Cigar Club of Richmond (CCRVA or Cigar Club RVA) serves as a hub for local cigar enthusiasts to meet each other, learn about cigars, and share good conversations on just about any topic, from public policy to cigar reviews and anything in between.
Local cigar store owners are modifying their stores to make them cozier
for aficionados to enjoy a stogie in a welcoming and relaxed
environment.
“Club is probably not the right term,” said a local well-known personality, when ask about CCRVA. “I would say there is a loose, informal group of people who enjoy good cigars and good company, and they stay in touch via Facebook and gather regularly at Havana ‘59 on Friday nights.” The majority of those who attend can be described as educated professionals in their 30s to 50s. The environment is very open and inclusive.
CCRVA fans utilize Facebook and Twitter to communicate with each other and to stay up-to-date with the upcoming plans for the group.
There are a handful of cigar-friendly restaurants in town. According to the local cigar connoisseurs, Havana ’59, the club’s informal and unofficial headquarters located in the famous Farmer’s Market area in Downtown Richmond, is the most cigar-friendly spot of all. Local cigar store owners are modifying their stores to make them cozier for aficionados to enjoy a stogie in a welcoming and relaxed environment.
These places are better known as cigar heavens where aficionados can enjoy multiple LCD screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, complimentary coffee and occasional card or domino games.
“Despite anti-smoking legislation, the local cigar culture of Richmond is thriving,” Kevin Edmiston, owner of Winston’s Humidor in Midlothian, commented. “As a result of the growing animosity towards tobacco products in general, I feel that cigar smokers are actually coming together in the few cigar-friendly havens. Local cigar enthusiasts are seeking new products and expanding their comfort zones as they try new blends and boutique brands. Additionally, cigar enthusiasts seem eager to learn more about the cigars they love, and the cigar making process.”
Edmiston continued, “We see a large cross-section of people at Winston’s—people from all walks of life and from all demographics. Our cigar lounge is very inviting and new faces are welcomed by everyone. From students to professionals to retirees, men and women find common ground enjoying good cigars and making new friends.”
“I have noticed the cigar community is more popular amongst the men in Richmond,” said Rosemarry Mel, one of the few cigar women in the club. “A woman enjoying a cigar is considered a rare sight, though members automatically accept the woman cigar smoker as one of the guys.”
Cigars are very much like cars—everyone has their favorite. But how can you tell the difference between cheap cigars and fine ones? “A good cigar will usually burn well and evenly,” says Mel. “It will burn too hot or too fast. It will be flavorful and the flavors will be nuanced and varied, like a fine wine.” She added, “I look for the draw factor, if it’s tight or free, smell, and taste. If there is quality, price is not an issue.”
Regardless of how the economy is doing, social status, or where they come from, Richmond’s cigar aficionados will continue lighting them up, “because we’re free to enjoy fine cigars.”
