here is one of the few Havana brands which is offered only in handmade styles, started in 1876 by Juan Lopez Diaz. After his death, the brand was owned by Cosme del Paso y Cia. until nationalization.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #269 April 9,2010

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 09:07:17 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Carlos Torano Exodus 1959 - 50 Years Copper

Dressed in a captivating Brazilian Arapiraca sun-grown wrapper. This wrapper - highly regarded for its bold, spicy flavor - combines perfectly with the natural sweetness of the Nicaraguan filler tobaccos from the regions of Esteli and Pueblo Nuevo. Wrapper: Brazilian Arapiraca Sun-Grown Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Honduras Esteli & Pueblo Nuevo.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #268 April 2,2010

Sat, 03 Apr 2010 07:14:59 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Rocky Patel 1961 Rocky Patel was born in 1961, and that was enough to inspire the creation of the ROCKY PATEL 1961 Cigar. Blended with a Habano seed wrapper from Ecuador, a Honduran binder and Nicaraguan fillers. ROCKY PATEL 1961 is the inaugural brand hailing from Rocky's newest cigar factory in Nicaragua called Tabacalera Villa Cuba.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #267 March 26,2010

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 14:40:03 -0400

Special guest: Colin Ganley talks about the Festival de los Habanos in Cuba, the Pro Cigar Festival in the Dominican Republic, and the joint venture between Swedish Match and Nestor Plasencia.
Cigar of the Week - Casa Magna No. 4. The Casa Magna line of cigars is the apotheosis of two of the greatest minds in the cigar industry. Manuel Quesada and Nestor Plascencia have created this cigar and the Robusto even got Cigar of the Year for 2008 from Cigar Aficionado. The Casa Magna Robusto was rated a 92 in Cigar Insider and Cigar Aficionado. This Nicaraguan puro is a medium-full bodied smoke rolled in Nestor Plascencia's Segovia factory in Esteli, Nicaragua. The oily Colorado wrapper finishes off the Nicaraguan binder and filler. Available in Belicoso, Gran Toro, Robusto, and Torito sizes .

DogWatch Cigar Radio #266 March 19,2010

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 07:31:22 -0400

Special guest: Dr. Terry Simpson.

Cigar of the Week - El Baton.

From JC Newman Cigar Company, a rebirth of an old brand, intended to be bold and spicey. Nicaraguan Corojo Wrapper and Nicaraguan binder, filler.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #265 March 12,2010

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 07:34:25 -0400

Craig Schneider guest hosts with Bob and Dale this week.

Cigar of the Week - Murcielago.

The name, Murcielago, Spanish for “Bat,” came about when Ortega and Espinosa were on a visit to Mexico, and were taken to see caves, literally, filled with bats. The slightly box pressed cigars, wrapped in a Mexican leaf, have been produced in the following sizes:

Churchill 7-1/8 X 48
Toro 6-1/8 X 50
Belicoso 5-1/2 X 52
Robusto 5-1/8 X 50
Rothschild 5-1/8 X 50

DogWatch Cigar Radio #264 March 05,2010

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 09:26:08 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Jameson Declaration. The Declaration features an aged Habano ’98 wrapper paired with a Criollo ’98 binder and select filler tobaccos from the prime growing regions of the Dominican Republic. The unabashed enthusiast can expect deep, bold flavors and a memorable, medium-full bodied smoking experience.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #263 February 26,2010

Sun, 28 Feb 2010 07:19:09 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Aruhiba Torpedo from Aruba

DogWatch Cigar Radio #262 February 19,2010

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 20:41:19 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Joyas de Panama Coronita

Cigars One to One #028 February 17, 2010

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 06:13:54 -0500

Bob sits down with Kevin Edmiston of Winston's Humidor to discuss the process of opening a new cigar store. Kevin reveals some startling truths about working with manufacturers and the retail environment.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #261 February 11,2010

Sun, 14 Feb 2010 07:47:17 -0500

Cigar of the Week is the El Primer Mundo Habano Rosado Oscuro.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #260 February 05,2010

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 05:33:31 -0500

Cigar of the Week is the Illusione Nosotros.

Cigars One to One #027 February 3, 2010

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 05:31:24 -0500

A conversation with Eddie DeJong of Vanderburgh Humidors

DogWatch Cigar Radio #259 January 29,2010

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 09:38:10 -0500

Cigar of the Week is the Cuban Crafters Medina 1959 Torpedo Limited.

Cigars One to One #026 January 26, 2010

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 05:41:50 -0500

Bob talks with Andre Farkas of La Viaje Cigars

DogWatch Cigar Radio #258 January 23,2010

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 07:08:01 -0500

Cigar of the Week - La Viaje Oro Fuerza - 5" x 52 in boxes of 20 cigars. La Viaje is a relatively new small batch brand, and the Oro line is our focus tonight. The blend is all Nicaraguan, with the wrapper being a Criollo 98 leaf. Also avail in 5.5" x 44 Chico, 6" x 50 Delicado, 5.5" x 58 Gran Fuerza, 7" x 52 El Padre and 6" x 52 Torpedo sizes. Other lines in the La Viaje brand include the Fifty-Fifty and the Platino.
Dale and Bob discuss the Swedish Match/Scandanavian Tobacco merge, what is boutigue, rumors of a new Cohiba line extension being released at the Festival de la Habanos, the importance of water in the process of curing and fermenting tobacco, tobacco varieties can be identified by the vein pattern, crop rotation options in tobacco fields and the use of Lieberman machines in the production of premium cigars.
What else have you been smokin' Dale?- Liga Privada T52, Cain Maduro, Joya de Niacaragua, Illusione hl, Oliva Master Blend 3, Padilla Dominus, and a sneak peak at a new Tatuaje Cabinet line vitola!
An interview with Dion Giolito about the Nosotros
Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados, Beach Boys, Cusco, Everlast and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #257 January 16,2010

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 17:23:57 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Panacea 560 from Flatbed Cigars

Bob and Dale reminisce and discuss the trip to Esteli, Nicaragua.
Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #256 January 08,2010

Sat, 09 Jan 2010 06:01:55 -0500

Cigar of the Week - El Titan de Bronze Redemption Sun Grown Habano

When is a Smoking ban NOT a ban? see article sent separatly from the New York Times - January 3, 2010, Blowing Smoke at a Ban by By DOUGLAS QUENQUA

What else have you been smokin' Dale?- Cabaguan Guapo Jr., My Father Le Bijou 1922 Robusto, DPG Cuban Classic (black label), Cain Habano

What Else have you been smoki'n Bob? - Had a cold all week, smoked very few cigars but did smoke a few from BowTie Cigars. Listen to the interview with Billie King, Jr for details.

Interview with Billie King, Jr of BowTie Cigars. A different twist on getting started in the business and some different cigars.

What's my band this week comes from Carl Holtman, it is the Frank Llanzea 1961 Pyramid.

Bob and Dale discuss the trends for the next decade and discuss the possible use of Cuban tobacco outside the Habanos lines and the possible use of non-cuban tobacco in the Habanos lines.

Music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados and The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #025 January 8, 2010

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 09:58:55 -0500

Bob and Tony Hyman continue their journey through cigar history. Tony has spent a lifetime collecting cigar memorabilia and historical documentation about cigars in America. Of course, the history of cigars in America overlaps with the history of cigars in Cuba and the rest of the Americas. You will find Tony to be interesting and he always offers up some unique insights concerning the cigar business and its impact on American business and society.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #255 January 01,2010

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 06:45:49 -0500

Cigar of the Week - J.L. Salazar Hermanos Series V - CHURCHILL (7¼" X 52) - J.L. SALAZAR y HERMANOS Reserva Especial cigars are typical Box-Pressed Cubans. They are silky, dark and perfectly box-pressed. he tobacco leaves are aged for over three years and specially cured through four special fermentations. The Filler is a sun-grown Cuban Seed Habano tobacco from Tabacalera Esteli. The Binder is a wrapper quality Habano 2000 leaf and the Wrapper is Ecuadorian grown Cuban Seed Habano leaf.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #254 December 25, 2009

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 09:31:14 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Esencia Robusto - medium to full bodied Nicaraguan puro cigar available in four classic Cuban sizes. Each has been crafted in an old world Havana style using a traditional blend of Criollo and Corojo leaf of only the highest quality. Production of the Esencia is limited to the availability of the very best in raw materials. Tonights choice, the Esencia Robusto is a traditional sized 4 7/8x50 making it for me, one of the perfect sizes of cigars. One of you ask? Although there is no one perfect size of cigar, there are some sizes that I find deplorable such as anything over 60 rg!
We have smoked a variety of these cigars in the different sizes and each one truly brings its own character to the table. An excellent example of how size/format influences flavor perception.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #253 December 18, 2009

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 08:51:29 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Cupidos Campana from Cuban Crafters
Cupido Criollo Compana are box-pressed with a Criollo wrapper and using Cuban-seed habano long leaf binder and filler, All the Cuban seed tobacco used in each cigar is from the Cupido Vegas, a small tobacco field in Esteli, Nicaragua that yields extra rich tobacco. Each cedar box is numbered and contains 25 cigars. It is also dated with the packing date and signed by all the cigar artisans that created these works of art. Only 9,000 boxes are made yearly for the worldwide market.

Cigars One to One #024 December 18, 2009

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 12:51:32 -0500

Colin Ganley sits down for a wide ranging discussion of the recently released Edicion Especial of European CIgar Cult Journal, the fate of the traditional print media, electronic book readers and a special cigar review lesson for Bob.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #252 December 11, 2009

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:37:00 -0500

Cigar of the Week - 7-20-4 from KA Kendall. Kurt Kendall has been a long time cigar smoker and tobacconist with a strong sense of history. For several years he looked upon the once proud cigar factory at 175 Canal Street in Manchester, NH that housed the R.G. Sullivan 7-20-4 Cigar Factory, maker of fine $.10 cigars. The factory name of 7-20-4 was taken from the original location of the R.G. Sullivan factory at 724 Elm Street. According to Tony Hyman, the brand prospered from about 1910 until closing down in 1963. Kurt Kendal has created the new 7-20-4 cigar as a tribute to what was billed as "the finest 10 cent cigar in the world". Kendall worked for two years to recreate, as nearly as possible, the original blend. Hear more about his efforts in the interview later in the show. Available in 5 sizes, Corona, Churchill, Robusto, Torpedo and Gran Toro the line is robust and full flavored with excellent construction and a beautiful Brazilian Mata Fina wrapper, Columbian binder and fillers from several locations. Kurt is serious about the quality of this cigar insisting that is be aged an additional 120 days in the cedar boxes before being sold.

Cigars One to One #023 December 9, 2009

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 05:04:26 -0500

Heather Haddad and Charlie Torano discuss the new Torano Lounge, tobacconists, service and new Torano Exodus 50 Year (Copper).

DogWatch Cigar Radio #251 December 04, 2009

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 13:19:34 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Guantanamera 310 Robusto We were introduced to this cigar through our good friend Frank Herrera (CigarLaw) at the 2009 IPCPR. Guantanamera is a target of Habanos S.A. and Altadis for using the Guantanamera name.
Outstanding What's My Band segment that you don't want to miss!

Cigars One to One #022 December 2, 2009

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 05:42:06 -0500

Robert Emery of JJ Fox and TOR Imports in the UK discusses the state of cigars and the changing cigar market in the United Kingdom.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #250 November 27, 2009

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 16:39:28 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Torano Virtuoso Maestro
The Virtuoso is the first ever Sun-Grown wrapper cigar to be both made and grown by the Torano family. Torano describes this line as being the most full bodied cigar in their portfolio. With fillers from Nicaragua, Honduras and Panama, a binder from Honduras and that Pueblo Nuevo SunGrown wrapper from their own fields in Nicaragua, Torano says you will get a smooth and well balanced cigar full of peppery spice, roasted coffee and cocoa flavors. Since Bob has been on a Churchill kick lately, our last selection for November is the 7” by 50 Maestro vitola. Three other sizes are also available, all come in beautiful white finished cedar boxes of 25 cigars.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #249 November 20, 2009

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:07:05 -0500

Cigar of the Week - El Titan de Bronze Redemption Maduro Coronitas – We’ve featured El Titan de Bronze a couple times on DWCR. The cigars are made in Miami by level 9 rollers, all cigars are made using the entubado method and are finished with the traditional Cuban triple cap. Another master roller then inspects the cigars and packages them, ensuring the cigars meet the highest standards. From the Gold, the Maduro and Redemption lines, we have always been impressed, but now comes the Redemption Maduro! Nicaragua fillers & binder, gently finished in an Ecuadorian Sun Grown Habano Maduro wrapper, provides a smoke that is one of the best new cigars of 2009. Five traditional formats are available, and we’ve selected the Coronitas (5.5” x 44) to introduce this blend to our listeners.

Cigars One to One #021 November 17, 2009

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:05:59 -0500

Jose Blanco is the man behind the La Aurora 1495, one of the best selling cigars from La Aurora. He has been in the business long enough to know a few things and shares many of those gems in this conversation.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #248 November 13, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:56:14 -0500

Cigar of the Week - Camacho Connecticut Figurado – Released at the end of May this year, Camacho brings out their first and only Connecticut wrapped cigar in response to consumer requests for a Camacho on the lighter side. However, there’s still plenty of flavor and spice, just not as much strength as is usual from the line. Perhaps some of the Oettinger Davidoff influence? The line is available in 6 formats – the 54-42 x 6.3” Figurado we feature this month, and a Robusto, Toro, Churchill, a “60” and the 11/18 Figurado. The filler tobaccos in the blend are Honduran and Dominican and a Honduran binder is used. The wrapper is an Ecuadorian grown Connecticut leaf that is refined and silky. Early reports peg it at mild-medium bodied with some recognizable Corojo base flavors and a smooth finish. Available in sturdy wooden boxes of 25 cigars, our Figurado retails in the $7-$8 range.

Cigars One to One #020 November 09, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:56:19 -0500

Miami Circus - A wild and entertaining roundtable conversation with Frank Herrera and Gustavo (CigarLaw,La Caridad Del Cobre) , Jose Bermudez (Cuban Crafters), Manuel Medina master roller of Medina 1959 and roller of La Caridad Del Cobre cigars. We will also have Jose Montagne of Guantanamera cigars. This was a rowdy group having a good time discussing cigars.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #247 November 06, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 04:01:29 -0500

Cigar of the Week - La Flor Dominicana Limitado IV – A 6.3” x 52 beauty, the Limitado IV is the next evolution in the Limitado series. Released in early April, the Dominican filler & binder grown by Litto Gomez is covered with an Oscuro Nicaraguan wrapper. Reportedly only 2,000 boxes were made - beautiful white & black wooden boxes of 48 cigars for around $430, singles usually available at your local B&M for around $10.00 (not including your state’s OTP taxes). Does a cigar with such an outstanding pedigree pass mustard with Joe and Bob? Listen to find out.

Joe Fuller joins the show to sit in for Dale.

Joe and Bob discuss the junk science of smoking bans based in an article from Tobacco Analyst

Discussions about the MasterCard anti-tobacco policies and how to buy a humidor spice the night.

Terrific segment from an upcoming interview with Tony Hyman of the National Cigar Museum discussing Cuban history and the United States role from about 1890 to 1930. The full interview will be published on Cigars One To One very soon.

Joe talks about the new DogWatch Cigar Club and what else he's been smoking.

Bob does another unbanded cigar selected by Liz and talks about the My Father Le Bijou 1922.

The evening is filled with music from 25 Smokin' Figurados.

The discussion of body versus flavor is not over yet as herfline from Vic in Arizona demonstrates and Kurt weighs in with a review of the Cubao Maduro recommended on the show.

Congratulations to Shane Sondergard as the winner of a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #246 October 30, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:56:29 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Jameson Black Label Perfecto. This week's cigar is a 54 x 5" perfecto figurado from a line we've introduced you to before. The blend in this full falvored line is all Dominican tobaccos wrapped in a gorgious Brazilian Ariparaca wrapper. Brad Mayo, owner of Jameson Cigars has partnered with Luis Sanchez to offer these premium cigars that offer a very rich smoking experience.

One of the great all time comedians, Soupy Sales passed away this week.

Mark Franks asks us the question - What is a Habano Wrapper? We ask several folks to answer Mark.

The Connecticut Valley is hard hit by virus and other maladies of the tobacco crop.

What's My Band? Bob smokes a Tatuaje Serie P2, Dale smokes an Alec Bradley Tempus.

On the Dark Side - Romeo y Julietta Exhibicion #4 - Corona Extra - Hermosos No. 4 - 48x5.0 (127mm) - Mild, full-flavored Cuban Cigars with a well-rounded taste and good burning qualities. Enjoyable thanks to its fine aroma.

The 250th episode of DWCR is coming up at the end of November. Please call in to our herfline (321-594-4373) and give us your thoughts on the longest running, best cigar podcast out there!

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'?

Dales smokes Cuban Crafters Cubano Claro and a Bravo Silverdale.
Bob smokes: El PrimerMundo Habano Criollo Maduro Perfecto and 60x6 - I absolutely love the perfecto, I smoke it without cutting the closed foot and just lighting it and smoking through, not diffucult
Elogio LSV, from Nicaragua, sun grown oscuro wrapper, Nicaraguan puro by master blender Carlos Pareda - robust spice and slight sweetness make this on Bob's favorite daily smokes.
Cruzado Domenicos - from Nicaragua a Corona Gorda with Nicaraguan Binder and filler, a criollo rosado claro wrapper 5.6 x 46. I was left looking for the flavors that this cigar seemed to just tease from me, frustrating smoke because something about the cigar and its taste seemed to promise so much more yet it never came together leaving me wanting for flavors though not lacking quality construction.
Esencia Petite Corona -Esencia -Petite Corona-Filler/Binder/wrapper Nicaragua "5 1/8" x 42 - the size of this vitola makes it a difficult smoke for me. this size seems to really bring out the spice and pepper of the Esencia line and yet I have a tendency to smoke it too hot, my fault, not the cigars. I prefer this one with nothing at all, sitting in a peaceful location with no distractions and a clear head.

Congratulations to Don Gibson for winning this week's one year subscription to European cigar Cult Journal!

Congratulations to this months winner of a camofouge Palio Cutter, Chris Campnell.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #245 October 23, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:56:33 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the HC Series Criollo Lonsdale. One of the more talked about introductions this summer, Xikar brought out their HC Series Cigar Collection in three different blends. The HC Series is blended in partnership with Jesus Fuego. This month we feature the Criollo blend in the 6 x 46 Lonsdale format. Both the wrapper & binder are shade grown Criollo leaf from Nicaragua, with the wrapper having 4 years of aging. The filler blend is Nicaraguan & Honduran tobaccos. Together they deliver a medium bodied smoke with some leather & tea flavors, complimented by some caramel sweetness.

A little follow-up on the UPC conversation started last week identifies some manufacturers making it easier on the retailers.

Craig Rich joins us from the chat room to ask the hard questions! He interviews us on our own show!

Discussion on "body" in a cigar. We try to separate myth from truth!

On the Dark Side - Marque - Bolivar, Frontmark - Petite Belicosos Edicion Limitada 2009, Vitola - Petit Pyramid, 52 x 125 mm (4.9") This cigar has the Special Release Bolivar band (the word Cuba underneath the word Habana in the center) as well as the second gold & black Edicion Limitada band. The are packaged in dress boxes of 25 cigars. Also, the passing of of the former director of Cubatabaco, Fransisco Padron.

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Avalon 38, Oliva Series O Torpedo, Gurkha Centenary Blend Liga C-10 Micro Batch, J Sanchez y Gomez Herencia, Padron 1964, Cu Avana Intenso.

Congratulations to Tony Matsura, this week's winner of a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal!

What's My Band? Bob smokes an Arganese Nicaragua Corona, Dale smokes a Gran Habanos 3 Siglos.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #244 October 18, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:56:38 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Cuba Aliados Miami Limited Edition. A cigar that doesn't get much press, but from the long pedigree of Reyes Family Cigars. Hand rolled in Miami, the filler is Nicaraguan, the binder is Dominican and the wrapper is a Habano leaf. The cigars have a cedar sleeve as well as a double band and are presented in boxes of 20 cigars.

We play a herfline submission from Angry Bill on last week's Cigar of the Week - the Cuchillos Cubano ~47~.

Bob discusses some of his time in Tucson - copper mining, the Titan Missle museum and getting booted from a casino for smoking cigars!

Vic Vitola returns! Yes folks, check out our website for his Wrapper Chatter column.

What's My Band? Bob smokes a 2008 Elogio Robusto, Dale smokes a J.Fuego Gran Reserva Belicoso.

A great cigar shop in Tucson is Jerry's, with nice house blends and a wonderful lounge area. Bob talks about a few cigars he was introduced to while there.

What Else hve the DWCR guys been smokin'? Cubao Maduro, Brickhouse, Punch Upper Cut, Brioso, La Esepcion, Cubano Classico, Alec Bradley Ovation Maduro, Nica Libre, Cuban Crafters Cubano Claro.

This week's winner of a one year subcription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Nelson Pidgeon.

Another herfline submission on the KA Kendall 724.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The surfonics.

Cigars One to One #019 October 13, 2009 - Leslie Mann, Director, Flame Division of Colibri

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:56:42 -0500

A candid conversation with Les Mann about the past, present and future of Colibri lighters.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #243 October 9, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:56:49 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Illusione Cuchillos Cubana ~47~. The Cuchillos Cubana is a mixed filler blend of 60% medium and 40% long filler tobaccos. They are handmade, use a premium quality Grade A wrapper and are Nicaraguan Puros! Available in cardboard 5 packs at about $18, this is a great value premium cigar. The ~47~ is a classic Churchill vitola, 3 other sizes are available in the line.

Joe Fuller joins us to discuss some changes in the DogWatch Cigar Club.

We enjoy a herfline review by Bill Featherton of the El Primer Mundo!

Bob & Dale struggle to define the recognition of nicotine in cigars. Is there a taste? Do we really just "feel" the nicotine?

How do you keep track of your cigars? We discuss old & new methods of keeping your cigar reviews, humidor inventory and wish lists!

What's My Band? Bob smokes a San Cristobal Clasico, Dale smokes a Gurkha Ancient Warrior.
On the Dark Side - H. Upmann Magnum 48 Edicion Limitada 2009.

A short segment of What Else we've been smokin' - CAO Gold, Jameson Red Label, La Tradicion.

This week's winner of the one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Steve Washburn.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #018 October 01, 2009 - Nabil Sabbah

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:56:53 -0500

Nabil Sabbah is a dedicated cigar maker producing an excellent cigar in Estelli in his own factory and a very talented blender. This is his story

DogWatch Cigar Radio #242 October 2, 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 03:58:01 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Don Tomas Clasico Maduro in the 5 x 50 Robusto vitola. The wrapper is Connecticut Broadleaf maduro, the fillers are Honduran & Nicaraguan and the binder is Connecticut Broadleaf. The Clasico line was blended by Daniel Nunez and Estelo Padron to feature the best of Honduran tobaccos in a full flavored blend that fits today's serious cigar smoker.

If you listen to our show, you'd better be a CRA member! Join the group working to preserve your right to enjoy premium cigars.

We play an excerpt of Bob's interview with Nabil Shabbah, owner of the Elogio line of cigars, and this month's Producer's Pick bonus cigar.

Angry Bill provides us another entertaining cigar review on the Herfline!

Dale & Bob discuss cigar marketing - history, labels, packaging and where cigar marketing may go in the future.

What's My Band? A unique happenstance, Bob smokes a Punch Rare Corojo Rothschild, Dale smokes a Punch Gran Puro.

Bill Featherton sends in a herfline review of the El Primer Mundo.

On the Dark Side - some history on the large number of Cuban cigar brands in the 1800's. We review the Trinidad "T" Robusto.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? 5 Vegas Limitada, Perdomo Habano, Punch Elite, Partagas Black, Padron Family Reserve 45.

The winner of this week's one year subscription to the European Cigar Cult Journal is Neil Scott.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #241 September 25, 2009

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 16:10:52 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Capadura 898 Series Churchill – Bob & I discovered this cigar at IPCPR and we both fell in love with it! It has that wonderful Arapiraca Campesino’s 1st Choice wrapper from Brazil over a Dominican De Olor binder and a filler blend of 4 Piloto Cubano tobaccos from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. The Capadura line comes from Luba Cigar Corporation in Miami, FL. Luba Cigar Corp. has a mission of importing and distributing Artesian handcrafted cigars from small tabacaleras, who maintain consistent quality and taste by using the same tobaccos from the same fincas, and fermented by the same processors every year. Also available in Robusto, Torpedo and Jumbo sizes, Capadura cigars come packaged in wooden boxes of 25 cigars. Our Cigar of the Week selection to end the month of September is a traditional 7” x 48 ring gauge Churchill.

Dale "the road warrior" is back from the Republic of Kalifornia, kudos to the Four Seasons hotel in Palo Alto for superior service!

Bob finds evidence that Manuel Zelaya's return to Honduras is causing disruption again.

We continue our discussion of the taste experience with cigars, delving into Spice and Heat! Based on the Tobacconist University curriculum.

Dark Side Selection Marque- Ramon Allones, Frontmark, - Asia Pacific RE 2009- Celestiales Finos - 46 x 137mm (5.4"), Vitola - Britanicas (perfecto). Standard band w/ the Exclusivo Asia Pacifico 2nd band. Packaged in slb of 25 cigars, 4,000 boxes made. Ramón Allones is a pre-revolution brand introduced circa 1845.
It is a Habanos Local brand with a minor market share. Comprises full strength cigars using tobacco from the premium Vuelta Abajo region.
There is a non-Cuban brand with the same name. There really was a Ramon Allones who developed the brand back around 1845 and is said to be the first to employ brightly colored lithographed labels on the boxes to distinguish his brands. At the time of nationalization, the brand was owned by Cifuentes, Pego y Cia the owners of Partagas. The brand was trimmed in 2002 when 10 models were dropped. The line includes machine and hand made full bodied cigars.

NY Mayor Bloomberg's continued war on tobacco - single cigar sales and bans in open air parks.

What's My Band? Bob smokes an Augusto Reyes Gran Cru, Dale smokes a Romeo y Julieta.

We get a nice email from Rob about the El Primer Mundo Rosado Oscuro Maduro, our Producer's Pick for the month!

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Gurkha Assassin, John Hay Statesman, John Hay Anniversary Series, Fuente Hemingway Short Story, La Tradicion Cubana Special Anniversary Series Figurado.

Congratulations to Mark Franks for winning the Silver Palio cutter in our Palio of the month contest!

The Expedition: Esteli 2010 trip is sold out, but so many more folks want to join in - stay tuned, there may be another opportunity????

We're pleased to let Richard Baum know he is the winner of a one year subscription to the European Cigar Cult Journal!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #017 September 24, 2009 - Gary Arzt

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:52:20 -0400

Gary Arzt is one of the most unusual and straightforward characters I have ever met, in or out of the cigar industry.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #240 September 18, 2009 - Who is the REAL Counterfieter

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 16:11:12 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Panacea Red Label Maduro from Flatbed Cigars in Pennsylvania. http://www.flatbedcigarcompany.com/ . Paul Bush first told us about this cigar back in April and we have been anxious to try it ever since. PANACEA Red was released in April of 2009, eighteen months after the launch of the Panacea Black, the first cigar from Flatbed Cigars. The Red label line is a Habano/Maduro. A Brazilian Maduro wrapper with a Dominican Habano binder. The filler is Seco Cubano, Ligero Piloto Cubano, Ligero Olor Dominicano, and Ligero Nicaragua. Comes in six sizes starting with the Grande Red 760 Peace Maker, coming in at 7x60, the 560 which is a 5x60 Robusto, the 7x50 Churchill, Torpedo at 6x52,a true robusto at 5x50 and tonight's selection, the Perfecto at 6x51 figurado that is pleasing to the eye and comfortable in the hand. A full body, medium-strong in the strength department. Mellow enough to enjoy mid-day, but can stand up to a steak dinner too.

We sold out the Expedition:Esteli 2010 trip in 4 days and are looking forward to traveling with our listeners to Cigar Nirvana!

We begin some discussion about the senses involved with cigar smoking. Tonight we touch on hearing, sight and aroma. Based on the curriculum of Tobacconist University.

On the Dark Side - Some news about a counterfeiting conviction brings out Bob's perception of who the REAL bad guys are! We also review the Romeo y Julieta Duke 2009 Edicion Limitada. Marca - Romeo y Julieta, Frontmark - Duke 2009 LE, Vitola - Robustos Extra 140 mm (5.5") x 54 rg. This is the 2009 Edicion Limitada with the standard RyJ band and the Edicion Limitada 2nd band. The packaging is the traditional RyJ dress box in quantities of 10 cigars. At around $15 per cigar and part of the latest trend from Habanos SA to go with larger ring gauge cigars, especially for the EL's, these have not received all the love that I believe Cuba would expect.

What's my Band? Bob tries to smoke an A. Turrent 2000 Churchill. Dale has better luck with a 601 Maduro Prominente (Blue Label).

A lot of cigars this week in the What Else Have We Been Smokin' segment - Dona Flor, El Primer Mundo Rosado Oscuro, A.J. Fernandez Signature Series, J. Fuego Gran Reserva Corojo No. 1, Padron Serie 1926 Maduro Robusto, Joya Cubano, Jameson Declaration, Liga Privada #9, My Father, Gurkha Assassin.

Congratulations to John Bartug for winning this week's one year subscription to the European Cigar Cult Journal!

Next week we will give away another Palio cutter!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #239 September 11, 2009 - Dodgeball Baggage Repaired

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:22:17 -0400

Dodgeball Baggage - The Jury is out

The Cigar of the Week is the Cruzado Domenicos. From the mind of Dion Giolito, creater of Illusione Cigars, we get to sample his Cruzado line. The Domenicos is a 5 5/8” by 46 ring gauge Corona Gorda (Dion lists it as a Grand Corona in Perlmans) format. You’ll find Cruzado to be a tad lighter in body & flavor than Illusione. The filler is a blend of Honduran and Nicaraguan Criollo and Corojo tobaccos. The binder is Nicaraguan and the wrapper is Nicaraguan Criollo (Perlman lists it as a Colorado Maduro). The wrapper shades will run from Cafe Claro to Cafe Rosado. Cruzado cigars are manufactured in the Raices Cubanas factory in Honduras and come packaged in wooden boxes with “partial dress” edge wrapping at 20 cigars to the box.

This show is dedicated to those who lost their lives 8 years ago in the 9/11 attacks. Never forget!

We announce the Expedition: Esteli 2010 trip to Nicaragua! Adventure with us for 5 days and 4 nights in the famous cigar fields and factories of scenic Esteli, Nicaragua. Colin Ganley, of European Cigar Cult Journal renown, will lead the group through the legendary rolling rooms, factories and fields. Dale Roush and Bob McDuffee, the presenters of Dogwatch Cigar Radio, will host events and activities throughout the trip. This is a unique opportunity to meet cigar-makers and view the entire process of creating premium cigars. The group will visit some of the world's top cigar factories which make the brands, Drew Estate, Padron, Pepin Garcia, Oliva, Tatuaje, San Cristobal, La Aroma de Cuba, EO brands 601, Cubao, NUB, Cain, Nosotros, Nestor Miranda Special Selection, Joya de Nicaragua and many others. In addition to the factories, the group will visit Pepin Garcia's tobacco fields full of tall tobacco plants being harvested and will have the opportunity to ask questions about, and photograph the entire process. Join us for a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit as many factories as one would normally take a lifetime to see.

More discussion about some of last week's topics brought up by Bob's trip to Miami.

Is it rude to tweet during jury selection? As juror? Defendant? Attorney?

Listener email prompts us to discuss resting internet/mail order cigars.

We play a piece of an interview with Eddy Fontana. Listen to the entire interview coming soon to Cigars One To One.

What's My Band? Dale smokes a Don Pepin Garcia JJ Maduro, Bob smokes a Don Lino Africa Kuro.

On the Dark Side - Craig's unbanded #2, is it Habanos or not? Craig, inquiring minds want to know.

Congratulations to Philip Panzarino for winning this week's one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal!

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Jameson Declaration, We The People, Avalon 38 and Torque, Battleground Foot Soldier, La Aurora 100 Anos Lancero, Henry Clay Sumatra, Heavenly Cigars Red Lion.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #016 September 11, 2009

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 04:16:18 -0400

Eddy and I have an insightful conversation about blending, maduro and his philosophy of cigars.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #238 September 03, 2009 - War of the Roses

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 20:21:16 -0400

Cigar of the Week - NUB 460 Maduro – Seems only proper to start September featuring the new cigar from NUB seeing as how Sam Leccia was one of the early supporters of the DogWatch Cigar Club after IPCPR last year. This year, Sam adds a Maduro wrapper to the NUB, and we’re tasting it in the 460 size – 4” x 60 ring gauge. Manufactured by Oliva Cigars, everyone by now knows all about NUB cigar. Sam has extended the line with this fine Brazilian Maduro wrapper – look for naturally sweet and deep flavors of chocolate, spice and nuts in a full flavored cigar that lasts surprisingly long & burns cool. But is the 60 ring guage format in a short cigar really worth the effort? Find out by listening to the show!
The Producer's Pick cigar in the September DogWatch Cigar Club selections is the El Primer Mundo. Sean Williams stops in to talk a bit about his new line of cigars.
Bob fills Dale in on his excursion with Colin Ganley around Little Havana in Miami.
Chip Eckhart is the winner of a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal!
Bob & Dale seem to disagree about some of Bob's new found cigar knowledge - we discuss maduro wrappers, Cuban tobacco and other points of view.
The What's My Band segment is back! Bob smokes a Perdomo Habano Corojo Toro, Dale smokes a Perdomo Gran Cru Maduro.
How big are the Big Cigar Conglomerates? We discuss that the top 5 corporations now distribute over 350 different cigar brands!
On the Dark Side - Dale plays catch up with the unbanded cigar the Bob & Craig reviewed last week, the Cohiba Millenium Torpedo.
What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? La Aroma de Cuba Edicion Especial, Gurkha Assasin, Gurkha Sherpa, Cain Habano, Padilla 1932, Kristoff Sumatra, Pinar Del Rio Seleccion, La Tradicion Cubana Deluxe Anniversary Series.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provide by The Surfonics.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #237 August 29 2009 - Ed McMahon Variety Hour(s)

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 05:42:10 -0400

Cigar of the Week is the Illusione CG:4 White Horse. A Nicaraguan puro from the mind of Dion Giolito who is becoming one of the most respected blenders in the boutique and 'small batch' areana of premium cigars. Dion is supported by the outstanding Casa Fernandez growers who produce some of the most consistent and flavorful leaf in the business. Available at FullersPullers.com
With Dale off on a romantic getaway Bob brings in a variety of guests to fill the void. First up is tobacconist and foodie Joe Fuller to talk about some new cigars from IPCPR. Doc Simpson joins the show after a long hiatus to talk cigars, mojitos and philosophy. Bringing the show back to reality is the affable Tom Barbalet to tell us about his humidor construction project. Bob wraps up the evening with Craig Shnieder and a blind review review of a hard to get Dark Side selection.

Congratulations to Mike Denson, winner of a Gold Palio Cutter and Mark Oship the winner of a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Magazine.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #015 Aug 23, 2009 - Robert Spoden, Bucanero Cigars

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 05:25:43 -0400

Robert Spoden and I talk about how the big cigar companies are ruining the business and how shape affects the flavor profile of a cigar.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #236 August 21, 2009 - Cigar Reviews from a Parallel Universe

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 13:28:30 -0400

Yellow Shoes and Bat Crap

DogWatch Cigar Radio #235 August 14, 2009 - Law and Order at IPCPR -REALLY THE RIGHT ONE!

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 13:25:20 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Don Tomas Clasico Presidente

DogWatch Cigar Radio Video - Alternate Smoking Locations Part 2

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 10:47:52 -0400

Smoking Island Construction

DogWatch Cigar Radio Video - Alternate Smoking Locations Part 1

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 10:46:17 -0400

One place to smoke cigars

Cigars One to One #014 Aug 06, 2009 - Jim Luftman, Blue Havana II

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 04:33:02 -0400

I visited Bue Havana II back in July and was impressed by Jim's commitment to service and cigars.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #234 July 31, 2009 - Competitive Edge

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 10:33:10 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the G.A.R. Gran Consul.

A listener letter reminds us of Service, and the best our nation has to offer.

Countdown to IPCPR....what to expect this year?

On the Dark Side - Partagas Serie P No. 2, box code TEB March 08.

Dale & Bob will take the Tobacconist University test for Certified Salesforce Tobacconist at IPCPR!

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? LaRiqueza #4, HC Series Criollo Toro, Illusione mj12, 100 Anos Perfecto

Bob does his own What's my Band - The Por Larranaga.

The winner of this week's contest for a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is John Magrisso.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #233 July 31, 2009 - DogWatch Cigar Basics 101

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 11:28:21 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Sabor Cubano Gran Torpedo.

DogWatch Cigar Club membership drive. As we mentioned last week, we've got a great new promotion for the Cigar Club starting today! For the next 15 members who go to FullersPullers and sign up for the club, you will receive with your first month's selection a great gift pack from our fine sponsors - a Puckifier from Cigarmony.com, a sample of coffee from Black Dog Coffee.net, a special, non-released Esencia cigar (Canonazo vitola) from BOTL and a special offer on a Palio cutter! We don't forget our loyal club members either - for all members enrolled as of Aug 1st, we want to thank you for your membership by including for you in your next month's shipment one of those special non-released Esencia cigars and that same offer for a Palio cutter.
We're packing for IPCPR! Watch for new cigar updates, interviews & some special video surprises from Aug. 9-12.

Cigar counterfeit ring in Alabama busted! READ MORE

We give away a Palio cutter to Troy Keifer. Be sure to sign up every month for a shot at all varieties of Palio cutters.

We discuss cigar basics - sizes, shapes, ring gauge, etc...

On the Dark Side - Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 box code GLA Feb 08.

Habanos S.A. is ready to release the 2009 Edicion Limitadas - Bolivar Petite Belicosos, H. Upmann Magnum 48 and Romeo y Julieta Duke.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Oliva Serie G Maduro, Famous Nicaragua 3000, Illusione Epernay

This weeks winner of a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Joe Sbrocco!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #232 July 24, 2009 - Thunder Road

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 04:00:58 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Avo Domaine No. 20

Marc Aub from Brothers Of The Leaf LLC joins us to talk about Palio Cutters, new cigars, new contests and more!

What's my band? Bob smokes a Camacho H2, Dale smokes a Rocky Patel Summer Blend Lancero.

In the DWCR News - Several cigar internet sites hit by a DDoS attack this past week. Also an update on the Gaspar's break-in, a second suspect has been arrested.

On the Dark Side - Montecristo Especial No. 1, box code LSO June 07.

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Difazio Connecticut, Don Pepin Garcia Serie JJ Robusto, Torano 1916, Torano 1959 Exodus, Casa Torano, Vengeance Maduro Ligero.

The winner of this week's one year subscription to the European Cigar Cult Journal is Don Wilkins!

Opening theme and bumper music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #013 July 24, 2009 - Sean Williams of El Primer Mundo Cigars

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 04:47:33 -0400

Sean is one of the freshest faces in the cgar industry. His relative rookie status and passion for cigars brings an excitement and talent to the business. This interview was recorded at Buckhead CIgar Lounge in Atlanta, GA

DogWatch CIgar Radio #231 July 17, 2009 - Beat On Bob

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 04:56:23 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the La Tradicion Cubana Corona.

Colin Ganley sits in with us to discuss cigars, history and what's new.

Excitement building - we're headed to IPCPR in just 3 weeks. You can follow us on Twitter!

A herfline submission from Angry Bill and Pete Johnson!

Safely storing your cigars in the heat of summer!

What's my Band? Bob smokes an A. Fuente Cuban Coron, Dale smokes a Nicaraguan Presidente, Colin smokes a Bucanero Booty.

Suggestions for summertime storage of your cigar collection.

On the Dark Side - Diplomaticos No. 1, box code FJN July '05.

Congratulations to Gunar Carlson, this week's winner of a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme music Longboard Cowboy provided The Surfonics.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #230 July 10, 2009 - Cigars, Brining Families Together One Stick at a Time

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 03:21:16 -0400

The Cigars (that's right, plural...) of the Week are the Cubao No. 3 and the Savinelli Nicaragua Reserve Corona Gorda.

We resume the show after a week off. Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers.

What's my Band? Bob smokes an Illusione 68, Dale smokes a Don Lino Africa Dumas.

We play an excerpt from a Cigars One to One interview with Sean Williams of El Primer Mundo Cigars.

On the Dark Side - H. Upmann Magnum 46, box code SMG Nov 07.

From Angry Bill, a herfline submission on the Tatuaje T110.

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? OpusX Forbidden BBMF 2005, Camacho Liberty 2005, El Pimer Mundo Figurado, Liga Privada #9, 5 Vegas Miami, Oliva Serie O, Oliva Serie V, Illusione 88, Alex Bradley Select Cabinet Reserve, La Riqueza #2, Cabaiguan Guapo Junior Maduro, J Fuego Grand Reserve No. 1.

Congratulations to Grant Kimbell for winning this week's one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #229 July 3, 2009 - No Show due to family emergency

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 03:21:47 -0400

No Show due to family emergency

Cigars One to One #012 June 24, 2009 - Chris McCalla, Legislative Director for IPCPR

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:00:03 -0400

Chris McCalla opens up about the anti-smokers and his career in tobacco.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #228 June 26, 2009 - The ignorant traveller

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 11:24:12 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Occidental Reserve Natural Torpedo.

Frank Herrera of CigarLaw joins us to discuss the fallout from the recent FDA rulings on flavored cigarettes.

We play an interview excerpt with Chris McCalla of the IPCPR.

Altadis closing down the HavaTampa factory.

Congratulations to Anthony Young, winner of this month's Palio cigar cutter contest!

Bob learns about good cigar lounges, makes new friends and smokes a bunch of new sticks in Atlanta!

What's my Band? Dale smokes an Oliva Serie G, Bob smokes a Gran Habano Habano #3 Robusto.

Angry Bill gives us another great herfline review of a few cigars.

On the Dark Side - Montecristo No. 1, box code LSM Sep 07.

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Primer Mundo, Cubao No. 1, HC from Xikar, Rocky Patel Edge Maduro, Oliva Serie V maduro, Illusione 88, Tatuaje Triunfadore, La Aroma Special Edicion.

Vic Evans is this week's winner of a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #011 June 24, 2009 - Colin Ganley, cigar journalist extraordinaire

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 07:14:04 -0400

A lively conversation with Colin Ganley from CigarReasearch.com and European Cigar Cult Journal. Colin and I discuss the life of a cigar journalist and how to get stated in the business. Turns out it's not as much work as I thought.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #227 June 19, 2009 - Attack of the Cigar

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 10:16:54 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Oliva Master Blends 3 Robusto – 5.0” x50 ring gauge. The Master Blends 3 line is the third in a series of limited artisanal blends. Master Blends, or “Liga Maestro” are blended to bring out the richest characteristics of the Nicaraguan ligero filler, Nicaraguan Habano binder and Broadleaf Sungrown wrappers. A very complex cigar, it also is exceedingly beautiful and well constructed. Every year the Oliva’s set aside their very best tobaccos for this line. Starting with the very limited Master Blends 1 (only 250,000 cigars made) and continuing through today, these cigars consistently get top ratings, and well deserved. Beautiful packaging and 20 in a box, typical of super premium cigars, we hope you find them a treat to smoke! Buy Here

On tonight's show we have an excerpt from a Cigars One to One conversation with Colin Ganley. Cigar Research

On the Dark Side - Marca - Punch, Frontmark - Petite Punch, Vitola - Perla, Box code EMA Mar 08, 102 mm (4.0") x 42 ring gauge - This week we experience another Perla vitola, this time from the Punch Marca. FriendsofHabanos.com

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Perdoma Slow Aged, Rocky Patel Connecticut, Perdomo Gran Cru, Black Band A, Macanundo 1968 size prototypes. FumeeWorld.com FullersPullers.com

The winner of this week's one year subscription to the European Cigar Cult Journal is Nelson Pidgeon European Cigar Cult Journal

Thanks to our sponsors that make the show possible:

FullersPullers.com - The preferred cigar retailer of DogWatch Cigar Radio

Palio Cutters - The Official Cigar Cutter of DogWatch Cigar Radio

Friends Of Habanos Cigar Forums

Black Dog Coffee

FumeeWorld.com

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme music Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #010 June 14, 2009 - Glynn Loope, Executive Director of Cigar Rights of America

Bob@cigarmedia.tv — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 19:46:14 -0400

A revealing and candid conversation with man responsible for puching CRA to fully operational status. We discuss the on-going fight for smokers rights, special DogWatch membership offer and what to expect from CRA.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #226 June 12, 2009 - Mystery #206

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 06:55:12 -0400

DogWatch CIgar Radio #226 June 12, 2009 - Mystery #206

The Cigar of the Week - Puros Indios Viejo Presidente – Here we feature a Churchill size cigar, 7.5” x 47 ring gauge, that highlights the flavors of the Ecuadorian grown Sumatra tobacco. While the filler is an interesting blend of Dominican, Nicaraguan and Brazilian tobaccos, the binder is Sumatra and the wrapper is a 10 year aged Sumatra. The packaging is in 15 count varnished cedar boxes. Rolando Reyes Sr. was born in Cuba in 1924, and at the age of 9 decided he wanted to be a tobacalera. At the age of 14 he went to work for the Jose L. Piedra factory, and by the age of 21 had his own factory, Los Aliados, in Havana. Immigrating to the US after the Revolution, then to The Dominican Republic and finally landing in Honduras, he established the Cuba Aliados factory in each location and made the Puros Indios brand world famous. Today Rolando Reyes Jr. continues the traditions with his father, and the Viejo is an extension of the line.

Cigars One To One presents an excerpt of a conversation with Glynn Loope, Executive Director of CIgar Rights of America.

What's my Band? Dale smokes a "Gee I forgot to write it down" cigar, Bob smokes a Romeo y Julieta Habana Reserve Love Story.

On the Dark Side - Cohiba Siglo I Marca - Cohiba , Frontmark - Siglo I, Vitola - Perla, Box code GAS Mar 08, 102 mm (4.2") x 42 ring gauge - The Cohiba Siglo I is the smallest vitola in the Siglo line.

We interview Mark Brown, representing the SoCal CA, to learn about another successful smoking ban overturn and the groups upcoming First Annual Long Beach Smoke for charity! http://socalca.com

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? A. Fuente Chateau Fuente Sungrown, Tabacos Baez by Don Pepin, Cubao No. 1, Bucanero Full Sail, Perdomo Patriarch, Perdomo Gran Cru.

The winner of this week's one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Ron Doyle!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme music provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #009 June 7, 2009 - Tony Hyman of the National Cigar Museum, cigarhistory.org

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 20:52:01 -0400

Have you ever considered how cigars came to be boxed in such beautiful containers or what the cigar industry was like 100 years ago? You can find out about those and many other fascinating pieces of cigar history in the conversation with Tony Hyman of the National Cigar Museum and at his website: cigarhistory.org.

The Cigar Technicians Journal - 06_07-09 - Pete Johnson, Tatuaje Cigars

Dale@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 05:54:35 -0400

I caught up with Pete Johnson at a Tatuaje Event at Barlow's Premium Cigars & Pipes in LaFayette, CO and we talked about the CRA, Pete's new cigar line La Verite' and his gamble in selling them on futures.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #225 June 06, 2009 - DogWatch Futures

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 05:02:01 -0400

DogWatch Futures

The Cigar of the Week - Arturo Fuente Cuban Belicoso Sungrown – 5.75” x 52 ring gauge Figurado. We kick off the month with a classic cigar from Fuente that has been around a long time and doesn’t get fanfare in today’s world of marketing the newer/bigger/stronger offerings. Fuente uses their own prime aged Dominican tobaccos for the filler & binder, then wrap it all up in a gorgious, dark, Ecuadorian Sungrown leaf that imparts wonderful sweet & mildly spicy elements. Packaged in the traditional Fuente dress box of 24 cigars, each cigar also has a cedar sleeve and the black ribbon at the foot indicative of the Fuente Sungrown line. The Cuban Belicoso is markedly Fuente in character, yet has unique flavors that beg to be explored.

Colin Ganley joins us in some lively discussions about Pete Johnson's new Futures project and what's coming up in European Cigar Cult Journal.

Join the CRA, get a free T-shirt! Use the code "dogwatch" on the CRA site!

Cigars One-To-One excerpt from Bob's conversation with Tony Hyman of the National Cigar Museum at cigarhistory.org.

What's my Band? Bob smokes an Alec Bradley Maxx Traditional Corona, Dale smokes a Gran Habanos #3 Churchill.

Interview excerpt from Dale's visit with Pete Johnson.

On the Dark Side - Marca - Cohiba , Frontmark - Maduro 5 Genios, Vitola - Estupendos, Box code EMA Aug 07, 140 mm (5.5") x 52 ring gauge - The Cohiba Maduro 5 is the recent Maduro wrapped line extension from Cohiba, out on the market about 2 years now. These are made in the Partagas factory & the line currently includes 2 other smaller sizes, the Magicos and Secretos. This line is wrapped with a dark, oily tobacco that has been aged for 5 years, thus reaching the Maduro, or "ripe" stage. Although maduro wrappers are darker in color, they do not have to be the very dark color we in the US are becoming used to seeing. In fact, there are purportedly 64 gradients within the Cuban wrapper color spectrum, generally broken down into one of 8 broader categories - Candela (green), Claro, Colorado Claro, Colorado, Colorado Maduro, Double Claro, Maduro and Oscuro (black). In terms of the Cohiba Maduro 5 line, we need to think more about a fully fermented and "ripe" leaf instead of thinking so much about the color of the leaf as has lately been defined by other cigar manufacturers.

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Tempus Genesis, CAO MX2, L'esprite La Verite', CAO Italia

The winner of this week's one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Chad Thunberg

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #008 May 30, 2009 - Mike Banks, Mr. Bundles.com

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 31 May 2009 07:56:47 -0400

Mike is an outspoken retailer and cigar wholesaler. If you have ever heard him on DogWatch Cigar Radio you know he pulls no punches when talking about cigars. In this conversation Mike and Bob discuss the state of retailing and cigars in America. Mike offers some unique insights on behind the scenes activities of retailers and manufacturers.

The Cigar Technicians Journal - 05-29-09 - Frank Herrera, Cigar Trademark Attorney

Dale@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 30 May 2009 07:19:04 -0400

Cigar trademark law discussion with Frank Herrera, Florida Cigar Trademark Attorney with RRA. The Future of Cuban trademark ownership when US embargo lifts, current trademark actions and Frank's blog - Cigar Law are today's Journal entries.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #224 May 29, 2009 - A Highly Combustible Bush

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 04:58:11 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the American Stogies Cuban Corojo Churchill– 7.0” x 49 American Stogies is a value priced boutique line under the Indian Head brand. American Stogies are manufactured by Nestor Placencia at his Esteli Nicaragua factory. The Cuban Corojo Churchill is a medium to full bodied cigar with a beautiful reddish-brown, oily Corojo leaf wrapped around all Nicaragua tobacco – a puro! The line is a great way to experience that “Nic Zing” that Dale speaks of so often. It is also a cigar that Bob & Dale recommend as an everyday cigar for those who like more strength and kick to their cigars, in a format that does not overpower and a price that does not leave you without lunch money for a week. Not elegant or refined the Cuban Corojo from American Stogies is entirely approachable and delivers enough complexity to hold the interest of cigar passionados.

Listener email from Adam on the effects of the SCHIP tax.

We run a portion of Dales's Cigar Technicians Journal interview with Frank Herrera of CigarLaw.com.

The winner of the Palio a Month contest is Marc Breton!

Excerpt of Bob's upcoming Cigars One=To-One Conversation with Mike Banks a long time retailer in Virginia who spends time discussing cigars and the difficulties facing all retailers.

On the Dark Side - Cuaba Divino Marca - Cuaba, Frontmark - Divino, Vitola - Petite Bouquet, Box code EMA Jun 07, 101 mm (4.0") x 42 ring gauge - Every Cuaba is made in the distinctive shape known as double figurado. This was the style that at the end of the 19th Century was all the rage for Habanos. A century later, in 1996, this rich tradition was revived at the Romeo y Julieta factory where Cuabas are made.Double figurados are at the pinnacle of the cigar maker’s art and for this alone they merit a place in every cigar enthusiast’s collection. Cuaba, like Cohiba, is a Taino Indian word dating back to the time of Columbus. It was the word for a highly combustible bush, which the Indians used to light their "cohibas". Cuaba is a post revolution brand, introduced for the English market in London.

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Drew Estate Liga Privada No. 9, Punch Rare Corojo Figurado, Tatuaje Havana VI No. 2 & Noella Reserve, Luis Martinez Silver Selection, CAO Brazilia, Padilla Miami Salomon.

Congratulations to Bill Berris, winner of this week's one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme music Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #007 May 26, 2009 - Jorge Luis Armenteros, President of Tobacconist University

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Tue, 26 May 2009 20:04:51 -0400

An engaging conversation with the founder and President of Tobacconist University, Jorge Luis Armenteros. Mr. Armenteros is a cigar retailer in Princeton, NJ and in this episode he describes why he started Tobacconist University and his philosophy on successful cigar retailing.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #223 May 22, 2009 - For Those Who Served

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 24 May 2009 14:26:54 -0400

Our Memorial Day show - please take time this weekend while enjoying family & friends to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and our lifestyle!

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.

The Cigar of the Week: Padron 3000 Maduro – 5.5” x 52 From the Padron Series line, we offer the Padron 3000 Maduro. All the tobacco in this line is Sun grown Nicaraguan Habano. Padron uses wrapper leaves that are left on the plant a little longer, making the leaves naturally darker, producing a superior Maduro wrapper. The tobaccos in this cigar are aged at least 30 months to ensure a smooth blend and even flavoring. The Padron business model is all about consistency and passion. The Padrons do not rely on flashy packagingtrendy or marketing gimmicks to secure a place in smokers humidors. They do rely on time tested methods of consistent quality and excellent blending to deliver outstanding premium cigars for generations. The 3000 Maduro is one of 15 sizes in the Padron line and although the 1964 Anniversary Series and 1926 Serie get a larger share of the attention, the Padron Series offers exceptional quality and value. From the thin ring Panatela up through the A sized Magnum, the medium bodied Padron 3000 line delivers a smooth and cool smoking experience.

We have a bit of an interview with Jorge Luis Armenteros of Tobacconist University.

Listener email from Martin Couch and Scott Rohrer!

A moving herfline submission from Angry Bill.

On the Dark Side - Cohiba Siglo IV -Marca - Cohiba, Frontmark - Siglo IV, Vitola - Corona Gorda, Box code EST Feb 08, 143 mm (5.6") x 46 ring gauge - The Cohiba Siglo IV was introduced in November 1992 & was released for public sale in 1994, commemorating the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Columbus to the new world.

The winner of this week's yearly subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Justin Smith!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #006 May 16, 2009 - Robert Spoden of Bucanero Cigars

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 16 May 2009 10:11:43 -0400

An insightful and thought provoking conversation with the man behind Bucanero Cigars, Robert Spoden. Robert has been making cigars since the mid 90's and has seen it all in the cigar business. To fight back the current trends in retailing he is embarking on a new venture to sell his cigars directly to the public.
http://bucanerocigars.biz

DogWatch CIgar Radio #222 May 15, 2009 - Couples Counseling

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 16 May 2009 10:02:22 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Trilogy Native Cameroon Torpedo – 6.125” x 52 Some of you may recall that the Trilogy was first introduced as a 3 sided, or tri-pressed cigar in 2002. After 2004, the tri-pressed shape was replaced with traditional parejo and torpedo shapes, as the tri-pressed design did not appeal to consumers despite rave reviews for the cigar. Now available in Robusto, Churchill and Torpedo shapes in boxes of 20 cigars, the Alec Bradley Trilogy is a sleeper premium cigar priced for every day enjoyment. The Trilogy line is available in 3 different blends: the Authentic Corojo , Exotic Maduro and the Native Cameroon Torpedo that we are featuring this month. The Authentic Corojo is manufactured by Tobacos Puros de Nicaragua while the Exotic Maduro, and Genuine Cameroon, are manufactured by Carlos Torano in Honduras. The unique blend in the Cameroon is the result of using a rich and spicy African Cameroon wrapper paired with a Honduran binder and a filler blend of Nicaraguan and Italian tobaccos.
Bob Smokes a 4 year old original three sided pressing of the same named cigar from Alec Bradley. See how they compare.

We have an interesting email from Dave with a tough experience from one of our bonus cigars.

Robert Spoden of Bucanero Cigars sits down with Bob for an interview - we run a short piece tonight. The full interview is available as episode #005 in the Cigars One-To-One lineup.

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Gran Habano Corojo #5 Lancero, Dale smokes a Cusano Corojo Toro.

On the Dark Side - Marca - Saint Luis Rey, Frontmark - Regios, Vitola - Hermoso No. 4, Box code GTL May 07, 127 mm (5.0") x 48 ring gauge - The Saint Luis Rey brand was created in between 1938 & 1940 and is noted as leaning towards the lighter side in strength. The Regios has a reputation for smoking good while young and reaching most of it's potential in just a few short years. Saint Luis Rey is one of the pre-revolution brands that exemplify what cuban cigars re all about. A full bodied cigar developed in 1938 by the British firm Zamora y Guerra.
Some say that its name was taken from a Thornton Wilder play “The Bridge of San Luis Rey”, which was popular at the time. However it is more likely that it refers to the town of San Luis in the heart of the Vuelta Abajo tobacco region, which is particularly famous for the superb wrapper leaves produced there.
Whatever the truth may be Saint Luis Rey cigars enjoy a reputation among cigars lovers for the intensity of their flavour throughout the range. They are made with leaves from the Vuelta Abajo and Semi Vuelta regions.

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Camacho Corojo Maduro, Illusione Epernay, Cusano 18 Maduro, Sabor Cubana Robusto, Buchanero Booty Maduro.

The winner of the one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Daniel Claque.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #005 May 12, 2009 - Luis Molina, Molina Cigars makers of Devils Weed Cigars

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Tue, 12 May 2009 21:40:59 -0400

A conversation about the art of cigars, cigar hstory and of course the Devis Weed Cigars.
http://www.molinacigars.com

DogWatch CIgar Radio #221 May 08, 2009 - The Men, The Myths, The Cigars

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 09 May 2009 21:11:27 -0400

The Men, The Myths, The Cigars

The Cigar of the Week is the E. Zarzuela Premium Toro Fuerte. The Premium line from E. Zarzuela is a boutique brand blended by Master Cigar Maker Felix Rodriguez and Eddy Fontana Zarzuela based in Miami. Between them, they have 25 years of cigar manufacturing experience with more well known names such as A. Fuente and La Gloria Cubana. This is the same Dominican Republic manufacturing team producing such DogWatch famous brands as Kristoff and Vengeance 98. This well constructed vitola features a dark Nicaraguan Habano wrapper, a Piloto Cubano binder and a filler blend of Nicaraguan Ligero and Piloto Cubano tobaccos. Cigar passionados and everyday smokers will find the E. Zaezuela Premium to be an outstanding example of the deep flavors available in boutique brands. The cigars are manufactured and aged in the Dominican Republic and presented in boxes of 24 cigars.

We run a portion of an interview with Luis Molina of Molina Cigars, the man behind Devil's Weed cigars, this month's Bonus Cigar!

Some cigar myths discussed......

What's my band? Bob smokes a Montisino Maduro Robusto, Dale smokes an American Stogies Cuban Corojo Toro.

Herfline submissions from Big Slim and Angry Bill!

On the Dark Side - Marca - Romeo y Julieta, Frontmark - Exhibicion No. 3, Vitola - Corona Gorda, Box code UAS Mar 06, 143 mm (5.7") x 46 ring gauge - This cigar is one with a reputation for needing only a short aging period to reach it's peak, and at 3 years old now, we're hoping this one fulfills that expectation. The tobaccos in RyJ are from the Pinar del Rio region, and are purported to be some of Cuba's finest cigar leaf. As one of the major brands that Habanos SA markets, it is one of the most widely recognized Cuban brands. The Exhibicion No. 3 was introduced in the mid 1980's and is usually a great cigar to introduce cigar smokers to the Cuban style - pleasing, easy to smoke and flavorful.
What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Oliva Series V Maduro, A. Fuente Chateau Fuente, Drew Estate Java Corona.

This week's winner of the one year subscription to the European Cigar Cult Journal is Steve Washburn.

Next week is National Police Week - take the time to thank those who go to work every day not really knowing if they'll go home to their families.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #004 April 24, 2009 - Jordan Drake, Digital Life Radio

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Wed, 06 May 2009 06:57:29 -0400

A conversation about technology and of course cigars with a young passionado, Jordan Drake. Johnathan produces a podcast called Digital Life Radio and also does a local radio talk show. I hope you will enjoy this conversation with thr talented and outspoken Jordan Drake as much as I did.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #220 May 01, 2009 - It's A Wonderful Wonderful Life

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 02 May 2009 06:23:20 -0400

Cigar of the Week - Camacho Diploma Corojo 11/18 – The Ultra Premium lines from Camacho are competing well with other big name cigars, and this 11/18 size in the Diploma Corojo line has got it all going on! Deep, rich, full flavors from authentic Corojo tobacco grown on Camacho farms in Honduras, a unique shape that really highlights those flavors and an elegant packaging presentation all position this cigar for success. The all corojo tobaccos are Quinto Corte, or from the fifth priming, meaning they are the top most leaves on the plants and picked last so they receive the most exposure to the elements for maximum flavor. The figuardo shape goes from 48 to 54 and back to 48 ring gauge in a 6” length, but not quite what we think of as the traditonal perfecto style - more of a subtle graduation of the cigar's curves. They come in varnished pyramid shaped boxes of 21 cigars.

Paul Bush of Flatbed Cigar Company joins us for discussion of his cigars and the cigar business.

Whats My Band - Dale smokes Bob's #111 Alec Bradley Occidental Reserve Natural

Jeff Fisher wins a Palio Cutter.

Matt Carbaugh wins a one year subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal.

On the Dark Side - Marca - Romeo y Julieta, Frontmark - Churchills, Vitola - Julieta No. 2, Box code MAS April 08, 178 mm (7.2") x 47 ring gauge - This size is the same as last week's Bolivar Coronas Gigantes, however, RyJ is credited with developing this size and that's why the factory name for this vitola is Julieta No. 2. The reason for all the confusion today, is that they developed this size in honor of the famed British statesman Sir Winston Churchill - you'll note the "s" at the end of the word in the frontmark. Romeo y Julieta is an old brand, dating from 1875. Widely known as a full flavored marca, RyJ still makes a large number of vitolas and has various packaging presentations. It is one of the most widely recognized and appreciated marcas within the Habanos S.A. line of brands.

Listener email supports Bob's opinion of Spanish Cedar.

An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Post Revolution Havana Cigars by Min Ron Nee should be in every cigar passionado's library. It's a wonderful reference book, and the latest printing was only 10,000 copies. 492 pages of history, descriptions, photos and MRN's opinions. I recommend you get one soon, before they're all gone. Cigarmony.com and use the discount code for 5% off - DWCR2009.

Next week's COW is the E. Zarzuela Premium Toro Fuerte. The following week we'll be smoking the Trilogy Genuine Camerron. Next week's Dark Side offering will the Romeo & Julieta Exhibicion No. 3 UAS March '06!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #003 April 4, 2009 - Jesus Rodriquez, DiFazio Cigars

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 05:22:52 -0400

Conversation with Jesus Rodriquez, Director of Marketing for Di Fazio Cigars. Although a new player in the cigar industry, Di Fazio Cigars brings a fresh perspective and some fine cigars.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #219 April 24, 2009 - Wood, nuts and monkeys

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 05:09:03 -0400

Episode 219 - Wood, nuts and monkeys.

The Cigar of the Week is the Gurkha Vintage Shaggy Maduro Torpedo. It’s easy to see how the Gurkha Shaggy got its name. The unfinished foot looks like it’s several weeks overdue for a trim! However, for those who wonder how much the wrapper leaf affects a cigar’s flavor, pay particular attention to the taste of the cigar when you first light it. The initial puffs are all 6 year old Dominican filler & Nicaraguan binder, and we’ll bet you can tell with your eyes closed when the 8 year old Dominican wrapper starts to burn. The Torpedo is a 6.5” x 53 ring gauge size which delivers smoothness and complexity. A long finish, some tangy spice and a unique visual appeal all add up to the Vintage Shaggy.

Journalist extraordinaire Colin Ganley joins us to set the record straight on leaf grading and the purchasing process, his recent visit to Cuba and the inside scoop about the Cuban Cigar Seed Institute.

What's my Band? Colin ships in a mystery cigar that stumps the Master and his apprentice - the Pinar Del Rio Exclusivo.

On the Dark Side - Marca - Bolivar, Frontmark - Coronas Gigantes, Vitola - Julieta No. 2, Box code POS May 07, 178 mm (7.2") x 47 ring gauge - This size is often called the Churchill, but the true vitola name is Julieta No. 2. Among all the Bolivar habanos, this Bolivar Coronas Gigante is distinct for it's aroma and complexity, or is it?

The winner of this week's one year subscription to the European Cigar Cult Journal is Felix Erazo!

What else have the DWCR guys been smoking? The Di Fazio Connecticut. Hear the complete interview with Jesus Rodriquez of Di Fazio cigars in Episode 003 of Cigars One-to-One.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #218 April 17, 2009 - Hefin' and Snifflin'

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 16:02:34 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Ambos Mundos No.1 Robusto. The newest cigar line from Pete Johnson/Tatuaje is positioned to fit in the value end of the cigar spectrum. The line consists of 2 versions, each with a distinctly different wrapper. The No. 1 uses a Nicaraguan Habano wrapper, the No. 2 uses a Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. They both use Nicaragua long filler & binder. Currently each is available in a Robusto and a Toro size. The translation of Ambos Mundos is “both worlds”. The phrase is probably most famous for the hotel of the same name in Cuba where Ernest Hemingway did some writing. The tobaccos selected for this blend are the same as in the other Tatuaje lines, however they are not the Grade A tobaccos. These tobaccos would be graded B or perhaps C due to coloration, texture or similar reasons, yet they will deliver similar taste and performance to the grade A selections. The advantage to the smoker is lower price in a long filler cigar.

Perdomo is joining the ranks of cigar makers who are absorbing the SCHIP tax. Remember these folks when you go to spend your money on cigars!

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Viaje Oro Fuerza, Dale attempts a Savinelli Nicaragua Reserve.

On the Dark Side - Marca - Juan Lopez, Frontmark - Seleccion No. 2, Vitola - Robusto, Box code SMG ABR 08, 124 mm (4.8") x 50 ring gauge - The Juan Lopez line was founded in 1876 by Juan Lopez Diaz. It's one of the minor brands, but with all handmade vitolas exhibiting excellent workmanship. As a line, Juan Lopez is thought of as med-full flavored with a characteristic aroma all it's own.

Heather Haddad joins us for the What Else segment! The guys & Heather review Avalon Juke Ebony Figurado & Avalon Hellbound Mojo. Also, Adrian Spicy Sumatra and Esteban Carreras 10 Anos.

A herfline submission from Cody on the Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic.

The winner of the European Cigar Cult Journal one year subscription is Steven Boyd.

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #002 April 4, 2009 - Joe Fuller, FullersPullers.com, A Retail Perspective of CIgars and the FP Habanos98

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 05:21:35 -0400

Joe talks about the pressures on cigar retailers, anti-smoking laws and the FP Habanos98 cigar.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #217 April 10, 2009 - Hefin' and Snifflin'

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 04:14:32 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is Redemption Coronita by El Titan de Bronze.

We catch up with Abe Flores (Pinar Del Rio cigars) and chat about the biz!

Listener emails and herfline submissions cover topics from the CRA, Australian BBQ bans, smokers health care costs and cigar reviews.

On the Dark Side - Vegas Robaina Famosos LPM June '07.

What's my Band? Dale smokes a Topper Old Fashioned Perfecto, Bob smokes a Casa Torano Maduro.

We play a portion of an interview with Joe Fuller, pick up the full length version on iTunes!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

Cigars One to One #001 April 4, 2009 - Brad Mayo, Jameson Cigars

Bob@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 06:25:17 -0400

Conversation with Brad Mayo, Jameson Cigars

DogWatch CIgar Radio #216 April 4, 2009 - Jameson Black Label Robusto

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 05:43:37 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Jameson Black Label Robusto.

Bob interviews Brad Mayo, owner of Jameson Cigars for a separately published feature, and shares some snippets.

Rob Ayala from Friends of Habanos joins us to talk cigars!

Listener Email - Bob is corrected on his view of the worldwide adoption of the Metric System, and we hear of some real life effects of the SCHIP tax.

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Onyx Reserve Belicoso and Dale smokes a Topper Old Fashioned.

We have a Herfline review of the Kristoff Ligero Maduro, and another of the Don Pepin Blue label Firecracker.

On the Dark Side - Diplomaticos No. 2 OEB Feb 07

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Jameson Red Label, Cabaiguan Guapos Junior, The Brick, E. Zarzuela, Pinar Del Rio Sungrown, Illusione ECCJ, Esencia Petite Corona.

Congratulations to Roger Berg for winning this week's yearly Subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal!

Opening theme music provided by 25 Smoking Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke.

Closing theme music is Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #215 March 27, 2009 - Litto Gomez Diaz Oriental

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 07:43:18 -0400

Our show tonight is dedicated to Justin and all the other great Americans, who paid the ultimate price in Iraq.

The Cigar of the Week is the Litto Gomez Diaz Oriental.

We read & respond to some listener email - What to do with all those bands and cigar recommendations.

Congratulations to Richard Baum for winning the Palio Cutter of the month!

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Sancho Panza Valiente, Dale smokes a Tessa Factory Direct!

On the Dark Side - Vegas Robaina Unicos USE Sept '07 and Bob talks about the myth of Cuban Cigars..

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'= Gurkha Triple Ligero, Trinidad T Robusto, Pinar Del Rio Sungrown, Esteban Carreras 10 Anos.

This week's winner of a yearly subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Kerry Maelicke!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

A very special rendition of Amazing Grace on Scottish Bagpipes and a herf line from Angry Bill.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #214 March 20, 2009

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:22:43 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Perdomo Lot 23 Maduro Torpedo. DWCR reviewed the Lot 23 cigar over three years ago and thought it was time for another look.

Happy Birthday to Alejandro Robaina - 90 years old!

Craig Cunningham, owner of Esteban Carreras Cigars joins us for a interesting conversation about his cigars and the cigar business.

A Herfline submission from Angry Bill on the Ambos Mundos.

Avo is releasing it's 9th Limited Edition - the Campanero.

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Rocky Patel Winter 2009 from the Seasonal Collecton. Dale smokes a mystery cigar?!?!?

On the Dark Side - Marca - Bolivar, Frontmark - Belicosos Finos, Vitola - Campana 140 mm (5.5") x 52 ring gauge. Box Code TEB JUL 07

Bob has tips for keeping your lighter in tip top shape!

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Padilla 68, Illusione ECCJ, Cubao #4, 5 Vegas, Vengeance Ligero Maduro, Kristoff Ligero Maduro.

This week's winner of the one year European Cigar Cult Journal subscription is Steve Waibel!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme All or Nothing provided by Immortal Alice

DogWatch CIgar Radio #213 March 14, 2009

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:04:32 -0400

The Cigar of the Week was the San Cristobal Guajiro.

Colin Ganley co-hosts the show while Bob is on vacation, and he smokes the San Cristobal Monumento.

We dive deep into a discussion about Colin's experience at the 11th Festival de los Habanos in Havana.

A short review of the new cigar releases - Montecristo Open, Trinada Robusto T and the Cohiba Siglo VI Gran Reserva!

Colin describes what it's like to attend the Festival.

We discuss vitolas that are being discontinued and speculate on the direction of Habanos S.A.

A U.S. House Committee has passed their first version of the Family Smoking Revention and Tobacco Control Act, preparing to give the FDA control over the tobacco industry.

Colin gives us a preview of the cigar reviews, interview with Padron and collecting cigar accessories articles in the latest ECCJ.

Jeffery Busse wins this week's yearly subscription to the European Cigar Cult Journal!
Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme All or Nothing provided by Immortal Alice

DogWatch CIgar Radio #212 March 6, 2009 - Dale Gives Bob a BOA

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:04:56 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Oliva Serie G Double Robusto.

We also smoke this month's Bonus cigar, the Esteban Carreras 10 Anos,

Congratulations to Chris Cambell - he came up with the longest cigar name and wins a sampler pack from DWCR!

We listen to a Herfline review from Angry Bill on the Pinar Del Rio.

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Felipe Gregorio Dominicana Boa, Dale smokes a Topper Cosmo Perfecto.

Doctor Terry Simpson joins us to talk cigars, junk science and economics!

On the Dark Side - a brief review of the cigar industry in Cuba since the revolution. We also preview the new cigar releases from Habanos S.A. from the 11th Festival de los Habanos.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Casa Magna, Cruzado, Padilla Series 68, Montesino, The Brick, Jameson Red.

This week's winner of the year long subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal is Jay LeDao!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme All or Nothing provided by Immortal Alice

DogWatch CIgar Radio #211 February 27, 2009

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:05:07 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the A. Fuente Hemingway Short Story.

Joining us tonight is Mark Neff, owner of Cigarmony.com and one heck of a cigar aficionado!

Some email from Brian leads us to discuss what to look for in a desktop humidor.

In preparation for the SCHIP taxes on April 1st, we recommend cigars to stock up on, particularly cigars that will be affected most.

On the Dark Side - From the 11th Festival de los Habanos comes a new release, Montecristo Open. Mark leads us through a review of Cohiba Esplendido

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic 1973, Padilla Series 68 Corojo Toro, Oliva Master Blends 3 Robusto, Tatuaje Ambros Mundo Habanos Robusto, American Stogies Corona, Tessa Factory Direct, Occidental Reserve.

We spend some time talking about which cigars smokers might want to stock up on in advance of the SCHIP taxes hitting on April 1st.

Congratulations to Hartford Hight, our European Cigar Cult Journal subscription winner this week, and to Robert Gianelli for winning the Palio Cutter for February!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme All or Nothing provided by Immortal Alice

DogWatch CIgar Radio #210 February 20, 2009 - Double Fisted Figurado

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:05:10 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the La Gloria Cubana Reserva Figurados Flechas Especiale

For our brothers of the briar, it is International Pipe Smoking Day!

What's my Band? Bob smokes a JFR, Dale smokes a Don Thomas Classico

Congratulations to Jeff Bower for winning this week's yearly subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal Magazine!

On the Dark Side - Por Larranaga Belicosos Extra Regional Release, Asia Pacific

What else have the DWSC guys been smokin'? Don Pepin Cuban Classic 1970, Dona Flor, La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Chisel, Devil's Weed Nicot, Padilla Miami.

In the DWCR News - China's enhanced snow closes highways. Some Canadian tobacco signage laws conflict with historic preservation laws. Another conflicting situation, Canadian bar must serve a pot smoker or be fined, but if he does, he loses his liquor license.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #209 February 13, 2009 - Deliberately Herfing with Colin Ganley

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:05:14 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Tatuaje Havana VI Artistas

Colin Ganley joins us before his adventure to the Festeval de los Habanos, and smokes the Cohiba V.

Angry Bill delivers a Dark Side Review, Jerry Cruz deliberates the Triunfadore, Ron Fedel rants on junk science and Adam Haught reviews the Outlaw Calendar Girl.

Bob, Dale and Colin provide their unique perspective on cigar bar exemptions, blunt wrap makers fighting back and Gurkha's new "smokesperson".

Congratulations to Sean Miller, this weeks winner of a year's subscription to European Cigar cult Journal!

On the Dark Side - Dale reviews the Cohiba Robusto and the crew discuss the famous tobacco growing region of Pinar del Rio.

What else have the DWCR guys been smoking? Camacho Corojo 11/18, Oliva Serie V Lancero, Tatuaje Havana VI Almirante, Famous Nicaraguan 3000, RyJ Churchill, Ashton ESG, San Cristobal, Esencia Corona Gorda, Jameson Black, Monte Cristo #2.

What's my Band? Dale smokes a Fuente Curlyhead, Bob smokes a CAO Brazilia Amazon.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme All or Nothing provided by Immortal Alice

DogWatch CIgar Radio #208 February 05, 2009 - Pidgeon on a Hot Tin Roof

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 10:27:57 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Vengeance Maduro Ligero.

Nelson Pidgeon co-hosts with us this week! He also is the Treasurer of the Sherlock Holmes Pipe Club in Boston. (add web url)

The Esencia Corona Gorda wins Cigar of the Year award from Two Guys Smoke Shop!

We re-visit evening out your humidification devices in your larger humidors.

The Sherlock Holmes Pipe Club of Boston - http://www.shpcboston.org/

Herfline submissions from Bill Bevins on the Joya de Nicaragua Antano, Bill Featherston on the Greycliff Chateau Grand Cru Piccolo and Ron on the Rocky Patel Seasons.

Lots of discussion on SCHIP, wage hikes in Honduras, more proposed cigar taxes in PA - how do cigar smokers cope with all this additional burden?

Some good news - CRA members and other cigar smokers help Long Beach, CA legislators see the light - smoking lounges are now exempt from the local draconian smoking ban!

On the Dark Side - La Gloria Cubana Tainos!

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? CAO Criollo, Esencia Petite Corona, La Flor Dominicana Factory Press, Rocky patel Edge, J. Fuego 777, Illusione 1.

Handmade vs. Machine made cigars.

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Nestor Miranda Special Selection lancero, Dale smokes a Don Tomas.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #207 January 30, 2009 - DogWatch News Weather and Cigars

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 10:50:24 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the La Aurora 1495 Series Corona.

Lots of herfline submissions - cigar reviews, SCHIP and Habanos!

Special guest Tom Barbalet joins us to talk more about encouraging cigar manufacturers to be more open with consumers about the tobaccos and other details of their product offerings.

Congratulations to Jefferson Grosso for winning the January Palio of the Month contest!

Big news in the cigar industry - Ernesto Perez-Carrillo is leaving General Cigar to start a new cigar business with his son & daughter.

On the Dark Side - The 2008 Regional Edition Bolivar Short Bolivar!

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Camacho Corojo Maduro, Cubao #5, Nestor Miranda Special Selection Lancero, Tatuaje Frank, Ashton VSG, A. Fuente Chateau Fuente Sungrown, Ramone Allones Specially Selected (2004), La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero, Jameson Black.

Single Cigar sales under fire all around the country. Dallas city council attacking cigar manufacturers as being the cause of illegal drug use!!!!

It has finally happened - smoking outlawed in personal apartments and condos in one California city.

Bruce Stark is this week's winner of a yearly subscription to European cigar Cult Journal!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #206 January 22, 2009 - Rim Shot

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 17:47:18 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the 601 Habano Oscuro La Punta.

We share some listener email - questions and suggestions!

Michael Rosales of Adrian's Costa Rican Cigars joins us to talk about his lines of cigars!

Check out the Petition to Cigar Manufacturers link on our site and let the cigar makers know what YOU want to know!

More news about anti-smoking legislation from South Dakota and Colorado.

On the Dark Side - Cohiba Siglo VI.

On the herfline - Dr. Dan Para reviews the Litto Gomez Diaz Lusitano.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Adrian's Premium Costa Rican Ecuadorian Shade & Havana 2000, Esencia Petite Corona, La Aroma de Cuba, Jameson Black, Quorum

The What's my Band segment returns! Bob smokes a Punch Punch and Dale smokes a

Congratulations to Jason Slaughter for winning the weekly subscription the European Cigar Cult Journal!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #205 January 6, 2009 - Questions Without Answers

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 14:29:58 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970 Lancero

Heather Haddad joins us to discuss the Smoke Free Texas legislation.

We invite Andy Kilroy to explain his new website - Smokeasys.com Check it out for info on smoke friendly locations around the world!

The SCHIP bill has made it through the House, on it's way to the Senate.

Cigar Aficionado's Top 25 Cigars of 2008 list is out, and a $5 non-cuban cigar tops the list!

On the Dark Side - Obama plans to restore Cuban-American visitation and remittance rights with Cuba.
We review the Partagas Serie D no. 4

A herfline review of the Esencia Petite Corona from Wild Bill......

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? La Aroma de Cuba, San Cristobal, La Flor Dominicana Ligero, Los Blanco Premier Sumatra, Avalon Juke, Camacho Diploma Maduro, Don Tomas Clasico, Adrian, Oliva Series G.

In the DWCR News - Update on the sale of Torano factories. The American Lung Assoc says the US Flunks on Tobacco Control Report Card. Baltimore passes laws against the sales of single cigars, but Mayor who pushed the bill is charged with fraud, misconduct and perjury!

Congratulations to Robert Kroupa for winning this weeks subscription to European Cigar Cult Journal magazine!
Check out Bob's gadget want list at http://www.evernote.com/pub/bob_mcduffee/WantList

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke
Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #204 January 9, 2009 - Third Hand Bad Science

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 14:30:29 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic 1970. Unless you are new to premium cigars or have been living in a cave, the name Don Pepin Garcia is sure to invoke visions of tasty smoke wafting ghost like through the air. Pepin Garcia is the talent behind many of the most popular cigars in today's market. The Cuban Classic line (or Black Label as it is sometimes called) is the third line of cigars created under his own name, the first being the Blue label and the second being the Serie JJ. This Cuban Classic line hit retailers shelves in late 2006 and quickly rocketed to superstar status among passionados. The wrapper is a Habano Rosado variety and both the filler and binder are Nicaraguan. Don Pepin Garcia cigars are rolled in Pepin's Tabacalera Cubana factory in Esteli, Nicaragua and his El Rey de los Habanos factory in Miami Florida. The Cuban Classic Black Edition is available in six sizes: Perla (4.25x40), Corona Especial (5.5x38), Robustos (5x50), Belicosos (5x54), Figurado (6x60 and the Toros (6x52). All of the Don Pepin Garcia lines are rolled in the traditional Cuban style and the boxes are each stamped with a date code. In tribute to the Cuban traditions that Jose Garcia came from, and the American market which has been so kind to him, the band on each cigar has a Cuban and an American flag overlapping on each side of the center motif.

Dr. Terry Simpson joins us to discuss the latest "third hand smoke" pseudo science. This is junk science thrown out as another rally point for the anti-smokers. Dr. Simpson says that publicizing this misinformation is at best irresponsible. We also discuss the state of the Alaskan cigar business and of course, we get a lesson in current politics.

Another way to get involved - the Tobacconist Preservation Act is a proposed piece of Federal Legislation to preserve the rights of retail tobacconists to conduct business with their customers who must be able to taste, smell and sample their products in their stores. You can go sign a petition electronically to help move this along - www.thepetitionsite.com we'll put a link up on our site.
We discuss the Tobacconist Preservation Act and the role that Heather Haddad of FumeeWorld.com has taken on to help promote what could become a critical piece of federal legislation.
Sign the Tobacconist Preservation Act at http://www.thepetitionsite.com/tell-a-friend/2692569

On the Dark Side - Marca - Saint Luis Rey, Frontmark - Doble Coronas, Vitola - Prominente, 194 mm (7.6") x 49 ring gauge. This brand was created in 1938. The Doble Coronas is a highly scoring Prominente vitola, often listed as one of the top 3 in this format. The character is typically between that of the lighter Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona and the fuller Ramon Allones Gigante.
What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Ted's Made by Hand natural and maduro, Aurora 100 Anos robusto, 5 Vegas Limitada 2008, Tatuaje Reserva J21, Isla de Cuba.

Scandanavian Tobacco Group buys Latin Cigars Nicaragua and Latin Cigars Honduras factories. More consolidation in the cigar industry announced last week - Noble Cigars, a division of the Scandinavian Tobacco Group (Which acquired the CAO brands last year) acquired Latin Cigars Nicaragua and Latin Cigars Honduras on Dec 31 for an undisclosed sum. Those factories were owned and operated by Torano cigars and the Fidel Olivas family. Torano and Olivas will continue to operate the factories, which make a combined 20 million cigars annualy, including all CAO brands, Torano brands and others.

Check out Bob's gadget want list at http://www.evernote.com/pub/bob_mcduffee/WantList

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke
Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #203 January 2, 2009 - Have a Herfing New Year!

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 15:35:25 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the El Titan De Bronze Grand Reserve Maduro.

We jump into the new year with great abandon and no planning!

On the Dark Side - Punch Petite Coronas.

Gaspar's Cigar Shop
3765 So, Westshore Blvd
Tampa, Fl 33629
http://www.gasparcigars.com

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Cabaiguan Coronas Extra, San Cristobal, Wango Tango, Dona Flor, Trinadad Toro, Padron 40th Anny, La Requeza #3, Tatuaje Frank, Rocky Patel Renaissance.

Herf line submission from our friend AngryBill.

We discuss lighter maintenance, and other sundrey issues.....

More news, views and the monkeys run wild!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #202 December 26, 2008 - Post Christmas (Cement) Mixer

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 10:12:11 -0500

Our 2008 Post - Christmas show!

The Cigar of the Week is Panacea Maduro Perfecto.

On the Dark Side - Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Number 2.

We ramble aimlessly in the glow of post-Christmas festivities.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Dona Flor, Jameson, Cabaiguan Guapo Jr., Camacho Corojo 11/18, Tatuaje Frank.

Herf line submissions from a couple of local law enforcement types and a scathing review of Cohiba!

Happy New Year!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

DogWatch CIgar Radio Special Video Cigar Review December 19, 2008 - by Paul Binkley

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 07:21:08 -0500

Part of our 2008 Christmas show!

Congratulations to Paul Binkley for a very close 2nd place with this video review from France of the Fonseca Delicias!

Paul will receive a sampler pack of Esencia CIgars for this wonderfully done review.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #201 December 19, 2008 - Merry Christmas and a Herfing New Year

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 07:04:26 -0500

Our 2008 Christmas show!

The Cigar of the Week is the Kristoff Maduro Ligero Torpedo

Colin Ganley joins us to discuss the latest cigar happenings and the new crops in the cigar countries.

We briefly discuss the Cohiba trademark lawsuit and other issues surrounding branding.

Herfline submissions from Marcian and Bill!

Nelson Pidgeon wins the "200th show and 3 years with BOTL" contest! We play his reviews. Congratulations also to Paul Binkley for a very close 2nd place with his video review from France!

Another great example of some of the reviews we received is this one from Jay about last week's cigar -
Just listened to the show tonight and I just happened to smoke the RyJ Habana Reserva Churchill on Saturday night. I thought that the cigar started of very light with some nice creamy spice for about the first inch. After that the smoke went to a nice full creamy smoke with a little hidden spice, but that was then end of it. I was going a little slow and I had to relight several times throughout the cigar. I started smoking it fast at about 3-4" left and the flavor came back a little bit and it stayed lit. After about 1:45 minutes I sat the last 2.5" down as I wasn't wowed by the flavor. A good smoke and I have a few other sizes to try out in the humi but just not blown away by it. The hidden flavor to me was a little like eating a cinammon powdered donut (creamy, doughy and a little sweet spice).

On the Dark Side - Ramone Allones Specially Selected.

Colin passes out a Christmas gift to all our listeners - oral health tips!

Bob renders his cigar version of the Night Before Christmas.

Dale has a suggested list of Christmas presents for Bob.

Dr. Simpson steps in to help us wrap up the Cigar of the Week!

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? A. Fuente Anejo 46 & 49, Tatuaje Havana VI Almirantes & Victorias, Dynamite 450 Maduro, Torano Noventa La Espiranza, Gurkha Dragon Fire.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #200 December 12, 2008 - And One More Thing

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 09:39:33 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Romeo y Julieta Habana Reserve Toro.

This is our 200th show! Who would have thought......

Major kudos to Kendall Culbertson of Outlaw Cigar for being awarded the Community Business of the Year in Kansas City!

Lots of smoking legislation news from around the world.

On the Dark Side - Por Larranaga 2007 RE Robusto.

The 2009 Festival del Habanos (Feb 23-27) schedule is announced.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? La Flor Dominicana Ligero, Jameson Black Label, G.A.R., Tayuaje Havana VI Artistas, CAO LX2, Pinar Del Rio Oscuro, Nub Habanos, A. Fuente Anejos 46.

Make sure you enter our "200th Show and 3 Years with BOTL" contest to win a box of Esencia cigars and a guest spot on the show!

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Rocky Patel Autumn Collection Toro and Dale smokes the RP Summer Collection.

Herf line submissions from Jeff and Ron!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme All or Nothing provided by Immortal Alice

DogWatch CIgar Radio #199 December 05, 2008 - Not That Button!

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 09:37:35 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Don Pepin Garcia Serie JJ Belicoso.

Abe Flores of Pinar Del Rio Cigars joins us to talk about his passion for the leaf and his lines of great smokes.

A herfline submission from Big Slim brings us a short discussion about plume on cigars.

On the Dark Side - Partagas 8-9-8 Cabinet Seleccion Varnished.

More herfline submissions from Angry Bill, reviewing the Couvee Rouge and Canimao cigars.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Torano Noventa, Jameson Black Lable, A. Fuente Sungrown Cuban Belicoso, Elogio LSV, Pinar Del Rio Oscuro, Oliva Serie V, Esencia.

News views and some insanity!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #198 November 29, 2008 - Two Turkeys and Leftovers!

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 13:17:12 -0500

The Cigar ot the Week is the Canimao Robusto.

Jake "The Wonder Boy" joins us for the night, smoking a LFD Double Ligero Lancero!

We give away 4 Cigar Caddy's tonight, a 2 cigar Caddy to Shane of Great Mills, MD, a 5 cigar Caddy to Wayne of Washington, MO, a 10 cigar Caddy to Keith of Hilliard, OH and a 15 cigar Caddy to Robert of Covington, KY! Thanks to Jamie and his crew at Cigar Caddy for supporting the tropps and DWCR!

The December DogWatch Cigar Club selections are on their way - look for the Don Pepin Garcia JJ, the Romeo y Julieta Habana Reserve, the Kristoff Maduro Ligero and the Panecea Maduro Perfecto as our Cigars of the Week next month.

On the Dark Side - H. Upmann Magnum 50

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Dona Flor, Jameson Black, Arganese ML3, La Aroma de Cuba, El Tiante, CAO Italia, El Cobre, Torano Noventa, Elogio LSV.

Congratulations to Brandon from Vancouver, WA for winning the November palio Cutter of the month!

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Padron Palmas Maduro, Dale smoes the maduro version of the A. Pontilla.
Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #197 November 21,2008 - Blame the Monkeys!

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 05:25:39 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Couvee Rouge.

Heather Haddad from Fumee joins us to talk about her new shop, a special Christmas offering and the DogWatch Sunday's!

Only one more week to get entered for our Cigar Caddy and Palio of the Month contests!

The IPCPR is fighting the good fight in Dallas and South Dakota.

On the Dark Side - a look into how Edicion Regionales are selected, and we review the Partagas Lusitania.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Devil's Weed Nicot, Jesus Fuego, Illusione MK, Oliva Serie V Lancero.

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Cuban Crafters Cameroon and Dale tries out the A. Pontillo.

More news, views and the monkeys run wild! Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #196 November 14,2008 - Triple Play!

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 08:17:11 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Partagas Black Label Bravo.

Colin Ganley sits in to smoke the COW, and also brought along a pair of Graycliff for a side by side vintage vs new taste test.

Mel Gonzales of Canimao cigars joins us via telephone to talk about his cigars!

On the Dark Side - Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? We focus in on the La Flor Dominicana Cheroot.

Don't forget to sign up for the contests this month - a palio Cutter and 5 separate Cigar Caddy's!

What's my Band? Bob smokes a La Gloria Cubana Wavell, Dale smokes a Verona del Sur and Colin smokes a Pinar Del Rio Oscuro.

Three hosts, three cigars and three hours - hope you enjoy this week's DogWatch Cigar Radio!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme All or Nothing provided by Immortal Alice

DogWatch CIgar Radio #195 November 07,2008 - No Tossers or Wankers!

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 08:16:26 -0500

The Cigar of the Week is the Jesus Fuego Gran Reserva Corojo #1 Belicoso.
The Belicoso vitola is a 6" x 54 ring gauge beauty. The blend is combination of Nicaraguan, Honduran and Costa Rican fillers grown specifically for Fuego and topped with a Corojo wrapper. The cigars are rolled in Honduras.

Andrew and Waymond sit in a spell from The Old Toby Podcast!

We catch up with Doug Wilgar at the Big Smoke in Las Vegas. He fills us in on the big after-Big Smoke party at The Las Vegas Cigar Lounge.

Friends of Habanos joins DWCR as a show sponsor this week, and we welcome Rob Ayala to talk about FOH and the world of Habanos cigars.

Check out our new contest for the month of November - we're giving away 5 Cigar Caddys!

On the Dark Side - H. Upmann Sir Winston.
Marca - H. Upmann, Frontmark - Sir Winston, Vitola - Julieta 2 178 mm (7.0") x 47 ring gauge

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'?
Elogio Petite Corona
Esencia Petite Corona
Olde Colonial Havana Lancero
the Frank from Tatuaje
ML3 from Arganese.

What's my Band?
Bob smokes a Drew Estate Chateau Real Maduro
Dale smokes the last of a box of Cabaiguan.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme Longboard Cowboy provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #194 October 31,2008 - Politics, Monsters and Cigars

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 10:56:21 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Ashton 898.

We review two Xikar lighters, the Trezo and EX. Also Bob interviews Kurt van Keppell, president of Xikar.
Bob and Dale discuss the intricacies of lighting cigars and Bob wonders if some of the taboos against raditional lighters is justified.

The CRA gets involved in the LA smoking ban issue and a letter writing campaign to the Mayor of Boston.

In a fast paced and informative discussion, Dr. Terry Simpson joins us to talk about the US political scene.

Herfline submissions, including one from Angry Bill about the Halloween release of The Frank, Ron from New Jersey and Andrew from the Old Toby Podcast!

On the Dark Side - Frank Correnti Cigars, a special treat from our neighbors up North!

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Sudeste Corona, Ted's Made by Hand Robusto, Tatuaje P1, Canimao, Fuente Cuban Belicoso, Esencia Corona Gorda, Camacho Corojo 11/18, El Cobre Robusto, Cabaiguan, Argenti Exile, Pinar Del Rio Oscuro, Isla de Cuba.

What's My Band? Bob smokes a Romeo y Julieta Habana Reserva and Dale tries a Chui Cesar from Veron del Sur.

Congratulations to our contest winners - Jamie Samarco wins the October Palio Cutter and Nick Noel wins the Puckifier of the Week!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #193 October 24,2008 - Cigar Bans Outlawed

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 14:34:29 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Exile Robusto.

Kendall Culbertson of Outlaw Cigars joins us to discuss his struggle to obtain an exemption to the Kansas City smoking ban for his shop. A positive example and lessons learned for all cigar retailers!

We play herfline submissions from France, Australia and New York!

On the Dark Side - a little news and the St. Luis Rey Serie A

What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Sudeste from Silo Cigars, J. Fuego 777, Nub Cameroon, Cubao Lancero, Devils Weed Nicot, Cusano Sungrown LXi.

Congratulations to Robert Brown, this week's Puckifier winner!

Several news items and a great What's my Band segment!

Another great herfline submission from Guy in France.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #192 October 17,2008 - Around the World in 2 hrs

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 10:51:37 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Don Carlos #3

Joe Fuller joins us to talk about what's new at FullersPullers.com

Collin Ganley joins us to discuss the European Inter-Tabac cigar trade show and other journeys.

Rick Patch wins the Puckifier of the Week contest!

No Dark Side this week, but in the What's my band segment, Bob & Dale smoke a Jose Piedra Nationales.

We review this week's happenings in the wake of the cigar board discussion of last week.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #191 October 10,2008 - Puffin' The Boards

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 08:02:30 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Cusano 18 Paired Maduro

We have a panel discussion with Chris Trotter and Marc Aub about the recent acquisition of several cigar discussion forums.

Dale talks about the experience judging the International Cigar Competition at the Cigar Smoke Easy event. Congratulations to all the Gold, Silver and Bronze medal winners!

The IPCPR puts out several press releases around recent smoking ban legislation, and DWCR is happy to see the support!

We have herfline submissions from Bill about FullersPullers and the La Aroma de Cuba cigar.

Bob interviews Gene Crawford of Olde Colonial Havana Cigars. The story of a club cigar gone commercial. http://www.oldecolonialhavana.com

On the Dark Side - a poor experience with a Partagas Lonsdale. Also, Bances cigars, a Cuban tobacco brand made in Toronto Canada.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Olde Colonial Havana, Camacho Legend-Ario, Toscano Extra Vecchio, Verona Del Sur, El Titan de Bronze Maduro.

Congratulations to Dan Stevens, this week's Puckifier winner!

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Jesus Fuego 777, Dale enjoys a Juan Lopez Belicoso.

In the DWCR News - Altadis will be closing it's Selma AL cigar factory, cutting 213 jobs due to smoking restrictions and rising tobacco taxes. Cripple Creek Colorado casinos fined for allowing smoking.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #190 October 3,2008 - Plate with a hole in it

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 06:57:47 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the La Aroma de Cuba Monarch  Chris Trotter of the Cigar Alliance podcast joins us for a discussion about the "new cigar media".  Marc Aub of Esencia Cigars sits in again for a while to chat about cigars, blending and give us perspectives of a cigar brand owner.  On the Dark Side - El Rey Del Mundo Choix Supreme, and the OFAC gets a little busier in 2008.  Dr. Terry Simpson is back! The good Doctor talks some about the effects of nicotine.  What Else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Esteban Carreras, Camacho Triple Maduro, Camacho Select, Camacho Corojo, A. F. Don Carlos and more!  In the What's my Band segment, Dale smokes a Cusano LXI and Bob tries out his first Macanudo 68.  This weeks winner of a Puckifier is Dan Wilkens! Congratulations Dan!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #189 September 16,2008 - The Book

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:33:38 -0400

Cigar of the Week – Tempus Centuria
Tempus is Latin, meaning Time, and this line from Alec Bradley is so named for the time it took to develop. The Centuria is one of 5 traditional sizes in this line, it's a 7 x 49 Churchill. The cigars are rolled in Honduras from a blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran grown Criollo '98 and Corojo '99 Viso and Ligero. The wrapper is a 7 year aged Honduran Criollo.

Mike Banks (mrbundles.com) joins us for a lively discussion of the Cubanidad, Signature House Blend, El Titan de Bronze Redemption and the Miur Selecta Resrev cigars. Mike also discusses cigar making, history and personalities.

Michigan House Bill 4163 is defeated, at least for now.

Impact of the recent hurricanes on Cuban tobacco production .

On The Dark Side - Marca - Davidoff, Frontmark - Mille 5000, Vitola - Corona Gorda 143 mm (5.7") x 46 ring gauge The example tonight is about 30 years old, coming from the late 1970's. Tasting notes: A light colored, very fragile looking wrapper with a yellowed band gives hints of things to come. The wrapper has lost any oily sheen it may have once had. The cigar was extremely firm, common with well aged cigars. The cap clipped neatly and the cold draw provided little flavor but was easy and smooth. Once lit, it was obvious the cigar has been stored properly all these years. Oils immediately became obvious on the wrapper above the burn line. The flavors in the first portion were all subtle - herbaceous, nutty and lightly sweet. The room aromas have a wine-like bouquet. The smoke is lightly creamy and very mild in body. In the 2nd third, the cigar remained elegant with some flavors of caramelized onion joining the floral, herby mix. In the last third, the sweetness became like honey, the floral notes turned more woody and the savory nut flavors intensified. The finish was short, sweet and smooth. I fear my palete is not refined enough to pick out all the subtle flavors from this exquisite cigar. It is a cigar for the true aficionado, to be savored in quiet solitude and not polluted by any interference from strong drink or food. A delightful departure from the typical strength of today's cigars.

We also discuss Isla de Cuba Classic, Isla de Cuba Aged Maduro, Isla de Cuba Wango Tango, Rocky Patel 1992 Vintage, Cubao, El Titan de Bronze Gran Reserva Maduro

What's My Band #8 and contest winners Michael Howe, Bob Skinner and John DeFalco

Herf line submissions from Angry Bill and Big Slim.

Thanks to our Sponsors this week, FullersPullers.com, Palio Cutters, DogWatch Cigar Club, Black Dog Coffee.net, FumeeWorld.com, Dr. Terry Simpson and Cigarmony.com!

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio LIVE This Thursday, 9-25-08

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:32:00 -0400

Special Thursday Night DogWatch Live!

DogWatch CIgar Radio #188 September 19,2008 - History 101

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 03:50:04 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Vengeance Series 98 Robusto.

Chris McCalla, Legislative Director for the IPCPR, joins us to discuss the Kansas City smoking ban and the positive effect the cigar community, lead by Kendall of Outlaw Cigar, has had on revising the legislation to exempt cigar shops.

A herfline submission from Warren brings up the topic of cellophane and storing your cigars.

Cigar history 101 - Bob discusses the importance of tobacco on an emerging nation!

On the Dark Side - no reviews tonight, but some news on the 2008 Habanos Collection release, the 2008 Antique Humidor release and the Casa del Habano Partagas Salomones.

More details coming our of Cuba on the extreme devastation from hurricanes Gustov and Ike. Cuba petitions the U.S. to lift the trade embargo for 6 months to assist in rebuilding infrastructure.

What's my Band? Bob smokes a Diamond Crown Pyramid #7 and Dale tries a Rocky Patel made Nicarao.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Jesus Fuego Delirium and 777, Sancho Panza Double maduro, Cubao, Oliva Serie G, Dynamite 652, Cabaiguan Guapo 46, Camacho, H. Upmann Signature.

Clifford Venier wins the Puckifier this week.

Another great herfline submission from Guy in France.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #187 September 12,2008 -Fixed File

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 05:28:44 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the La Riqueza.

Opening theme music provided by : 25 Smokin' Figurados from their album Divine Spirits, Holy Smoke

Closing theme provided by The Surfonics

DogWatch CIgar Radio #186 September 05,2008 - The Cigar of the Week is the Ancient Warrior Torpedo by Gurkha

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 09:50:25 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Ancient Warrior Torpedo by Gurkha.

Matt Walker joins us to talk about the Cigar Smoke Easy event, including the International Cigar Competition, coming up in Washington State at the end of September. www.cigarsmokeeasy.com

Heather Haddad is our special guest! She updates us on the opening of her new cigar shop and discusses the results of the research survey produced by Cigar Research and the Association for Women Cigar Smokers.

Hurricane Gustav hit Cuba hard and the season is really just getting started.

On the Dark Side - Partagas Salomones Espanol.

The three 2008 Edicion Limitadas from Habanos S.A. will be released shortly!

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Joya de Panama, El Rey del Mundo, Olivadados, Pinar Del Rio Oscuro, Primos by Los Blancos, Signature House Blend from Mike Banks.

Bob interviews Chris Kelly of Tesa Cigars.

Adam Bennett wins the Puckifier of the Week contest from www.cigarmony.com

In the DWCR news - Oliva is close to releasing the Serie V Maduro. Davidoff releases it's first maduro cigar, the Robusto Maduro R. A. Fuente celebrates 96 years of the Arturo Fuente Cigar Company with the release of the Don Arturo Gran AniverXario - a cigar aged for 7 years in the Fuente aging rooms.
Thanks to:
Dick from Arizona with a review of the Ancient Warrior and a few words about the DogWatch Cigar Club
and
Jason Shaffer on the Sancho Panza and the FP Habanos 98

DogWatch CIgar Radio #185 Augut 29,2008 - The Cigar of the Week is a special side by side review of a 1998 Partagas Tres Petite Corona and a 2008 Partagas Short, two very similar cigars with 10 years of age difference.

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 04:01:28 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is a special side by side review of a 1998 Partagas Tres Petite Corona and a 2008 Partagas Short, two very similar cigars with 10 years of age difference.

Colin Ganley joins DogWatch Friday Night Live! to lead us through noting the differences that aging a premium cigar can offer. Lots of discussion about vintage cigars, where to learn more, different approaches and opinions!

We play a recording of some of the CRA kick off speeches from the Freedom Tour event in New York.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Pinar Del Rio Sungrown and Oscuro, Aurora Barrel Aged, Torano Casa Torano, Benchmade, Indian Tabac Super Fuerte Maduro, Padron Londres Maduro, Cubao, La Aroma de Cuba, American Stogies Break Time Torpedo.

What's my Band? Colin sets us up with a Tatiana Chocolate flavored cigar!

Congratulations to Craig Rich for winning the August Palio of the Month contest!

Steve Washburn wins the Puckifier of the Week contest from Cigarmony.com!

DogWatch CIgar Radio #184 Augut 22,2008 - The Cigar of the Week is the Leon Jiminez #4

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 10:48:15 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Leon Jiminez #4.

Colin Ganley joins us to discuss the CRA Freedom Tour events and the Capitol Cigar Society Gala Dinner!
CapitalCigarSociety

Check out Rich Perelman's WeAreNotCriminals.com blog site to learn how to help fight the proposed LA smoking ban!
WeAreNotCriminals

We play the interview with Reinhold Widmayer and Colin Ganley of ECCJ from the IPCPR.

Herfline submissions on the Gispert cigar and pairing drinks with your cigar.

On the Dark Side - check out Cigarcyclopedia's semi-annual review of international cigar retailers. The Dark Side review is the 2006 Trinadad Torre Iznagas from the Habanos Collection.
CigarCyclopedia

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Nub Habano, Olivadados, Tatuaje Black, Cubao, OpusX Super Belicoso, Black Pearl Rojo, Los Blancos Connecticut, Bravo Columbian Gold.

In the DWCR News - The DNC will party with Rocky Patel Cigars in Denver Monday night, Rocky also will supply cigars to the RNC. The Cigar Family Charitable Foundation Online Auction raised $75,000 for impoverished families in the Dominican Republic. Daniel Miranda, son of Nestor Miranda passes away.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #183 Augut 15,2008

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 20:30:08 -0400

he Cigar of the Week is the CAO MX2.

Herfline submissions from around the U.S. and France!

We talk with Daniel and Luis Tiant of El Tiante Cigars.

On the Dark side - 1992 Bolivar Belicosos Finos.

Bob interviews Al Argenti, maker of Exile Cigars.

What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Black Pearl, La Aroma de Cuba, Joyas de Panama, Vengeance Maduro Ligero, Bravo Columbian.

Congratulations to Craig Rich, winner of the Puckifier this week from Cigarmony.com!

In the DWCR News - Albequerque's Neds on the Rio Grande bar fights to gain exmption as a cigar bar. United Long-term Caregivers union and it's leader, Tyronne Freeman are spending hundreds of thousands of member dollars on family business, cigar bar expenses, even with companies that don't seem to exist! Dale & Bob finally received confirmation of membership with CRA.

What's my Band? Bob & Dale blind taste the Spirit de Cuba and the Devil's Weed cigars.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #182 Augst 09,2008

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 06:19:16 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Gispert Belicoso.
From Barlow's Diamond Crown Lounge - an Interview with Eric Newman, President of Diamond Crown Cigars.
Winners of the Arganese Sampler Packs are Nathen, Alan, Marcian and David,.... congrats!
We interview Marc Aub of Esencia and Palio fame at IPCPR.
In the DogWatch Cigar Radio News - Federal Cigar, famous for their matchbook election polls, is sold to Rick Gadway. The Central Jersey Italian-American Club wuill host it's first Annual Cigar Smoke Out. A new cigar line from La Gloria Cubana to be made in Maimi. Reason Magazine ranks the worst "nanny state" cities in the U.S. Imperial Tobacco reports financials after 9 months of Altadis merge.
Bob finds the worlds oldest jokes.
David Ekels wins this weeks Puckifier from Cigarmony.com!
What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? La Riqueza Corona Gorda, Olive Serie G Torpedo,Garcia El Centurion, Devils Weed Jerez, Habanos H2000

DogWatch CIgar Radio #181 Augst 01,2008

TheShow@dogwatchcigarradio.com — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 14:29:51 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Sancho Panza Caballero. NHL players create innovative way around Tampa smoking bans - Mobile Lounge Cigar Company! Lots of interviews - Gene Arganese (Arganese Cigars), David Blanco (Los Blancos Cigars) and Glen Case (Exclusive Cigars). Lots of contests too! Enter for a chance at a Palio Cutter, Arganese Sampler Packs and a Puckifier! On the Dark Side - mid 1970's Saint Luis Rey Lonsdale. What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Flor de Cesar, G.A.R., Fuente Gran Reserve Robusto, Fuente Cuban Belicoso, El Tiante, FP Habanos 98, Don Leoncia, CAO Brazilia, DEvil's Weed, Oliva Serie G. Doc Simpson joins us to discuss the propossed FDA control of tobacco. The Value Review of the Week is the Mayorga Gordito Torpedo. Cigar's #3 in the What's my Band segment - Rosa Especial and Spirit of Cuba.

DogWatch CIgar Radio #180 July 19,2008

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 08:23:04 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Gran Habano 3 Siglos Gran Robusto
We interview Joe Fuller, Abraham Flores of Pinar Del Rio Cigars and Luis Molina of Molina Cigars

Colin Ganley, back home for a while, joins us to talk IPCPR impressions and vintage cigars.
Big money is ready to assault our smoking rights again.
We have interviews with Joe Fuller and the Molina Cigar guys!
On the Dark Side - 2001 Montecristo #5.
What else have the DWCR guys been smokin'? Kristoff, Vengeance 98, Camacho Maduro, Arganese CL3, Pinar Del Rio Oscuro, LFD Double Ligero Chisel, Cigar Live Green & Red label, Don Leoncia, Flor de Cesar.
Herfline cigar review submissions from our listeners!

Day Three at IPCPR

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:14:53 -0400

Stone Cold Humidors- We interview David D'Aprile of D'Aprile Humidors and Steve Norell of US Merchant Service

DogWatch CIgar Radio #179 July 19,2008

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:17:39 -0400

Nub me tender

Day Two at IPCPR

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:11:52 -0400

We talk with Rocky Patel and Chuck Leaf

Day One at IPCPR

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:12:03 -0400

We talk with David Diaz (Doc Stogie Fresh) and Joe Ganascolli

Saturday at Casa Fuente with Dr. Terry Simpson

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:12:12 -0400

We talk about Cuba, women who smoke, why we herf, books,fashion and all manner of things cigar while smoking the Fuente God of Fire.

Announcing the Escencia Cigar from Brothers of the Leaf

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:12:21 -0400

Its a short show, late on Fridat in Las Vegas

Dogwatch Cigar Radio Retrospective - A VIDEO Look Back

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:21:59 -0400

A slide show of some of the moments we have experienced over the last three years.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #173 July 04, 2008 - I Survived a Japanese Game Show!

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:12:38 -0400

Cigar of the Week – La Flor Dominicana Doble Ligero Chisel Maduro, On the Dark Side:Marca - Romeo y Julieta , Frontmark - Cedros de Luxe #2 , Vitola - Corona 142 mm (5 1/4") x 42 ring gauge. We go video and lots of cigar talk. Bob reviews the Camacho Havanna and Dale smokes a Bolivar.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #172 June 27, 2008 - What's My Band!

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:12:47 -0400

Cigar of the Week – AVO #5 Tubo

DogWatch Cigar Radio #171 June 20, 2008 - Special guest Heather Haddad

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:13:03 -0400

Cigar of the Week – Partagas #1

DogWatch Cigar Radio #170 June 13, 2008 - Re-engineered to fix sound problems

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:12:57 -0400

Cigar of the Week – Montecristo Serie C Robusto

DogWatch Cigar Radio #169 June 5, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:13:21 -0400

Cigar of the Week – Punch Champion

DogWatch Cigar Radio #168 May 30, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:13:29 -0400

Cigar of the Week – Hoyo De Monterrey 1066 Gallahad, smoking neighbors, Michigan soke ban and the Peoples Republic of Boulder

DogWatch Cigar Radio #167 May 23, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:46:32 -0400

Cigar of the Week – Oliva Serie V Lancero and special guests Walt and Jerry from StogieReview.com

DogWatch Cigar Radio #166 May 16, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:46:38 -0400

Cigar of the Week – Illusione f9

DogWatch Cigar Radio Dark Side Special

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:46:42 -0400

From the vault, missing Dark Side segment from the May 02, 2008 Episode with Mark Neff. We discuss the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure #2, Bolivar Salamones Regional Release and the future of the Cuban Embargo.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #165 May 09, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sat, 10 May 2008 10:23:48 -0400

Cigar of the Week – Padron 2000 Maduro;

DogWatch Cigar Radio #164 May 02, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Tue, 06 May 2008 06:55:00 -0400

Cigar of the Week is the Los Blancos Sumatra Torpedo, Special Guest Mark Neff, Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure #2, Flor de Oliva, Jamieson, Camacho Select, Dunhill SIgned Range, CAO Brazillia, Romeo y Julieta Habano Reserve Belicoso,DogWatch Dark from Black Dog Coffee,Illusione 2, Montecristo Serie C

DogWatch Cigar Radio #163 April 25, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 06:54:48 -0400

Cigar of the Week is the Fuente Doulble Chateu, special guest Brian Hewitt, Luis Sanchez Silver Selection, Savinelli Liga Especial Torpedo, Rocky Patel Decade Robusto, Padron Londres Maduro, 601 Maduro (blue label), Camacho Select Robusto, Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic Perla 1952

DogWatch Cigar Radio Enhanced Interview with Pete Johnson April 18, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Fri, 09 May 2008 06:06:25 -0400

iTunes enhanced version of the Pete Johnson Interview on April 18, 2008

DogWatch Cigar Radio #162 April 18, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 05:25:48 -0400

Cigar of the Week is the La Gloria Cubana Glorios, insightful interview with Pete Johnson of TatuajeCigars, discussion about cigar value, a trip to the Dark Side and What Else We've been Smok'in. We have listeners emails and a question from the herf line.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #161 April 11, 2008

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 05:25:41 -0400

Cigar of the Week is the Rocky Patel Decade Tenth Anniversary, interview with Luis Sanchez of La Tradicion Cubana, a trip to the Dark Side, What Else We've been Smok'in and the Value REview of the Week. We have listeners emails and a report from the herf line.

DogWatch Cigar Radio #160 04/05/08

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 05:25:59 -0400

Cigar of the Week is the Camacho Select Lonsdale, Doc Simpson joins us for the Dark Side and more cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #159 03/28/08

Bob.McDuffee@gmail.com (Bob McDuffee) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 05:26:09 -0400

Cigar of the Week is the Augusto Reyes Nativo Lancero, Dark Side and more cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #158 03/21/08

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 06:49:51 -0400

Bob is BACK and the Cigar of the Week is the La Aurora Sublime, Dark Side and more cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #156 03/14/08

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 06:49:44 -0400

A Bob Free Episode: The Cigar of the Week is the J. Fuego, Mark Neff sits in for Bob, Dark Side and more cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #155B 03/07/08

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 06:50:17 -0400

Part B of a two Part Show: The Cigar of the Week is the St. Louis Rey Series G Maduro No 6,Colin Ganley, Value Reccomendation, Dark Side and more cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #155A 03/07/08

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 06:50:38 -0400

Part A of a two Part Show: The Cigar of the Week is the St. Louis Rey Series G Maduro No 6,Colin Ganley, Value Reccomendation, Dark Side and more cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #154 02/29/08

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 06:50:56 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the El Tiante Series 23,Value Reccomendation, Dark Side and over 2 hours of cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #153 02/22/08

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 06:51:28 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the CAO Black VR Maduro, Brian and Walt from Stogie Review join us as well as a surprise visit from Dr. Terry Simpson, all that and over 2 hours of cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #152 02/15/08

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 14:17:19 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Camacho Corojo Maduro, this is a short one but its loaded with cigar talk

DogWatch Cigar Radio #151 02/08/08

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 14:17:23 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Montessiono fro Tobacalera y Fuente, Cohiba Wild plus moderate insanity and more cigars

DogWatch Cigar Radio #150 02/01/08

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 14:17:29 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Las Memorias Cubano Gordo 5 x 64, Ted's Made By Hand, OpusX Perfeccion #5, Anejo #50, Kinky Freidmann Jew Boy and Willy,Tatuaje Havana VI,Adan y Eva Figurado #3,Top Cigar Toro! plus extreme insanity and more cigars

DogWatch Cigar Radio #149 01/25/08

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 14:17:33 -0400

The Cigar of the Week is the Rocky Patel Sun Grown Toro.Dr. Terry Simpson,Colin Ganley,Padron Anniversary,On the Dark Side - Partagas Serie du Connaisseur 1,The Value Recommendation of the week is the Oliva Serie V Lancero! plus extreme insanity and cigars

DogWatch Cigar Radio #148 01/18/08

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 14:17:37 -0400

Cigar of the Week is the La Flor Dominicana Reserva Especiale El Jocko Perfecto plus extreme insanity and cigars

DogWatch Cigar Radio #147 01/11/08

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 14:17:41 -0400

Cigar of the Week Hoyo de Monterrey 75th Anniversary, Diamond Cron Maximus, Sam Spuss from Australia, extreme insanity and cigars