Long Ash Podcast: Recent Episodes
Nick Libretti
JR Cigars Presents: The Long Ash Podcast The Cigarchitect Nick Libretti teams up with Beginner Greg Warger to discuss cigars, the industry and the mysteries of life
On the newest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, we have Camacho Brand Activation Manager Jack Heyer, as well as two members of the JR Cigars Procurement team, reminisce about their trip down to Camp Camacho back in February. Listen to the episode to hear about the trip of a lifetime.
While smoking the Joya de Nicaragua Cinco de Cinco and the RoMa Craft PA Broadleaf, the gents take a break from cigar talk and discuss how we’ve digested music differently over the last fifty years and how there may never be another “great album” produced ever again!
On today's episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris smoke unbanned samplers for JR’s next project while “pitching” a new idea for marketing a new style in samplers for the potential future. Enjoy!
In the newest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick, Secret Chris, and SEO Derek smoke the newest limited edition JR Revival cigar! The fellas discuss the process of this cigar that Quesada Factory helped us create before it's released on Tuesday, September 10th!
Nick and Chris discuss their thoughts on what new monsters should be added to the iconic Tatuaje Monster series while Nick starts his campaign for a “Gabagool” line he wants to make for 2025!
Nick and Secret Chris smoked the new Las Calaveras 2024 from Crowned Heads while discussing its place in the famed Las Calaveras portfolio.
Nick and Secret Chris smoke the new Foundation Wise Man Corojo and Wise Man Maduro while discussing how the change in PCA has shifted the cigar landscape in 2024.
Nick and Chris are smoking JR’s new private label from HVC Pan Caliente Habano, which uses mixed filler tobaccos. Nick informs Chris as to why mixed filler has an odd reputation but by no means does blends that use it are deemed "bad cigars".
We welcome back Terence Reilly of Aganorsa Leaf to discuss our collaboration! The Crafted by JR Aganorsa was released last month and both Nick and Terence discuss their thoughts on what it was like to work with one another. Enjoy the full episode today!
On this week's episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Secret Chris smoke the Diesel Disciple, which will exclusively be available only through JR Cigars now! The two gents discuss the brand and other cigars under the Diesel line. Tune in now!
The Long Ash Podcast welcomes JR Cigars Lead Buyer for the Procurement Team Warren Dubell. Warren shares with Nick and Chris his journey leading up to working in the cigar business and what are some of his favorite cigars to smoke. Listen to the full episode on YouTube and Spotify today!
On the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, we invited the Executive VP of Kristoff Cigars Jarrid Trudeau to hop on and talk about how he landed the job at Kristoff, their most recent line Tres Compadres, and a brief overview of Kristoff’s portfolio.
On the newest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, David Spirt of E.P. Carrillo Cigars is back in studio to discuss the new "essence" line from E.P. Carrillo that will be coming out later this year. Watch the full episode as Nick and David enjoy the first two cigars of this delicious cigar line from E.P. Carrillo.
In the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris respond to a message they received on instagram about the proper steps of "breaking into the industry". Watch the full episode to hear their responses!
While smoking Liga Privadas from Drew Estate, Nick and Chris recap their fun-filled weekend visiting breweries in South Jersey and Brooklyn, New York for next month's cigar magazine article! Tune in now!
On today's episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris discuss the discontinuation of Foundation Cigars line that started it all for them, the El Gueguense. The boys discuss their admiration for the cigar and how it impacted their lives. Tune in now!
In the latest episode of Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris enjoy the classic Ashton ESG while talking about how big market sports teams commit highway robbery with the cost of experiincing going to one of their games! Tune in now!
In this week's episode of the Long Ash Podcast, we welcome Reinier Lorenzo, founder and master blender of HVC Cigars. Reinier talked to us about his unorthodox journey to becoming a cigar blender, and what we can look forward to from HVC this year! Enjoy!
On our latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick sat down with Alex Wghorn, Brand Activation Manager of Davidoff Cigars. Alex discusses his journey from a college athlete, to working for one of the most prestigious cigar brands in the industry. Tune in now to hear Alex Weghorn's story!
On this week's episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris both smoke the Mi Querida Triqui Traca while discussing their takeaways from the training session they had this past week with Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust. Listen to the full episode now!
On this week's episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris enjoy some cigars from Arturo Fuente while discussing how they've remained one of the most desired companies within the industry for this long! Listen to the full episode, now!
While smoking two new cigars from Crowned Heads, Nick and Chris discuss this year's PCA convention, the value of Cubans vs. New World cigars, and why there should be a halt on new cigar releases to restore the balance in the industry. Listen now and enjoy!
On the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris discuss the world's perception of Italian American culture and voice some of their frustrations! Watch the episode now!
In the latest episode of Long Ash Podcast, Nick discusses his adventures to Camp Camacho with his team and all the fun times he had! Listen to the full episode on Spotify and YouTube today!
For our latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick sat down with David Spirt of E.P. Carrillo Cigars. David is the Chief Operating Manager at E.P. Carrillo. David and Nick talk about his journey through the cigar industry as well as the recent success E.P. Carrillo has endured! Tune in now to hear the latest episode!
On our latest episode of "Industry Insider", we met up with "Master Your Ash" to discuss the cigar journey he's currently on, while simultaneously concurring the spirit business! Watch now!
In the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris discuss the decline of cuisine in the world today while smoking some festive cigars for St. Patrick's Day! Listen to the full episode now!
In Episode 6 of Industry Insider, Chris interviews Adam Guard, Owner of Dreeamer Cigars. The two discuss Adam’s path within the industry over the last three years which eventually led him to collaborate with Dennis Rodman. Watch now!
On a new episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris smoke the 2024 Freestyle Live collection from Drew Estate. Enjoy!
For our 200th Episode, Nick and Chris are joined by Derek to discuss the various Top Cigar Lists of 2023 throughout the industry. Watch now and leave your comments on what your thoughts were on the Top Cigar lists of 2023!
In the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris smoke the new Mil Dias Maduro from Crowned Heads all while talking about the ongoing battle between Gurkha and Davidoff cigars about the "Year of the Dragon" trademark. Enjoy!
While Nick and Jim smoke the new E.P. Carrillo Encore Black, the two discuss the shake-up of cigar trade shows we’ll be seeing throughout 2024!
For the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Punch Brand Manager John Hakim visits the studio to talk about the Punch Golden Era, where the direction of Punch is headed, and defends the Punch Chinese New Year Series!
In the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick discusses his trip to the J.C. Newman factory in Tampa, while he and Chris discuss Halfwheel's Top 25 Cigars of 2023. Watch the full episode now!
On the newest episode of Industry Insider, Chris sits down with the Midwest Regional Sales Manager for Crowned Heads. Chris and Danny talk about his path in the cigar industry, what it's like working for Crowned Heads now, and some of Danny's coolest moments within the industry. Listen now!
On a new episode of The Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris express their passionate feelings on Cigar Aficionado’s Top 25 Cigars of 2023 list. You’ve been warned!
Kicking 2024 off with a bang! We have the Senior Director of Procurement for Tabacalera USA Jim Charnley on the episode today! Jim discusses his path in the cigar industry and hints at what’s to come for JR Cigars! Watch now!
Here is part four of our Top 25 Cigars of 2023 list! Nick and Chris cover the Top 10 cigars on their list to round out the full list of 25 cigars they've enjoyed in 2023. Leave your comments below!
Nick and Chris discuss their 15th through 11th picks on their Top 25 cigar picks in 2023. Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
In our third episode of Industry Insider presented by Long Ash Podcast, Chris sat down with Kyle Garrett, founder of Smoke & Revelry (formerly known as Dad's Smoking Cigars).
Chris chats with Kyle about his brand revamp, cigar media members, and what got him into smoking cigars in the first place. Listen now!
Nick and Chris continue their Top 25 Cigars of 2023 journey. The guys reveal #20 through #16 in the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast. Don't miss out! Hope you all enjoy!
- Crafted by JR: Crowned Heads19. CLE 25th Anniversary 6X5418. Camacho Broadleaf Toro17. Diesel Vintage Series Toro16. Alec Bradley Double Broadleaf Robusto
That time of the year has officially arrived! Nick and Chris go over their Top 25 Cigars of 2023. Throughout December, the guys will be revealing their Top 25 Cigars they enjoyed over the last year! Don't miss out. Here are 25 through 21! Enjoy!
The post-Thanksgiving episode is here! Nick and Secret Chris smoke the new Knight Commander from Foundation Cigars all while talking about the Die Hard franchise, Foundation Cigars Catalog and the best food in movies! Watch now!
On the second episode of "Industry Insider" presented by Long Ash Podcast, Secret Chris interviews Joe Ficchi, aka "The Cigar Host". The two talk about Joe's success as a professional cigar roller, his brief appearance on The Real Housewives of New Jersey, and what being the cigar host means to him. Watch now!
On the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast Nick and Chris discuss the state of General Cigars and how they feel they're on the precipice of something great. Listen to the full episode now!
On the new segment under the Long Ash Podcast umbrella, Secret Chris interviews Maduro Aficionado, a Certified Cigar Sommelier who's taken the Cigar TikTok world by storm. Check out his interview now!
Halloween isn't over yet here at JR Cigars! Nick and Secret Chris are all dressed up for Halloween and smoking some gems from the Tatuaje Monster Series collection! If you're still in the mood for Halloween festivities, this episode is for you! Enjoy!
On our latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick sits down with Laurel Tilley, Brand Development Manager for AJ Fernandez Cigars. Laurel talks about what life is like working with the Cigar Godfather, life after Macanudo, and her beginnings in the industry! Check it out now!
While smoking the new line extension of the Crowned Heads Mil Dias, Nick and Chris debate all things pizza! Check out our live episode now!
From Jada and Will to Nick’s pitch to become the USA President, the guys chat while smoking delicious cigars! A New Episode is out now!
Nick and Secret Chris have Alex, Mark, and Zach from The Cigar Guys Podcast & Besa Cigars in the studio to talk about their brand, their success in the Cigar Community on TikTok, and much more! Enjoy!
Michael Herklots of Ferio Tego stops by the studio to discuss the new Ferio Tego Summa and how art and blending cigars are one in the same. The episode is available now so listen and enjoy!
Nick and Chris discuss their personal “white whale” cigars of the industry as well as proper restaurant patron etiquette. Enjoy!
Our new private label Crafted By JR launched this week. Nick and Chris discuss the process of collaborating with Crowned Heads to revamp this popular private label! Enjoy!
With Nick smoking the brand new "Girl With No Name" from Deadwood Tobacco and Secret Chris smoking an extension line of the Baccarat Barber Pole, the guys discussed their thoughts on infused cigars as well as their favorite cereal!
While smoking the Ferio Tego Summa, Nick and Chris discuss price increases on cigars over the last few years and how disappointing the Yankees were this past season.
Nick and Secret Chris smoke the Metapa from Foundation Cigars while discussing how cigars mirror art, their early candidates for their Top 25 list of 2023, and Secret Chris' film showcase he put together this past weekend. Enjoy!
On this weeks episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Christian Eiroa of Eiroa cigars stops by to talk about the History of Eiroa, the cigar industry’s win over the FDA, and what new brands they displayed at PCA this year. Enjoy!
Between the cigars they're smoking to how Maine is a haunted state, Nick and Secret Chris discuss a whole lotta randomness on this week's episode of the Long Ash Podcast.
While smoking the Davidoff Nicaragua 10th Anniversary, Nick and Chris discuss and debate a topic that they saw online. Who is the best cinematic fictional athlete of all time? Leave your answer in the comments below.
Nick and Chris smoke the unreleased cigar from Crowned Heads, "La Vereda" all while talking about the impact of influencers and a quick review of #oppenheimer! Enjoy!
On our latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick sits down with Terence Reilly of Aganorsa Leaf cigars. Terence, the Vice President of Aganorsa, talked to Nick about PCA, their new line in the Rare Leaf Maduro, and other brands that customers keep flocking to. Watch the full episode now and enjoy!
Although Nick and Chris didn't go to PCA, the guys discussed Las Vegas's busy weekend between the PCA showcase, UFC 290, and the NBA Summer League!
We visited Nick Melillo’s new office to catch up with him earlier this year! Check out the full interview now and make sure to check out our July issue of “Cigar Magazine” featuring Nick Melillo as well.
Here is the second part of the Steve Saka interview for the Long Ash Podcast! We hope you enjoy!
The man, the myth, the legend visited our studio today to chop it up with Nick! Here is Steve Saka himself! Check out Part 1 now!
Part 2 comes out next Friday 6/30.
On the latest episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris discuss how to deal with internet trolls and some basketball debates midst the NBA Finals wrapping up this week. Enjoy!
On this week's episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris review Zino Davidoff's Cigar Etiquette Book he wrote back in 1967!
On the latest episode of Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Secret Chris are smoking the newest private label from JR Cigars, the Havoc. while discussing a range of topics from the NBA Finals to Gladiators. Enjoy!
On a new episode of the Long Ash Podcast, Nick and Chris talk about the "Holy Grail" cigars floating around the industry that we've been fortunate enough to get our hands on.Watch now!
Nick and Secret Chris dive into the history of Gurkha Cigars and their ebb and flows throughout the cigar industry.
The boys take a stroll down memory lane and look at some of the biggest brands from back in the old times...
The boys take a break from cigar talk to discuss the big sports news to hit the Tri-State area, the arrival of Aaron Rodgers to the New York Jets.
The boys are joined by handsome Derek to discuss the impact that limited edition cigars are having on the industry. This one gets deep
Nick is joined by the great Tim Ozgener and discuss his families amazing journey through the cigar industry.
The boys discuss the biggest news in the industry the last week... the sale of Alec Bradley.
The boys breakdown the question, what qualifies as a boutique cigar? The world may never know...
The legendary Flor de las Antilles is 10 years old and my father is celebrating in a big way!
Nick and Chris are once again joined by sweet Derek to discuss the 2022 Consensus of Cigar Ratings
The boys discuss what 2023 can look like for the cigar industry and also their favorite historic cigar maker!
The boys enjoy some Cuban cigars and talk about cultural appropriation... so its a fun time
Nick and Chris return after the holiday to discuss this years controversial Cigar Aficionado Top 25.
The penultimate episode of the year, Nick and Chris are joined by SEO Derek to go over their Top 25 Cigars of 2022
To celebrate the birth of the great Nick Libretti... the industries leading minds have gathered to pay homage
Jon Huber of Crowned Heads
Nick Melillo of Foundation Cigars
Alec Rubin of Alec Bradley
Michael Herklots of Ferio Tego
Our dear friend Terence from Aganorsa stops by to talk tobacco varieties, Guardian of the Farm, and the best burger in Florida!
Nick is joined by the legend himself Miguel Schoedel, and he has a few surprises waiting for fans of Crowned Heads!
It is important to go back to your roots sometimes and the boys are doing that with some classic cigars
Legendary blender Rafael Nodal stops by the studio and gives us a look into his process!
Nick is getting ready for golf but that doesn't stop him and Chris from giving their opinions on keyboard warriors!
Tensions in the industry are rising, thankfully the calmer heads of Nick and Chris will prevail.
Nick and Chris took a trip to Connecticut to hang out with Drew Estate and eat some amazing pizza with the legendary Nick Melillo
Fuente Sues General, Chris is still Gone, Derek likes Charles Angels... it's a wild ride.
Nick and Chris discuss cigars that had the most impact on the modern cigar industry and in what ways the legacy of these brands influenced others.
Nick and Chris discuss the upcoming trade show and the brand new version of the legendary publication.
Nick is joined by the charming and influential Ben Willis, one of the industries most popular and respected personalities.
The boys discuss the recent acquisition of Room 101 cigars by General. Big deal for the legendary Matt Booth
Nick and Chris continue their journey on the history of the biggest cigar producing countries. Nicaragua is the largest exporter of premium cigars to the US and is home to many of the largest and most popular brands.
While enjoying some of AUSAs finest.. the boys discuss what happened with YouTube and what the future holds!
The legendary Lissette Perez-Carrillo joins us to talk about her families legendary portfolio and history
Nick and Chris enjoy a mystery cigar from Crowned Heads while Justin sports a mustache.
The legendary Sean Williams stops by to discuss the most iconic cigar brand of all time... Cohiba
The legend Michael Herklots is our first guest in the new studio. We discuss the origins of Ferio Tego, the end of Nat Sherman and the best drummer in the cigar industry.
Yes we have done 100 episodes. Yes, the numbers listed on here are different. Dont worry about it! The legendary Waters is back as our special guest!
The boys discuss the finishing touch on the 50th Anniversary celebration and Nick gets his Jordans!
We are joined by the great Amy Tejada, manager of Casa de Montecristo Whippany and co-host of the Lounge Experience Podcast!
Seaward Brewing sent us some goodies while we smoke the new Foundation El Gueguense JR 50th
During our trip to Miami, i stopped by to talk to the great Bradley Rubin to discuss our brand new exclusive... the Alec & Bradley Wagyu A5+... Now Available!
Nick and Greg dive into the term "cigar nerd" and what it means in todays cigar industry. They also talk about some other stuff thats fun as well.... you'll like it.
The new Davidoff JR 50th Anniversary Exclusive is here and damn is it goooood!
https://www.jrcigars.com/item/davidoff-jr-50th-anniversary/limited-edition-toro/DAVJR50.html
The boys smoke the all new J.F.R Lunatic JR 50th from Aganorsa Leaf... spectacular smoke!
The boys smoke some of their favorite Dominican Cigars and discuss that countries important role in the industry
They boys light up the brand new Mother Church by Crowned Heads while Greg is betrayed by an electronic woman.
While smoking the Montecristo 1935 Anniversary, Nick and Greg discuss the history of the brand, as well as other nonsense that has nothing to do with cigars, but makes for good content.
All the Top Cigar lists are rolling out, so Nick and Greg in all of their wisdom decide to analyze them.
Secret Chris joins in as they discuss some of their favorite scary movies for Halloween.
For nearly 3 centuries, cigars have been seen as a hobby of the rich and powerful... but why?
Nick talks with two of the smartest tobacco men of the era, Dion Giolito and Nick Melillo. You do not want to miss this one!
Nick is joined by some of the brightest minds in the industry including Pete Johnson, Alec and Bradley Rubin, Nick Melillo, Matt Booth, Jon Huber and Eric from Cigar Dojo
Nick and Nick are back at it.. talking about history, cigars and Connecticut of course.
We might be quarantined, but that wont stop us from bringing you quality content. Join us in our first Virtual Herf with the legend himself... Don Jun Huber from Crowned Heads
Greg returns from Honduras with tales of adventure, but finds that his sweet treats have been stolen
As Waters embarks on a worldwide tour to no avail, Nick contemplates the changing landscape of the industry.
Its Fuente Friday and the boys cant wait to talk all kinds of nonsense. Politics, the Mets, cigar wrappers... all topics are on the table!
Nick rants about the trade show news while Greg delves deep into the sign stealing scandal
The boys discuss the 10 most impactful people in the cigar industry during the 2010s while lighting up a special Montecristo
The guys discuss the upcoming Top 25 lists and the recent controversy with the new Avo series.
While enjoying the brand new Crowned Heads Full Court Press, the boys discuss new Cigar legislation and have a special phone call with the great Jon Huber.
With Greg doing God knows what, Nick takes this opportunity to enjoy a nice Sobremesa Brulee with some coffee.
The boys light up the newest release in the famed CAO Amazon series, but have no idea what they are talking about.
The winners of the Halloween Cutter contest are announced and Greg is a sweet, sweet strawberry!
The great and powerful Nick Melillo of Foundation cigar stops by to discuss cigars, history, aliens, and a hawk.
Nick and Greg smoke the brand new, exclusive Cabanas from Don Pepin Garcia as they discuss their favorite coffees.
With a lot of new, great content on the way, Nick and greg do a quick yet interesting episode with the Illusione One OFF
The boys light up a new, secret blend from the Crowned Heads and greg lends some of his fantasy knowledge.
With Greg on vacation, Secret Chris joins the podcast and smokes the strongest cigar ever!
The boys are joined by dear from Jamie who lets them enjoy a sneak peak of the new Balmoral/ La Flor Dominicana Paso Doble
The boys enjoy some top smokes from the Crowned Heads while Chris's Secret proclivities come to life.
Anthony stops by to wish Greg a happy birthday and discuss the dos and donts of cigar store etiquette.
The boys light up some Ligas while Secret Chris explains his odd choice of beverage temperatures
Nick and Greg enjoy the illustrious Ashton Symmetry, discuss the worlds finest fromage, endure a black out and Secret Chris talks.
The great Robert Caldwell stops by to discuss his new cigars and discus his hatred of hipster culture
Nick and Greg are ready to take Las Vegas by Storm for this Years IPCPR Trade Show, Put it All On Black!
Nick comes face to face with a real tobacco guru who puts him to shame... and Greg wears a hat
Nick and greg light up the Camacho Triple Maduro while they discuss their recent trip down south and their continued search for inner peace.
Fan favorite Big Dave Lafferty stops by with to join our heroes on their quest for ultimate cigar knowledge
While enjoying the exquisite Leaf by Esteban, Greg and Nick talk about the good old days of craft beer, before Greg's arthritis began.
As Nick and Greg dive into the delicious Oliva Serie V, secrets of Nicks relationship with is roomate start to surface..
The JR Cigars team is joined by the legendary Miguel Schoedel from Crowned Heads to shoot the breeze about the company history, new cigars, baseball and a bunch of other terrific nonsense.
Nick and Greg continue their journey through the world of cigars while enjoying one of the strongest smokes on the market
JR Cigars Presents The Long Ash Podcast... The Cigarchitect Nick Libretti teams up with new smoker Greg Warger to dive deep into the wonderful world of cigars.