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iROBUSTO Schedule irobusto.com/schedule

The List on Neptune

October 2026

• October 11 - Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda

• October 18 - Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig

• October 25 - Tatuaje Avion 12 Short Perfecto

November 2026

• November 1 - Black Label Santa Muerte Corona Gorda

• November 8 - Asylum Insidious Maduro Toro

• November 15 - Nasser The Goat by AJ Fernandez Robusto

• November 22 - Acid Blue (Remi) 1400cc

• November 29 - ADVentura Blackfin’s Parlay Toro

December 2026

• December 6 - Blackened M81 Cigars by Drew Estate Corona Doble

• December 13 - Bohekio Habano Churchill

• December 20 - Leaf by Oscar Maduro Lancero

• December 27 - Hiram & Solomon Traveling Man Robusto

January 2026

• January 3 - Padron 1964 Anniversary Diplomatico Maduro

• January 10 - Onyx Reserve Churchill

• January 17 - Room 101 Johnny Tobacconaut Perfecto

• January 24 - RoMa Craft Baka Pygmy

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One of the world’s more famous cigars, the Andalusian Bull by La Flor Dominicana pays homage to the company’s master blender Litto Gomez. He was born in this area of Spain, and his masterpiece cigar topped the Cigar Aficionado list in 2016.

The cigar-smoking culture has deep roots in Spain.

Back to the food! This area’s cuisine is focused on the Mediterranean: rich extra virgin olive oil, sweet garlic, ripe tomatoes, and fresh seafood. Andalusian cuisine is all about letting simple, high-quality ingredients shine.

Here are a few that have become staples in our diet in Spain:

1. Tortilla Española (Spanish Potato Omelette)

A cornerstone of Spanish cuisine found in every bar from Seville to Málaga, the Tortilla Española is a warm, comforting cake of tender sliced potatoes, gently poached onions, and eggs.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Yield: 4–6 servings (as a tapa)

Ingredients

• Potatoes: 1.5 lbs (700g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced into discs

• Eggs: 6 large eggs

• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced

• Olive Oil: 1 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for shallow frying)

• Salt: 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes and Onion: In a non-stick skillet (about 9–10 inches), heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced potatoes and onions. The oil should gently bubble—you are poaching the potatoes until tender, not deep-frying them crisp. Cook for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft enough to pierce easily with a fork.

2. Drain and Cool: Set a colander over a bowl and drain the potatoes and onions, reserving the drained olive oil for future cooking. Let them cool for 5 minutes.

3. Whisk and Combine: In a large mixing bowl, beat the 6 eggs with the salt. Gently fold in the warm potato and onion mixture. Let sit for 5 minutes so the potatoes absorb the egg.

4. Cook the First Side: Heat 1 tablespoon of the reserved olive oil in the non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Pour in the egg and potato mixture, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cook undisturbed for 6–8 minutes until the edges are set and bottom is light golden.

5. The Flip: Place a large flat plate over the top of the skillet. Working swiftly over a sink or counter, flip the skillet upside down so the tortilla lands onto the plate. Slide the tortilla back into the skillet, uncooked side down.

6. Finish and Serve: Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until set throughout (or slightly runny in the middle if you prefer traditional jugosa style). Transfer to a serving plate, let cool for 10 minutes, and slice into wedges or small bite-sized squares.

2. Patatas Bravas (Crispy Potatoes with Fiery Brava Sauce)

No tapas platter is complete without Patatas Bravas. These golden, crispy potato cubes are dressed with a bold, smoky tomato-paprika sauce (salsa brava).

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• Potatoes: 1.5 lbs (700g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) bite-sized cubes

• Olive Oil: ¼ cup (60ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil (plus extra for pan-frying or roasting)

• Onion: ½ small yellow onion, finely chopped

• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

• Smoked Paprika: 1 tablespoon Spanish smoked sweet paprika (pimentón dulce)

• Hot Paprika / Cayenne: ½ teaspoon Spanish hot smoked paprika (pimentón picante) or cayenne pepper

• Flour: 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• Broth: ¾ cup (180ml) chicken or vegetable broth

• Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• Vinegar: 1 teaspoon sherry vinegar (or red wine vinegar)

• Salt: To taste

Instructions

1. Make the Brava Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until soft.

2. Add Spices and Flour: Stir in the sweet smoked paprika, hot paprika, and flour. Stir constantly for 1 minute to toast the spices.

3. Simmer the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the broth and tomato paste until smooth. Bring to a low simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes until thickened. Stir in the vinegar and season with salt. For a silky finish, blend with an immersion blender until completely smooth.

4. Cook the Potatoes:

   • Pan-Fry Method: Heat ½ inch of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry potato cubes in batches for 10–12 minutes until deeply golden and crispy on all sides. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle generously with sea salt.

   • Oven-Roast Alternative: Toss potato cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil and salt. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 30–35 minutes, turning halfway, until crispy.

5. Serve: Pile the hot crispy potatoes onto a platter and drizzle generously with warm Brava sauce. Serve immediately.

3. Gambas al Pil-Pil (Sizzling Garlic & Chili Prawns)

Originating right along the Andalusian coastline, Gambas al Pil-Pil is all about sizzling extra virgin olive oil infused with garlic, dried chili, and sweet paprika. Make sure to serve this with plenty of crusty bread to soak up the garlic oil!

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 5 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• Shrimp/Prawns: 1 lb (450g) raw large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and dried thoroughly with paper towels

• Garlic: 6–8 cloves, thinly sliced

• Olive Oil: ½ cup (120ml) quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Chili: 1 fresh red chili (sliced) or 2 dried red cayenne/chili peppers (halved)

• Paprika: ½ teaspoon Spanish sweet smoked paprika

• Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

• Bread: Crusty baguette for dipping

• Salt: ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt

Instructions

1. Heat the Infusion: In an earthenware casserole or small heavy skillet, combine the extra virgin olive oil, sliced garlic, and chili slices. Heat over medium-low heat until the garlic starts to sizzle and turn light golden (about 2 minutes). Do not let the garlic burn.

2. Add Paprika and Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high. Stir in the sweet smoked paprika, then immediately add the dried shrimp in a single layer. Season with sea salt.

3. Cook Briefly: Cook the shrimp for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from heat while the oil is still bubbling vigorously.

4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve sizzling hot directly in the skillet alongside warm crusty bread.

4. Albóndigas en Salsa (Andalusian Meatballs in Rich Tomato-Wine Sauce)

These succulent pork-and-beef meatballs are gently simmered in a savoury tomato sauce enriched with white wine, garlic, and sweet onions. They are a staple of cosy Andalusian tapas bars.

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Yield: 4–6 servings

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• Ground Meat: ½ lb (225g) ground beef and ½ lb (225g) ground pork

• Breadcrumbs: ⅓ cup fine breadcrumbs soaked in 3 tablespoons milk

• Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced

• Egg: 1 large egg

• Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• Seasoning: ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon ground cumin

• Flour: ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dusting)

For the Sauce:

• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced

• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

• Dry White Wine: ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine (such as Sherry/Manzanilla or Pinot Grigio)

• Crushed Tomatoes: 1.5 cups (350g) canned crushed tomatoes or tomato purée

• Broth: ½ cup (120ml) beef or vegetable broth

• Bay Leaf: 1 dried bay leaf

Instructions

1. Form the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and cumin. Mix gently until combined. Roll into small, bite-sized balls (about the size of a walnut).

2. Dust and Brown: Lightly roll each meatball in flour, shaking off any excess. Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden on all sides (they do not need to be cooked through yet). Remove meatballs and set aside on a plate.

3. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.

4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the alcohol smell dissipates and liquid reduces by half.

5. Simmer Meatballs: Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, and the bay leaf. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Cover, lower the heat, and let simmer gently for 20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is rich and thick.

6. Serve: Remove bay leaf and serve warm garnished with extra fresh parsley.

Tips for the Ultimate Andalusian Tapas Night

• Olive Oil Matters: Use good-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil for cooking and drizzling—it provides the signature flavour foundation of southern Spain.

• Serve Family Style: Bring all dishes to the table together with plenty of warm crusty bread, olives, and chilled Spanish wine (such as dry Sherry, Albariño, or Rioja).

5. Pimientos de Padrón (Blistered Green Peppers)

“Pimientos de Padrón, uns pican e outros non” (some are hot, some are not!). These small, sweet green peppers are blistered in high heat and sprinkled with coarse sea salt. They take less than 10 minutes to make and are wildly addictive.

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 5 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• Peppers: 8 oz (225g) fresh Padrón peppers (or Shishito peppers, which are widely available in US/EU markets)

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Salt: 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)

Instructions

1. Wash and Dry: Wash the peppers thoroughly and dry them completely with a towel (dry peppers ensure a proper blister rather than steaming). Leave the stems attached for easy handling.

2. Blister in the Pan: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a wide skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmeringly hot.

3. Sauté: Add the peppers in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes, turning them frequently with tongs, until the skins are blistered, charred, and collapsed on all sides.

4. Season and Enjoy: Transfer the blistered peppers to a warm plate and toss immediately with flaky sea salt. Serve hot.

¡Buen provecho!

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The Featured Smoke: Black Label Santa Muerte

Fitting perfectly with our Day of the Dead theme, this week’s featured cigar is the Black Label Santa Muerte Corona Gorda. We’re smoking sticks from Neptune Cigars, but feel free to source yours from wherever you like. Grab your favorite stick, reach for your cutter, and prime that torch—don’t just watch, smoke with us!

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• Showtime: Live at 7:15 PM Eastern on Sunday, November 1

• Stay Updated: Check back here, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and keep your eyes on your inbox to see our weekly lineup.

Light up, settle in, and we will see you in the smoke! Keep in mind the clock change if it applies to you. Daylight Saving Time is a thing!

From Habanos S.A. pushing past the fifty-dollar mark with the new Quai d’Orsay Concordia to limited commemorative samplers and TAA exclusives edging higher, manufacturers are increasingly steering special drops toward luxury territory. While shifting global demand and mounting production costs explain much of the movement, it means everyday smokers will need to be far more selective when browsing the humidor shelves this season.

1. New Releases & Blend Announcements

Habanos S.A. Quai d’Orsay Concordia Edición Limitada 2026

Published: October 27, 2026
Source(s): Cigar Aficionado, halfwheel

Blend: Cuba, Cuba, Cuba, Not listed
Sizes & MSRP: 5 3/4 x 50 Preciosos; €914 (about $1,018) per 20-count box, or about €45.70 / roughly $51 per cigar
Availability: Debuted in Madrid, Spain; broader retail availability has not been announced

What happened: Habanos S.A. launched the Quai d’Orsay Concordia at a bullring event in Madrid on October 24. It is the second Edición Limitada release in the brand’s history and, so far, the only Cuban Edición Limitada announced for 2026. The cigar uses the same 5 3/4 x 50 Preciosos format as the 2023 Montecristo L’Esprit.

My Take: Fifty-one bucks for a Quai d’Orsay shows Habanos is still pushing price ceilings. Collectors will likely buy the initial Spanish allocation, but global availability—and whether further 2026 Edición Limitadas appear—remains open.

Crowned Heads Belgian Blue LE 2026

Published: October 23, 2026
Source(s): Cigar Coop, halfwheel

Blend: Mexican San Andrés wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, Nicaraguan and Dominican filler, D’Hatuey Tabacos S.A.
Sizes & MSRP: 5 1/4 x 54 box-pressed, $12.50 per cigar
Availability: 2,500 boxes of 12 cigars (30,000 cigars total); shipping began at the end of October 2026 through regular Crowned Heads retailers

What happened: Crowned Heads is bringing back its Belgian Blue limited series for a third straight year. The blend stays the same, but the company dropped the vitola to 5 1/4 x 54. Factory owner Eladio Pichardo rolled the batch at D’Hatuey in Estelí, Nicaragua.

My Take: Keeping this smoke at $12.50 while dropping the size makes it an easy box buy. It’s great to see a smaller brand resist the urge to charge twenty bucks for an annual drop.

General Cigar Co. CAO Flathead American Muscle

Published: October 26, 2026 (halfwheel), October 27, 2026 (Cigar Aficionado)
Source(s): halfwheel, Cigar Aficionado

Blend: Connecticut Broadleaf and Connecticut Shade barber-pole wrapper, Brazilian binder, Dominican, Italian, Nicaraguan and U.S. filler
Sizes & MSRP: 6 x 60 box-pressed; $12.99 per cigar; $155.88 per 12-count box
Availability: Exclusive to TAA retail shops; limited to 48,000 cigars; scheduled to ship in November 2026

What happened: General Cigar merged two established CAO lines into a single project. The CAO Flathead American Muscle takes the CAO America blend and places it in the CAO Flathead format. Scandinavian Tobacco Group presented the cigar to store owners at the annual TAA meeting.

My Take: Smashing two old brands together feels like a fast move to book easy trade-show orders. Most smokers don’t care about hybrid names, so the blend better pull its own weight.

Casa Carrillo 2026 TAA Exclusive

Published: October 23, 2026
Source(s): halfwheel, Cigar Dojo

Blend: Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, Ecuadorian Sumatra binder, U.S., Honduran, Nicaraguan and Dominican filler
Sizes & MSRP: 5 1/2 x 58; $14 per cigar; $140 per 10-count box
Availability: 1,000 boxes of 10 cigars (10,000 total); exclusive to TAA member shops; shipping began the week of October 26, 2026

What happened: Ernesto Perez-Carrillo unveiled his company’s official 2026 TAA exclusive cigar. He pulled tobaccos from five different growing countries to build the multi-nation filler and binder. Casa Carrillo will donate at least 50 cents per sold cigar back to the TAA group.

My Take: Stuffing five nations of tobacco into one stick is a balancing act that easily gets muddy. Perez-Carrillo has the chops to pull it off, but TAA exclusives usually charge a steep premium.

Joya de Nicaragua Cuatro Cinco Edición Americana (2026)

Published: October 23, 2026 (halfwheel), October 26, 2026 (Cigar Dojo)
Source(s): halfwheel, Cigar Dojo

Blend: Jalapa Nicaraguan Criollo wrapper, Dominican binder, Nicaraguan filler including tobacco aged in white-oak rum barrels
Sizes & MSRP: 6 x 54 box-pressed belicoso; $16.50 per cigar; $165 per 10-count box
Availability: 500 boxes of 10 cigars; exclusive to TAA member retailers; scheduled for November 2, 2026 release

What happened: Joya de Nicaragua is reviving its Cuatro Cinco Edición Americana release for 2026 after a two-year hiatus. This is the fourth TAA-exclusive edition, following releases in 2021, 2022 and 2023. It returns strictly as an exclusive for brick-and-mortar TAA shops.

My Take: Bringing back an old favorite is smart, but keeping it behind the TAA retail wall is annoying. Everyday smokers who don’t live near a TAA shop get left out again.

HVC Hot Cake Fresh Out of the Oven Broadleaf Gladiators

Published: October 30, 2026
Source(s): halfwheel

Blend: Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, Nicaraguan Estelí and Jalapa binder/filler
Sizes & MSRP: 6 1/2 x 56 perfecto; $15.20 per cigar; $380 per 25-count box
Availability: 500 boxes of 25 cigars (12,500 total cigars); shipping began October 30, 2026 to retail shops

What happened: HVC is shipping the eighth size in its Fresh Out of the Oven Broadleaf line. The Gladiators vitola comes rolled as a thick 6 1/2 x 56 perfecto. The company capped total production at just 500 boxes.

My Take: A run of only 500 boxes will vanish off shelves before most guys even hear about it. Small drops build brand hype, but they leave regular buyers frustrated.

Selected Tobacco Robusto Edition Set

Published: October 23, 2026
Source(s): halfwheel, Premium Cigar Association

Blend: Bandolero Premium Atrevidos: Ecuadorian Habano 2000 wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, Nicaraguan and Peruvian filler, Tabacos de Costa Rica. Nelson Hidalgos: Ecuadorian Habano 2000 wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, Dominican and Peruvian filler, Tabacos de Costa Rica.
Sizes & MSRP: Five cigars per sampler box—Atabey Brujos 5 x 52, Bandolero Premium Atrevidos 5 x 52, Nelson Hidalgos 5 x 50, Alfonso Añejo No. 2 5 x 52, Byron Poemas 5 x 52; $200 per box
Availability: Commemorative Madrid-event allocation; reported sold out; available only through participating United Cigars retailers

What happened: Selected Tobacco created a five-cigar boxed sampler to commemorate the grand opening of its new facility in Madrid. The package introduces brand-new robusto vitolas for the Bandolero and Nelson lines, while the other three cigars come from existing luxury lines.

My Take: Two hundred dollars for five cigars works out to forty bucks a stick. That’s a huge price tag for an introduction to two new sizes—especially when the allocation was effectively gone before most consumers could buy one.

JRE Tobacco Co. Aladino 85 Aniversario Reserva Elegante

Published: October 29, 2026
Source(s): Cigar Aficionado, halfwheel

Blend: Honduran Pinareño wrapper, binder and filler
Sizes & MSRP: 7 x 38 lancero; $22 per cigar; $440 per 20-count box
Availability: Regular production with limited monthly allocations; shipping the week of November 9, 2026; limited to stores carrying both the 85 Aniversario Reserva Robusto and Toro

What happened: JRE Tobacco is adding a thin lancero to its Aladino 85 Aniversario Reserva line. The company previewed the cigar at the 2026 PCA Convention & Trade Show and set a November shipping target. Monthly factory shipments will stay limited to maintain quality control.

My Take: Giving a Honduran blend a lancero shape is a welcome gift to traditional smokers. It’s nice to see a factory roll thin rings instead of another boring sixty-gauge log.

2. Industry, Corporate & Regulatory News

Marvin Shanken, Cigar Aficionado Founder, Passes Away at 83

Published: October 29, 2026
Source(s): halfwheel, Shanken News Daily

What happened: Marvin Shanken, the founder and publisher of Cigar Aficionado, died on October 29, 2026, at age 83. He launched the glossy magazine in 1992 and helped catalyze the historic American cigar boom. For the guy in the humidor, Shanken’s publication created modern ratings, lifestyle branding, and public cigar festivals.

My Take: Shanken dragged cigar culture into mainstream luxury status and helped build the modern premium-cigar marketplace. Love his ratings or hate them, you wouldn’t have your neighborhood cigar lounge without him.

Registration Opens for La Gran Cata Cigar Festival in Honduras

Published: October 26, 2026
Source(s): halfwheel

What happened: Organizers launched ticket registration for Honduras’s new cigar festival, La Gran Cata. The event takes place from January 23 through 27, 2027. For the regular smoker, it offers direct access to Honduran factory tours, field seminars, and blenders.

My Take: Honduras was way overdue for a dedicated festival to compete with the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. Giving smokers real access to the factories builds genuine brand loyalty.

Major Cigar Makers Sign on for World Cigar Show Dubai

Published: October 28, 2026
Source(s): Cigar Journal

What happened: Arturo Fuente, Casa Carrillo, Padrón, and Rocky Patel joined the roster for the upcoming Dubai trade event. The show targets growing luxury markets across the Middle East and surrounding regions. For the everyday American buyer, this signals top makers are courting overseas markets with friendlier tax laws.

My Take: Big makers are chasing foreign dollars because American tobacco taxes and rules keep mounting. If brands ship their best boxes overseas, local shop inventory will suffer.

La Flor Dominicana Andalusian Bull Ashtray Scheduled for Shipment

Published: October 24, 2026
Source(s): Cigar Coop

What happened: La Flor Dominicana announced a ceramic Andalusian Bull ashtray modeled after historic bullrings. The unit measures twelve inches wide, holds four cigars, and carries a retail price of $120. For the retail shopper, it adds an expensive collector item to accompany the scarce Andalusian Bull cigars.

My Take: Spending $120 on an ashtray is tough when boxes of the actual Bull cigar remain almost impossible to find. Companies should focus on rolling more cigars rather than selling branded ceramic dishware.

Read more

(Note: None of the links here are affiliate links,just a find that was too good to pass up!) - Mark

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All treats, zero tricks! This Halloween, haunt your humidor with The BOO-midor Bundle—a monstrous collection featuring 10 top-shelf cigars, 4 essential gear upgrades, and bonus sweets to satisfy your seasonal craving.

From bold, full-bodied smokes to smooth boutique favorites, we’ve packed this haul with heavy hitters from Asylum, Apostate, Crowned Heads, Drew Estate, El Mago, La Palina, Micallef, Ozgener Family, Room101, and Cigar Clowns.

What’s Inside the Haul:

🔥 10 Premium & Boutique Cigars:

• Asylum Signature Series Belicoso (6.00 x 54)

• Apostate Initiatory Sumatra Toro (6.00 x 52)

• Crowned Heads Broadway Robusto Extra (4.75 x 52)

• Drew Estate Undercrown Sungrown Dogma (6.00 x 56)

• El Mago Mago Vice Toro (no tubes) (6.00 x 54)

• La Palina Red Label Sun Grown Toro (6.00 x 50)

• Micallef Experiencia La Crema Churchill (7.00 x 52)

• Ozgener Family Cigars Aramas A55 (5.50 x 55)

• Room101 Payback Maduro Toro Gordo (6.00 x 60)

• Cigar Clowns Pagliacci di Sigari Azurri (6.00 x 54)

🛠️ 4 Essential Goodies & Halloween Treats:

• Smoke Inn Ash Can

• Smoke Inn Lighter

• Smoke Inn Cutter

• Beef Jerky

• Bonus Halloween Sweets

Claim Yours Before It Vanishes Into the Night!

At 65% off, limited inventory won’t last long. Snag this complete set before quantities ghost on you.

👉 [GET THE BOO-MIDOR BUNDLE NOW — ONLY $59.95]

Offer valid through 11/4/26 at 11:59 AM EST, while supplies last.

*Note: No promotional codes or additional discount offers apply to this item.

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Win Free Cigars Every Week Live on the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show!

We are taking every episode of the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show to the next level with a weekly live giveaway. During each show, two premium cigars from our featured review schedule will be drawn live on air and one of them could be yours.

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Community First

A message to all, you don’t have to be a cigar smoker to be a part of the community. Everyone is welcome to join in on the conversation.

Thank you to everyone for tuning into the live video!

iROBUSTO Schedule irobusto.com/schedule

The List on Neptune

October 2026

• October 11 - Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda

• October 18 - Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig

• October 25 - Tatuaje Avion 12 Short Perfecto

November 2026

• November 1 - Black Label Santa Muerte Corona Gorda

• November 8 - Asylum Insidious Maduro Toro

• November 15 - Nasser The Goat by AJ Fernandez Robusto

• November 22 - Acid Blue (Remi) 1400cc

• November 29 - ADVentura Blackfin’s Parlay Toro

December 2026

• December 6 - Blackened M81 Cigars by Drew Estate Corona Doble

• December 13 - Bohekio Habano Churchill

• December 20 - Leaf by Oscar Maduro Lancero

• December 27 - Hiram & Solomon Traveling Man Robusto

January 2026

• January 3 - Padron 1964 Anniversary Diplomatico Maduro

• January 10 - Onyx Reserve Churchill

• January 17 - Room 101 Johnny Tobacconaut Perfecto

• January 24 - RoMa Craft Baka Pygmy

🎙️ The Meet in the Middle Cigar Show

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Authentic Culture: Knowledge, experience and real opinions for everyone who enjoys cigars.

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Fall Schedule:

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🕒 When We Meet

Join the brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf every Sunday at 7:15 PM Eastern Time. Bring your cutter, your torch, and your best stories.

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A Personal Note From the Team

We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share a light and a laugh with this community every single week; thank you for being the heart of everything we do here at iROBUSTO. Leander wants to thank you for the continued loyalty that makes these Sunday nights the highlight of the week. Hyacinth sends her deepest appreciation for the passion you bring to every conversation, and Mark is raised-glass grateful for the brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf that continues to grow stronger with every single cigar that we enjoy, nothing matters without you!

LINK TO TODAY’S LIVE

GIVEAWAYS!

We’re giving away two premium cigars live on air every single week.

Free to Enter. Built for the Community.

No purchase is necessary, just tune in and drop a message in the live chat during the broadcast for your chance to win.

Want to stack the deck in your favor?

For just $5/month, Paid Subscribers get:

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• VIP access and exclusive member perks.

• The satisfaction of directly keeping this independent show alive.

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Smoke What You Like!

Don’t just watch, smoke with us. You can smoke any cigar you want to!

• Stay Updated: Check here or Instagram and Facebook to see our weekly lineup.

• The Source: We’re smoking sticks from Neptune Cigars, but feel free to smoke whatever you want and source yours from wherever you like.

Fall Schedule:

Check out the schedule: irobusto.com/schedule and remember you can grab the sticks you want to and don’t have to smoke the same cigar as we’re reviewing. Bring a friend to the chat and enjoy the conversation.

LINK TO TODAY’S LIVE

🕒 When We Meet

Join the brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf every Sunday at 7:15 PM Eastern Time. Bring your cutter, your torch, and your best stories.

How to Watch

While the show is posted on the homepage, occasional delays can happen. For the fastest access to the live stream, keep an eye on your email inbox for the direct link we send out.

View the in depth instructions by clicking the button:

HOW TO WATCH

A Personal Note From the Team

We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share a light and a laugh with this community every single week; thank you for being the heart of everything we do here at iROBUSTO. Leander wants to thank you for the continued loyalty that makes these Sunday nights the highlight of the week. Hyacinth sends her deepest appreciation for the passion you bring to every conversation, and Mark is raised-glass grateful for the brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf that continues to grow stronger with every single cigar that we enjoy, nothing matters without you!

Every Sunday night, we gather for the best few hours in cigars. We’re live at 7:15 PM Eastern, and you know the drill: grab your favorite stick, reach for your cutter, and prime that torch.

The iROBUSTO Schedule is Here! - irobusto.com/schedule

Don’t just watch, smoke with us.

• Stay Updated: Check here or Instagram and Facebook to see our weekly lineup. Keep your eyes on your inbox too.

• The Source: We’re smoking sticks from Neptune Cigars, but feel free to source yours from wherever you like.

Episode Giveaways

Win Free Cigars Every Week Live on the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show!

We are taking every episode of the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show to the next level with a weekly live giveaway. During each show, two premium cigars from our featured review schedule will be drawn live on air and one of them could be yours.

Price Matching

It may be helpful to view the Neptune Price Match Policy and check out other online retailers if they will do the same.

See the list on Neptune:

October 2026

• October 11 - Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda

• October 18 - Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig

• October 25 - Tatuaje Avion 12 Short Perfecto

November 2026

• November 1 - Black Label Santa Muerte Corona Gorda

• November 8 - Asylum Insidious Maduro Toro

• November 15 - Nasser The Goat by AJ Fernandez Robusto

• November 22 - Acid Blue (Remi) 1400cc

• November 29 - ADVentura Blackfin’s Parlay Toro

December 2026

• December 6 - Blackened M81 Cigars by Drew Estate Corona Doble

• December 13 - Bohekio Habano Churchill

• December 20 - Leaf by Oscar Maduro Lancero

• December 27 - Hiram & Solomon Traveling Man Robusto

January 2026

• January 3 - Padron 1964 Anniversary Diplomatico Maduro

• January 10 - Onyx Reserve Churchill

• January 17 - Room 101 Johnny Tobacconaut Perfecto

• January 24 - RoMa Craft Baka Pygmy

🕒 When We Meet

Join the brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf

• Sunday at 7:15 PM Eastern Time.

Bring your cutter, your torch, and your best stories.

How to Watch

While the show is posted on the homepage, occasional delays can happen. For the fastest access to the live stream, keep an eye on your email inbox for the direct link we send out.

View the in depth instructions by clicking the button:

HOW TO WATCH

A Personal Note From the Team

We are so grateful for the opportunity to share a cigar and a laugh with this community every single week, thank you for being the heart of everything we do here at iROBUSTO. Leander would like to extend a warm thank you for the continued loyalty that makes our Sunday nights the highlight of the week. Hyacinth sends her deepest appreciation for the passion you bring to every conversation, and Mark is truly grateful for the incredible brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf that grows stronger with every cigar we enjoy together.

Simply put: none of this matters without you!

Check the Schedule: irobusto.com/schedule

See you Sunday Nights!

Here is the week in cigars first, October 15 to October 22. Eleven new releases. Four industry stories. Five hot takes. One company in this issue is running out of road.

NEW RELEASES AND BLENDS

Casa Carrillo Battleborn 2026 Heroes
Battleborn returns with a new blend and a new size. It honors veterans, active military, police, firefighters and first responders. It debuts at two Old Virginia Tobacco events in Virginia, October 22 and 23, then ships nationwide before Veterans Day, November 11. As a patriot, I approve!

Blend: African Cameroon wrapper, Dominican and Nicaraguan binders, Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers. Rolled at Casa Carrillo.
Size and price: 6 x 52 Toro, $21 per cigar, $441 per box of 21.
Run: 2,000 numbered boxes (42,000 cigars), each with a dog tag.
Mark’s Take: A Cameroon wrapper makes this a different cigar from last year’s. The 21-count box, a nod to the 21-gun salute, is a great touch. But anyone who loved the first one is gambling on a blend nobody has smoked. Via halfwheel, Cigar Aficionado, Cigar Dojo, Cigar Coop. Oct 21. Casa Carrillo Battleborn 2026 Set for Release +3

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Espinosa 601 La Bomba Warhead TAA Exclusive 2026
Warhead heads to TAA stores next month.
Blend: Mexican San Andrés wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, Nicaraguan fillers. Made at San Lotano in Ocotal, Nicaragua.
Size and price: 6 x 55 box-pressed toro, $16 per cigar, $160 per box of 10.
Run: 1,250 boxes, TAA retailers only, shipping in November.
Mark’s Take: Warhead is a fan favorite, and locking it behind TAA shops is a bad look. A blend good enough to be a favorite belongs on every shelf, not just the club’s. Via halfwheel, Cigar Dojo. Oct 21. Espinosa Unveils La Bomba Warhead TAA Exclusive - Cigar Dojo +2

Crowned Heads Belgian Blue LE 2026
Belgian Blue is back for a third year in its smallest vitola yet.
Blend: Mexican San Andrés wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers, 75 percent ligero. Rolled at D’Hatuey Tabacos S.A.
Size and price: 5 1/4 x 54 box-pressed, $12.50 per cigar, $150 per box of 12.
Run: 2,500 boxes (30,000 cigars), shipping late October.
Mark’s Take: Seventy-five percent ligero will flatten a casual smoker. Trimming the length was the smart move. Smokable beats punishing every time. Via halfwheel, Cigar Dojo. Oct 21. Crowned Heads Belgian Blue LE 2026 Shipping Next Week +3

Warped Cloud Hopper Black
This is the second Cloud Hopper blend since the line debuted in 2017. Never had the 2017 version, so let me know your thoughts in the comments.
Blend: Mexican San Andrés wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, Nicaraguan fillers. Rolled at NACSA.
Sizes and price: No. 53 and No. 485 (5 x 48). The No. 485 lists at $12.50 per cigar, $312.50 per box of 25.
Availability: DROP Cigar Club says boxes are available for shipment. Warped has not confirmed that shipping has begun.
Mark’s Take: The original Cloud Hopper was an all-Aganorsa Nicaraguan puro. Move the Black to NACSA, add San Andrés, and you have a different cigar in an old jacket. LOL, give it a new name and nobody gets mad. Via halfwheel. Warped Adds Cloud Hopper Black +2

Rocky Patel America 250
Rocky Patel is shipping its 250th anniversary cigar to stores this week. It was due in September, and packaging delays pushed it back.
Blend: Mexican San Andrés wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, Nicaraguan fillers. Rolled early last year and aged at Tabacalera Villa Cuba in Estelí.
Size and price: 6 x 52 toro, $15 per cigar, $300 per box of 20.
Run: 2,000 boxes, released October 20.
Mark’s Take: Every company is milking the 250th. Rocky showed up last, but the delay at least left these cigars extra aging time. Fifteen bucks a stick is somewhat below what I would expect from a Rocky Patel anniversary blend. Not a bad price! Via halfwheel. Oct 20. Rocky Patel America 250 Coming in September +2

Perdomo Legacy Collection Samplers
Perdomo added three new vitolas to Legacy. You can only get them in samplers.
Sizes: Belicoso Fino (5 x 54), Gran Corona (6 x 48), Short Robusto (4 1/4 x 54), each in Connecticut, Maduro and Nicaraguan Shade-Grown versions. Made at Tabacalera Perdomo S.A.
Availability: Next month, inside 11-cigar samplers. No box count or MSRP listed.
Mark’s Take: We say it on the show all the time: Perdomo is consistent. So let us buy the sizes we want. Trapping a Gran Corona and a Short Robusto inside a sampler forces smokers to buy sticks they did not ask for. Box the Gran Corona and sell it straight. Via halfwheel. Oct 20. halfwheel

Caldwell The Queen is Dead
This is Caldwell’s first core line built from scratch since Laudisi bought the company in 2024. It follows The King is Dead.
Blend: Habano 2000 wrapper, Sumatra binder, Dominican Corojo, Habano and Criollo fillers. Rolled at Tabacalera William Ventura.
Sizes: Requiem (5 x 50, $14.50), Scarlet Thread (5 3/4 x 44, $13.75), Crimson Veil (6 x 52, $15.50), Bloodroot (7 3/4 x 40, $15), Revenant (6 x 60, $16). Boxes of 24.
Availability: Retailer pre-orders opened October 19. Shipping is expected at the end of October, with no exact date.
Mark’s Take: Caldwell wore this naming pun out years ago. Staying with William Ventura is the smart play, because that Dominican tobacco does the real work. Five sizes from $13.75 to $16 is a fair ask.
Via Cigar Coop (Oct 18), Cigar Dojo. Caldwell Introduces The Queen Is Dead Core Line +2

Villiger TAA Exclusive 2026
Villiger unveiled its TAA cigar ahead of the TAA convention in the Dominican Republic, October 25 to 29.
Blend: Ecuador Habano Rosado wrapper, Mexican San Andrés binder, Nicaraguan fillers. Made at Villiger de Nicaragua.
Size and price: 6 x 52 box-pressed toro, $13 per cigar, $130 per box of 10.
Run: 500 boxes (5,000 cigars), TAA members only, shipping November 2.
Mark’s Take: Not crazy about Villiger, and a 500-box run will not build secondary buzz. But this is the first TAA cigar from its own Nicaraguan factory, and that is worth watching. Via Cigar Aficionado (Oct 16), halfwheel. Villiger TAA Exclusive 2026 Shipping Next Month +3

Viaje Full Moon 13th Anniversary
Full Moon turns 13 with four 6 x 60 gordos.
Versions: Natural and Maduro, each in a standard and a limited version. Some are box-pressed, some are not.
Price: $17.91 per cigar standard ($429.84 per box of 24), $22.08 limited ($529.92 per box).
Availability: Shipping to stores now. Stores are getting fewer limited boxes than standard ones.
Mark’s Take: Blowing the whole release up to 60 ring wrecks a fun project. I think of here, “most smokers want balance, not a jaw workout.” Twenty-two bucks for a limited gordo is a lot to pay for a Halloween stunt.
Via halfwheel. Viaje Full Moon 13th Anniversary Heads to Stores +2

Quesada Don Manolo 79
Quesada’s annual birthday cigar for Manuel “Don Manolo” Quesada is shipping now through SAG Imports. His daughters Raquel and Patricia led the blending for the first time in the history of these releases.
Blend: Honduran wrapper, Dominican binder, Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers, including tobacco Manolo set aside in the late 1990s. Made at Tabacos de Exportación in the Dominican Republic.
Size and price: 6 x 52 toro, $21.99 per cigar.
Run: 1,000 boxes worldwide, 700 for the U.S.
Mark’s Take: Raquel and Patricia Quesada blending their father’s birthday smoke is what a handoff should look like in a legacy family factory. With 700 boxes for the whole U.S., it will not sit around. Honduran cigars are coming to the front of the line. Via Cigar Dojo, halfwheel. Quesada Don Manolo 79 Now Shipping to Retailers - Cigar Dojo +4

Arturo Fuente OpusX Serie “Heaven and Earth” Big Purple Dream
Arturo Fuente and Prometheus bring back the Big Purple Dream.
The humidor: Made in France with a purple sycamore veneer, holding 110 vintage OpusX cigars across 11 vitolas. It retails for $14,750. Only 60 exist: 30 shipped in December 2025 and the other 30 ship this December.
The smaller sets: Ten-count travel humidors run $650 to $690, and a six-cigar selection runs $425. Production is 300 boxes of each set, except the Diadema 60 (200) and the Purple Rain Torpedo (100).
Mark’s Take: The $14,750 humidor is built for trophy cases, and only 60 exist. That’s a NO from me. The $425 six-cigar set is the way in for the rest of us. It still is not cheap. Via Cigar Aficionado. Oct 15. cigaraficionadocigaraficionado

INDUSTRY, CORPORATE AND REGULATORY NEWS

Adam Levine Puts League of Fat Bastards Up for Sale
This is Adam Levine the Australian-born cigar founder, not the Maroon 5 frontman. After a failed fundraising round earlier this year and employee departures last month, he has put the company up for sale. The brand launched in 2024 on a promise to send 40 percent of profits to men’s mental health causes. A cause I get behind btw. Levine told Halfwheel earlier this month that he is the only one still working there.
Mark’s Take: The column and my full call are below. Via halfwheel. League of Fat Bastards Debuts Department of Honor at PCA 2026 +2

Tabacalera USA Restructures Senior Leadership
Three new senior roles took effect October 16. Brad Winstead, formerly CEO of Casa de Montecristo, is now chief commercial officer. Davide Moro, formerly CEO of Altadis U.S.A., is now chief marketing and brand experience officer. Nicolas Maslowski, formerly CEO of JR Cigar, is now chief direct to consumer officer. All three report to CEO Charles Gibb.
Mark’s Take: Three division bosses became three company-wide executives. Musical chairs like this rarely helps the guy buying one cigar on a Friday. Expect more pressure to push house brands. Via Cigar Coop (Oct 19), Cigar Journal (Oct 20), halfwheel. cigar-coop-halfwheel

Plasencia Promotes Javier Carranza to U.S. VP of Sales
Carranza joined in 2016 as U.S. national sales director. He now runs Plasencia’s U.S. sales organization and commercial strategy, including retailer partnerships, team development and distribution. Before Plasencia he worked at Gurkha, House of Emilio and AJ Fernandez.
Mark’s Take: MARKETING, BRANDING, MARKETING! Promoting a company veteran who has been there since the brand’s early days is a smart call. It keeps relationships steady while other makers burn through outside reps every year. Via halfwheel, Cigar Coop, Cigar Dojo. Oct 20. halfwheelcigardojo

ECMA Reports Wins in Germany, Norway and Spain
The European Cigar Manufacturers Association’s monthly update is good news. Germany’s tobacco tax explosion on cigars was averted, Norway’s cigar registration fees were suspended, and Spain’s smoking ban was cancelled after a snap election call. Good news for Hyacinth and me. Germany is not off the hook. Cigar taxes there still go up by slightly more than double in 2027, far below the 14 times increase proposed over the summer. Norway’s fees would have cost 8,500 kroner per product, plus 3,000 kroner a year.
Mark’s Take: A tax that doubles instead of going up fourteen times counts as a win in this business. Take it, and keep your guard up. Via Cigar Journal (Oct 19), halfwheel (Oct 16). Cigar Regulations Update: Germany, Norway and Spain | Cigar Journal +2

MARK’S RANDOM HOT TAKES

• If I cannot tell you where to buy it, I should not be telling you about it. Exclusives make great marketing and bad friendships.

• The Gran Corona is the best shape in the humidor, and nobody wants to hear it.

• Past 56 ring gauge is a stunt, not a smoke.

• Ligero is a seasoning. It is not a personality.

• A band prettier than the blend is a warning label, we have these all the time on MITMCIGAR.

THE WRAP

Eleven new cigars, four industry stories, and one pattern. Brands are fencing their best work behind TAA exclusives, sampler-only packs and 500-box runs, then calling it scarcity. Two familiar names swapped their blends and kept the label, so smokers who loved the old one are guessing on the new one. Europe caught a rare break on taxes and bans. The Quesada daughters gave us the best family story of the week.

The release that played it straight was Crowned Heads Belgian Blue. Same blend as last year, a smaller size, a clear price, no gimmicks. If you buy one thing from this issue, buy that.

SIGN-OFF

That’s the week. Smoke what you like, buy from the shop that knows your name, and keep it consistent, the way Perdomo does. See you next week.

Stay real.

Mark

One company in this issue is running out of road. My call on it is waiting below. Paid subscribers get it.

Read more

Eleven years ago we lit up the first episode of the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show, and Hyacinth, Leander and I started taking notes. Every wrapper, every “wait, do you taste that?” moment went into the notebook. Fast forward past 500 cigars and I’ve got gigabytes of notes in GDrive.

Check Out the Deep Dive

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Tune in live on Sundays at 7:15pm Eastern. Congratulations to the winner of two Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig and for a grabbing a cigar sticker pack.

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Episode Giveaways

Win Free Cigars Every Week Live on the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show!

We are taking every episode of the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show to the next level with a weekly live giveaway. During each show, two premium cigars from our featured review schedule will be drawn live on air and one of them could be yours.

Subscribe now

Community First

A message to all, you don’t have to be a cigar smoker to be a part of the community. Everyone is welcome to join in on the conversation.

Thank you to everyone for tuning into the live video!

iROBUSTO Schedule irobusto.com/schedule

The List on Neptune

October 2026

• October 11 - Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda

• October 18 - Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig

• October 25 - Tatuaje Avion 12 Short Perfecto

November 2026

• November 1 - Black Label Santa Muerte Corona Gorda

• November 8 - Asylum Insidious Maduro Toro

• November 15 - Nasser The Goat by AJ Fernandez Robusto

• November 22 - Acid Blue (Remi) 1400cc

• November 29 - ADVentura Blackfin’s Parlay Toro

December 2026

• December 6 - Blackened M81 Cigars by Drew Estate Corona Doble

• December 13 - Bohekio Habano Churchill

• December 20 - Leaf by Oscar Maduro Lancero

• December 27 - Hiram & Solomon Traveling Man Robusto

January 2026

• January 3 - Padron 1964 Anniversary Diplomatico Maduro

• January 10 - Onyx Reserve Churchill

• January 17 - Room 101 Johnny Tobacconaut Perfecto

• January 24 - RoMa Craft Baka Pygmy

🎙️ The Meet in the Middle Cigar Show

Join Mark, Hyacinth, and LeeMack912 every Sunday as we “spit facts,” review the latest sticks, and dive deep into industry trends. We pioneered interactive cigar content, and our archive is built with a community-first mindset.

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What’s Next?

To find out which cigar we’re reviewing...

Check the schedule at: iROBUSTO.COM/SCHEDULE

You can also go to iROBUSTO.COM right around 7:15 PM Eastern on Sunday. The Meet in the Middle Cigar Show will be live right on the home page.

Your Best Bet for Watching Live

While the show is posted on the homepage, occasional delays can happen. For the fastest access to the live stream, keep an eye on your email inbox for the direct link we send out.

If the video hasn’t appeared yet, a quick refresh of your Substack page or app should solve it most of the time.

NEXT SHOW

Check the schedule at: iROBUSTO.COM/SCHEDULE

Share This Now!

Restack, Like and Watch the video. Let’s build up the community and break all records for viewership this year.

Use this button to share on your favorite social media platform:

Share

LINK TO TODAY’S LIVE

GIVEAWAYS!

We’re giving away two premium cigars live on air every single week.

Free to Enter. Built for the Community.

No purchase is necessary, just tune in and drop a message in the live chat during the broadcast for your chance to win.

Want to stack the deck in your favor?

For just $5/month, Paid Subscribers get:

• 10X Entry Boost into every weekly drawing.

• VIP access and exclusive member perks.

• The satisfaction of directly keeping this independent show alive.

Subscribe now

Check out what you get for being a VIP supporter!

10X Boost for VIP Members

Smoke What You Like!

Don’t just watch, smoke with us. You can smoke any cigar you want to!

• Stay Updated: Check here or Instagram and Facebook to see our weekly lineup.

• The Source: We’re smoking sticks from Neptune Cigars, but feel free to smoke whatever you want and source yours from wherever you like.

Fall Schedule:

Check out the schedule: irobusto.com/schedule and remember you can grab the sticks you want to and don’t have to smoke the same cigar as we’re reviewing. Bring a friend to the chat and enjoy the conversation.

LINK TO TODAY’S LIVE

🕒 When We Meet

Join the brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf every Sunday at 7:15 PM Eastern Time. Bring your cutter, your torch, and your best stories.

How to Watch

While the show is posted on the homepage, occasional delays can happen. For the fastest access to the live stream, keep an eye on your email inbox for the direct link we send out.

View the in depth instructions by clicking the button:

HOW TO WATCH

A Personal Note From the Team

We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share a light and a laugh with this community every single week; thank you for being the heart of everything we do here at iROBUSTO. Leander wants to thank you for the continued loyalty that makes these Sunday nights the highlight of the week. Hyacinth sends her deepest appreciation for the passion you bring to every conversation, and Mark is raised-glass grateful for the brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf that continues to grow stronger with every single cigar that we enjoy, nothing matters without you!

Crafted specifically to complement the rich, earthy profile of a seasonal Oktoberfest smoke, where toasted cedar, cocoa, and roasted nut notes dominate, this serve uses the creamy malt backbone of Paulaner to soften heavy smoke while carbonation scrubs the palate between draws.

Ingredients

• 30 ml (1 oz) Jägermeister

• 15 ml (0.5 oz) Fresh orange juice (orange harmonizes with tobacco tannins far better than tart lemon)

• Paulaner Hefe-Weißbier Naturtrüb to top (well-chilled)

• Garnish: Fresh or lightly charred orange wheel

Preparation
Add the Jägermeister and fresh orange juice directly into a traditional tall Weizen glass filled halfway with cubed ice.

Tilt the glass at a 45-degree angle and slowly pour the chilled Paulaner Hefe-Weißbier down the inside wall, gradually straightening to build a thick, creamy head of foam.

Express the oil from an orange wheel over the foam crown, then drop it on top. See you in the chat Sunday at 7:15 PM ET!

HOW TO WATCH THE SHOW

Giveaways

Win Free Cigars Every Week Live on the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show!

We are taking every episode of the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show to the next level with a weekly live giveaway. During each show, two premium cigars from our featured review schedule will be drawn live on air and one of them could be yours.

• No Purchase Necessary: Every subscriber who tunes in and enters in the live chat during the broadcast is eligible to win.

• 10X Entry Boost: Want to stack the odds in your favor? Paid subscribers receive a 10X entry boost into every drawing, plus VIP access and exclusive perks for just $5 a month.

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Every subscriber who tunes in can participate in weekly live drawings during the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show for a chance to win featured premium cigars. For just $5 a month, upgrading to a VIP membership supports the show while unlocking private Zoom hangouts, guest publishing access, and a 10X entry boost into every giveaway.

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Thanks for being a part of our community and helping us keep the show going. We’ll see you live in the chat this week, good luck!

Leander, Hyacinth and Mark

Straight up, hope the week has been relatively sane on your end.

I’ve been heads-down doing my thing, but I’ve spent the past few days obsessing over whether the new cigars coming up are great or mediocre. If you know me, you know I don’t really do hot takes, I’d rather just say the quiet part out loud and be the populist rather than the dissenter.

I’m giving industry news and some personal op-ed below.

To read the full take and join the discussion in the comments, upgrade to a paid subscription below.

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Despite the name, most of the party happens in September. Organizers moved the dates earlier long ago to catch warmer weather, then kept the closing day tied to the first Sunday of October. That is why the world’s biggest beer festival ends just as autumn settles in.

The story starts in 1810, when Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese. Munich’s citizens were invited to celebrate with horse races in the fields outside the city gates. Those fields were named Theresienwiese in her honor, and the crowd enjoyed the party so much that the city brought it back the following year. Over two centuries later, millions of visitors make the trip to raise a stein, and the tradition is still going strong.

October 18 - The Cigar

Prost, Late: Lighting Up the Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig

Which brings us to the cigar. Ludwig gave the festival its origin, and the Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig carries that royal spirit into a seasonal smoke made for fall. We know Oktoberfest has technically ended, but we are not letting the celebration die with the last keg. On the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show, we are lighting one up to commemorate it properly.

Join us Sunday, October 18, at 7:15 PM Eastern for the full review. We will break down the pre-light draw, the burn, the flavor, and whether this Kaiser earns a spot in your humidor. As always, we will build the new show schedule live on air, so bring your ideas and your opinions.

A complete schedule coming soon: irobusto.com/schedule

Giveaway

There is also a giveaway. Subscribers get a chance to win two Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig cigars. Paid subscribers receive a 10X entry boost, and your support helps keep the show running and growing. If you have been thinking about upgrading, this is a very good week to do it.

Be a 10X VIP - Click Here

So grab a cigar, pour something cold, and join the table. Oktoberfest may be over in Munich, but at MITM it is lasting one more Sunday.

Prost, everyone.

#MITMCIGAR

Tune in live on Sundays at 7:15pm Eastern. Congratulations to the winner of two Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda.

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Episode Giveaways

Win Free Cigars Every Week Live on the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show!

We are taking every episode of the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show to the next level with a weekly live giveaway. During each show, two premium cigars from our featured review schedule will be drawn live on air and one of them could be yours.

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Community First

A message to all, you don’t have to be a cigar smoker to be a part of the community. Everyone is welcome to join in on the conversation.

Thank you to everyone for tuning into the live video!

New Schedule Coming Soon

The List on Neptune

• Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda

• Acid Blue (Remi) 1400cc

• Blackened M81 Cigars by Drew Estate Corona Doble

• ADVentura Blackfin’s Parlay Toro

• Hiram & Solomon

• Asylum Insidious Maduro Toro

• Black Label Santa Muerte Corona Gorda

• Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig

• Tatuaje Avion 12 Short Perfecto

• Leaf by Oscar Maduro Lancero

• Nasser The Goat by AJ Fernandez Robusto

• Bohekio Habano Churchill

• Padron 1964 Anniversary Diplomatico Maduro

• Onyx Reserve Churchill

• RoMa Craft Baka Pygmy

• Room 101 Johnny Tobacconaut Perfecto

🎙️ The Meet in the Middle Cigar Show

Join Mark, Hyacinth, and LeeMack912 every Sunday as we “spit facts,” review the latest sticks, and dive deep into industry trends. We pioneered interactive cigar content, and our archive is built with a community-first mindset.

💎 What You’ll Find Here

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What’s Next?

To find out which cigar we’re reviewing...

Check the schedule at: iROBUSTO.COM/SCHEDULE

You can also go to iROBUSTO.COM right around 7:15 PM Eastern on Sunday. The Meet in the Middle Cigar Show will be live right on the home page.

Your Best Bet for Watching Live

While the show is posted on the homepage, occasional delays can happen. For the fastest access to the live stream, keep an eye on your email inbox for the direct link we send out.

If the video hasn’t appeared yet, a quick refresh of your Substack page or app should solve it most of the time.

NEXT SHOW

Check the schedule at: iROBUSTO.COM/SCHEDULE

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To jumpstart our new schedule, we’re lighting up the Rocky Patel Sapphire. And because we love a good theme around here, we’re pairing it with a pour of Sapphire Gin for the occasion.

Whether you’re mixing up a crisp G&T, stirring a dry Martini, or keeping it neat, grab a glass, prep your humidor, and come hang out with us to kick off the season.

• When: This Sunday October 11, at 7:15 PM Eastern

• The Cigar: Rocky Patel Sapphire

• The Pairing: Sapphire Gin

Set your reminders, pour a drink, and let’s start the new schedule off right.

See you in the chat at 7:15 PM ET!

HOW TO WATCH THE SHOW

Giveaways

Win Free Cigars Every Week Live on the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show!

We are taking every episode of the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show to the next level with a weekly live giveaway. During each show, two premium cigars from our featured review schedule will be drawn live on air and one of them could be yours.

• No Purchase Necessary: Every subscriber who tunes in and enters in the live chat during the broadcast is eligible to win.

• 10X Entry Boost: Want to stack the odds in your favor? Paid subscribers receive a 10X entry boost into every drawing, plus VIP access and exclusive perks for just $5 a month.

Subscribe now

Some recipes to chill with…

1. Ultimate Sapphire Gin & Tonic

Bombay Sapphire’s bright botanical profile (juniper, lemon peel, coriander) shines best in a fresh, crisp G&T serve.

• Ingredients:

  • 50 ml (2 oz) Bombay Sapphire Gin

  • 100 ml (4 oz) Premium chilled tonic water

  • Fresh lime wheel or twist

• Instructions:

  1. Fill a Copa glass (or highball glass) to the brim with solid ice cubes.

  2. Pour the gin over the ice.

  3. Top gently with chilled tonic water to maintain effervescence.

  4. Stir gently once from the bottom up and garnish with a fresh lime wheel.

2. Sapphire French 75

The natural citrus and floral notes of Sapphire pair exceptionally well with fresh lemon juice and chilled sparkling wine.

• Ingredients:

  • 45 ml (1.5 oz) Bombay Sapphire Gin

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Fresh lemon juice

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Simple syrup (1:1 sugar-to-water)

  • 60 ml (2 oz) Chilled Champagne or Prosecco

  • Lemon twist

• Instructions:

  1. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

  2. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds until frosty.

  3. Fine-strain into a Champagne flute.

  4. Top with chilled sparkling wine and garnish with a lemon twist.

3. Classic Sapphire Dry Martini

A clean, stir-focused drink that highlights the gin’s almond, grains of paradise, and juniper notes without heavy masking.

• Ingredients:

  • 60 ml (2 oz) Bombay Sapphire Gin

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Dry Vermouth

  • Green olive or lemon peel for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Add gin and dry vermouth to a mixing glass packed with fresh ice.

  2. Stir continuously for 30 seconds to chill and dilute without creating air bubbles.

  3. Strain into a chilled martini glass or coupe.

  4. Express the oils from a lemon twist over the glass and drop it in, or garnish with a green olive.

See you there. Most importantly, bring a friend and don’t worry if you have the cigar or the pairing! Join the chat and have fun!

Bring any cigar you want, you don’t need to have the scheduled cigar to enjoy the fun. We’re always interested in hearing what you’re smoking!

On Sunday night October 11, we’ll be creating the schedule. We’re live at 7:15 PM Eastern, and you know the drill: grab the scheduled cigar, reach for your cutter, and prime that torch.

This week we smoke on October 11 the Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda.

Episode Giveaways

Win Free Cigars Every Week Live on the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show!

We are taking every episode of the Meet in the Middle Cigar Show to the next level with a weekly live giveaway. During each show, two premium cigars from our featured review schedule will be drawn live on air and one of them could be yours.

Get 10X Entries!

Subscribe now

Price Matching

It may be helpful to view the Neptune Price Match Policy and check out other online retailers if they will do the same.

See the list on Neptune:

October 2026

• October 11 - Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda

• October 18

• October 25

November 2026

• November 1

• November 8

• November 15

• November 22

• November 29

December 2026

• December 6

• December 13

• December 20

• December 27

The Lineup

• Rocky Patel Sapphire Corona Gorda

• Acid Blue (Remi) 1400cc

• Blackened M81 Cigars by Drew Estate Corona Doble

• ADVentura Blackfin’s Parlay Toro

• Hiram & Solomon Traveling Man Robusto

• Asylum Insidious Maduro Toro

• Black Label Santa Muerte Corona Gorda

• Quesada Oktoberfest Kaiser Ludwig

• Tatuaje Avion 12 Short Perfecto

• Leaf by Oscar Maduro Lancero

• Nasser The Goat by AJ Fernandez Robusto

• Bohekio Habano Churchill

• Padron 1964 Anniversary Diplomatico Maduro

• Onyx Reserve Churchill

• RoMa Craft Baka Pygmy

• Room 101 Johnny Tobacconaut Perfecto

🕒 When We Meet

Join the brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf

• Sunday at 7:15 PM Eastern Time.

Bring your cutter, your torch, and your best stories.

How to Watch

While the show is posted on the homepage, occasional delays can happen. For the fastest access to the live stream, keep an eye on your email inbox for the direct link we send out.

View the in depth instructions by clicking the button:

HOW TO WATCH

A Personal Note From the Team

We are so grateful for the opportunity to share a cigar and a laugh with this community every single week, thank you for being the heart of everything we do here at iROBUSTO. Leander would like to extend a warm thank you for the continued loyalty that makes our Sunday nights the highlight of the week. Hyacinth sends her deepest appreciation for the passion you bring to every conversation, and Mark is truly grateful for the incredible brotherhood and sisterhood of the leaf that grows stronger with every cigar we enjoy together.

Simply put: none of this matters without you!

Video Below: Check it Out!

• The Haul: Picking up 15 weeks’ worth of scheduled review cigars at the post office.

• The Pitstop: Visiting Albert Stagnetto at La Casa Del Habano.

• The Coverage: Sharing photos and updates right here on the iROBUSTO Substack.

To celebrate, we’re giving away two premium cigars live on air every single week.

Free to Enter. Built for the Community.

No purchase is necessary—just tune in and drop a message in the live chat during the broadcast for your chance to win.

Want to stack the deck in your favor?

For just $5/month, Paid Subscribers get:

• 10X Entry Boost into every weekly drawing.

• VIP access and exclusive member perks.

• The satisfaction of directly keeping this independent show alive.

Whether you’re tuning in for free or boosting your entries as a paid supporter, thank you for being part of this journey.

Subscribe now

We hoped you enjoyed the video. Now drop by the Meet in the Middle Show on Sundays at 7:15PM Eastern.

This week we’re reviewing the Rocky Patel Sapphire!