CELEBRITIES AND THEIR FAVOURITE CIGARS

Cigars are known as a symbol of luxury and sophistication amongst world-class celebrities. Cuban cigars, in particular, are the epitome of luxury, being the most high-end and expensive cigar on the market. Celebrities smoking is something we see regularly across the popular culture media landscape. Some celebrities smoke a range of rare and vintage premium cigars, while others are not too picky with their tastes.

Related: The Blend: Why Cuban cigar aficionados love smoking Cohibas the most

Famously enjoyed by the likes of Winston Churchill, Jack Kennedy, and President Ronald Reagan, cigars are smoked by the biggest names in history and they have become known to represent a touch of class, heritage, and achievement. Cigars are also trending in Hollywood as many pop stars, actors, and celebrity figures choose to smoke or hold a cigar during special events and public sightings to promote and endorse cigar brands.

Before we get into celebrities and their favourite picks, let’s take a brief look at why luxury cigars are a popular pass-time for celebrities.

Why are cigars so popular among celebrities?

Smoking a cigar is often considered a relaxing pastime for celebrities, often shared with their friends and family after an important red carpet event or simply after dining. It is not considered a health hazard compared to typical smoke from cigarettes (and a classier way to smoke), as you do not inhale cigar smoke.

It does not impact lung capacity like cigarettes do. In fact, celebrity athletes even smoke cigars, as it tends not to impact their cardiovascular performance on the field. Michael Jordan was perhaps the best example of this, back in the day.

Several factors make cigars popular. Famous cigars are like fine wine, enjoyed by true gentlemen and ladies alike. They get better as they age, lasting fresh for up to 10 years. The flavour varies, but the quality of a premium cigar experience is undeniable. Most high-end users such as celebrities will likely go for cigars that come from exotic tobacco fields and are picked by skilled labourers to provide high-quality end products.

The most well-known cigar is of course the Cuban cigar. Some areas, however, such as the United States, have laws against the purchasing of Cuban cigars. Buyers can purchase them abroad and bring a small amount back for personal consumption.

Famous cigar brands: Popular high-end cigars for 2021 include:

• Alec Bradley Prensado Lost Art
• Ashton Estate Sun Grown
• Davidoff Nicaragua
• Padron Family Reserve
• Oliva Serie V Melanio
• Liga Privada Unico Serie
• Arturo Fuente Don Carlos
• My Father
• Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro
• Partagas
• Montecristo
• Romeo y Julieta
• Trinidad

Cuban vs Dominican cigars

Cuban cigars are not always the most popular choice. Dominican “Cohiba Spectre” is also a trend-worthy and expensive cigar. Priced at $90 per cigar worldwide, it is certainly growing to become a must-have for all cigar fans. If you need to try out a cigar before purchasing, you can purchase samplers. Samplers come in a variety of sizes for you or someone you wish to gift.

Where do celebrities enjoy cigars?

Most cigars are not permitted indoors at hotels or bars. So where do our celebrities go to enjoy some downtime with their favourite cigar? Most celebrities will probably visit high-end bars with private outdoor spaces they can make use of for recreation. Some of these bars include Club Macanudo in Manhattan and 666 Fifth Avenue in New York.

There are also Cuban lounges and private areas that can specifically be used for smoking cigars. Many celebrities are spotted smoking cigars at clubs and exclusive events, as well as their music videos and photoshoots. Some exclusive cigar spots in Hollywood include:

• 2nd Street Cigar Lounge & Gallery
• Bar Blanca
• The Buena Vista Cigar Club
• The Copper Lounge at InterContinental Los Angeles Century City
• La Descarga
• Lobby Bar at Terranea Resort
• Lock and Key
• Mr. C Beverly Hills
• Onyx at Hotel Shangri-La

Famous cigar smokers: The rising popularity of cigars in Hollywood

Many factors brought on a rise in cigars in Hollywood. Cigars are promoted as symbols of a luxury and successful lifestyle, with the following causes for its rise in popularity:

• Endorsements by celebrities
• Development of cigar-friendly magazines (e.g., Cigar Aficionado)
• Images of highly visible women smoking cigars
• Product placement in movies (Celebrities who smoke in movies is getting tougher, though: Colin Farrell talks about the production company’s issue with him smoking a cigar in character as The Riddler in the new movie smash The Batman here.)

Celebrities that smoke: Iconic cigar smokers in history (mostly Hollywood)

Sir Winston Churchill

Sir Winston was a seasoned cigar smoker who had around 4000 cigars around his home in Chartwell. He mostly smoked during his long flights. Popular cigars that he enjoyed included his Romeo Y Julieta cigars.

Famous people that smoke: Al Pacino

Known as the Godfather icon, Tony Montana certainly played a huge role in the rising of cigars in Hollywood. His character (and Al himself) continues to represent the inspiration for men and cigar etiquette.

Fidel Castro

Fidel Castro started smoking cigars around 1953 and became an icon for promoting some of the most exclusive cigars in the world. His advertising and role in the cigar world lead to a boost of popularity for his country.

Celebrities that smoke: Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger first started smoking cigars in the 1970s. As a bodybuilding and, Hollywood icon, he promoted a range of premium cigars and made the art of cigar smoking popular among his Hollywood peers and co-stars.

Celebrities who smoke: Jack Nicholson

Mr. Nicholson changed to cigars to kick the habit of smoking cigarettes. Often spotted with a cigar, the actor became an icon in the 1990s and 2000s for his cigar use.

Expert tips before buying a cigar

If you are considering following our celebrity line of cigar smokers listed below, there are some tips you should consider. Follow these tips from experts themselves to make your experience immeasurably better:

• Bigger is better when it comes to cigars. They are measured by their larger ring gauge, cigars which have more value compared to smaller measurements.
• Take your time. A cloud of good smoke will last you more than 30 minutes. Slow down and enjoy the experience.
• Go for the mild types if you are a newbie. Full-bodied cigars are for veteran cigar smokers. Work your way up to avoid getting ill or embarrassing yourself.
• Different cigars have different textures and flavours. Cigar flavours can vary from sweet to spicy. The best way to see which you prefer is to try samplers of all. Explore different flavours and don’t be afraid to try something unique.
• Do a visual inspection of the cigar. Is it cracked? Does it look dry? How does it smell? Feel it in your hands gently but do not squeeze it (this will damage the cigar).
• Take a look at the information located on the cigar. The wrapper lead should have the strength and details about the manufacturer. You can ask your tobacconist for more information should you require more knowledge on the product before you purchase it.

Canada’s best luxury website: Do your research

Now that you have a basic guide of cigars in Hollywood, we have a list of popular cigar smokers you may want to take a look at for inspiration. The few listed here are just among the many who are avid cigar fans. Make sure you do your research when it comes to cigars if you are keen to join the lavish lifestyle of celebrity cigar fans. There are a variety of sizes, textures, and flavours available, and individual taste varies. The best way to experience what is best for you is to try them all.

Here are some of our favourite celebrity cigar smokers:

Sylvester Stallone

Famous for the Rocky and Rambo franchises, the actor is an avid cigar lover. Originally he gave up cigarettes for his health and 20 years later, he is still a devoted fan of premium cigars. Stallone invests in only the finest, luxury cigars, including Fuente Fuente Opus X cigars for their rich taste and aroma.

Like all experts, he saves the cigars for evenings for when he can savour and enjoy his experience. He has also been spotted at a few gold courses enjoying his cigar time. Sylvester Stallone has promoted the use of cigars as a gentleman’s hobby and indulgence, but also as a sign of class and masculinity.

Stars who smoke: Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey is a southern gentleman with a touch of Hollywood class. As a famous actor on the screen, he enjoys a good cigar both on and off-screen. His most notable experience was his Oscar-winning performance for Best Actor for his role in Dallas Buyers Club. As the face of many brands, he is often spotted with a fine cigar and a glass of bourbon. Matthew has also been spotted with his cigars in his movies such as How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days with a famous scene in which he and his buddies are enjoying a classy poker night.

Danny DeVito

Famous for his roles in movies such as It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Louie de Palma in Taxi, Owen in Throw Mamma from the Train. Danny DeVito first got into premium cigars thanks to his fellow Twins costar and avid cigar smoker, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

He first introduced it during special occasions, then weekends, but soon he became a lover of all things cigars. Danny is one of the many celebrities that have used their status to promote the cigar lifestyle. His humour makes his even more appealing when holding a cigar in his hand.

Rihanna

Celebrity women smoking is a popular topic, for good reason. Popular Barbadian singer, songwriter, actress, and multiple Grammy winner, Rihanna is one of the best-selling artists and fashion icons of all time. She is famous for her love of cigars, amongst other things. Her most popular use of cigars is when she smoked with Shakira in the music video for “Can’t Remember to Forget You.”

Considering her sales records exceed 200 million records worldwide, the singer has had an impact on cigar culture, especially among the female population. She is often spotted smoking a luxury cigar for photoshoots or on holiday, rightly making her one of the most popular female cigar lovers.

Does Jennifer Lopez smoke?

Jennifer Lopez is an American actress, singer, multiple award winner, trendsetter, global fashion icon, record producer, dancer, television personality, fashion designer…the list goes on. With so many notches on her belt, Jennifer Lopez is indeed one of the biggest female icons of all time. What makes her even more appealing is her love for cigars.

Does J.Lo smoke? She has been photographed with cigars at various clubs around the world and exclusive celebrity and red carpet events. Jennifer loves premium cigars. There is no doubt that with her popularity, style and reputation, Jennifer has taken cigar use to a whole new level in Hollywood.

Jay-Z

Jay-Z, aka Sean Carter, is one of the most popular rap music artists and producers of all time. He is known as a legend in the hip-hop world and has one of the most famous families in history. Jay-Z loves cigars and is a huge Cuban fan. Some of his favourite brands are reportedly Montecristo and Ramon Allones cigars. He also produces his cigar with his team called the Cohiba Comador. He is indeed the epitome of Hollywood, gentlemen’s club, and everything lavish about cigars in the modern world.

Contact Regarding Luxury for more information about celebrities and their favourite cigars.

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