Ashton Cigars is a renowned brand in the world of premium cigars, known for its high-quality products and commitment to excellence. Founded in 1985 by Robert Levin, Ashton Cigars has established itself as a leader in the industry, offering a wide range of cigars that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
History of Ashton Cigars
The story of Ashton Cigars began in the 1980s, when Robert Levin, a passionate cigar enthusiast, set out to create a brand that would stand out from the crowd. Levin's vision was to craft cigars that would appeal to a broad spectrum of smokers, from beginners to connoisseurs. He achieved this by focusing on quality, consistency, and innovation, which have remained the hallmarks of the brand to this day.
Ashton Cigar Brands
Ashton Cigars offers a diverse portfolio of brands, each with its unique character and flavor profile. Some of the most popular brands include:
- Ashton Classic Virgin Sun Grown: Known for its rich, smooth flavor and velvety texture.
- Ashton Cabinet Selection: A premium brand featuring complex, balanced flavors and a luxurious appearance.
- Ashton Aged Maduro: A full-bodied brand with a rich, dark wrapper and a deep, satisfying flavor.
- Ashton Heritage Puro Sol: A unique brand that showcases the art of blending, with a focus on Nicaraguan tobacco.
Cigar-Making Process
Ashton Cigars is committed to using only the finest ingredients and employing traditional craftsmanship to create its exceptional cigars. The process begins with the selection of premium tobacco leaves, which are carefully fermented and aged to bring out their natural flavors. The leaves are then expertly blended and rolled into precise shapes, ensuring a consistent draw and burn.
Ashton Cigar Sizes and Shapes
Ashton Cigars offers a wide range of sizes and shapes to suit individual preferences. From the classic Corona and Robusto to the more exotic Pyramid and Torpedo, Ashton's diverse portfolio caters to smokers who appreciate variety and flexibility. Some popular sizes include:
- Ashton Classic Virgin Sun Grown Corona: A 5.5 x 42 cigar with a smooth, creamy flavor.
- Ashton Cabinet Selection Robusto: A 5 x 50 cigar with a rich, complex flavor profile.
- Ashton Aged Maduro Toro: A 6 x 52 cigar with a full-bodied, intense flavor.
Ashton Cigar Reviews and Ratings
Ashton Cigars has received widespread acclaim from cigar enthusiasts and critics alike. Many of its brands have earned high ratings from reputable publications, such as Cigar Aficionado and Cigar Journal. Some notable reviews include:
- Ashton Classic Virgin Sun Grown: 92 points, Cigar Aficionado.
- Ashton Cabinet Selection: 94 points, Cigar Journal.
- Ashton Aged Maduro: 90 points, Cigar Aficionado.
Ashton Cigar Accessories
In addition to its exceptional cigars, Ashton offers a range of accessories designed to enhance the smoking experience. These include:
- Humidors: Exquisitely crafted humidors that maintain the perfect environment for cigar storage.
- Cutters: High-quality cutters that ensure a precise, clean cut every time.
- Lighters: Sleek, reliable lighters that provide a consistent flame.
Ashton Cigar Community
Ashton Cigars is committed to building a community of cigar enthusiasts who share a passion for the brand and its products. The company regularly hosts events, seminars, and workshops, providing opportunities for smokers to connect with each other and learn more about the world of cigars. Ashton also maintains an active social media presence, engaging with fans and sharing news, promotions, and educational content.
In conclusion, Ashton Cigars is a brand that embodies excellence, innovation, and a passion for the art of cigar-making. With its diverse range of brands, sizes, and shapes, Ashton has established itself as a leader in the industry, appealing to smokers of all levels and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your cigar journey, Ashton Cigars has something to offer, and its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures a truly exceptional smoking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ashton Cigars?
Ashton Cigars is a renowned brand in the cigar industry, known for its high-quality, premium cigars that offer a unique and satisfying smoking experience. Founded in 1985, Ashton Cigars has established itself as a leader in the industry, with a wide range of blends and styles to cater to different tastes and preferences.
What makes Ashton Cigars so special?
Ashton Cigars is special because of its commitment to quality, consistency, and innovation. The brand uses only the finest tobaccos, carefully selected and blended to create unique flavor profiles that set it apart from other cigar brands. Ashton Cigars also has a strong focus on craftsmanship, ensuring that each cigar is carefully rolled and inspected to meet the highest standards.
What types of cigars does Ashton offer?
Ashton Cigars offers a wide range of cigars, including Classic Virgin Sun Grown, Ashton Cabinet, Ashton Aged Maduro, and Ashton Estate Sun Grown, among others. Each blend is carefully crafted to offer a unique flavor profile, from mild and smooth to full-bodied and complex.
What is the Ashton Classic Virgin Sun Grown?
The Ashton Classic Virgin Sun Grown is a flagship blend from Ashton Cigars, featuring a unique wrapper leaf grown in the Dominican Republic. This cigar is known for its smooth, creamy flavor profile, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and subtle spices.
What is the Ashton Cabinet?
The Ashton Cabinet is a premium cigar blend that features a rich, dark wrapper leaf and a complex flavor profile. This cigar is known for its bold, full-bodied flavors, with notes of chocolate, coffee, and spices.
What is the Ashton Aged Maduro?
The Ashton Aged Maduro is a limited-production cigar blend that features a rich, dark maduro wrapper leaf aged to perfection. This cigar is known for its deep, complex flavor profile, with notes of fruit, spices, and subtle hints of sweetness.
What is the Ashton Estate Sun Grown?
The Ashton Estate Sun Grown is a premium cigar blend that features a unique wrapper leaf grown on the Ashton Estate in the Dominican Republic. This cigar is known for its smooth, refined flavor profile, with notes of citrus, floral, and subtle spices.
How do I store my Ashton Cigars?
To store your Ashton Cigars, it's recommended to keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A humidor is ideal, as it maintains a consistent humidity level and protects the cigars from drying out. Always keep your cigars away from strong-smelling substances, as they can absorb odors easily.
How do I humidify my Ashton Cigars?
To humidify your Ashton Cigars, you can use a humidor or a humidification device specifically designed for cigars. Aim for a relative humidity level between 65-70%, and avoid over-humidifying, as this can cause the cigars to become too moist and lose their flavor.
How do I light my Ashton Cigar?
To light your Ashton Cigar, use a high-quality lighter or a torch lighter, and hold the flame to the foot of the cigar until it's evenly lit. Rotate the cigar slowly to ensure an even burn, and avoid puffing too hard, as this can cause the cigar to burn too hot and lose its flavor.
How do I cut my Ashton Cigar?
To cut your Ashton Cigar, use a high-quality cigar cutter, and cut the cap at a slight angle, about 1/8 inch from the head of the cigar. This will help to create a smooth, even draw and prevent the cigar from unraveling.
What is the ideal temperature for smoking Ashton Cigars?
The ideal temperature for smoking Ashton Cigars is between 65-70°F (18-21°C), with a relative humidity level between 65-70%. This will help to bring out the full flavor and aroma of the cigar.
Can I smoke Ashton Cigars indoors?
While it's technically possible to smoke Ashton Cigars indoors, it's not recommended, as cigar smoke can be hazardous to health and may trigger smoke detectors. It's best to smoke outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames and sparks.
Can I smoke Ashton Cigars in public?
It's generally not recommended to smoke Ashton Cigars in public places, such as restaurants, bars, or public buildings, as many jurisdictions have laws prohibiting smoking in these areas. Always check local laws and regulations before smoking in public.
How long do Ashton Cigars last?
The lifespan of an Ashton Cigar depends on various factors, including storage conditions, humidity levels, and handling. On average, a well-stored Ashton Cigar can last for several years, but it's recommended to smoke them within 1-2 years of purchase for optimal flavor and aroma.
Can I age my Ashton Cigars?
Yes, you can age your Ashton Cigars, but it's essential to follow proper storage and handling procedures to ensure the cigars remain in good condition. Aging can help to mellow out the flavors and aromas, but it's recommended to age them for at least 6-12 months to notice significant changes.
Can I return or exchange my Ashton Cigars?
Ashton Cigars offers a satisfaction guarantee, and you can return or exchange your cigars if you're not satisfied with the quality or flavor. However, it's essential to follow the return and exchange policies of the authorized retailer or distributor.
How do I know if my Ashton Cigar is authentic?
To ensure the authenticity of your Ashton Cigar, purchase from authorized retailers or distributors, and look for the Ashton Cigars logo and branding on the packaging and cigar bands. Be wary of counterfeit products, and avoid purchasing from unauthorized sources.
Can I purchase Ashton Cigars online?
Yes, you can purchase Ashton Cigars online from authorized retailers or distributors, but be sure to research the seller and read reviews to ensure you're buying from a reputable source. Always check the authenticity of the products and follow local laws and regulations regarding online cigar purchases.
How do I pair Ashton Cigars with drinks?
Ashton Cigars can be paired with a variety of drinks, including whiskey, rum, coffee, and tea. The key is to find a drink that complements the flavor profile of the cigar. For example, a smooth, creamy cigar like the Ashton Classic Virgin Sun Grown pairs well with a rich, smooth whiskey, while a bold, full-bodied cigar like the Ashton Cabinet pairs well with a strong, bold coffee.
Can I smoke Ashton Cigars during pregnancy?
No, it's not recommended to smoke Ashton Cigars or any other cigars during pregnancy, as cigar smoke contains harmful chemicals that can pose risks to the health of the mother and the unborn child.
Can I smoke Ashton Cigars if I have health conditions?
If you have health conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or respiratory problems, it's recommended to consult with your doctor before smoking Ashton Cigars or any other cigars. Cigar smoke can exacerbate existing health conditions, and it's essential to prioritize your health and well-being.
Can I smoke Ashton Cigars if I'm a beginner?
Yes, you can smoke Ashton Cigars as a beginner, but it's recommended to start with a milder blend, such as the Ashton Classic Virgin Sun Grown, and gradually move to stronger blends as you develop your palate. It's also essential to follow proper smoking techniques and handling procedures to ensure a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience.
Can I gift Ashton Cigars?
Yes, Ashton Cigars make an excellent gift for cigar enthusiasts, and they can be purchased in various formats, including singles, boxes, and humidors. Consider the recipient's taste preferences and smoking habits when selecting a gift, and include a personalized message or card to make it a thoughtful and memorable gift.