In partnership with

Plasencia Alma Fuerte Hexagono Sixto II Cigar Review

The Plasencia Alma Fuerte Hexagono Sixto II is a unique and luxurious cigar, with its hexagonal shape and rich Nicaraguan blend. Crafted by the Plasencia family, it is a testament to their dedication to showcasing the full potential of Nicaraguan tobacco.

The Alma Fuerte, which translates to "Strong Soul," lives up to its name with a bold, complex flavor profile and an elegant presentation. It has gained recognition in the cigar community, earning high ratings and a spot as one of the top cigars in the world.

This cigar features an oily Nicaraguan wrapper and a blend of aged tobaccos from Estelí, Jalapa, Condega, and Ometepe. Its smoking experience evolves with each third, making it a favorite among seasoned cigar enthusiasts. Available at all fine B&M Tobacco shops, and online via Famous Smoke Shop.

Taste and Aroma Breakdown

First Third: The cigar opens with solid cedar notes and a rich, peppery tobacco flavor. The retro-hale is spicy, adding to the intensity of the initial experience. A hint of sweetness and floral notes also linger on the finish, creating a complex and satisfying start.

Second Third: As you enter the second third, the flavors deepen, with leather and earth becoming more prominent. The cedar remains, but it's joined by unsweetened cocoa powder and a touch of dark fruit. The smoke is thick, creamy, and full-bodied, with the pepper spice still present but more subdued.

Final Third: The final third brings the earthy notes back to the forefront, with continued hints of cedar, leather, and espresso beans. The pepper spice re-emerges slightly, adding a final kick to the experience. The cigar finishes with a satisfying depth of flavor, leaving a lasting impression.

This cigar is a standout in the Plasencia lineup. It offers a rich and rewarding smoking experience that justifies its premium price point​ (Leaf Enthusiast)​ (The Cigar Smoking Man)​ (Fox Cigar).

Custom Design Your Dream Engagement Ring

Find your perfect ring at JamesAllen.com! We offer over 500,000 certified lab grown and natural diamonds and more than 500 unique ring settings. Customize your dream ring from scratch or choose one of our stunning existing designs. Our non-commissioned 24/7 customer service team is here to guide you, offering free diamond consultations. With special financing, a lifetime warranty, and free worldwide shipping, you’ll experience exceptional quality and service. Shop the smart way with James Allen.

SHOP YOURS NOW

Churchill's Cigar Legacy: A Glimpse Behind the Smoke 🎩💨 (Part 3)

In this week’s Cigar Legends series, we look at Winston Churchill’s enduring relationship with his cigars—an emblem of his public strength and private solace. Far beyond mere indulgence, Churchill’s cigars were a carefully curated symbol of his resilience and leadership.

The Iconic Moments and Private Rituals 🚬

Imagine Churchill in the bomb shelters during the Blitz, calmly puffing on a cigar while bombs exploded above. This simple act wasn’t just for his comfort—it was a message to the people: We will endure. Or picture the famous photograph Yousuf Karsh took, where the sudden removal of Churchill’s cigar led to one of the most iconic, defiant expressions in history, capturing his bulldog spirit.

But behind the scenes, Churchill’s cigars were also his refuge. Late at night, in the solitude of his study, the smoke from his favorite Romeo y Julieta provided a rare moment of peace, allowing him to reflect on the immense pressures of wartime leadership. Each cigar was chosen carefully, each puff a step into deep contemplation.

This week, we explore these dual aspects of Churchill’s cigar moments, from the public displays of defiance to the private rituals that shaped his legacy. Join us as we uncover the stories behind the smoke and see how these moments inspire leaders today.

🔥 Dive into history with us and discover the legend behind the smoke! 🔥

Improve Your Fantasy Football Game (Free)

Tee Off at the Home of Golf: Your St Andrews Getaway

The Experience Golf crafts unforgettable golf vacations across Scotland, Ireland, and England. With guaranteed tee times on legendary courses like the world-renowned Old Course in St Andrews, all while pampering you with luxurious accommodations and memorable hospitality. Ever dreamed of walking the fairways where golfing icons have made history?

From the Old Course to Carnoustie, we can transform your bucket list into reality. Join The Experience Golf and discover your dream golf getaway.

Explore Now

The Fall of the Bootleg King: George Remus’s Legal Woes

Betrayal, Courtroom Drama, and the End of an Era ⚖️

In this week’s chapter of George Remus’s story, we dive into the beginning of his downfall—a tale filled with betrayal, intense legal battles, and a media circus that captivated the nation. After years of controlling 30% of America’s illegal alcohol trade, Remus finally caught the attention of the federal government. Mabel Walker Willebrandt, the fierce Assistant Attorney General, assembled a task force to bring Remus down. 🚔

One of the most dramatic moments came when federal agents stormed Remus’s mansion in 1921, seizing illegal alcohol and incriminating ledgers that detailed every bribe and transaction. Ever the confident showman, Remus shrugged it off, calling it "just a bump in the road." But the real blow came when one of his trusted employees turned informant, providing insider information that shattered Remus’s defenses.

The trial was a media sensation 🎤, with Remus’s charm on full display. Yet, despite his best efforts, the jury found him guilty on all counts. Remus famously muttered as he was led away, "I built this empire, and I’ll rebuild it again." But deep down, he knew his reign was over.

Want more details on Remus’s fall from grace? Click through to read the full article and uncover the twists and turns leading to the Bootleg King's end.

Please Support Your Newsletter

Learn A.I. In 5 Min. Per Day (Free)

 ✅ Updates From The Cigar & Whiskey World 📰

🌿 Top Stories From Cigar World

🏢 Historic West Tampa Cigar Factory Transformed into Student Housing 🏢

A historic cigar factory in West Tampa, built in 1903, has been restored and converted into student housing for the University of Tampa. This transformation preserves the rich history of the cigar industry while providing modern amenities, including a swimming pool. The factory, once a bustling hub for cigar production, now offers a unique blend of history and comfort for students. Read full story here.

💨 J. London Gold Telephone Booth Shipping to Stores 💨

The J. London Gold Telephone Booth, featuring a new blend with two varietals of coveted tobacco, is now shipping to stores. This release continues to build on the brand’s reputation for high-quality cigars, offering enthusiasts a new and exciting option to enjoy. Read full story here.

🔥 Knuckle Sandwich Maduro Lancero Arrives as Stateline Cigars Exclusive 🔥

The Knuckle Sandwich Maduro Lancero, created by Espinosa Premium Cigars and celebrity chef Guy Fieri, has arrived as an exclusive offering at Stateline Cigars in Delaware. This new slender size adds to the popular Knuckle Sandwich line, providing a unique smoking experience for aficionados. Read full story here.

🌟 Elie Bleu Ships $20,000 Fuente Hemingway House of Dreams Humidor 🌟

Elie Bleu has shipped the luxurious Fuente Hemingway House of Dreams Humidor, priced at $20,000. This exquisite humidor is named and modeled after a building on Arturo Fuente’s Chateau de la Fuente farm in the Dominican Republic. It comes with the exclusive Hemingway OpusX cigars, making it a must-have for serious collectors. Read full story here.

🥃 Top Stories From Bourbon & Scotch World

🩸 Bourbon Collectors, Get Ready: The New Blood Oath Trilogy Is Dropping Next Month 🩸

There are many collectible whiskeys these days, from the annual Birthday Bourbon release to the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection to the continued dominance of Pappy Van Winkle. Another series that is lesser known but still highly coveted by whiskey fans is the Blood Oath Trilogy. This new release is set to drop next month, and collectors are eagerly anticipating it. Read full story here.

🎂 Looking for Old Forester Birthday Bourbon? Here’s How to Enter the National Sweepstakes 🎂

Old Forester is getting ready to release its most coveted expression, Birthday Bourbon. Fans of this bourbon can enter a national sweepstakes for a chance to purchase a bottle. This annual release is highly sought after, and the sweepstakes provides a fair opportunity for enthusiasts to get their hands on it. Read full story here.

🦅 Buzzard’s Roost Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Review 🦅

Buzzard’s Roost has released a moderately aged (5 years) wheated bourbon, bottled at the typical 100 proof for the bottled in bond designation. This bourbon is finished in newly toasted and charred barrels, giving it a unique flavor profile. The review highlights its tasting notes and overall quality. Read full story here.

🏆 A Whisky You’ve Never Heard of Was Just Named the World’s Top Distillery. Again 🏆

Starward Australian Whisky has been named the world’s best distillery for the second time. This recognition comes from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, highlighting the quality and innovation of this lesser-known brand. Read full story here.

🌿 Whisky Byproducts Yield Valuable Biochemicals 🌿

Researchers at the University of Aberdeen and a chemical manufacturing company, RIPCELL, have developed a method to extract valuable biobased chemicals from whisky distillery waste streams. This innovative process uses a separation technique called liquid-liquid extraction, turning waste into valuable resources. Read full story here.

🎨 Glenmorangie Releases Limited-Edition 23-Year-Old Scotch in Collaboration With Artist Azuma Makoto 🎨

Glenmorangie’s fantastic new whisky is an innovative collaboration between master distiller Bill Lumsden and Japanese artist Azuma Makoto. This limited-edition 23-year-old Scotch is aged in bourbon barrels for 15 years and then finished in sherry casks, creating a unique and complex flavor profile. Read full story here.

Poll Results - Have You Ever visited a Distillery or Cigar Factory?

Over 60% of the respondents indicated that they have taken a tour of such a facility.

BBQ Recipe of the Week

Citrus-Infused BBQ Shrimp Skewers: A Flavorful Grilling Adventure 🔥🍤

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our zesty BBQ shrimp skewers! These succulent shrimp, kissed by the grill and bathed in a citrusy marinade, are the ultimate summer delight. Whether hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is your ticket to flavor paradise.

Ingredients:

• Large shrimp (tail-on)

• Wooden skewers (soaked in water if using)

• Lime

• Lemon

• Orange (half)

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Sizzle rub (optional, for extra flavor)

• Freshly cracked black pepper

• Fresh garlic

Directions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

   • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning.

   • Skewer the shrimp in a “lollipop” fashion.

2. Make the Citrus Oil:

   • Juice the lime, lemon, and half an orange.

   • While whisking, add olive oil to the citrus juice to create a citrus oil.

   • Season the mixture with salt and pepper.

3. Brush the Shrimp:

   • Brush the citrus oil onto the skewered shrimp.

   • Dust Sizzle rub over each side of the shrimp once thoroughly brushed (optional).

4. Grill the Shrimp:

   • Preheat the grill to 375°F (190°C).

   • Grill the shrimp for approximately 90 seconds on each side.

5. Serve Immediately:

   • Once cooked, serve the BBQ shrimp skewers right away!

Now, let’s get cooking.