PUNCH IT UP
We always pay attention when a limited-release cigar gets upgraded to regular production; typically it means that a hard-to-find cigar is about to be much more available. The Punch Rare Corojo is no exception. Since 2001, this cigar has developed a devoted cult following as a February limited release, and the regular production versions will maintain the same blend that put this cigar on the map: an Ecuadorian Sumatra-seed rosado wrapper over a Connecticut broadleaf binder and Dominican piloto cubano, Honduran, and Nicaraguan fillers. This is a cigar long known for its mellow and complex flavor profile. As General Cigar Co. beefs up its offerings of the Punch Rare Corojo, expect to see eight classic vitolas available plus a new limited-edition 6×60 box-pressed vitola. $5.19-$11.39 per cigar, punchcigars.com
Double Victory
In November, spirits enthusiasts gathered in Guadalajara, Mexico, for the inaugural Latin America World Spirits Competition. A big winner from the weekend was relative newcomer The Lost Explorer, which launched in 2020 and has been gaining steam in the tequila and mezcal spaces ever since. The brand took home “Best in Class” hardware for its Tequila Blanco and Tobalá Mezcal expressions, no small feat in a competition in which world-class agave spirits abounded. Since its launch, The Lost Explorer has been dedicated to building a complete line of agave spirits made within the rhythm of nature and without additives. Its Tequila Blanco is a full-bodied tequila with herbal notes and mineral undertones, while the Tobalá Mezcal is an earthier spirit with hints of leather, cocoa, and tobacco. As the accolades pile up, it’s clear this is a brand to watch. $149.99 (mezcal), $49.99 (tequila), thelostexplorer.com
RING OF FIRE
For the ashtray averse, the advent of the HALO cigar stand in 2024 was a godsend. The brainchild of British designer Kacper Hamilton and EGM Cigars, this stunning circular stand has gotten a major upgrade for 2025. The newest version of the HALO is carved from a single piece of polished titanium, yielding a lighter weight, greater portability, and a permanent finish: unlike the original HALO, the titanium version will never patina. Featuring a raised lip, the HALO is a beautiful piece of functional design. The sculpted channels mimic the rays of the sun and create airflow, ensuring an even burn on a rested cigar. This is a product built to elevate the smoking experience from start to finish. $333.99, egmcigars.com
Family Legacy
World Whiskey Society launched in 2020 with a mission to find the world’s most ultra-premium and rare expressions. The brand’s latest release is a tribute to the 20-year-anniversary of its parent company, AIKO Brands, as well as the company’s founder, Igor Kogan. This 20-year-old cask-proof whiskey is a testament to the art of craftsmanship and mastery. Distilled at a renowned Kentucky distillery, the Family Reserve Cask Proof has been aged for 20 years with a mash bill blending corn, rye, and barley; each sip carries notes of fruit, oak, and spice paired with rich, deep flavors of butterscotch and peanuts. The whiskey pays tribute to Kogan’s legacy in the spirits industry as his children carry on the family business. As with all of World Whiskey Society’s releases, this is a limited run. $1,500, worldwhiskey.com
TOUR DE SMOKE
One of our favorite wintertime events, the Jersey City Whiskey Fest, is back for another year. Featuring over 100 styles of whiskey and spirits, the event is perfect for aficionados and newcomers alike and is billed as “the ultimate tour of whiskey.” Held at the Harborside complex in Jersey City, this year’s Whiskey Fest will offer an expanded roster of options to include craft beers as well as spirits from across the globe. We love festivals for their ability to expand your horizons; with whiskey and spirits experts on hand, the event is a perfect opportunity to find that new favorite bottle for your home shelf. Whether you’re a fan of scotch or single malt, bourbon or Canadian, the Jersey City Whiskey Fest promises to have it all. $70, newyorkcitywhiskeyfest.com