The Last Ash Newsletter
- infothelastash
- Jun 6
- 11 min read
Updated: Jul 30
The Last Ash Newsletter
June 2025
Welcome to the June 2025 edition of The Last Ash Cigar Club newsletter—where the leaf meets lifestyle, and every draw tells a story. As we hit the midpoint of the year, the world of cigars is showing no signs of slowing down. From long-awaited boutique drops to buzz-worthy anniversary blends, June is packed with reasons to clear some space in your humidor. Whether you're a backyard burner, rooftop regular, or lounge loyalist, this month brings the heat with fresh blends, bold pairings, and a few unexpected twists.
June is that perfect middle ground of the year where spring’s bloom meets summer’s warmth, and it invites us outdoors with a fine cigar in hand. Whether you're lounging on your porch as the sun sets, or finding shade beneath a backyard oak tree, this is the time to savor the longer evenings and deeper draws. It’s a month of reflection and reconnection, and what better way to do so than with a favorite stick and a good drink? In this issue, we’re diving deep into summer pairings, reviewing some of the most anticipated new releases of the season, and spotlighting a few boutique brands making serious waves in the cigar world.
And for the adventurers in our club, don’t miss our coverage of June’s new cigar releases, a spotlight on one of our favorite cigar spots and new cigar swag to add to your collection. This is the month to get outside, get social, and get smoking. From rare releases to practical gear, The Last Ash has your summer cigar life fully covered. Let’s fire it up.
Cigar Lounge Spotlight
Ashton Cigar Bar
Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square, Ashton Cigar Bar offers an elevated experience for cigar lovers who appreciate luxury, ambiance, and selection. Perched on the second floor above the historic Holt’s Cigar Company, this lounge is a haven for connoisseurs seeking premium cigars paired with equally distinguished spirits. From the moment you walk in, the refined decor, dark wood accents, and ambient lighting set the tone for a sophisticated evening, whether you’re flying solo with a classic smoke or entertaining clients over aged Scotch.
Ashton Cigar Bar boasts one of the city’s most impressive walk-in humidors, stocked with an expertly curated lineup of cigars from iconic labels like Arturo Fuente, Padron, Davidoff, and, of course, Ashton’s own acclaimed blends. The staff are knowledgeable and approachable, always ready to suggest a cigar that complements your drink or mood. With over 450 whiskeys and a selection of rare bourbons, rums, and cognacs, the bar program is second to none, making it the perfect spot to explore new pairings or revisit timeless combinations.
What truly sets Ashton apart is its ability to blend exclusivity with comfort. Despite its upscale environment, the vibe remains welcoming, never pretentious. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, Ashton Cigar Bar strikes a balance between elegance and accessibility. It’s not just a place to smoke—it’s a destination where conversation, craft, and culture come together in every draw. For anyone visiting Philly or looking to unwind in style, Ashton deserves a permanent spot on your cigar lounge shortlist.
Cigar Companion: The Best Hardware for Every Smoker
Davidoff Sliding Ashtray
The Biggy Lacquered Lighter Monogram 1872 Black stands as a testament to sophisticated craftsmanship in the world of premium cigar accessories. With its high-gloss black lacquer finish that catches the light with subtle elegance, this substantial piece fits perfectly in the hand of the discerning aficionado. The iconic 1872 monogram, delicately etched in gold against the noir backdrop, pays homage to a legacy of excellence that has served gentlemen of distinction for generations. The precision-engineered flame adjuster ensures a consistent, wind-resistant torch that maintains its integrity even in outdoor settings, making it as functional as it is beautiful.
What truly separates the Biggy from lesser offerings is its remarkable heft and balance—substantial enough to feel significant without becoming cumbersome in your smoking ritual. The signature click of its cap has become recognizable in smoking lounges worldwide, announcing the commencement of a thoughtful experience. Each lighter undergoes rigorous quality control, with master craftsmen hand-testing every unit before it leaves the atelier. Whether displayed prominently on your desk or accompanying your finest cigars for an evening indulgence, the Biggy Monogram 1872 serves as both a reliable tool and an heirloom-quality statement piece that elevates every lighting ceremony to an occasion worth savoring.
Britannia Nexus Collection
The Britannia Nexus Collection from The Cigar Holder exemplifies a harmonious blend of British craftsmanship and Italian elegance, tailored for the discerning cigar aficionado. Crafted from premium Tuscan vegetable-tanned leather, each case showcases a commitment to eco-luxury and sustainability. The design incorporates a robust metal cigar guardian, accommodating up to six standard or four large-ring cigars, ensuring they remain protected during transit. Additional features include dedicated pockets for essential cigar accessories and a compartment designed for an Apple AirTag, catering to modern tracking needs. \
Beyond its functional attributes, the Britannia Nexus stands as a statement piece, reflecting a lifestyle of sophistication and appreciation for fine craftsmanship. Each case is authenticated with a unique serial number and accompanied by a warranty card, underscoring its authenticity and the meticulous attention to detail in its creation. The collection offers various styles, such as the Aficionado Elegance and Montecristo Marvel, allowing enthusiasts to select a design that resonates with their personal aesthetic. For those seeking a cigar case that seamlessly combines tradition with contemporary flair, the Britannia Nexus Collection presents an impeccable choice.
Swatch x Omega MoonSwatch
Mission to the Moon
In the world of cigars, timing is everything—from the slow burn of a toro to the patient aging of a maduro leaf. So when a watch captures both heritage and flair, it’s worth a nod from those of us who appreciate craftsmanship and ritual. The Swatch x Omega MoonSwatch “Mission to the Moon” is a standout in this space. A tribute to the iconic Omega Speedmaster—the first watch worn on the moon—this edition is more than just an affordable homage. It’s a playful yet precise reinterpretation, built from Swatch’s innovative bioceramic material and featuring the classic Speedmaster chronograph layout, tachymeter bezel, and moon-mission legacy.
What makes “Mission to the Moon” so intriguing isn’t just the design—it’s the cultural crossover. Much like cigars, the MoonSwatch appeals to both collectors and casual fans. It’s a democratized icon, giving anyone the chance to wear a piece of space history on their wrist without dropping five grand. And while purists might scoff at the quartz movement or the plastic construction, true enthusiasts recognize the value of fun and accessibility in a space so often dominated by exclusivity. This is a watch you can wear to a backyard herf or a rooftop pairing event without worrying about scratches—or status.
If you’re lighting up a cigar with this watch on your wrist, the pairing should match its spirit: bold, heritage-driven, and unpretentious. Try something like the HVC Hot Cake Maduro or a Tatuaje Black Label—both blends rooted in tradition but approachable to all. Like the MoonSwatch, they deliver complexity without complication. Whether you're timing your ash or just enjoying a slow smoke under a summer sky, the Mission to the Moon keeps perfect pace with a lifestyle built on moments worth savoring.
Cigar of the Month
This month, we’re elevating the sensory experience with a cigar that blends passion, poetry, and precision: the Aging Room La Bohéme Poeta. Conceived by Rafael Nodal and inspired by the timeless opera La Bohème, this 5¾ x 54 vitola is a tribute to old-world romance and modern craftsmanship. Cloaked in a lustrous Ecuadorian Habano wrapper and filled with aged Dominican tobaccos, the Poeta strikes a harmonious balance between strength and finesse. Upon lighting, it greets you with elegant notes of cedar and toasted almond, followed by warm layers of baking spices and a subtle undercurrent of dried fruit. As the cigar progresses, the profile evolves, introducing touches of leather, espresso, and a creamy texture that lingers beautifully on the palate.
More than just a smoke, the La Bohéme Poeta feels like an intimate performance—each draw a note in a larger symphony. It’s a cigar that demands a slow, reflective pace, making it ideal for evening rituals, weekend pairings with aged rum or Highland single malt, or moments of quiet solitude with a journal in hand. This cigar is not only a standout in the Aging Room portfolio but also a benchmark of what boutique blending can achieve when guided by artistic vision and exacting standards. For seasoned aficionados and curious explorers alike, the La Bohéme Poeta offers a luxurious, melodic experience worthy of center stage in your humidor this June.
New Cigar Releases
Asylum Cigars – Split Personality
Asylum Cigars once again pushes the boundaries of bold innovation with their latest flavored release, Split Personality. Living up to its name, this cigar delivers a wildly unique sensory experience, blending unexpected notes of banana, caramel, and almond into a surprisingly smooth profile. Aimed at smokers who crave something adventurous yet approachable, Split Personality plays with flavor in a way that still respects premium cigar traditions. Available in a range of vitolas from 40×4 up to a hefty 70×7, it’s tailored for both quick flavor-packed breaks and longer indulgent sessions. With this release, Asylum proves that flavored cigars can be just as nuanced and exciting as their traditional counterparts—adding a twist of fun without sacrificing quality.
Flavor Profile: Banana, caramel, almond
Vitolas: 40×4, 50×5, 52×6, 60×6, 70×7
Packaging: 25-count boxes (20-count for 70×7)
Availability: Shipping mid-June
La Aurora 100 Años is more than just a celebratory cigar—it’s a living tribute to the oldest cigar factory in the Dominican Republic and its century-long legacy of craftsmanship. Originally released to mark La Aurora’s 100th anniversary, this Dominican puro is a masterclass in balance and heritage. Wrapped in a rich Corojo leaf grown on Dominican soil, it delivers a medium-to-full-bodied profile layered with notes of toasted wood, leather, subtle cocoa, and a nutty sweetness that lingers beautifully on the finish. The 100 Años captures the soul of traditional Dominican cigar-making with a blend that speaks to both the seasoned palate and the enthusiast looking to connect with a deeper story. Smoking this cigar isn’t just about flavor—it’s about experiencing a legacy that has shaped Caribbean tobacco culture for generations.
Wrapper/Binder/Filler: Dominican Republic
Sizes: Robusto (5×50), Robusto Especial (5×50),
Belicoso (6¼×52), Churchill (7×47)
MSRP: $17–$20.50
Availability: Shipping this month
Micallef Black Firecracker
The Micallef Black Firecracker is a bold, compact powerhouse cigar created in collaboration with United Cigars as part of their celebrated Firecracker series. Released in June 2025 to coincide with Independence Day festivities, this 3½ x 50 stick is wrapped in a dark, rich Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper, with an Ecuadorian binder and Nicaraguan fillers. It delivers a full-bodied smoking experience packed with deep notes of earth, dark cocoa, and a peppery spice that lights up the palate—true to its "Firecracker" name and heritage.
What sets the Micallef Black Firecracker apart is its fusion of craftsmanship and celebration. Hand-rolled at the Micallef Cigars S.A. factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, each cigar features the signature “fuse” cap—an homage to the series’ explosive style. Rested for ten months before release, it offers surprising complexity and balance for such a short vitola. With limited availability and a price point around $9, this cigar is not only a collector’s piece but also a must-try for fans of rich, flavorful blends looking to light up their summer with something special.
Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés
Binder: Ecuador
Filler: Nicaragua
Size: 3½×50
MSRP: $9 (Box of 20: $180)
Availability: Shipping in June
Española Year of the Dragon
The Española Year of the Dragon is a striking tribute to tradition, artistry, and bold flavor—crafted by JM Tobacco to celebrate the 2024 Chinese Zodiac. Wrapped in a velvety Ecuadorian Corojo leaf over a dark Mexican San Andrés binder and Dominican fillers, this 6 x 52 Toro offers a complex, medium-to-full-bodied experience that gracefully balances spice, cedar, and a hint of sweetness. Limited to just 500 boxes upon its debut, this release quickly became a collector’s gem, lauded for its depth and character. What began as a tribute cigar has now found a permanent home in JM Tobacco’s core line as the Española Corojo, a testament to the blend’s popularity and the brand’s commitment to keeping exceptional cigars in regular rotation. For aficionados drawn to cultural inspiration and rich, nuanced profiles, the Year of the Dragon is more than a celebratory smoke—it’s a legacy in the making.
Wrapper: Corojo
Binder: San Andrés
Size 6 x 52
Packaging: 24-count boxes
MSRP: Box of 24: $300
Availability: Shipping June 1
DBL Cigars 12th Anniversary
To commemorate its 12th anniversary, DBL Cigars has unveiled a remarkable release that encapsulates the brand's dedication to quality and innovation. The DBL 12th Anniversary cigar is a box-pressed 5⅞ x 56 vitola, available in two wrapper options: Mexican Sun Grown Habano and Mexican San Andrés Maduro. Beneath these wrappers lies a Dominican Corojo '99 binder and a filler blend of organically grown Criollo '98, Carbonell, and the proprietary T-13 tobacco from DBL's farms in the Cibao Valley. This medium to full-bodied cigar offers a rich and complex smoking experience, reflecting the brand's evolution over the past 12 years.
Wrapper: Mexican Sun Grown Habano or San Andrés Maduro
Binder: Organic Corojo ’99
Filler: Organic Criollo ’98 and Organic Carbonell
Size: 5⅞×56 (Box-pressed)
MSRP: $13
From Barrel to Ash: Exploring Whiskey, Rum, and More
Ardnamurchan The Midgie 2025 Edition
The Ardnamurchan The Midgie 2025 Edition is a playful yet impressively crafted release from one of Scotland’s rising distillery stars. Known for blending modern innovation with time-honored Highland traditions, Ardnamurchan has built a reputation for subtle peat, coastal influence, and thoughtful maturation—and this year’s "Midgie" bottling is no exception. Named after Scotland’s infamous summertime pests, The Midgie 2025 wears its name with tongue-in-cheek pride but backs it up with serious flavor. Bottled at 48.5% ABV, it offers a beautifully balanced dram that opens with notes of honey-glazed citrus, sea spray, and a faint wisp of peat smoke that never overwhelms but always lingers.
On the palate, this limited edition unfolds with layers of orchard fruit, malted barley sweetness, and a peppery ginger warmth. There’s a mineral edge that speaks to its coastal roots, and just enough peat to remind you it comes from the western Highlands. Aged in a mix of bourbon and sherry casks, The Midgie 2025 showcases Ardnamurchan’s mastery of subtle contrast—sweetness against salt, spice against smoke, and richness balanced by freshness. The finish is long, gently smoky, and slightly drying, making it a standout sipper for both seasoned Scotch drinkers and newcomers looking for something unique yet approachable.
For cigar pairings, The Midgie 2025 shines next to a medium-bodied cigar with both creamy and spicy undertones. I’d recommend the Arturo Fuente Hemingway Signature or the Warped La Hacienda—both offer the complexity and nuance to complement the whisky without overshadowing its gentler peated character. You want a cigar that can echo the whisky’s fruit and spice while playing off its coastal, savory edges. The Midgie might be small in name, but in your glass—and with the right cigar—it’s big on character and flavor.
Pairs Well With:
La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero
The cigar's bold flavors complement the whisky's smoky and sweet finish.
Oliva Serie V Melanio
Offers a balance of cocoa, leather, and subtle spice, matching the whisky’s sweet and smoky complexity.
Romeo y Julieta Reserva RealA mild-to-medium cigar with creamy, cedar, and light spice notes—harmonizing with the whisky’s maritime and sweet elements.
Glenlivet 12 Year Old Illicit Still
The Glenlivet 12 Year Old Illicit Still is a limited-edition single malt Scotch whisky that pays homage to the brand's origins in the early 1800s. Before obtaining a legal license in 1824, founder George Smith distilled whisky in hidden stills within the remote Glenlivet valley, crafting what would become the signature fruity and floral Speyside style. This expression seeks to capture that original character by being non-chill filtered and bottled at a higher strength of 48% ABV, offering a more robust and authentic taste experience.
On the nose, the Illicit Still presents vibrant aromas of ripe pineapple, vanilla fudge, and coconut, evoking a tropical and summery profile. The palate follows with rich fruity notes of peaches in syrup, poached pears, and soft caramel, delivering a smooth and sweet taste. The finish is exceptionally long, maintaining the whisky's sweet and smooth character.
Critics have praised the Illicit Still for its well-integrated and balanced profile. Whisky Magazine awarded it a score of 8.2, noting its light and silky palate with fresh fruit, orange boiled sweets, lemon oil, and dried apricots, culminating in a medium-length finish that remains fruity and dries slightly toward the end. Enthusiasts on Reddit have also highlighted its creamy texture and complex flavor profile, with one reviewer describing it as "probably my favorite blind purchase ever."
Pairs Well With:
My Father Flor de Las AntillasThe floral and nutty layers sync well with the whisky’s subtle spice and long, smooth finish.
Davidoff Signature 2000Clean and refined, this cigar enhances the whisky’s fruity brightness and keeps the pairing light and elegant.
Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short StoryThe sweet wood and creamy texture complement the whisky’s pear and caramel notes without overpowering its delicate character.
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