James Giehm

Episode 40: Catching-Up with Lee Marsh of Stolen Throne

James catches up with one of the founders and blenders of Stolen Throne Cigars, Lee Marsh. The pair discuss how Stolen Throne has handled the pandemic, their new releases (Call to Arms, Argos, and Oath Takers), what makes boutique cigars boutique, and much more! Check out Stolen Throne’s Facebook page  Visit Stolen Thone on Instagram …

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Cigar Review: Stolen Throne’s Call to Arms Corona Is a Complex Anytime Smoke

The Stolen Throne Call to Arms is the second regular production release for Stolen Throne Cigars, and the follow-up to their highly successful Crook of the Crown release. The sophomore offering from Stolen Throne Cigars is comprised of a gorgeous Sumatra wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and filler). It is a full-bodied, medium to medium-full cigar…

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Top 10 Boutique Cigar Companies You Must Try

What is a boutique cigar? That question has been asked by aficionados and enthusiasts for years causing much debate within the community. Definitions of what makes a cigar brand boutique include: Brands who do not own their own factory, brands who only produce lines in small batches, and even cigars manufactured in a small factory….

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Cigars and Coffee Episode 7: The CRA and Getting Involved

James and Tim visit Habano Cigar Lounge (432 E 4th St, Davenport, IA), their other home lounge, and discuss a couple of topics important to the cigar community. The first is the importance of the CRA, how to get involved, and what it means to become a CRA Ambassador. The second is women in the…

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Cigars and Coffee Episode 6: Lounges, Trips, and Synthetic Urine?

James and Tim record from David’s Fine Tobaccos (9759 University Ave, Clive, IA) as James stops by after his trip to Omaha, Nebraska. They discuss the importance of supporting your local cigar lounge, trips to other lounges, and synthetic urine.

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Episode 39: A Revisit with Capital Cigar Lounge in Lincoln, NE

I sit down and catch-up with co-owner Tony Goins, and humidor coach Jeff Fry. We discuss their response to COVID-19 and how it has impacted their business. Jeff and I talk about the changes in their stock, their approach to customers, and how they treat their employees and customers like family. I also got the…

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Episode 38: Jeff and Mari Doll of Safari Cigars & Lounge

James sits down with the owners of Safari Cigars & Lounge, Jeff and Mari Doll. They discuss lounge etiquette, the impact that small business has on the local economy, how they got into the industry, and much more. This is a great interview with a couple of genuine, and down-to-earth entrepreneurs. Safari Cigars and Lounge…

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Cigar Review: Epic Maduro Robusto Is a Full-Bodied, But Nuanced Smoke

Anytime I see a wrapper this dark on a cigar, I immediately think twice. Will it be a pepper bomb? Will it be too spicy? The Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper on the Epic Maduro is dark and toothy, but don’t be scared away! While the Maduro may be on the full end of the spectrum, it…

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Episode 37: FDA News and Cuban Cigar Retailers

I am finally back in my studio with power and internet! Thank you for your patience during my forced hiatus! I talk about the victory the cigar industry had over the FDA in court, what it means to small businesses and the industry at-large. I also give my opinion on where the next legal battles…

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Cigars and Coffee Episode 5: I’m So Tired

James and Tim visit David’s Fine Tobaccos (9759 University Ave, Clive IA 50325) for this episode of Cigars and Coffee. David’s is a great place, with friendly staff, and a great selection of cigars and pipe tobaccos. James smokes a My Father Connecticut, while Tim chooses a Sobremesa Brulee. Is the cap sweetened? Who cares?!…

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