Anthony's Cigar Emporium

From the moment I picked up the Gurkha Volition America, it felt like something a little more intentional than your average smoke. The 6 x 54 Toro sits comfortably in my hand with a clean roll and just enough oil on the wrapper to hint at what’s coming. On the cold draw, I picked up notes of cedar, light earth, and a touch of sweetness depending on the wrapper—nothing overpowering, just a balanced introduction that told me this was going to be an easy, enjoyable experience.

Once I lit it up, the cigar opened smoothly with cedar, coffee, and a subtle earthiness that really showcases that Nicaraguan core. The Habano leaned a bit richer for me, bringing in deeper wood and spice, while the Maduro delivered darker tones—cocoa and roasted coffee—without becoming too heavy. When I smoked the Connecticut, it stayed creamy and smooth but still had enough flavor to keep things interesting. The draw was effortless, the burn stayed even, and I didn’t have to babysit it at all. It sat right in that medium to full range—enough body to satisfy, but not so much that it overwhelms.

By the final third, everything came together nicely. I was getting a balanced mix of wood, coffee, a bit of lingering spice, and a soft sweetness on the finish. It’s not a cigar that tries to overcomplicate things, and honestly, it doesn’t need to. What stood out to me most was how consistent and approachable it was from start to finish. And knowing that each box supports Folds of Honor made it feel even more rewarding. It’s one of those cigars I’d reach for when I want something dependable—with a little extra meaning behind every draw.

Gurkha Volition America – Rating Breakdown

Overall score: 8.85

Appearance: 9.1
Clean roll, attractive wrapper tones across all versions, solid construction.

Draw: 8.7
Effortless and mostly consistent—no resistance, although draw did change noticeably throughout the smoke.

Burn: 9.0
Even burn line with a firm ash and minimal maintenance.

Flavor: 8.8
Balanced profile of cedar, coffee, earth, and subtle sweetness; Maduro adds depth, Connecticut adds creaminess. Slightly bland by the finish.

Complexity: 8.5
Not overly complex, but enough transitions to stay engaging.

Strength: Medium – Medium/Full
Approachable with enough body to satisfy seasoned smokers.

Consistency: 8.9
Reliable from first light to final third across all wrappers.

Overall Experience: 8.75
A well-crafted, purpose-driven cigar that delivers both enjoyment and meaning.

Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial utilizes a dark, oily Broadleaf maduro wrapper, paired with a rich blend of Nicaraguan long-fillers with tobaccos from some of the Garcia family’s farms. Smooth and layered with notes of espresso, pepper, earth, and cedar.

Prelight

The wrapper is a dark, oily Connecticut Broadleaf with a notable amount of “tooth” and barely visible seams. The foot gives off a pungent aroma of sweet cocoa powder, rich earth, and a hint of mixed pepper. After a clean straight cut, the cold draw offers moderate resistance with flavors of espresso bean and sweet leather.

1/3

Upon lighting, the cigar delivers an immediate burst of black pepper that quickly settles into a thick, creamy smoke. The front of the profile is dominated by dark chocolate and earth, while the center shows a smooth cedar note. The finish is clean with a lingering white pepper zing.

• Body: Medium to Full
• Strength: Low to Medium

2/3

The smoke thickness remains high, providing a great mouth feel. The sweetness ramps up here, with the chocolate transitioning into a creamy cocoa and black cherry note. The pepper recedes slightly in the center, allowing notes of roasted nuts and oak to emerge. The burn line remains razor-sharp with a firm, light-gray ash.

• Body: Full
• Strength: Medium

Final 3/3

In the final stretch, the complexity shifts toward a darker profile. Espresso and charred wood take the lead, with the black pepper returning with more intensity on the retrohale. The finish becomes slightly earthier with nuances of leather and a hint of nutmeg spice. It finishes smooth and cool without any harshness until the very nub.

Conclusion: 91/100

This is a “flavor bomb” that doesn’t need to warm up; it’s well-developed from the first puff. Its consistent performance and bold Nicaraguan character make it an excellent choice for an everyday rotation or a box purchase.

Pairing Recommendation: Pair this with a hefty stout or a stiff bourbon to complement the dark chocolate and espresso notes.

Pledge Purple PURPLE PREMIER COLLECTION – LIMITED EDITION has arrived!

Pledge PURPLE PREMIER COLLECTION LIMITED EDITION has landed.

We humble folk at Anthony’s are more than ecstatic about this drop.

Once again, Casa Carrillo is bringing a standout release with Pledge Purple, which has literally just been released. This is a cigar created to commemorate the five-year anniversary of the original Pledge Prequel, which won Cigar of the Year honors in 2020.

Rather than simply revisiting the original blend, this release takes a more ambitious approach. It is offering an entirely new interpretation, built on a familiar foundation. We’ve just sampled them, and we’re hooked on these babies.

We feel that the Pledge Purple stands out right away because of it’s Havana-seed Connecticut wrapper, which comes from the same crop used in the original Prequel. This particular leaf was intentionally set aside and aged for nearly a decade, resulting in a wrapper that is noticeably richer, more oily, and far more expressive.

One thing I found important to note, is that the extended aging process brings out a deeper character, and refined complexity that is evident from the first draw. The entire experience offers a fullness and richness that has just the right amount of flavor, without overpowering.

It is important to note that Pledge Purple is not a continuation of the original blend. The Purple can be best explained as a reimagined composition designed to showcase the evolved qualities of the aged wrapper. The result is a cigar that maintains the boldness, and refinement associated with the Pledge line, while presenting a distinct and unique profile of its own.

The unique blend is made of Mexican binder and Nicaraguan fillers from the Estelí, Condega, and Ometepe regions. My smoking experience was full-bodied yet smooth. I found the Purple is certainly delivering a layered profile with balanced strength and complexity that continues to develop throughout the session.

We have learned that production was limited to just 3,500 boxes of 10 cigars, with releases scheduled in select waves. Given its limited nature and the quality of its construction and flavor, Pledge Purple is expected to be in high demand and unlikely to remain on our shelves for long. We will sell out, so grab one now.

Brick House @ Anthony’s

J.C. NEWMAN CIGAR CO.

The Brick House is a classic Nicaraguan cigar that delivers bold flavor with impressive consistency.

One bonus with this cigar is that it is meticulously well-constructed. Wrapped in a rich, Ecuadorian Habano leaf, and filled with Nicaraguan tobaccos, it produces thick clouds of smoke and a steady burn from start to finish. The construction is solid, with a firm feel and excellent draw throughout, which makes this a go-to for an everyday smoke.

Budget is a factor in the cigar world these days. There is no sacrifice in quality or flavor with this line of cigars, is this author’s opinion. The smoking experience is enjoyable from the light up. Flavor opens with notes of cedar and black pepper before settling into a balanced profile of roasted nuts, earth, and coffee. As the cigar progresses, subtle hints of cocoa and natural sweetness begin to appear, adding depth without overwhelming the palate.

Medium to medium-full in strength, the Brick House stands out as one of the best everyday premium cigars available—rich, satisfying, and remarkably dependable for the price. Value is the real point.

Brick House Cigar Rating from Anthony’s:

Overall Score: 91 / 100

Strength: Medium to Medium-Full

Flavor Profile: Cedar • Pepper • Earth • Coffee • Roasted Nuts • Subtle Cocoa

Summary:
The Brick House delivers a rich, dependable Nicaraguan smoking experience with bold flavor and excellent construction. While not the most complex cigar on the market, its balance, consistency, and outstanding value make it a staple in many humidors and an easy choice for everyday enjoyment.

Spring has sprung in Tucson, and we have SO MANY AWESOME EVENTS coming up!

We are very pleased to be hosting another of our Drew Estate events! Michelle Naranjo will host, and we will have a special guest appearance by Pedro Gomez at our Grant Location, March 27th. Don’t miss it if you’re in the Old Pueblo that weekend.

EPC 2026 MASTERS WATCH PARTY AND GOLF EVENT

ANOTHER PASSION OF OURS BESIDES CIGARS IS GOLF. WHEN WE DO GOLF AND CIGARS, WE DO HAPPY. Don’t miss this fabulous event at our ORACLE location. EPC / Casa Carrillo will be here!

Being the hosts with the most, we will be offering CIGAR DEALS, prizes, pimento cheese sandwiches, moonpies, so much golf, and so much fun!!

Be there or be:

In addition to our Online Store, Anthony’s Cigar Emporium is proud to offer the Tucson area with four different locations.

ORACLE LOCATION

CAMPBELL LOCATION

GRANT LOCATION

BROADWAY LOCATION

The J.C. Newman Sarzedas cigar.

History of Sarzedas Cigars

Sarzedas is a historic cigar brand that dates back to 1900, when it was first produced by J.C. Newman Cigar Co. in Cleveland, Ohio. Early U.S. Patent Office records show Sarzedas was one of the company’s original house brands during the early years of American cigar manufacturing.

In the early 1900s, the cigar earned the nickname “The Aromatic Cigar,” reflecting the smoother, more fragrant style that was popular at the time. Rather than focusing on heavy strength, Sarzedas was known for its pleasant aroma and refined smoking character.

Like many early American cigar brands, Sarzedas eventually disappeared as the industry evolved through the mid-20th century. The name remained dormant for decades until J.C. Newman revived the brand in 2025, reintroducing it at the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) trade show with a modern blend inspired by the original concept.

WHAT DID WE THINK?

Blending a flavored cigar that can satisfy both fans of infused cigars and traditional premium smokers is no easy task, yet the Sarzedas makes a respectable effort at striking that balance. Early in the experience, the cigar leans heavily into its flavored character. A sugary sweetness on the cap and an artificial sweetness on the palate and retrohale dominate the first half, which may feel a bit intense for some smokers.

Around the midpoint, however, the profile begins to evolve. The sweetness recedes and more classic cigar flavors step forward, revealing notes of cedar, leather, and roasted peanuts. At this stage, the flavored elements shift into the background, acting more as subtle accents than the centerpiece of the blend.

Construction across multiple samples proved impressive, with clean burn lines standing out as a particular strength. While the Sarzedas remains firmly in the flavored cigar category, its strong construction, approachable price point, and the emergence of more traditional cigar flavors in the latter half help set the Sarzedas Corona apart from many others in the flavored cigar market.

Sarzedas cigars are rolled in four sizes:

Toro 6” x 50

Robusto 4 3/4” x 52

Churchill 7” x 48

Corona 5 1/2” x 43

They feature a silky smooth Ecuadorian Shade wrapper, and binder and filler tobaccos from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. Try one at Anthony’s!

Balanced elegance.

LIMITED EDITIONS: Serie V Melanio 2024 & 2025 – on sale now.

The 2025 release arrives in a 5 × 54 Robusto Extra format, cultivated on Oliva’s own farms. Each cigar is produced at the company’s well-regarded factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, where construction and consistency have long been hallmarks of the brand.

In the hand, the cigar presents a bold profile that remains impressively smooth throughout the experience. The blend relies on premium Nicaraguan Habano long-fillers, with a notable emphasis on tobacco from the prized Jalapa region. Compared to the heavier, more aggressive leaves commonly associated with Estelí or Condega, the Jalapa influence lends a softer complexity and refined character. The result is a deeply flavorful smoke that balances richness with a surprising level of elegance.

The 2024 Gran Toro (5.5 × 60) delivers a medium-to-full-bodied smoking experience that feels right at home after a hearty meal. It pairs especially well with bold accompaniments like aged rum, espresso, bourbon, or a dark beer or stout, each complementing the cigar’s depth and richness.

Flavor-wise, the profile opens with notes of leather, toasted oak, and cocoa. As the cigar progresses, a gentle sweetness begins to surface, revealing hints of baking spices and subtle molasses. The overall impression is a balanced, flavorful smoke with enough richness to satisfy experienced smokers while maintaining a smooth, refined character throughout.

2024 Edicion Ano Gran Toro (5 1/2 X 60)

2025 Edicion Ano Robusto Extra (5 X 54)

© 2026 Anthony’s Cigar Emporium. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of any content without written permission is prohibited.

10th Anniversary Limited Edition.

AVO Syncro Nicaragua – A Synchronized Move for AVO

Inspired by Avo Uvezian’s worldly approach to cigar blending, the Syncro Nicaragua combines the spice and richness of Nicaraguan tobacco—particularly leaf from the volcanic island of Ometepe—with the smooth, creamy character of Dominican tobaccos.

Rather than creating a Nicaraguan puro, the blend takes a more nuanced path. It uses Dominican and Peruvian fillers, a Dominican binder, and an Ecuadorian wrapper, with the Ometepe tobacco providing a distinct earthy spice in the mix. The result is a cigar designed to “synchronize” flavors from several regions into a balanced and refined smoking experience.

Once lit, the cigar delivers notes of cedar, hay, citrus, and mild red pepper, followed by the signature earthy and mushroom-like tones often associated with Dominican Olor tobacco. As the smoke progresses, the profile develops with brighter grassy and citrus notes before finishing with deeper Nicaraguan earthiness. The body builds gradually from medium to medium-plus while maintaining a smooth, well-balanced character throughout.

Construction is solid with an easy draw and steady burn, producing thick, flavorful smoke. Like most of the AVO lineup, the Syncro Nicaragua also sits in an approachable price range, typically under $10 per cigar, making it an appealing option for both longtime AVO fans and newer smokers looking for a modern twist on the brand.

Overall, the AVO Syncro Nicaragua succeeds in bringing together multiple tobaccos in harmony, offering a balanced, flavorful cigar that feels both contemporary and true to the AVO tradition.

This reviewer read David Jones’ review for Leaf Enthusiast. Jones’ score of 9/10 overall for this cigar is spot on. Pre-light, value, and construction are all top notch; flavor is 4/5.

Leaf Enthusiast Article

GURKHA CELLAR RESERVE 15 YEAR

GURKHA CELLAR RESERVE 15 YEAR gets better and better with time. The Gurkha Cellar Reserve concept goes all the way back to the ancient times of 2007, featuring a different blend.

The official cigar we enjoy today- featuring the 15-year filler and Criollo ’98 wrapper- was released in 2011.

Aesthetically, the wooden box could make one think of a wine barrel, hence the name “Cellar Reserve”. Undeniably, the flavor is robust, and is a direct result of meticulously aged 15-year-old tobaccos.

The Cellar Reserve offers a medium bodied profile that has layered depth, and a heightened sense of sophistication just from a glance at it’s dark, rich wrapper.

Upon lighting, there’s no surprise it stands among the elite in the premium cigar world. From the first impression, complexity defines this smoke. Pre-light aromas reveal subtle pepper and spice accented by cedar and earthy undertones.

Once lit, the smoking experience evolves beautifully — bright citrus notes open the palate before transitioning into smooth, warming flavors of chocolate and toasted nuts. Balanced yet bold, the Gurkha Cellar Reserve delivers a uniquely satisfying journey from start to finish.

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS: Anthony’s Cigar Emporium suggests a fine glass of single-malt scotch, or a café-au-lait (and a sunset) as great pairings for this aged beauty.

Visit us on #insta

• INSTA

THE nub

Cigar Quote of the Day: “A cigar is as good as memories that you have when you smoked it”. – Raul Julia

We believe that memories are made with an excellent smoke. Oliva NUB cigars deliver bold, concentrated flavor from the very first draw. NUB sticks are short and stout — typically around 4″ long with a generous ring gauge — which lets the smoke reach its ideal flavor profile immediately and maintain it throughout the entire experience. As the moments pass, the memories are made.

Despite their compact dimensions, these cigars still burn as long as many full-sized sticks, which is a sweet surprise.

Love stands out in this little guy. NUB cigars are lovingly wrapped in a selection of distinct leaf types that shape each blend’s strength and personality.

The smoother, creamy Connecticut Shade wrapper offers a milder experience, which is this writer’s personal preference. If you like richer, try the Ecuadorian Habano, Cameroon, or dark Brazilian Maduro options for deeper spice and complexity.

There is a wide range of flavor profiles to enjoy in the unique NUB format. Try them all, and post here to let us know what your experience is!