big smoke

[karmaz00]

has anyone here been to the big smoke anywhere? just wondering if it is worth it to attend.

[Maduro Pips]

If ya never been to one, I would say it's worth to experience at least one. I have been to a handful here in NYC. I enjoy them... but have seen a bit of a difference in the past. I know Skip can votch for this as well.

Overall, you walk out with close to 40 sticks from all major companies. You have the opportunity to meet the makers or founders of the great lines. In my experiences, I met Nick Perdomo, Carlos Fuente Jr and Sr., Carlos Torano, Ernesto Cardillo-Perez (la Gloria Cubana), Tim and Eileen Ozgener (CAO), Rocky Patel, Joe Cusano, among some others I cant remember....one that stands out and I was happy I got to shake his hand was the late Stanford Newman (Diamond Crown, Cuesta Rey). He died the next year. Even at age 90, he was still in the office, involved in the company. A pioneer in this industry and was a huge factor in the Fuente success.

The food is always GREAT and you get to sample alot of different scotches, rums, cognacs, international beers, etc. However in the past, there used to be a better showing of libation.

It does get VERY crowded at times and almost 1,500 - 2,000 people in one giant room smoking cigars....it does get a bit smokey! LOL I dont go for the cigars...its really for a night to hangout and experience all of that. I will be missing this years most likely in NYC, but I woul give the nod if you never been to one and are a brother of the leaf!

[StogieWonMon]

went to the one in NYC in october. It was fun.

 

got lots of samples but it was PACKED!

go early and get the hell out

[StogieWonMon]

who else was at the big smoke in nyc?