Brand evangelist, digital marketer, cigar and spirits expert specializing in consumer tasting and educational events. Matthias made the long trek from his hometown of Portland, Oregon to New York City in 2007, and in nine years has hosted more than 120 events and helped promote and launch dozens of cigar and whiskey brands in the U.S. In 2016, he joined the Cigar Journal Tasting Panel, blind-reviewing pre and new release cigars.
Cigar Aficionado posted an article a few days back that I found pretty interesting. It looks like Dunhill, the legendary cigar brand that sold individual sticks for over $1,0000 each at a recent auction, will be releasing the “Aged Reserva Especial 2003”, which will use Dominican tobaccos from 2003.
As Cigar Aficionado reports:
“The blend is completed with a Connecticut broadleaf binder, and wrapped in Connecticut-shade tobacco grown in the northeastern United States. The cigars were rolled at General Cigar Dominicana for Dunhill. As with every Dunhill Aged cigar, after rolling they were stored for a year in aging rooms lined in Spanish cedar to allow the cigars to mature.”
I’ll be looking forward to smoking this stick and perhaps giving it a review. You can read the full article here.
The Guardian provides unique protection for up to six watches, jewelry, cash, or important documents.
The centerpiece of the Guardian is the multi-walled, high-security cylinder built into the leather, which was developed in-house at Döttling. This consists of a range of high-tech materials, which have been interlocked in a top-secret composition. The carbide component is nearly as hard as a diamond and destroys tools such as drills or saws attempting to attack the Guardian. Several layers of highly tear-proof and cut-resistant aramid carbon-fiber fabric, which is also used in bulletproof vests, also prevent drilling or sawing. The outermost and innermost layers of the high-security cylinder are made of polycarbonate. This material is also used for anti-riot shields and helmet visors. It makes the Guardian extremely impact-resistant, ensuring that it cannot be destroyed, even with the largest sledgehammers. A high-security safe door is integrated into one end of the cylinder, which is also reinforced with aramid carbon-fiber fabric. This door can only be opened with a three-digit code. When this code is entered correctly, the lock, consisting of four high-gloss polished steel bars, opens.
In short: in a closed state, the Guardian can only be opened with massive force and a lot of time – time that is not available, as the Guardian is also equipped with a GPS tracking device, and can thus be precisely located around the globe.
As for the exterior of the Guardian, the same applies here as for all Döttling products: there are virtually no limits set to individuality.
For example, the handle brackets made of high-gloss polished stainless steel can be engraved. Any conceivable variation in fabric or leather is also possible for the cover. This ensures that the Guardian is not recognized as a “travel safe” – providing a further plus in terms of security.
The Döttling Guardian can be carried with a handle or shoulder strap. Thanks to its compact design of just 35 cm length and 13.5 cm diameter, it can also be placed in a suitcase. And despite its high-security concept, it only weighs about 4 kg. This makes it a true featherweight, allowing one to travel unencumbered in every respect.
Cigar Landing’s Andy Oh announced today via email the Cigar Landing holiday party. Cigar Landing was hit earlier this year by Hurricane Sandy, but was quick back to its feet thanks to the hard work of its owners.
Below is the email:
Come join us on Friday (12/21) as we celebrate the holidays (or the end of the world). Decorations, light refreshments, entertainment, etc.
Festivities begin at 6:00 pm. Hope you can make it.
Cheers,
Cigar Landing
150 Beekman Street (between South and Front Streets, one block north of Pier 17 @ the Seaport).
~ Auchentoshan 1966 – A Rare Vintage Release ~
~ Auchentoshan 1979 – Latest in 1970s Vintage Series ~
~ Valinch 2012 – Second edition Small Batch Release ~
Auchentoshan, the only triple distilled Single Malt Scotch Whisky, has released three remarkable and sought-after collectibles: the limited editions Auchentoshan 1966 and Auchentoshan 1979, and the second small batch release of Valinch 2012. These exceptional expressions will satisfy the palates of any whisky enthusiast or collector.
Established in 1823, Auchentoshan triple distils every drop, meaning the spirit produced reaches 81.5% ABV, significantly higher than most distilleries in Scotland. It is this quality and lightness of Auchentoshan’s distillate paired with the carefully selected oak casks that gives its whiskies an unmistakably light and fruity flavour. This production process is totally unique to Auchentoshan; a distinct proposition that makes for a modern expression of a classic single malt.
AUCHENTOSHAN 1966 – BOURBON MATURED
Carefully matured in North American ex-Bourbon Hogshead casks for just over 44 years, one of the rarest expressions of any Lowland Single Malt Whisky – making it a highly coveted collectible for any whisky fan.
Only 257 bottles of the Auchentoshan 1966 were laid to rest following distillation on 21 February 1966. After triple distillation, this extraordinary expression was matured exclusively in Warehouse Number Three, in the shadow of the Old Kilpatrick hills. Some say it is the perfect building for maturing Scotch Whisky; the sheltered aspect and lowland climate make for very small variations in temperature – just 12 degrees centigrade over a year. What’s more, the floor is natural soil which allows the warehouse (and the casks) to breathe.
Encased in a handcrafted aluminium and oak outer case that are each individually numbered, the Auchentoshan 1966 comes partnered with a booklet charting the history of this rare expression. Priced at £4,500 RRP, this exclusive bottling is available now.
Kirsteen Beeston, Head of Brands at Morrison Bowmore Distillers, comments: “This is a stunning example of the care, craft and investment we put into our whiskies, that means it can withstand the test of time. Thanks to careful tending of the North American white oak hogshead casks, Auchentoshan 1966 Year Old has matured beautifully over 44 years. It has aged with a complex character – but keeps its youthful vitality.”
TASTING NOTES
Golden syrup in colour, the expression displays welcoming aromas of fragrant tobacco leaf accompanied by a gentle prickle of lemon pepper. A splash of pure water awakens subtle notes of fruitcake and eucalyptus that develop into sweet heather honey, culminating with a flourish of cooling mint. A clean yet lingering finish, reminiscent of marmalade.
Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Morrison Bomwore Distillers, adds: “Auchentoshan 1966 is a whisky of exquisite elegance with a delicate yet intriguing bouquet capturing the pinnacle of the distiller’s art and remaining true to its triple-distilled house style. As Auchentoshan matures through the decades in bourbon casks, the fresh citrus aromas intertwine with the American white oak, evolving whilst maintaining the beautiful triple-distilled structure”.
AUCHENTOSHAN 1979 – OLOROSO MATURED
Building on the success of the Auchentoshan 1975 Bourbon Matured launched in 2011, the Auchentoshan 1979 Oloroso Sherry Matured is the latest from the superb series of vintage releases from the late 1970s. Released this October, only 1,000 bottles are in existence worldwide, with each bottle individually numbered, making it no doubt a much sought-after limited edition for all enthusiasts and connoisseurs. RRP is £350.00
True to Auchentoshan’s signature contemporary look, this whisky comes in a stylish and understated premium black box. The character of the copper gold liquid is reflected in the copper foiling throughout the packaging and the interior of the box holds an image of a deconstructed Oloroso sherry cask in homage to the importance of the wood maturation process.
This Auchentoshan is a true rarity; distilled on 22 October 1979, the expression has been fully matured in first-fill sherry butts for over 32 years. Bottled at cask strength, the expression is non chill-filtered to preserve maximum intensity of flavour, creating an Auchentoshan of intense spiced fruitiness.
Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Morrison Bowmore Distillers, adds: “This carefully crafted malt is one of the most intensely fruity Auchentoshans ever to be released. A cornucopia of rich dark fruits and deep spices, this beguiling expression is beautifully dry.”
TASTING NOTES
A cornucopia of rich dark fruits with Victoria plums, blackberries and raisins, balanced by cinnamon spiced fruitcake. On the tongue, experience bramble jam, dark chocolate, spiced fruit chutney and Madeira cake. Spicy nutmeg, tobacco and pepper linger into the finish.
VALINCH 2012
Launched last year in response to popular demand from Single Malt evangelists, the Auchentoshan Valinch was released to great reviews. A non chill-filtered Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in first-fill North American ex-Bourbon oak casks, the Valinch is a cask strength edition of the acclaimed Classic. For 2012, Auchentoshan is unveiling the second small batch release of this much-lauded malt. Only a limited amount of Valinch are selected for release once a year – 2000 cases globally.
Named after the metal pipette used to draw whisky straight from the cask, this light and refreshing whisky has all the depth of taste, flavour and full body associated with sampling whisky at source.
The packaging of this expression tells the story of the whisky, with the bottle reflecting a laboratory bottle complimented by the outer carton; stripped back to basics, exposing the idea of whisky straight from the cask.
TASTING NOTES
Pale golden in colour, the first aromas are sweet and creamy crème brulee, followed by an invigorating full-bodied orange zest notes on the tongue. The finish is sweet, crisp and lingering.
For more details, visit www.auchentoshan.com / or www.facebook.com/auchentoshan
Follow us on Twitter @TheAuchentoshan
These bottles are available at all good whisky specialist shops.
Auchentoshan Classic has recently gained a listing in Tesco’s.
UK Distributor: Cellar Trends on 01283 217703 or auchentoshan@cellartrends.co.uk
Notes:
Auchentoshan – The Modern Classic
A traditional and authentic single malt, distilled three times and matured in the finest wood
A whisky produced with passion and enriched with heritage
Favours the classic but with a nod to the contemporary
It’s a combination of two worlds; old and new
It’s a throwback to the future
It’s style not fashion
The very best of the past with the very best of the present…
Auchentoshan Classic is available to buy from a wide range of retailers including Asda, Waitrose, and a range of on line retailers and whisky specialists with a RRP approx £27.00.
As Glasgow’s closest Distillery, Auchentoshan is truly unique as it is the only distillery to use a third still in the whisky making process. It means Auchentoshan is the only Single Malt Scotch whisky to triple distil every single drop. This third distillation takes the new spirit to 81.5% ABV (not 70% which is achieved through only distilling twice) making it the highest distillate of any Scottish distillery. The result is a light and delicate single malt of unmistakable smoothness.
Awards 2011
IWSC
– Gold Medal, 1975 Bourbon
– Best in Class Silver, 18YO
– Best in Class Silver, Classic
International Spirits Challenge
– Silver Media, 1975 Bourbon
– Silver Medal, Valinch
– Silver Medal, Three Wood
Scottish Design Awards
– Best Packaging – Auchentoshan Travel Retail Award
Awards 2012
San Francisco Spirits Competition
– Double Gold Medal, Three Wood
– Silver Medal, Classic
– Silver Medal, 12YO
World Whiskies Awards:
– Best Lowland – Auchentoshan 1999 Wine Matured
Ultimate Spirits Challenge:
– 94 points/Excellent-Highly Recommended – Auchentoshan Three Wood
Ultimate Cocktail Challenge:
– Chairman’s Trophy – Best Scotch Whisky in a classic Rusty Nail cocktail – Auchentoshan Three Wood
As San Diego’s newest wine and cigar lounge, Habanos Cigar and Wine Cafe’s Grand Opening party was a major success. Despite ongoing rain, the house was packed, as ladies and gentlemen were entertained by the live Blues music of Chris James and Patrick Rynn Chicago Blues. The event started at 6pm and ran until midnight.
Some photos of the humidor…
Two large, enclosed patios provided a festive ambiance for guests to enjoy great blues music, friendly conversation, food, premium wines and cigars. The center of the main patio sported a warm and inviting fire pit. Plenty of free parking was available to guests. Complementary appetizers were provided and the friendly staff took care of every customer need. For those who wanted to enjoy a full dinner and wine, the back patio, packed to the max, was the place to be.
“I was concerned that the rain may hurt the event,” commented Nate Kalasho, proprietor, wine connoisseur and cigar aficionado, “But they came and enjoyed a festive evening. I want to personally thank all those who supported our Grand Opening.”
“I was happy to see the number of ladies that came to the event,” commented Missy of San Diego “I even got to dance to the great music. I hope Chris and Patrick will come back soon.”
ABOUT CHRIS JAMES AND PATRICK RYNN
Vocalist and guitarist Chris James and bassist Patrick Rynn are staunch Blues traditionalists with a high-energy contemporary edge. They’ve been playing together since 1990, proudly dedicating their musical collaboration to the invigorating sound of real, unadulterated Blues. They lead their own internationally acclaimed band, and have toured the world playing behind some of the greatest Blues legends in the field.
ABOUT HABANOS CIGAR AND WINE CAFÉ
Habanos Cigar and Wine Café
3111 Hancock St corner of Rosecrans
Just South of Hwy 8
619-787-7477
Apx 3,000 sq. ft.
600 sq. ft. walk in humidor
The three large enclosed patios provide leather sofas, tables and chairs.
The main patio sports a warm and inviting fire pit.
The second patio provides a warm & inviting fireplace
5 large screen TVs
Full Tapas kitchen
Huge premium wine selection
Espresso and specialty coffee drinks
Free parking
Hours of Operation
Sunday to Thursday 9am to 10pm
Friday & Saturday 9am to midnight
