A Big Start for the New Year
The issue you hold in your hands right now will bring you many hours of reading pleasure. The cover story highlights one of the biggest celebrities in America today. In addition, we have our annual review of the Top 25 Cigars of the Year—one of our most popular features—with many exciting choices.
On the cover, we have Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who was known as a wrestling superstar before becoming an acting star. He’s also a businessman. One measure of his immense stardom is his more than 200 million followers on Instagram, far more than just about anyone on the planet.
The interview for the cover story took place over the Internet, a concession to the Coronavirus pandemic. What we learned from the discussion was that The Rock is an incredibly down-to-earth person with a sensibility, grounded in wholesome values. Make no mistake—this is not the man you think you know from the wrestling ring.
The Rock was a young man with a very troubled childhood, who managed to turn himself around and succeed at the very highest level due to his determination and drive. The interview covers many topics, and we learn all about how seriously he takes his life and his desire to help others. It’s something you won’t want to miss.
In releasing the Top 25 Cigars of the Year, we find it remarkable that the No. 1 smoke comes from a cigarmaker who won this honor only two years ago—Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, the owner of EPC Cigar Co. After multiple rounds of blind taste tests, four cigars were still in close contention, but his E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel nudged out the competition as closest to perfection. It’s a bold, zesty smoke, with notes of black cherry and a host of spices. In the entire group of 25, there’s no doubt you will find one of your favorite brands, as well as quite a few surprises and discoveries.
Be sure to visit cigaraficionado.com where you will find videos from the interview with The Rock, and you can also watch videos of the Top 25 cigars being smoked and discussed.
This issue is packed with great content—a perfect way to kick off the New Year. Happy smoking and enjoy.
