Stogie Guys Friday Sampler No. 278

As we have since July 2006, each Friday we’ll post a mixed bag of quick cigar news and other items of interest. Below is our latest Friday Sampler.

1) Today is the final day of the 2012 ProCigar Festival, a showcase of the top cigar makers in the Dominican Republic. Since Sunday, when the festival began, cigar enthusiasts have flocked to the country to sample unreleased cigars, tour nearby tobacco fields and factories, chat with cigar makers, and attend gala dinners. As the 5th annual ProCigar Festival ends, the 14th annual Habanos Festival is set to begin on Monday. This Cuban event will likewise feature tours, seminars, tastings, and a preview of new cigars to come. It will also include a dinner to mark the 520th anniversary of the discovery of tobacco in Cuba by the Europeans.

2) New Releases: The new VegaFina Sumum Edición Especial 2010 will include an Ecuadorian wrapper and be solid in one size (5 x 54) for $6.75 apiece. This year’s limited edition release of the Punch Rare Corojo will be available starting March 1. The San Lotano Oval will soon be available in a maduro variety.

3) Inside the Industry: La Flor Dominicana’s Premium line will henceforth be known as “La Flor Dominicana Light” and the packaging will be different, but the blend remains the same. Avo has added a new size (3.6 x 43) to its full-bodied Heritage line.

4) Around the Blogs: Tiki Bar kicks back with the Pedro Martin Fiera. Stogie Fresh rates the Dignity Black Gold. Nice Tight Ash checks out the Illusione 68. Stogie Review reviews the La Sirena Prince. Cigar Brief smokes the God of Fire Carlito Double Corona. Cigar Explorer tours the ProCigar Festival.

5) Deal of the Week: Good for only three more days, this “Silver Plate Special” features six Alec Bradley sticks and a butane lighter for just $45. Included are such highly-rated Alec Bradley smokes as the Prensado, Family Blend, Black Market, and Tempus.

–The Stogie Guys

photo credit: ProCigar