Tag Archives: John Kelly Cigars

Tailgating and cigars… the perfect marriage!

There are very few places or times that are better to smoke a cigar than tailgating.tailgating and cigars

 

In Florida, college football and tailgating are a BIG deal. I grew up playing and loving the sport. Once I stopped playing I realized that supporting my Alma Mater, The UCF Knights, was the best way to stay involved. I slowly built up my tailgate setup over the last 7 years and made a point to include cigars as a part of every tailgate experience. I can remember going to a very good friends tailgate several years ago, where he offered a big selection of cigars to his tailgate guests. It took the entire party to another level. I decided that I would take his lead and do the same. I think the good times are enough evidence that I made the right call.

tailgating and cigars

Having a cigar at a tailgate with one of the greatest tailgaters/ cigar enthusiasts, John Byrnes.

Check out John Byrnes’ ultimate tailgate vehicle The Ambu-Gator by clicking here… and feel free to find him at the next Gator Game and purchase a souvenir. 

When preparing for a tailgate, I always make sure to have at least two choices for my friends/guests. I always bring a full bodied cigar that I prefer, such as: Padron 5000, San Cristobal Supremo/Toro, or a Ashton VSG. I also bring a more medium bodied cigar for the occasional smoker that would prefer a lighter smoke. Some of the cigars I bring include: The Brickhouse Robusto, San Cristobal Elegancia Pyramid, La Gloria Cubana Serie R(Even tho this is more on the full bodied the majority of people enjoy them). I usually lean toward a larger size cigar because this is a time where there is no rush. You usually have hours outside pre-gaming…so bring the big ones!

tailgating and cigars

Me with some ECU Alumni Mike and John at the Thursday night game. Cigars can even bring together opposing fans!

I know a lot of people have travel humidors that they use at tailgates. I happen to have several sized old humidors on hand. The one below usually holds enough for me and my crew to have 1-2 throughout the day. I recommend bringing a good torch lighter because you will be outside and fighting the elements. It’s probably a good idea to bring more than one cutter as well. I bring the cheaper ones in case they get lost in the shuffle.

tailgating and cigars

Nothing too fancy.. but keeps the cigars good all day!

 

If conclusion… if you have the opportunity to tailgate, whether it’s for a football game or other event, than make sure to incorporate “cigar time” with your friends. It will only enhance the experience!


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Lunch with an old friend!

My office is now located in downtown Winter Park Florida, which is very cigar friendly. It is almost impossible to not be tempted by a good cigar after having lunch across from one of my favorite spots..”Cigarz on the Avenue”. It has the perfect setup for a nice cigar experience during the day. There’s seating out front for people watching, comfortable seats inside with a great mix of conversation with the regulars, and outback in the courtyard for a more quiet setting. There’s also a great restaurant next door for coffees, wine, beer and food @ Palmano’s.

Well, today I found myself in a familiar spot sitting inside Cigarz..having one of my favorite regular smokes. The Padron 5000.

padron 5000

The Padron line of cigars are extremely consistent and never let me down. The 5000 is one of the more reasonably priced versions. It has   the same type of great taste and strength as its more expensive relatives (Such as the 1964 Anniversary,  The 1926, and Family Reserve) This comes from its Nicaraguan tobacco…  and the quality of the brand. I’m a HUGE fan of Padron and you will consistently see my recommendations for their different lines of cigars. This one is always going to please the palates of the more experienced smoker. It is definitely strong and has the spiciness associated with Padrons. I would not recommend it to a novice, but it is definitely one of my “most purchased”.

padron 5000

 

Conclusion: JK always recommends all Padrons!


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The new stronger smoke by Monte Cristo…

The first question I usually have when I go into any of my local cigar shops is … “whats new and is it worth trying”. I recently stopped into two places and was recommended the new Monte Cristo EPIC.

Monte Cristo Epic

Most people are very familiar with the Monte name, because of the famous Cuban version. The non-cubans are still a relatively good smoke by most people’s standards, but not high on my preferred list. I was interested in this new one based on the good feedback it was receiving. I’ll tell you, I was not disappointed. As with most smoking experiences. I had a partner come along so I could get a second opinion. He was also pleasantly surprised by the Epic.

Monte Cristo Epic

Monte Cristo EPIC..cut and ready to smoke!

As with most monte cristo’s, the cigar was very well made and had a great appearance. The wrapper was a little darker than the other varieties they offer.. which usually is a good sign in my book. The initial taste was very familiar to other monte cristos (non-cuban) that I’ve had in the past, expect with an additional  punch. You can tell that the company is trying to appeal to smokers with a preference for stronger smokes. The burn was slow and even and a very good experience overall. I’d buy another and recommend it to my fellow cigar smokers. It’s a good change of pace from your regular smokes… worth a try!

Monte Cristo Epic

Nice even burn

…..Conclusion: JK recommends!


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