On the 14th of December, an exceptional event unfolded at C.Gars in St James Street, where connoisseurs of fine cigars gathered in the sampling lounge for a memorable evening. The night was illuminated by the presence of Mitchell Orchant and Sam McIlwham, the store manager, setting a vibrant atmosphere that drew a crowd eager to indulge in the pleasures of cigar smoking.
The highlight of the night were two remarkable cigars: the Regius Orchant Seleccion Peru 2023 Robusto Cigar and the Casa 1910 Cavalry Edition Lucero. The Regius Orchant, measuring 4 7/8 inches with a 50-ring gauge, offered a medium to full strength experience. It boasted a unique composition, with a Peruvian wrapper, binder, and filler, presenting a robust and nuanced flavour profile. The Casa 1910 Cavalry Edition Lucero, on the other hand, stretched to 6 inches with a 54 ring gauge. Originating from Nicaragua, it featured an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper and a Mexican San Andres binder, filled with Nicaraguan tobacco, delivering a rich and complex taste.
The evening’s allure extended beyond cigars. A special dinner was organized at Franco's, a renowned Italian restaurant on St James Street. Lewis Seymour and Sam McIlwham orchestrated this gastronomic adventure. Franco's is celebrated for its Italian heritage, offering a range of homemade pasta, fresh bread, and a selection of fish and meat dishes, with vegan and gluten-free options available. The restaurant's cozy ambiance, complete with a heated outdoor terrace, perfectly complemented the evening’s theme.
The dinner was a spectacular affair with Mr. Steven Neerkin, adding to the festive spirit in his Santa Claus suit. Franco's curated a bespoke menu for the occasion, featuring dishes like fillet steaks topped with foie gras and truffle-laden pasta. The dessert selection was equally impressive, with the tiramisu emerging as the crowd favourite.
The beverage selection was curated to enhance the dining experience, featuring Franco's own house red wine and the exquisite Dominique London Privee Liberation Cigar Cognac. This combination of fine dining and premium cigars created an atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie, underscoring the belief that cigars are best enjoyed in great company. This event at Franco's was a testament to the unique bonding power of cigars, bringing people together in a celebration of taste, tradition, and friendship.
In conclusion, the evening at C.Gars and Franco's was not just about enjoying cigars and food but about the experience of togetherness and the joy of shared passions. It was a reminder that in the right setting, with the right people, cigars can create unforgettable moments and lasting connections.