Arturo Fuente Don Carlos cigars are a symbol of perfection, crafted by the Fuente family patriarch, Carlos Fuente Sr. These medium-bodied cigars are meticulously rolled in the Dominican Republic using the finest aged tobaccos and prime leaf. Known for their exquisite flavor profile and flawless construction, Don Carlos cigars are a favorite among cigar aficionados worldwide.
History and Legacy of Arturo Fuente
The Fuente family has a rich history in the cigar industry, dating back to the early 20th century. Arturo Fuente, the founder, started the company in Tampa, Florida, and later moved the operations to the Dominican Republic. The legacy continues with Carlos Fuente Sr., who has expanded the brand globally, creating some of the finest cigars on the market.
What Sets Don Carlos Cigars Apart
What distinguishes Arturo Fuente Don Carlos cigars is their unique blend of Dominican binder and filler tobaccos, wrapped in African Cameroon wrappers. This combination delivers a smooth draw with notes of cedar, spice, and leather, creating a harmonious flavor profile. The even burn and sweet finish make these cigars stand out as top-tier products. This vintage gem has maintained an excellent rating from Cigar Aficionado over time, a masterpiece that is flavorful and complex with a delicious aroma and notes of espresso beans, chestnut, earth and oak.
Flavors and Profiles
Robusto: A Rich and Bold Option
When it comes to Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Robusto cigars they are the perfect size, enthusiasts can expect a rich and bold smoking experience. The robusto shape allows for a concentrated and intense flavor profile, emphasizing the blend of aged Dominican tobaccos and African Cameroon wrapper. This combination results in a satisfying smoke with notes of cedar, spice, and leather, providing a robust and luxurious indulgence for cigar connoisseurs.
Savoring the Notes of Don Carlos Cigars
Delving into the world of Don Carlos cigars means savoring a tapestry of flavors meticulously crafted by the Fuente family. Each puff reveals intricate tasting notes, from the initial draw to the lingering finish. The blend of Dominican binder and filler tobaccos, enveloped in a luscious African Cameroon wrapper, creates a harmonious symphony on the palate, with nuances of cedar, spice, and a hint of sweetness dancing on the taste buds.
Understanding the Complexity of Fuente Cigar Blends
As experienced with products like the Opus X, Arturo Fuente’s dedication to blending premium tobaccos is evident in the complexity of the Don Carlos cigar line. The meticulous selection of Dominican binder and filler tobaccos, aged to perfection, marries seamlessly with the African Cameroon wrapper, offering a multifaceted smoking experience. From the earthy undertones to the peppery notes and the smooth draw that burns evenly, each element contributes to the depth and sophistication of Fuente’s cigar blends.
Reviews and Recommendations
Expert Opinions on Arturo Fuente Don Carlos
Experts in the cigar industry have lauded the Arturo Fuente Don Carlos cigars for their exceptional quality and exquisite flavors. Renowned cigar critics and connoisseurs praise the meticulous craftsmanship and unique blend that sets these cigars apart from the rest. The medium-bodied profile, along with the notes of cedar, spice, and leather, make Don Carlos cigars a top choice for discerning enthusiasts.
Experiences with Fuente Cigars
Cigar enthusiasts worldwide have shared their positive experiences with Fuente cigars, particularly the Don Carlos line. Many users appreciate the smooth draw and complex flavor profile offered by these cigars. The even burn and sweet finish further enhance the smoking experience, garnering praise from those who enjoy a refined and luxurious cigar. Upon lighting its very much like the Casa Cuba, a medium to-full bodied experience with a creamy first third, notes of cocoa and subtle citrus in the second third, a minimal earthiness to finish the beautifully blended Don Carlos by Arturo Fuente Cigars. This Cigar Aficionado awarded medium to full-bodied cigar has made many Top 25 lists, including 2017 Cigar of the Year.
Recommended Pairings for Enjoying Don Carlos Cigars
For aficionados looking to elevate their cigar enjoyment, pairing Arturo Fuente Don Carlos cigars with the right accompaniments can enhance the overall experience. The robust flavors of cedar, spice, and leather in these cigars can be complemented with drinks like aged whiskey, dark rum, roasted nut, or a rich espresso to create a harmonious blend of flavors on the palate.
Where to Purchase Online
Trusted Online Retailers for Fuente Cigars
When it comes to buying Fuente cigars online, the don’t just send products to anyone, so it’s essential to choose reputable retailers known for their authenticity and quality products. Trusted online platforms offer a wide selection of Fuente cigars, including the Don Carlos line, ensuring that customers receive genuine products and excellent customer service. The Tobacconist of Greenwich has been fortunate to build strong relationships with companies like Arturo Fuente cigars as an Authorized Retailer. Visit our homepage to view a list of the most rare and highly rated cigars: https://tobacconistofgreenwich.com/ or check out our full list of Opus X cigars: https://tobacconistofgreenwich.com/product-category/cigars/opus-x/
Tips to Buy Arturo Fuente Cigars Online
When you look to buy Opus X cigars online, it’s crucial to verify the authenticity of the products to ensure a genuine smoking experience. Look for trusted retailers with a proven track record of selling authentic Fuente cigars. Check for certifications, reviews, and customer feedback to make informed decisions when purchasing these premium cigars.
Davidoff Cigars has long been synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship, qualities that are epitomized in its exclusive Year of the Zodiac series. Launched to celebrate the Chinese New Year, each release in the series is dedicated to the zodiac sign of the respective year, offering aficionados a unique smoking experience that combines rich flavors with the mystique of the zodiac. The series is not only a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence but also a reflection of its ability to weave cultural significance into the art of cigar making. Below is an exploration of each release since the series began, highlighting the distinct characteristics that make each edition a coveted item among collectors and enthusiasts.
The series commenced with the Year of the Dragon, introducing a bold blend that set a high standard for the editions to follow. This release featured a blend of rare tobaccos that provided a complex flavor profile, with hints of spice, earth, and a subtle sweetness. The packaging was equally impressive, with each cigar housed in a box adorned with intricate dragon motifs, symbolizing power and good fortune.
Following the dragon, the Year of the Snake edition continued the tradition of excellence. This cigar was crafted with a selection of premium fillers and a silky wrapper, delivering a smoother, more refined smoke. The flavor profile was characterized by notes of leather, cocoa, and a touch of pepper, offering a balanced yet intriguing smoking experience. The snake-themed packaging highlighted elegance and wisdom, traits associated with the zodiac sign.
The Year of the Horse edition galloped into the hearts of cigar lovers with its robust and vibrant blend. It featured a mix of tobaccos that produced a rich and full-bodied smoke, with layers of cedar, dark chocolate, and a hint of fruit. The horse, a symbol of strength and freedom, was beautifully represented in the packaging, which captured the dynamic spirit of this edition.
With the Year of the Sheep, Davidoff introduced a cigar that was as smooth as it was flavorful. The blend was designed to offer a creamy smoke with a complex array of flavors, including nutmeg, cream, and a hint of citrus. The goat’s attributes of creativity and peace were reflected in the artistic design of the boxes, making this edition a piece of art in its own right.
The Year of the Monkey edition was celebrated for its playful yet sophisticated blend. This cigar was a masterpiece of balance, offering a medium-bodied smoke with notes of spice, wood, and a sweet finish. The monkey’s intelligence and charisma were captured in the vibrant packaging, which added a touch of fun to the series.
Davidoff’s Year of the Rooster brought a dawn of rich flavors and aromas. This edition featured a blend that was both bold and intricate, with a spectrum of flavors including almond, cinnamon, and a hint of earthiness. The rooster’s confidence and punctuality were symbolized in the elegant design of the packaging, heralding a new day for cigar aficionados.
The Year of the Dog edition was a loyal companion to the series, offering a comforting and satisfying smoke. The blend was crafted for smoothness, with a velvety texture and flavors of cocoa, coffee, and a dash of spice. The packaging paid homage to the dog’s loyalty and sincerity, making this edition a trusted choice for many.
Celebrating abundance and joy, the Year of the Pig edition was a feast for the senses. This cigar was distinguished by its rich, full-bodied flavor profile, with notes of sweetness, earth, and a robust finish. The pig’s symbolism of wealth and prosperity was tastefully incorporated into the packaging, wrapping up the experience in a package of opulence.
Year: 2019
Production Quantity: 4,500 boxes
MSRP: $36 per cigar
Subsequent Years
As the series progressed, Davidoff continued to honor each zodiac sign with the same level of dedication and creativity, ensuring that each edition was a worthy addition to the lineage. Although specific details of each release vary, the commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and the celebration of cultural heritage remains the cornerstone of the Year of the Zodiac series.
In conclusion, Davidoff’s Year of the Zodiac limited cigars series is more than just a collection of premium smokes; it’s a journey through culture, art, and the finest tobacco blends. Each release brings with it a story, a set of flavors, and a design that reflects the essence of the respective zodiac sign, making each year’s edition eagerly anticipated by collectors and enthusiasts around the world. As the series continues, it stands as a testament to Davidoff’s legacy of luxury, tradition, and innovation in the world of cigars.
Tobacconist of Greenwich is a proud top U.S. certified retailer of the Elie Bleu cigar accessories including humidors, lighters, cutters, cases, and more. We keep our online and in-store product up-to-date with the latest product offerings.
All Elie Bleu products come with a manufacturers warranty.
How can I contact the after-sales department? Please contact our service center (Reyns International) at 800-319-8874 ext. 6 Manufacturer’s warranty Elie Bleu’s lighters, cigar cutters, humidors, watch winders and jewelry boxes are guaranteed for two years from the date of purchase to be free of manufacturing defects and deficiencies, subject to normal usage conditions and adherence to the instructions for use recommended by Elie Bleu.
In the event that the product needs to be repaired during this warranty period, the repair will be handled by Elie Bleu (parts and labor), providing that:
The product has not been subjected to shock, immersion, etc. This includes product being dropped. This is considered shock. The problem has not been caused by inappropriate handling or failure to maintain the product (e.g., clogging or damage to finish due to heat, excessive moisture or intense lighting – wood nor lighters respond well to these conditions. The product has not been modified in any way from its original condition. The product has not been repaired in any way by any after-sales service center other than Elie Bleu.
Learn more about Elie Bleu after care here: https://www.eliebleu-usa.com/after-sales-support.html
You can view the full Elie Bleu certified retailer listing here: https://www.eliebleu-usa.com/dealer-listing.html
There is no better businessman than the one who falls in love with a product, and then makes it his life’s work to bring that same joy to other people. Such is the story of Michael Cafagno, owner of the luxury cigar retail shop The Tobacconist of Greenwich.
“I got into this business by mistake,” recalls Cafagno, relaying the tale of how he came to unofficially inherit The Tobacconist from Jimmy “Cigars” Lacerra, founder of the shop and Cafagno’s mentor and teacher. After being introduced to Jimmy by a mutual friend, Cafagno was initiated into the world of high end cigars at the age of 19, and he was hooked.
Cafagno stopped by the shop every day after that first introduction, and Jimmy eventually hired him to work part-time while he taught Cafagno the business and culture of the cigar world.
“He taught me how to balance a checkbook and maintain relationships with some of the world’s most powerful people,” Cafagno recalls. “He taught me loyalty, he taught me respect, and most importantly, he taught me that if you say something, you do it.”
The importance of follow through and staying true to your word was how Cafagno came to inherit the shop from Jimmy upon his death in 2011. A conversation over lunch and a handshake was all it took for the two men to decide the fate of The Tobacconist. “You keep doing a good job…[and] you’re going to take this place over and take care of my wife,” Jimmy told him, and that was that. No lawyers, no contracts and the proposition was never discussed again. When Jimmy Cigars passed in June of 2011, Cafagno took the place over and has been running it ever since.
The success of The Tobacconist in Cafagno’s hands can be seen in the prestigious awards the shop has racked up over the years, most notably with the luxury cigar brand Davidoff of Geneva. The Tobacconist of Greenwich has won five of Davidoff’s Golden Band awards since 2012, including the prestigious Appointed Merchant of the Year award in 2015. In 2021, in addition to the 4th Best Performance in a Single Location Golden Band Award, The Tobacconist of Greenwich was nominated into the Davidoff Hall of Fame.
“Davidoff is the greatest company in the world!” Cafagno claimed in a recent interview with Tobacco Business. “I don’t just say that because of my relationship with them; I say that because the people who run the company have the same values I have,” he explains. They’re a loyal, respectful group of businesspeople who have honor, vision, and a genuine interest in the success of the shop.
Personal relationships are the core foundation of the The Tobacconist of Greenwich. All encompassing cigar experiences are what we strive to create for our customers every day. In essence, imprinting a lifelong memory for each of our clients has become our mission and key to our ongoing success. Cafagno’s mission in life has become to carry on the legacy of Jimmy ‘Cigars’ Lacerra, to allow each and every client that walks through his doors to feel the genuine heritage and history of the Tobacconist of Greenwich.
Davidoff Cigars has long been synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship, qualities that are epitomized in its exclusive Year of the Zodiac series. Launched to celebrate the Chinese New Year, each release in the series is dedicated to the zodiac sign of the respective...
What do former NBA star Michael Jordan, Rush Limbaugh, Sidney Frank, and the Tobacconist of Greenwich have in common: they have all laid hands on Marvin’s Mystery Box, the limited edition Elie Bleu humidor. This coveted humidor brought in over $1.8 million at a charity event in 2005 when it sold as a triple lot of humidors to Jordan, Limbaugh, and Frank. Now, the very humidor purchased by Sidney Frank that record-breaking night in April is currently at the Tobacconist of Greenwich, awaiting auction.
The legendary humidor already enjoyed the unofficial title of crowning jewel of the annual Night to Remember charity auction, hosted at the Four Seasons restaurant. Held for over 20 years now, Night to Remember is hosted by the editor and publisher of Cigar Aficionado magazine Marvin Shanken, with all proceed going to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
Marvin’s Mystery Box was the capstone of Night’s auction in 2005, brought out after 18 other items were featured; items that included a collection of 693 Fuente-made cigars that included every Fuente Fuente Opus X, a trip for 10 on 141-foot luxury yacht in the Caribbean, and a chest filled with 100 bottles of rare wine. Yet even amidst this stunning lineup, Marvin’s Mystery box was held until the very end as befitting its station, after the Paradis Cognac was poured and the dinner cigars were lit.
The cedar-lined sycamore humidor, trimmed in ebony and inlayed with yellow sycamore is filled with unknown treasures and adorned with genuine Cuban cigar bands. It stands as the only non-cigar object that the Cuban government has allowed to be decorated in such a way. While the contents of the Mystery Box have never been divulged, it has been strongly hinted that it contains a trove of genuine Havanas.
The bidding started that night at a reasonable $50,000 and was headed toward a respectable mid $100,000 sale in Sidney Frank’s favor until Michael Jordan intervened. Well known for his appreciation of high-end cigars, Jordan and his tablemate, Rush Limbaugh, soon drove the price to the high $200,000’s as they played off each other in a three way bidding war. Shanken, recognizing the historic implications of the auction when the bidding hit $270,000, offered the trio a deal: he would triple the lot if each man agreed to pay $300,000 for a box. The total amount was then doubled by financer and cancer survivor Michal Milken, bringing the total sale to $1.8 million.
Now, the chance to walk the same historic paths as the men who inspired greatness in spirits, sports and politics is at hand. The bidding for Marvin’s Mystery Box will take place at a date to be announced in 2022, with an opening bid of $300,000. Interested parties should go to our auction below. Sign up for our newsletter to receive information about this auction.
Link to article detailing the historic auction can be found here.
Brick-and-mortar retailers are the backbone of the premium cigar industry, and for manufacturers like Davidoff, they are the company’s ambassadors and a connection to the end consumers. When it comes to finding a home for its premium cigars, Davidoff doesn’t look for just any retail outlet. It searches for true partners that will represent the heritage and traditions established by the company’s founder, Zino Davidoff, who opened his first cigar store in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1911. Zino Davidoff provided his customers with an exceptional experience, and he worked hard to establish strong ties with them—two characteristics that Davidoff continues to seek out from the company’s retail partners today.
“We look for retailers who will become long-term partners and local ambassadors of our global brands,” says Dylan Austin, president of Davidoff of Geneva Americas. “To gain consideration, we look for commitment and steady growth of our other core brands, enthusiasm and support of our programs, and obviously the quality of their retail environment. We also look for partners that share similar values and business priorities that align with the Davidoff standard of excellence. [Davidoff] Appointed Merchants must understand the importance of premium positioning, price protection, merchandising, training and education, and embrace our programs that focus on sales out to the consumer. They must share the same passion we have for Davidoff and in joining the global family of appointed merchants.”
“Oettinger Davidoff AG is a family-owned business which strongly believes in the values of trusted partnership, mutual respect and passion for our beautiful Davidoff brand and our customers,” adds Eddie Simon, chief marketing officer at Oettinger Davidoff. “These same values were lived by Zino Davidoff and still today are the foundation of choosing whom we welcome to the global Davidoff family of appointed merchants. It is this sense of commitment, dedication, and long-term development of business and brand that makes us grateful for the partners we do business with.”
In order to highlight those exceptional retailers that meet or exceed Davidoff’s high standard of excellence, the company launched its Davidoff Appointed Merchant program in the U.S. in 1990. In the beginning, there were only 24 Davidoff Appointed Merchants throughout the company, but 30 years later, that number has expanded to 290. Davidoff honors the program’s long history and puts a lot of time and consideration into selecting the right partners to join its prestigious program. It is careful not to dilute the market by adding too many appointed merchants, and less than 10 percent of Davidoff’s entire network of retailers have earned the Davidoff Appointed Merchant distinction.
Tobacco Business magazine caught up with three of Davidoff’s appointed merchant partners to discuss the benefits of being among Davidoff’s elite retailer partners and to talk about the company’s programs and benefits, as well as the way their business relationships with Davidoff have evolved over time. Those interviewed include Corey Johnston of Blend Bar with Davidoff Cigars, Michael Tortorea from Maxamar Ultimate Cigars and Michael Cafagno of Tobacconist of Greenwich. In addition to being part of the Davidoff Appointed Merchant program, each of these retailers has also been the recipient of multiple Golden Band Awards, an annual awards program that recognizes Davidoff’s top retail partners.
Tobacco Business: Davidoff’s heritage began in 1911 when Zino Davidoff opened his first cigar store in Geneva, Switzerland, because he had a love for cigars and providing an exceptional customer experience. What inspired you to become a part of the premium cigar business and to establish your own retail business? Corey Johnston: First, we liked the culture—the lifestyle is all-encompassing. Golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, fine wine and spirits, and cooking can all be enjoyed with cigars and friends. Second was the entertainment factor. There are not many upscale places in the U.S. with rare bourbon and single malts, fine wines and where people have the ability to also enjoy a cigar. So, the opportunity to start a new market made itself attractive.
Michael Tortorea: In my youth, I discovered a passion for great cigars by watching my father and his friends discuss world events and philosophy while enjoying cigars. As I grew older, I wanted to create that same atmosphere in our retail establishment. Since the inception of the brand, Zino made sure to exemplify what client service means and should be. That transcends us, and our customers expect top service, which is part of our genes.
Michael Cafagno: I came in here [Tobacconist of Greenwich] as a 19-year-old kid and as a customer. At the time, I was working three jobs—as a waiter, a laborer and a construction yarder. A friend of mine, who was a chef at the country club that I worked at, was a cigar smoker. I used to go to a shop in Yonkers [New York] that was like a newspaper store. I told him, “You’ve got to come with me and check this place out.” I brought him there, and he said to me, “Michael, this is not a cigar store; it’s a newspaper stand. I’m going to bring you to a real cigar shop.” I came here with him, and I walked into this kind of euphoric, beautiful tobacco store that I didn’t know existed. It was in a very old-world setting that was filled with dark woods and beautiful displays and kind of old-school methodology.
Hendrik “Henke” Kelner and Michael Cafagno
The owner of the store, Jimmy Lacerra, was a very well-dressed, polished man, and as soon as I walked in it was an intimidating sight as he was holding court with a bunch of guys. I walked in as this 19-year-old kid in jeans and a T-shirt while they were all dressed in suits, dress shirts and ties. When I walked in, Jimmy goes, “What do you want?” And I said, “I’d like to buy some cigars.” Now, at the time, I was making about $500 a week. He says, “You want to buy some cigars? You old enough?” I said, “Yeah, sure.” He responds, “Let me see your ID.” So, I show my ID. And he says, “All right, come on over here,” and he brings me over to the case and says, “How much money do you want to spend?” So, I figured, let me pretend like I have money so I don’t embarrass myself more than I already have. So, I said, “It makes no difference to me.” So, he starts picking out all these cigars—they were all Davidoff cigars. He brings me up to the register, and the total is $460. So, I’m saying to myself, “How am I going to pay for cigars? I don’t even know what they are.” I pay him, because I would have been embarrassed at the time if I didn’t. He kind of winked at me and said, “You come back here in a couple of weeks, kid, and I’ll teach you what you smoked.”
So, about six months after I started coming here, he asked, “Do you want to start working here on Saturday?” I said that I’d love to do that. At the time, I was still working three jobs and going to school full time, so my schedule was pretty packed. But I knew there was something about this place that I wanted to be a part of. I started working here full time as I was finishing up a college degree in forensic psychology. I had no idea what I wanted to do. I just knew I loved this place, and I loved Jimmy as a man, as a mentor and as somebody I looked up to. Later, I asked him [if I could] work there full time, which he said OK to, and he started teaching me about the business more—how to balance a checkbook, how to place orders, how to anticipate sales and how to treat people when they came in. When he passed, my relationships with the vendors at the store had become very solid, and everybody kind of rallied around the unspoken plan of allowing me to take the helm of this place and really make it grow and prosper.
The Davidoff Appointed Merchant program is available to just a few retailers across the globe that embody the drive and passion that Davidoff stands for. What does it mean to you for your store to be a Davidoff Appointed Merchant? Cafagno: What does it mean to me? That you’re the best in the business. The personal relationship that I have with all of their team is just something that you don’t find in this business. Your typical salesperson walks in and they want to sell you a service—that’s their only goal. It’s not to learn about your business; it’s not to know about you as a man or to learn about your consumers—it’s only to sell you cigars. With Davidoff, sure, the goal in the end is to sell a lot of cigars together, but the foundation of your relationship is so much more important to them. It’s about the type of retailer you are and the type of person you are. More importantly, that’s what your relationship is, and that’s how my relationship with them has formed—where I feel like if I sold my store tomorrow, that I’d still talk to every single one of them. So I would say that I can’t say enough good things about Davidoff as a company and how much I appreciate being a part of their team.
Tortorea: We belong to the family of Davidoff. The leadership and the embrace they provide is unmatched. We get access to some of the best cigars ever made, and we became a destination for Davidoff cigars’ clients.
Johnston: If you really want to be in the cigar business long term, not as a part-time hobby, then as a business owner you need to build a plan, execute the plan and eventually earn the opportunity to be a Davidoff Appointed Merchant. The best cigar industry retailers are Davidoff Appointed Merchants. Luxury brands like Rolex, Rolls Royce and Wilson Combat all formed partnerships with the best in the market.
Kim Arbuckle, Corey Johnston and Mark Holden own Blend Bar with Davidoff Cigars in Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Nashville, Tennesse, and The Woodlands, Texas.
What ideas or characteristics do you embody that makes you stand apart from other retailers in the industry? Johnston: Attention to detail in everything that we do. Blend is a destination for those connoisseurs who want the best: cigars, bourbons, wine and VIP service. We start with a custom fresh-air replacement system in all of our stores. This one-of-a-kind HVAC is a costly expense; however, it creates an indoor environment that every guest appreciates. The level of guest service at Blend is unlike most retailers. The well-experienced staff offers walk-in humidor service, tableside cut and light, spirit pairing suggestions and attentive butler-style service.
Tortorea: Passion is crucial to success. At Davidoff, everyone is passionate about the product. We see it at the farms, the factory and at the corporate level. That inspires us retailers to treat the brand with care and loyalty to the level that our clients feel it. We always felt that our friends who share our philosophy and values would also make great ambassadors of cigars for our business.
Cafagno: I think honor is the most important thing in business. I’ve always been the kind of person that if I shake your hand and tell you I’m going to do something, I do it—and Davidoff has that quality about them as well. So that’s certainly a rarefied quality in today’s day and age. Now it’s kind of a dog-eat-dog world, and if someone’s got to screw you to get ahead, they do it. I don’t believe in that. I don’t believe in taking advantage of the weak. I believe in working as hard as you can to be the best that you can always be. That as a common value is shared between Davidoff and myself.
Davidoff values its indispensable business partner relationships with its customers. How have Davidoff programs helped you to grow your business? Cafagno: I would say the shop-in-shop is the No. 1 tool at our disposal in terms of presence. Right when a customer walks into the store you have this big, beautiful white case that exudes luxury and attention. It is the first thing my guys look toward after they walk into my store. It’s not, “What do you have?” it’s, “Oh, that’s a cool case,” and they walk right over to it. Whether it’s subconsciously or consciously, that’s what they’re drawn to.
I would also say that their Viaje al Origen trips are a huge piece of their tools that they offer retailers. It was one of the most educational, incredible trips I’ve taken in my life. I learned more about my business in three days than I had in 10 years. The amount of knowledge that Klaas and Henke Kelner, Eladio Diaz, Hamlet Espinal and all these guys down in the Dominican [Republic] have—it’s the most sophisticated, simple operation I’ve ever seen in my life. There are no machines; it’s all hands. It’s all people that genuinely love doing what they’re doing, and they’re all happy. It’s a pretty amazing piece of the puzzle. When you go on that trip, you basically come out of it with a completely different understanding and appreciation for cigars, the science behind them, and how these guys are so good. That trip is an amazing asset that Davidoff has made available to retailers that I’d recommend every retailer should take because it is amazing what you’ll learn.
Johnston: The integrity of the Davidoff brand drives our profits. The quality of Davidoff cigars and Davidoff’s control of distribution secures our business sales cycles.
Ammar Tabbaa, owner of Maxamar Ultimate Cigars, accepting the Appointed Merchant award at the Golden Band Awards ceremony in 2013. Eliseo Gonzalez, a sales manager for Davidoff, is in the background.
Tortorea: Davidoff programs help tremendously through online courses. This makes us understand the products and be better at transferring the knowledge to our clients. Our local representative is very instrumental in the success of the programs, and he is excellent at his job.
The Golden Band Awards recognize the best of the best. You have won a Golden Band Award in the past. What did it mean to you and your business? Johnston: The Golden Band Awards are on display in the stores. It is always satisfying to be recognized, especially with other impressive [Davidoff] Appointed Merchants being nominated. The Golden Band Awards also inspire our staff to perform luxury service daily.
Cafagno: I’ve won five of them, and the Appointed Merchant of the Year is obviously the big one. Not that I need to be patted on the head or anything like that, but it was basically Davidoff saying, “Hey, man. Good job. Keep working.” It definitely was a nice thing that I respected, and I appreciate it. And it certainly gave me exposure. Being able to have that recognition from Davidoff also validates people’s opinions of this store, and you have something to say. It’s not just me saying, “I’ve got the best stuff here. Come buy cigars from Greenwich, Connecticut.” There’s truth to it. The Golden Band Awards have certainly validated that what I’m doing is real and genuine, and that it’s not something that I’m doing just to make money. I truly love what I do.
Tortorea: The Golden Band Awards are a great honor that every Davidoff dealer strives to achieve. It does help with sales because it inspires trust among Davidoff’s loyal clients that their retailer has done an exceptional job taking care of them.
Alexandra Lyons, manager at Blend Bar with Davidoff Cigars in Nashville, Tennessee
Davidoff strives to be a strong partner to retailers. How would you describe your business’s relationship with Davidoff? Tortorea: Our bond with Davidoff is extremely solid. The support provided through excellent marketing and the superb products that customers call in advance to reserve. It is a relationship of mutual success that we see in the constant communication with the team at the upper management and the quality of the local representative. Davidoff is never too busy to listen to us. They show us that they care.
Johnston: Blend currently has four stores: Houston, Nashville, Indianapolis and Pittsburgh. Davidoff provides excellent support for each store—training through Davidoff Academy, merchandising, consumer events and marketing/branding support. Three to four new Blend lounges are coming soon, and Davidoff is a critical partner to our success.
Cafagno: It’s the greatest business relationship I could ever imagine having with anybody. When Jim Young [Davidoff’s chief commercial officer and former president of Davidoff of Geneva USA] came in, the ideas he brought with him and the team he brought with him were amazing. There’s no other word to describe what they’ve done with the marketing and the whole way that the company operates. It’s just a complete transformation in terms of branding and appeal to all smokers, and you can’t say enough good about Jim Young, Lana Fraser [Davidoff’s head of marketing for the Americas], Dylan Austin, Zach Medwin [an area sales manager with Davidoff] and the rest of the team. These people are just very dedicated assets, both in personal and in business matters. It’s such a unique company to work with because they truly are there for you to grow. The amount of innovative tools that they’ve implemented over the years is just remarkable. I’ve been able to grow with them throughout this last year.
This story first appeared in the July/August 2020 issue of Tobacco Business magazine. Members of the tobacco industry are eligible for a complimentary subscription to our magazine. Click here for details.
– Story by Antoine Reid, senior editor and digital director for Tobacco Business Magazine. You can follow him on Instagram @editor.reid.
Mike Cafagno, owner of the Tobacconist of Greenwich, is no stranger to awards — his shop has been recognized by the world’s most luxurious cigar brand, Davidoff of Geneva, as the merchant with the largest volume of Davidoff sales in a calendar year since 2012.
This year, Cafagno earned what is considered by industry standards to be the most prestigious award from Davidoff, the Appointed Merchant of the Year, given to the merchant with the largest volume of purchases encompassing the entire Davidoff portfolio.
But this time, when he stood on stage at the black tie event in New Orleans, it meant a little more, and not just because it was a more prestigious award. Cafagno was paying tribute to the man that made his success possible, the late Jimmy Lacerra, the original owner of the shop at 8 Havemeyer Place, without whom Cafagno said he’d be either dead or in jail.
“It was such a humbling experience and to be able to accept that award, which really speaks to the business that Jimmy started, was just amazing,” Cafagno said.
So, with Lacerra’s wife by his side and hundreds of well-dressed, high-profile strangers in the audience, 28-year-old Cafagno told the story of how “Jimmy Cigars” saved his life.
At 19, the Mt. Kisco, N.Y., native was working three jobs and only pulling in about $500 a week. A mutual friend and fellow cigar lover took Cafagno to the Tobacconist of Greenwich for the first time after learning the “cigar shop” he preferred was actually just a convenience store that sold cigars.
“I couldn’t afford much and I didn’t know any better,” Cafagno said. “So this guy took me to meet Jimmy. We walked in and there was a group of men dressed up and sitting around smoking. Jimmy asked what I wanted and I thought, when in Rome I might as well pretend I have money. So I said it didn’t make a difference to me. Jimmy started pulling cigars and I could see the prices … each one was worth several hours of work … he rung me up and it came to around $450. Well at that point I couldn’t say no or I’d look like a fool. So I paid it and Jimmy told me to come back in a week or so and he’d tell me what I smoked.”
Cafagno smoked the cigars. He knew they were better than what he’d had before but he didn’t know why. So he went back to see Lacerra a week later, and every day after that he made at least one trip to the little shop off Greenwich Avenue.
Lacerra took Cafagno under his wing, teaching him about cigars, the business and the culture. Eventually he hired Cafagno part time, and Cafagno got to know the clientele, mostly regulars who came to shoot the breeze and enjoy a cigar over good conversation. He described it as a safe haven — a place he fit in because it didn’t matter what his background was.
About six months later, Cafagno asked if he could start working full time. He’d graduated from college and wasn’t sure what he wanted to do, but he knew he wasn’t about to leave the Tobacconist. Lacerra obliged and Cafagno immediately started to look for areas the business could improve. He didn’t want to change the tradition or atmosphere of he shop, but in his words, the place was archaic.
“There was no technology, no website, no online sales … in business Jimmy believed if it’s not broke don’t fix it, but I always had these ideas,” Cafagno said. “In 2008 I built our first website. It wasn’t much, mostly informational and you couldn’t buy anything online, but it was an improvement.”
Cafagno continued to learn the business — the ins and outs of the cigar industry and the importance of knowing his clients. One day over lunch, Cafagno said Lucerra brought up a conversation he’ll never forget.
“You keep doing a good job, keep your head on straight and you don’t have to worry about anything,” Lucerra told him. “You’re going to take this place over and take care of my wife.”
The two men never met with a lawyer, never wrote anything up and never spoke of the conversation again. Shortly after, Lucerra was diagnosed with cancer, and after a three year battle he died in 2011.
Cafagno was heartbroken, but with the legacy and community Lucerra had built, he ran the business in his memory and started to bring it into the modern era. He’s remodeled much of the interior, providing more space for products, and opened a cigar lounge on East Putnam with another local businessman. He started hosting high-profile events to bring in additional business and support the brand, and he’s maintained a positive working relationship with the the Switzerland-based Davidoff brand.
Despite the changes, Cafagno said the community Lucerra built has only grown stronger, and the men who came to visit Lucerra now stop by to visit him. Cafagno’s third child was born last week and many clients have stopped by just to give him a hug, say congratulations and let him know, “Jimmy would be proud.”
So, while his latest award may be a recognition of the changes he’s made since taking over, Cafagno made clear he wouldn’t event be close to where he is today without the guidance of Jimmy Lucerra, who he believes is looking down and smiling on the little cigar shop he started in 1973.
“He used to say ‘you’re a legend in your own mind, kid,’” Cafagno said. “But he built the foundation. This business has always been successful because of him.“
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