INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT

The cigar industry has experienced dramatic growth in recent years thanks to increasing acceptance of cigar smoking among the "Generation X" population, a resurgence in "cigar evenings," and the popularity of the Internet where cigars are being sold in record numbers. The magazine Cigar Aficionado, introduced in 1992, is generally credited with the upturn in the cigar industry. No longer a passion for older men alone, changing demo-graphics find "twentysomethings," both men and women, participating in cigar evenings and joining the traditional 35- to 65-year-old traditionalists in the purchase of premium cigars. Celebrities have also helped add to the allure, adorning the cover of Cigar Aficionado and showing up frequently at soirees boasting "stogies."

Source:  Answers.com

No longer a passion for older men alone....

".....thanks to increasing acceptance of cigar smoking among the "Generation X" population, a resurgence in "cigar evenings," and the popularity of the Internet where cigars are being sold in record numbers."

And then add to the mix the "twentysomethings" both men and women, celebrities and soirees.... and voila the "New-age Era" of our deep, rich and historical cigar culture.

This is a most amazing culture we have -our fresh face infused by each generation attributes to the popularity of the cigar's days of glory, both past and present. Once dawned only for the passion of older men alone, the cigar has taken up its allure and love with the new generation of cigar enthusiasts.

Among a world of automation and technology, premium cigar makers and the making of a hand-rolled cigar, a complicated, slow process, Cuban and Central American immigrants in a half dozen small cigar factories have continued to make hand-rolled cigars.

The tobacco reaches the factory and is then baled so that it can age for 18 months to 2 years. The tobacco is then blended and rolled by a master blender. After bunching, pressing, and wrapping, cigars are individually inspected, then they are sent to the aging room where they remain for 21 to 180 days.

Cigar smokers have traded quantity for quality. They smoke fewer cigars, but when they do smoke, they often smoke cigars of a high quality.

....New Rich Men and Women, casual or seasoned, white or blue collar - the underlying thread which sews the future of our culture together is the deep respect, honor and acknowledgement of the cigar's days gone by. As we become more aware of our culture, and the makings of our favorite cigar choices - the lengthy process that goes into the rolling, blending and distribution, becomes our fascination and forms our dedication to keeping this rich spirit alive.

It is for all this, I am proud, excited and thankful for my sisters and brothers who share in my passion....

and today, I have a Gurkha Belicoso waiting for me....


Damsel....

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