Do you know when and where the cigar was born? Contrary to popular belief, it originated in Seville in the 17th century, and it was not until 1799 that the first tobacco factory was established in Havana.
In France, 16 years later, Napoleon launched cigar production.
In 1961, with the American embargo on Cuba, many factories opened elsewhere in the world, such as in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica or Mexico, but the quality of Cuban cigars remains unmatched.
Why are Cuban cigars still the most prized? Not only is Havana’s microclimate ideal for the tobacco leaf, but its terroir also imparts to the tobacco leaves aromas that cigar aficionados can no longer do without.
Yet today, the most expensive cigar in the world is no longer Cuban. The American brand Gurkha Cigars created the “His Majesty’s Reserve” cigars, made from exceptional tobaccos and leaves infused in Louis XIII cognac, an extremely rare cognac priced at $5,000 per liter.
For those who do not smoke but wish to rediscover the taste of a cigar on their palate, Bruno Laffargue, the Pâtissier Azuréen, has created a cigar, cognac and chocolate macaron, “Le Gentlemen’s Club”.
Like the Côte d’Azur, the cigar evokes not only refinement and luxury, but also pleasure and carefree living. Here are a few addresses to enjoy one with style:
The most “Côte d’Azur” by the sea:
Crystal Bar, Hôtel Hermitage, Monte-Carlo
By the sea, in a refined and highly romantic atmosphere with ambient music, come and relax while savoring a cigar paired with a marvelous cocktail, or a rare cognac.
Heated terrace, fine wines to savor, excellent music and the sea as a backdrop. You will spend an idyllic evening.
The most Anglo-Saxon:
Gordon Bennett Bar, La Réserve Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Brand new, this bar in the legendary La Réserve hotel has been entirely refreshed. The décor is more modern yet still just as elegant and Art Deco.
On the magnificent terrace, in winter, a heated cabin for enjoying one of the excellent cigars offered on the menu.
A wide selection of cigars that will satisfy the most discerning aficionados.
The most chic:
American Bar, Hôtel de Paris, Monte-Carlo
Lovers of Monaco and its chic, timeless atmosphere are regulars at this bar, which transports you into a magical ambiance.
Refined clientele, rare beverages and premium cigars for the most demanding. A sublime terrace opens onto the Casino and the Opera House.
Prohibition atmosphere:
Old Sport Club, secret address
No, you are not dreaming, and you will not get the address just yet! After New York and Paris, here is the first secret bar on the Côte d’Azur, in Nice. How does it work? You must connect to https://www.oldsport.club and register; you will then receive a confirmation email and simply follow the procedure.
Once you have obtained the address, you will arrive in a cozy space with subdued lighting, excellent music and a “Untouchables” atmosphere. You will enjoy one of the cigars offered (at cost price) with an excellent cocktail, perhaps prepared by Matthieu Christophe Pluta, finalist of the Bacardi Legacy 2017 and co-manager of the bar (from €10). Surprising!
The most V.I.P:
The Rampoldi Club Smoking Lounge, Monte-Carlo
The celebrated gastronomic restaurant Rampoldi has created two spaces on the lower level, a smoking room and a music lounge, as well as a members’ club offering special privileges.
For these members, a cigar club housing around a hundred humidors, where you come to savor an excellent cognac in complete privacy after a delicious meal… absolute luxury.
“A cigar is the indispensable complement of every idle and elegant life.” – Georges Sand
Can I bring my personal cigars?
What are the opening hours week day ?