An Ambassador Answers: Jasim Ahmed

What kickstarted your passion for cigars?

My entrance to the cigar world was by pure coincidence; my passion for cigars started when I realised that it takes 300 pairs of Cuban hands to serve a cigar to us. The first time I landed in Cuba everything in my life changed, I realised that I could not be parted from this treasure, so I dedicated myself to this industry.

What is your favourite cigar?

One of the most difficult questions for any aficionado! As I always tell my friends, every cigar is unique by its nature, character and blend. Cigars are an evolving product where fermentation never dies. For instance, I tried a new cigar which wasn’t memorable to me at that time and a year later it became my favourite cigar. For me it’s a magnificent journey of discovery; the ageing, the complexity of a cigar, the pairings we choose and many other attributes that all amuse me. If you limit me to choosing just one cigar then I have to go with a Trinidad Fundadores. This cigar has a great connection to my soul; it has never disappointed me in any way…aged, young, winter, rain or summer, it will always be by my side.

Do you have a favourite cigar lounge or terrace to smoke in?

Like many of us, one of my favourite venues is Hotel Nacional in Cuba. Where we sit on the patio and history unveils in front of us.

What is your favourite cigar moment?

I would say when I smoke a cigar every moment becomes memorable. However, one of my favourite moments was when I lit up my first cigar in Cuba. It was a magical moment where I felt great knowing that this land was thousands of miles away from my home. I can imagine how Christopher Columbus felt 530 years ago.

What cigar do you think is underrated?

Two cigar brands I believe to be underrated are Por Larranaga and Diplomaticos. Luckily these brands are chosen Regional Edicion these days for many countries and it allows us to enjoy their exceptional character. I find Vegueros a beautiful cigar for an awesome price. In the past, I used to be a big fan of Especiales No.1 but unfortunately, it has been discontinued and finding an aged box would be really difficult .

One example of an underrated standard production cigar would be the Ramon Allones Specially Selected (RASS). This is one of the most popular Robusto cigars amongst aficionados and connoissuers, but remains underrated commercially in both its availability and positioning. When seen on the shelves of their favourite La Casa Del Habano Shops, every connoisseur picks a box or two even if they already have 10 boxes in their humidors. For many it is one of their daily smokes, unable to stay apart from it's blend. It is like one of your favourite perfumes, you may own several fragrances but you always wanted to have it in your collection. In my opinion, every cigar lover should try this cigar blend no matter what, it is exceptional in every way. This cigar has a great ageing potential and you will really feel the essence of it whilst smoking. Young or old this cigar should be in the humidors of every cigar lover. If I have to be ambitious then personally I would love to see this cigar dressed inside a beautiful black lacquered Reserva box or under the Anejados series in the near future.

View Jasim Ahmed's keep Here.