While visiting New Jersey with my dad for the FIFA Club World Cup, I stopped by a local cigar shop and picked up a My Father Sampler Pack—and I’m glad I did. First off, the prices compared to Toronto were almost half (mostly thanks to taxes), so I was already feeling like I scored a win before even lighting up. One cigar that really stood out from that pack was the My Father La Duena, a stick that often flies under the radar but carries some deep meaning and flavour. A Cigar Made to Honour Janny Garcia According to the My Father website, “For many years Janny Garcia has worked side by side with her father Don Pepin Garcia and her brother Jaime Garcia, in building the family company. After honouring Don Pepin with the My Father Cigar and Jaime with the Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial, the time has come for La Duena (meaning ‘female owner’) to receive her own tribute.” Blended by Jaime Garcia and Pete Johnson of Tatuaje Cigars, La Duena is a fitting tribute and a cigar that reflects ...

Every now and then, a random encounter leads to a memorable smoke. I was at an event when I met a fine gentleman—his name, unfortunately, escapes me—but he left a lasting impression. He was the distributor for Alec Bradley cigars and, noticing I hadn't tried a Project 40 yet, handed me one. “It’s one of my best sellers,” he said. “Mild and affordable.” He wasn’t wrong. That single cigar turned into a moment of tranquillity—and a story worth sharing. The Philosophy Behind Project 40 The name “Project 40” isn’t just branding—it’s inspired by a psychological theory aimed at influencing happiness and mindfulness. According to Alec Bradley’s official site: “Project 40 is the search to find a deeper understanding as to why cigars have a positive cognitive impact on the mind and body... Similar to music, cigars have a calming effect that allows us to feel in control as well as feel rewarded.” Crafted to balance flavour, price, and experience , this stick is designed to be more th...