A Festive Celebration at Astoria Cigars: Christmas 2024

Konstantin Denishev
Dec 21, 2024
6 min read

The cigar lifestyle is as much about the stories and connections as it is about the cigars themselves. On Sunday, 15th December, I had the privilege of attending a truly special Christmas event at Astoria Cigars in Margate, Kent. This invitation, extended by the ever-gracious Jason Bangura, owner of Astoria Cigars, came via my good friend Mr. Tony Nunn, proprietor of Number 11 Cigars. Jason and I had first met during my London event on 15th November in partnership with Number 11 Cigars, and his passion for cigars and hospitality promised a memorable evening.

Astoria Cigars, a boutique establishment nestled in Margate’s vibrant streets, is a sanctuary for cigar enthusiasts. From its cosy lounge to its curated selection of Cuban and New World cigars, the venue embodies a sense of refined simplicity. For this festive evening, Jason had elevated the space further with elegant Christmas décor that created a warm, intimate atmosphere.

A Warm Welcome

The evening began with a champagne reception, and Jason’s hospitality was immediately evident. Each guest was personally greeted with a warm smile and a flute of effervescent champagne, setting a festive and celebratory tone. The gentle fizz of the champagne and the soft hum of conversation filled the air, creating an atmosphere that felt both sophisticated and inviting.

As I stepped further into the room, it became clear that this was more than just an event - it was a gathering of like-minded individuals brought together by a shared love for cigars and the stories they tell. The room was alive with animated conversations and laughter. Old friends embraced warmly, while newcomers like myself were effortlessly welcomed into the fold. It struck me how quickly strangers can become companions when united by a common passion.

Mingling with the other guests was a joy in itself.

Meeting Nick Hammond: A Literary Delight

Among the evening’s distinguished guests was Mr. Nick Hammond, an author whose name has become synonymous with the cigar lifestyle. Nick’s writing captures the essence of cigars, not simply as products but as conduits to culture, history, and connection. His seminal book, Around the World in 80 Cigars: The Travels of an Epicure, is a masterful exploration of his travels, experiences, and the remarkable people he’s met along the way. Its sequel, The Broadleaf Adventures, continues this journey, offering readers an intimate glimpse into his world.

Meeting Nick in person was an absolute privilege. His humility, and ability to tell a story with effortless charm made every conversation a delight. Nick shared anecdotes from his travels—stories of smoky lounges in Havana, sunlit tobacco fields in the Dominican Republic, and the unique characters he’s encountered in the pursuit of the perfect smoke.

Nick graciously agreed signed my copies of both his books. These autographs now serve as tangible reminders of a serendipitous meeting with a man whose passion for cigars mirrors my own. It was a moment of connection that epitomised the spirit of the evening.

The First Cigar: Hoyo de Monterrey Petit Robusto

Our first cigar of the evening was the Hoyo de Monterrey Petit Robusto, a vitola measuring 4 inches (102mm) in length with a 50-ring gauge. This perfectly proportioned cigar delivers a mild-to-medium strength profile that is ideal for starting an evening of indulgence. Known for its smooth draw and creamy flavours, the Petit Robusto offered a nuanced blend of cedar, nuts, and subtle floral undertones, making it a universally appealing choice.

Jason, ever the storyteller, shared the origins of Hoyo de Monterrey. Founded in 1865 by José Gener, the brand takes its name from the “Valley of Monterrey” in Cuba’s Vuelta Abajo region, renowned for its rich soil and superior tobacco. This historical insight added depth to the smoking experience, reminding us that every puff carries with it a legacy of craftsmanship.

Dinner and Conversations

As the final embers of the Petit Robusto faded, we moved to a sumptuous buffet dinner. The spread was a masterclass in inclusivity, with options catering to every dietary requirement. From hearty roasts to vibrant vegetarian dishes, each selection was thoughtfully prepared, ensuring no guest was left wanting.

Dinner provided the perfect opportunity to connect further with the other attendees. The conversations were as varied and rich as the cigars themselves, ranging from personal stories to spirited debates about favourite blends. There is something uniquely satisfying about sharing a meal with fellow enthusiasts, where the love for cigars serves as both an icebreaker and a common thread.

The Highlight: Partagás Línea Maestra Rito

Following dinner, we were introduced to the evening’s showstopper: the Partagás Línea Maestra Rito. This elegant vitola, measuring 6 3/10 inches (160mm) in length with a 52-ring gauge, is part of the esteemed Línea Maestra series, a relatively new addition to the Partagás portfolio. The Rito is a cigar that commands attention, not just for its size but for its exceptional complexity.

The moment the Rito was lit, it was clear we were in for a treat. Its opening notes of dark cocoa and roasted coffee gave way to a symphony of flavours, including leather, black pepper, and a hint of dried fruit. This is a full-bodied cigar, bold yet balanced, and its construction ensured an even burn and effortless draw.

Jason, with his natural flair for storytelling, recounted the history of Partagás, one of Cuba’s oldest and most revered cigar brands. From its founding in 1845 by Don Jaime Partagás to its modern innovations, the tale of Partagás is one of resilience and evolution—a fitting parallel to the enduring appeal of fine cigars.

A Symphony of Pairings: Aberlour 14 and 18-Year-Old

No cigar evening is complete without the perfect whisky pairing, and Jason had chosen two exquisite single malts from Aberlour to accompany the Rito. The first, the Aberlour 14-Year-Old, is aged in both American oak and sherry casks. Its profile is beautifully balanced, with notes of honey, dried fruit, and a gentle spice that complemented the bold flavours of the Rito.

As we savoured this pairing, the evening took a lively turn with a surprise quiz. Designed to test our knowledge of cigars, spirits, and general trivia, the quiz was both challenging and entertaining. The winning team was rewarded with a thoughtful prize, generously provided by Jason and the Astoria Cigars team.

The second pairing was the Aberlour 18-Year-Old, a whisky that epitomises luxury. Rich and full-bodied, this single malt is characterised by flavours of toffee, oak, and dark chocolate, with a long, warming finish. Paired with the Rito, it created a harmonious balance that elevated both the cigar and the whisky to new heights.

Closing Reflections

As the evening drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of fulfilment among the guests. The combination of exceptional cigars, fine spirits, and engaging company had created an atmosphere that was both celebratory and intimate. Jason’s meticulous attention to detail and genuine warmth as a host ensured that every guest felt valued and welcomed.

For me, this event was a reminder of the unique magic that cigars bring to our lives. They are more than just indulgences—they are bridges to history, culture, and, most importantly, to each other. I left Astoria Cigars that evening not just with memories but with a renewed appreciation for the community that surrounds this timeless craft.

My heartfelt thanks to Jason and the Astoria Cigars team for hosting such a remarkable event. It was an honour to be part of it, and I look forward to the next gathering, where we will undoubtedly create more stories worth telling.

Huge thank you to Mr. Tony Nunn for inviting me to meet these great people!

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