An Ambassador Answers

Cigar Keep's global community requires legendary figures from all over the world to join us in spreading the news and championing the cause of togetherness. This time, we had the pleasure of talking to Darius Namdar. No one describes Darius Namdar better than Tom Chamberlin. As he once said, " Darius is a hero in our midst. I have known him since I was four. While I can’t say for sure whether I tried to pass a rugby ball to him in those early years, and failed because he was nose deep in cigar catalogues, he has been making up for lost time recently. I cannot remember the last time I saw him without a pad of paper, pen and a selection of three or more unbanded cigars that he was working his way through; determining that the Colorado wrapper of a cigar with a bit of age, a 55 ring gauge cigar at five and a quarter inches, was probably the Romeo y Julieta Wide Churchill and not the Bolivar Belgravia which, as you all know, is more of a Colorado maduro."

What was the first cigar you ever smoked?

Most likely a Monty 4 of my father’s when I was in my teens. Since then I remember some beautiful Punch commemorative release jars on the shelf out of reach.

Which is your desert-island cigar?

Perhaps a Por Larranaga Magnum…in the shade. I’ve still yet to smoke one but have read it’s a marvellous smoke. I bought a box a few years ago which I will dip in to soon enough. I love Por Larranaga as a brand and have particularly enjoyed releases such as the PL Sobresalientes RE UK.

What is the worst cigar you’ve ever smoked?

Not so much the worst cigar, but I have nightmares of a Partagas Lusitania GR that wouldn't stay lit because of altitude and the cold air...had to retire it on NYE and merely imagine how good it was going to be.

What is your greatest cigar-related memory?

The run up to when studying for and then the whole Habanos Festival in 2018 but the most rewarding was seeing Slawomir jump out of his seat in delight which tipped me off to having won the World Habanos Sommelier contest.

What is your favourite cigar shop?

Davidoff on St James' – Spending time with Edward brings a real sense of nostalgia for me as for me and I really enjoy spending time with Eddie and the team. I always learn something new, meet great people and have had some of my favourite cigars from their collection.

What is your favourite method of ignition?

A splint on a windy afternoon!

What is your favourite cut?

Generally speaking, a straight cut but I have been known to enjoy a v-cut once in a while. I always carry a punch cutter on my keys in case of emergencies.