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cigars

A Smoke of Ancient Majesty!

A Review of the Foundation Aksum Maduro Double Corona (7” x 54)

There are cigars that are merely cigars, and then there are cigars that whisper stories from the depths of time, carrying the weight of forgotten empires and the wisdom of old souls. The Foundation Aksum Maduro Double Corona certainly belongs to the latter. This is not merely tobacco rolled in a fine wrapper—it is an invitation, a passage, a meditation in slow-burning devotion.

At first light, the Aksum Maduro reveals itself in waves of dark chocolate and black coffee, as if it has absorbed the strength of the earth itself. The Ecuadorian Sumatra Maduro wrapper, rich and oily, feels ancient in my hands—like a relic from a civilization that understood patience, craftsmanship, and the sacredness of fire.

The first draw is bold, unapologetic. A light pepper tingles on the tongue, but it is not an assault; rather, it is a reminder—of life’s fire, of passion restrained yet potent. Beneath it, a current of dried fruit and leather rolls in, whispering like a monk who has long understood the power of silence and blessing of solitude.

As the burn evens out, the body of the cigar swells into something grander. It is not just a smoking experience; it is a communion. I can feel the spirit of the Nicaraguan tobacco farmers who nurtured these leaves, the artistry of the rollers who honored them with steady hands and took the time to box press them.

Halfway in, the Aksum Maduro deepens—earth and cedar take the stage, harmonizing with a subtle molasses sweetness. The draw remains effortless, smooth as the wisdom of an elder who knows that rushing through life is a fool’s errand. Each puff is a lesson: slow down, breathe, be present.

As the final third unfolds, I am no longer just a man with a cigar; I am a traveler at the gates of something greater. A nutty richness arrives, with hints of espresso and licorice, as if the cigar itself has aged and matured in these last few inches. The strength builds—not to overwhelm, but to leave a mark.

This is a cigar that does not fade into memory. It lingers, much like the stories of kings, the echoes of prophets, the laughter of old friends who knew the value of a well-told tale and a well-smoked cigar.

This is not a cigar for the hurried man, nor for the one who smokes merely for the sake of smoke. It is for those who understand that a cigar, when made with reverence, is a key—a key to history, to meditation, to gratitude.

So, if you pick up this fine offering, do it justice: sit down, exhale your worries, and let the spirit guide you. After all, the best things in life—be it love, wisdom, or a fine cigar—are meant to be savored.

-MJHarvell (Michael Joe Harvell)

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Cohiba Nicaragua Cigar Review

Sittin’ on the porch with a Cohiba Nicaragua in hand, I felt like I’d wandered into a time when men wore hats and watched the world go by with a thoughtful puff of smoke. Now, I ain’t one to usually get poetic about cigars, but this one? Well, it just might change my mind.

First thing that hits ya is that rich, earthy aroma, like stepping into an old tobacco barn. You light it up, and the first draw tells you this ain’t your run-of-the-mill stogie. There’s a deep, dark flavor that grabs hold of your senses like a Southern preacher on a Sunday mornin’. It’s bold, but not too bold—kind of like the difference between a Georgia summer and the shade of an oak tree. 

As the smoke curls up into the sky, there’s a peppery kick that reminds you life’s got a little spice to it, and it should. But just when you think it’s all fire, it settles down into something smooth and creamy, like your mama’s homemade buttermilk pie. Each puff is a journey, and by the time you reach the end, you’ll swear you’ve been somewhere and back again.

Mark Twain once said, “If I cannot smoke in heaven, then I shall not go.” Well, ol’ Samuel Clemens would’ve loved to sit a spell with a Cohiba Nicaragua. It’s the kind of cigar that makes you want to spin a yarn, laugh at a good joke, and remember that life’s too short to smoke cheap cigars.

So if you’re lookin’ for a smoke that’s got depth, character, and a bit of Southern charm, light up a Cohiba Nicaragua. It’s not just a cigar—it’s a story in the making.

change, choices, cigar, Enlightenment, faith, Fellowship, Gratitude, joy, life, smoking

The Brotherhood Of The Leaf!

My Cigar Journey!

Everyone who makes a journey into the cigar world has a different experience. For me, it was a special occasion here or there, but never really a serious pursuit. This past year, the wife of a good friend passed away and the evening after her funeral, I went to his house to see how he was doing. He was a cigar smoker and offered me one and we enjoyed a good cigar and a great conversation. Over the next couple of weeks, we would visit and share a premium cigar and meaningful conversation. Our friendship grew into brotherhood fairly quickly and I had a new hobby that has opened up a world of connections, friendships and great conversations.

It was not long after that when I ran into a phrase that describes perfectly what I had been experiencing in my cigar journey – “BROTHERHOOD OF THE LEAF”. The term “Brotherhood of the Leaf” evokes images of camaraderie, tradition, and a shared passion for the art of cigar smoking. This brotherhood transcends geographical boundaries, social classes, and even generations, uniting aficionados in their love for one of the world’s oldest and most storied indulgences: the cigar.

With that phrase in mind, I got the idea to start a group called Brotherhood Of The Leaf F3 – Faith, Fellowship, Fine Cigars, which would sponsor opportunities to get together in various locations to grow together while enjoying this very special past time.

A Brief History of Cigars

To understand the Brotherhood of the Leaf, one must first appreciate the rich history of cigar smoking. Cigars have been enjoyed for centuries, with their origins traced back to indigenous peoples in the Caribbean and Mesoamerica. The introduction of cigars to Europe by explorers like Christopher Columbus in the late 15th century sparked a global appreciation that continues to this day.

The cigar became a symbol of sophistication and leisure, often associated with important historical figures, statesmen, and celebrities. This cultural significance laid the foundation for a community bound by a common appreciation for the craftsmanship and experience of cigar smoking.

The Essence of the Brotherhood

At its core, the Brotherhood of the Leaf is about more than just smoking cigars; it is about the experience and the connections forged over a shared ritual. Members of this fraternity often gather in cigar lounges, clubs, and at special events, where they exchange stories, knowledge, and, of course, cigars. The act of lighting up a cigar becomes a ceremonial event, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect.

The Rituals and Traditions

One of the hallmarks of the Brotherhood of the Leaf is its rich tapestry of rituals and traditions. These rituals might include:

– Cigar Selection: The process of choosing a cigar is almost sacred. Aficionados take into consideration the origin, blend, and age of the tobacco. This selection process is often accompanied by discussions about personal preferences and the nuances of different cigars.

– Lighting Ceremony: Lighting a cigar is done with care and precision. Members often use wooden matches or cedar spills to avoid imparting unwanted flavors from gas lighters. This act is slow and deliberate, reflecting the meditative nature of cigar smoking.

– Smoking Etiquette: The etiquette of cigar smoking is respected within the brotherhood. This includes the pace at which one smokes, the manner in which the ash is managed, and the shared understanding of the communal and solitary aspects of the experience.

The Social Fabric

The Brotherhood of the Leaf is inclusive, drawing members from all walks of life. Business executives, artists, laborers, and enthusiasts all find common ground in their love for cigars. This diversity enriches the community, fostering an environment where different perspectives are appreciated and celebrated.

The Global Community

While the term “Brotherhood of the Leaf” might suggest a primarily male fraternity, the community is increasingly inclusive, with women finding their place among the ranks of cigar aficionados. Organizations and social media groups dedicated to women who enjoy cigars are growing, adding to the diversity and richness of the community.

Cigar Culture in the Modern Age

In the modern era, the Brotherhood of the Leaf has adapted to contemporary lifestyles while maintaining its core values. The digital age has enabled cigar lovers to connect through online forums, social media, and on the fly opportunities to fire up a stick together. These platforms allow members to share reviews, tips, and personal experiences, keeping the spirit of the brotherhood alive and vibrant.

It’s So Much More Than Smoking!

The Brotherhood of the Leaf is more than just a group of people who enjoy cigars; it is a testament to the enduring appeal of tradition, craftsmanship, and fellowship. In a fast-paced world, the act of smoking a cigar offers a moment to slow down and enjoy a life of reflection and connection, linking the past with the present and bringing together individuals from all walks of life. As this fraternity continues to grow and evolve, it remains a beacon of camaraderie and a celebration of one of life’s fine pleasures…

As Mark Twain once said: Be sure and smoke in moderation – one cigar at a time…

-MJHarvell