My Biography
I live in Nottingham, England, and I am currently working to become a barrister.
After spending my entire life avoiding tobacco, I was coaxed into smoking a cigar by a good friend and cigar aficionado on a trip to Barcelona in 2021. I’d always thought cigars were giant cigarettes (which I don't like), but how wrong I was! It was love at first sight. Since then, I’ve been smoking as many (mainly Cuban) cigars as possible, of different brands, vitolas, and strengths.
I will try just about anything. The best cigars out there might be ones you’ve never smoked! I’ve found that I love the flavour profile of Hoyo de Monterrey, but I’m also partial to Romeo y Julieta, H Upmann, El Rey del Mundo, and Montecristo (as long as they have a bit of age on them). I prefer my cigars neither too strong nor too light.
What was the first cigar you ever smoked?
Montecristo - No. 4.
Which is your desert-island cigar?
Hoyo de Monterrey - Petit Robusto.
What is the worst cigar you’ve ever smoked?
Any fresh Montecristo! Unlike cigars from other brands, which can still produce a delightful experience without much age, I tend to find that Montecristo cigars are particularly bad when they are green.
What is your greatest cigar-related memory?
Sitting at the terrace of a café in sunny village just outside of Barcelona, enjoying a pack of Hoyo Petit Robustos with good friends.
What is your favourite cigar brand?
Hoyo de Monterrey.
What is your favourite cigar accessory?
My Passatore straight cutter. It has serrated edges that always provide an excellent cut.
What is your favourite cigar shop?
In England, Davidoff of London. In Spain, La Cava de Miguel Ángel in Madrid.
In both cases, brilliant customer service is the defining feature.
What is your favourite method of ignition?
If I have time, cedar spills. Otherwise, a soft lighter flame.
What is your favourite cut?
Straight cut.