One of the most satisfying aspects of retailing cigars is knowing that it is a hobby that can be appreciated by almost everyone over the age 18 years. Historically cigar smoking has been seen as something that the men would do after dinner or when they are out with the guys, however, things are changing as I see a lot more women buying and smoking cigars.

Before the pandemic, the number of female cigar smokers had been steadily increasing over the previous 8 or 9 years. However, in the last three years that steady increase has rapidly turned into a torrent. One area where I have not seen an increase is in our regular monthly cigar events. Yes, we do have a very small number of ladies attending, on an infrequent basis, but it doesn't quite reflect what I see in the store!

In an effort to rectify this inconsistency, one of my female friends suggested holding a ladies-only cigar night so that we can introduce the format to potential new attendees and hopefully, convince some of our female customers to join in on the 'regular' cigar evenings. Hence the reason for the Ladies only cigar night!

Now as this is a ladies-only night we thought that we should feature a cigar made by a female cigar maker and have chosen the Meerapfel Maestranza Conde (rrp £21.70). This is a Grand Robusto-sized cigar measuring 5 inches by 52 ring gauge. The Maestranza Cigars are handmade in Honduras and feature Nicaraguan filler tobaccos combined with an earthy Costa Rican binder and a smooth Honduran wrapper. This combination of tobaccos creates a cigar that is creamy and harmonious with deep spice and woody flavours balanced with earthy aromatics. To accompany this wonderful cigar we will be also be tasting the Flor de Cana 12 Years Old Rum. We will also have some other cigars to purchase on the night, including a really special one created by Meerapfel.

The evening will be held at the Trent Navigation, Meadow Lane, Nottingham and will start at 7pm.