Klaas Kelner, CEO and founder of Kelner Tabak, brings a lifetime of experience in premium cigar craftsmanship to his own company. As the son of legendary master blender Henke Kelner, he grew up surrounded by tobacco fields, curing barns, and factory floors.

Heiko Pörz, founder of HENK, has built a brand that merges refined design, functional innovation, and deeply personal storytelling. Drawing from decades of travel and an appreciation for craftsmanship across cultures, he has created luxury accessories that stand out for their individuality and enduring quality.

Heinrich Villiger has been in the cigar business for more than seven decades, steering Villiger through the post-war years, industry consolidation, and the rise of both machine-made and premium hand-rolled cigars.

Jorge Padrón, President of Padrón Cigars, shares insights into his upbringing in the tobacco world, the legacy of his father José Orlando Padrón, and the guiding philosophy that has kept the brand among the most respected in the cigar industry

John Oliva Jr. and Trey Angel Oliva of Oliva Tobacco Company joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to share the story of one of the most influential leaf suppliers in the premium cigar world.

In this Light ’em Up Lounge conversation, Laurel Tilley shared insights on the roots, the philosophy, and where the industry is heading.

Pete Johnson, founder of Tatuaje Cigars, joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to talk about building a brand that’s become a modern classic in the premium cigar world.

In this Light ’em Up Lounge conversation, Jaime and Manolo from Casa 1910 shared how their brand is redefining perceptions of Mexican premium cigars.

Tim Swanson, founder of Cigars Daily, joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to talk about how he turned a local cigar shop into a thriving online community.

Charlie Minato, co-founder and editor of Halfwheel joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to discuss his journey in cigar media, the challenges of independent reporting, and his views on where the industry is heading.

Nestor Plasencia, CEO of Plasencia Cigars, joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to share the remarkable story of a family that has shaped the premium cigar industry for more than 150 years.

Nick Perdomo shares the philosophy and discipline behind one of the most successful family-owned cigar companies in the world. He reflects on Perdomo’s legacy, the values inherited from his father, and the standards that guide every cigar they produce. The interview explores factory operations, the importance of vertical integration, and the Perdomo approach to consistency, quality control, and market trust. With honesty and clarity, Nick offers insights into leadership, customer loyalty, and what it means to uphold a tradition of excellence in every detail.

The founder of Les Fines Lames shares the story behind one of the most iconic accessories in the cigar world. From the fusion of French craftsmanship and cigar culture to the growth of a lifestyle brand rooted in design and passion, this exchange offers a fresh perspective on how authenticity and function can elevate everyday rituals into something extraordinary.

The Henry Flagler Museum in Palm Beach commissioned the reconstruction of a Tiffany & Co. humidor that is over 100 years old. The original piece was presented to Flagler by the New York Yacht Club as a gift after he offered his yacht Alicia as a committee boat during the 1895 America’s Cup.

Keep it simple. Not only is this excellent advice for life and business, but it is also the philosophy that best applies to the cutting of cigars. When in doubt, cut less.

Some brave and creative premium cigar companies have started to think outside of the Spanish cedar cigar box. We are taking a closer look at the major alternatives.

A discussion with three cigar-blending luminaries about the concept of “vintage” in the premium cigar industry and whether consistency is overrated.

Part One: “Carlito Fuente Bets the Farm” and “The Cohiba Wars” – by guest writer Macy Hanson

An editorial response to Macy D. Hanson’s analysis of the FDA commissioned Consensus Study Report on Premium Cigars: Pattern of Use, Marketing and Health Effects. Could there be a future without cigar social media? How should the cigar industry react to this looming threat?

How a recent FDA-commissioned study on premium cigars sends the disturbing signal that the FDA has turned its attention to the regulation of online cigar media.