Based on my previous post, I received an email asking for further detail, so we will continue the conversation a bit... Thanks Phil
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: True Habano's in San Jose
From: "Phil"
Date: Sat, September 09, 2006 4:09 pm
Hi,
What a refreshing relief to find your commentary on finding true Cuban cigars in Costa Rica (San Jose). I found an article back in 98 that talked about how to identify a falso, but Im not sure if it remains true today. I've pasted it into a MS Word document that Ive enclosed.
I was planning on visiting the La Casa Del Habano in San Jose but Im not sure if they will try and sell me fake Cuban cigars. If I come in looking like a tourist who does not know much about Habanos, might they try and rip me off? Or will I be safe in that store? Should I inspect them according to the enclosed article?
I will be there in November. What can I expect to pay for a box?
Thanks!
Phil
-----Original Message-----
From: keith
Sent: Sunday, September 10, 2006 11:25 AM
To: Phil
Subject: RE: True Habano's in San Jose
Phil,
The article looks fairly dated, but there is some good information in there. The truth is if someone wants to produce a fake box of cigars, everything except the tobaccco can be produced here (In Costa Rica), Cuba, even in the US. The cigar falsification industry is huge, world wide. The only trick to buying is buying from a trusted dealer.
La Casa Del Habanao is pretty trusted in my opinion. I used to know the general manager there well, but he has recently moved on. I use the term "pretty trusted" becasue I do not know who is running the place now, and what has happened at other places is that their own staff was bringing in fakes and selling them. I doubt that is happening, but it is a risk.
I doubt that they will take advantage of you as a tourist. Although some places in Costa Rica use that philosophy, La Casa Del Habano is owned by an Italian family who knows that you can "shear a sheep many times, but skin it once." They should try to make you a long term client, but if you like send me a list of what you might be looking for and I will write you an estimate on what they should cost- just so you can be safe. Prices depend greatly on what brands and vitolas you are interested in.
If you are interested in a boutique cigar, I will recommend Don Benigno. I smoke his cigars almost exclusively with the exception of gifts and reviews. They are excellent, and go for $100 to $200 per box (depending on vitola). They are sold at a popular mall on the west side of town call "Plaza Major." If you can pick up a few sticks, and if you are interested in purchasing by the box you can visit the factory and get a nice little tour.
Drop me a line with what you are looking for,
Keith
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: RE: True Habano's in San Jose
From: "Phil"
Date: Sun, September 10, 2006 11:24 am
To: keith
Thanks Keith, great info.
I saw your blog post on Don Benigno and was thinking of checking that out.
Ok, you've uncovered my ignorance in regards to cigars. I'm very much a novice who doesn't get much past smoking a mild Macanudo but wants to take advantage of my trip to Costa Rica.
So I like mild cigars. When I drink an IPA, a harsh cigar makes it impossible as an IPA is a strong beer and they are too powerful as a combo.
So I know enough to know that I've probably not tasted a truly good cigar (not sure if Macanudo's are considered good quality). I say mild probably because I've had some harsh cigars... I don't smoke cigarettes...
So what do you think? I've looked at all the various brands of cuban's, but figured I would ask the shop owner when I get there to recommend something for me. If you can help me out that'd be great.
Perhaps this should be on your blog as comments to help others? I got your blog info from a forum poster on a message board as a quality blog with good info. I sure appreciate your time in this matter!
Thanks,
phil
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: RE: True Habano's in San Jose
From: keith
Date: Mon, September 11, 2006 12:39 am
To: Phil
Phil,
First of all, thanks for the repeated kind words about my blog, I hope that people find it useful, so thanks for saying as much. Greatly appreciated.
Excellent idea on posting the messages! I don't post emails because I worry about jeopardizing people's confidence (and I hate to ask). I have made a Part 2 of the Cigar Hunting post that is on my blog.
No need to be bashful, we were all novices at one time- and as a very serious cigar smoker, I am glad to see the hobby/pastime grow. Before moving abroad, I smoked many Macs, they are indeed mild, but I still smoke one from time to time. I still find mild cigars pleasing to the pallet. You are right on however, take advantage of this trip to check out some new cigars.
On that note, let me explain that Cuban cigars are strong, but they are not harsh. Even some experienced smokers that have not had access to Cuban cigars make the mistake of thinking that they are mild, because they are not harsh. You will have one up on them.
Cuban tobacco should not burn or scratch the throat. They are smooth and creamy. If you inhale a little, you will see their strength, but it is not necessary. It is hard to say where to start, but make sure you buy some singles before buying a box. Mareva is a great starting point, but if you are feeling adventurous, you will enjoy a Robusto.
In terms of brands, the best is Cohiba. All the of parts of Cohiba are from the Vuelta Abajo zone of Cuba- it is the best of the best. That being said, the other big names are all respectable as well- don't get too caught up thinking a Limited Edition is something special, normally it is just means a different wrapper and additional ring.
Prices start around $350 a box, but you are looking at more for some of the more popular brands. A box of Cohiba Robustos will be about $500. I should point out that cash (dollars) should get you a discount over using a credit card.
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.
Sincerely,
Keith
Hi I was wondering if the market for dominican cigars is strong? I might be in Costa Rica for several months and I wonder if I should bring my own from the US or purchase in Costa Rica. This are more of an every day smoke for me since they are alot less than cubans.
ReplyDeleteAs always a fabulous posting.
ReplyDeleteYour writing is awesome stylish & also informational.
Keep up the good work man!!!!!!!
webroyalty
I do a lot of Dominican sales, Anonymous. I would bring your own if you are going there. Going to be tough to get in Costa. Was just there recently.
ReplyDeletewhat are your thoughts on this place? http://www.avenue822.com/video/el-rincon-del-habano
ReplyDelete