Dublin’s Cigar Renaissance: Exploring New World Smokes with an Italian Enthusiast
“As an Italian cigar aficionado living in Dublin, I’ve found myself part of an emerging, vibrant community that’s as passionate about cigars as I am.”
Although Ireland’s cigar culture is still developing compared to other parts of Europe, I’ve noticed a dedicated following here, with enthusiasts regularly gathering at events organized by the team at Decent Cigar Emporium. Located in the heart of Dublin, Decent Cigar Emporium has become a sanctuary for cigar lovers, hosting tastings, events, and fostering a welcoming environment where aficionados can exchange stories, recommendations, and experiences. Here, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting like-minded enthusiasts who share my appreciation for the art of cigar smoking.
When I’m not exploring Dublin’s growing cigar scene, I frequently travel across Europe, discovering unique cigar lounges and events in cities from Paris to Rome. My preference is for new world cigars, specifically in the robusto size, which delivers a satisfying blend of complexity and duration. Some of my current favorites include the DAVIDOFF Winston Churchill Late Hour Robusto, a well-rounded smoke with a bold profile that pairs beautifully with coffee. This cigar is rich with notes of dark chocolate, pepper, and oak, aged in Scotch single malt whisky casks for added depth.
Another cherished choice is the HOYO DE MONTERREY Petit Robusto. A Cuban classic, this robusto is milder, featuring creamy notes of cedar and floral undertones. It’s an ideal daytime smoke, balancing richness and smoothness, and pairs delightfully with a cup of black coffee or a light rum. For something unique, the MEERAPFEL MEIR Masterblend Robusto offers a remarkable balance of complexity and craftsmanship. This cigar is known for its woody, earthy tones, with a subtle sweetness that shines through. Its intricate blend is perfect for an afternoon with a smooth rum like Diplomatico.
I also enjoy a Placencia or Rocky Patel cigar on occasion. Placencia’s blends often reflect their Nicaraguan heritage, with earthy flavors, leather, and dark fruit undertones, while Rocky Patel brings spice and sophistication to the table, particularly their Vintage Series, which pairs well with rich, sweet rums.
For me, a perfect midday break on the weekend involves not just a fine cigar, but also a few squares of dark chocolate, a few sips of cognac, and a Merapfel or EP Carrillo. These moments are complemented by my carefully chosen tools: a sharp Les Fines Lames cutter and my vintage L1 DuPont lighter, adding a personal touch to the ritual. My EP Carrillo selections, especially, offer deep, robust flavors with hints of spice and coffee, making each puff feel like a true luxury.
Cigar smoking, to me, is more than a pastime; it’s a pause from the world’s overstimulation—from endless social media notifications to the flood of calls and emails. Each session becomes a private retreat where I can clear my mind, savor every draw, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a crafted cigar.
Here’s where you can explore my essentials:
• Cigars: Davidoff WSC Late Hour Robusto, Hoyo de Monterrey Petit Robusto, Merapfel Meir Masterblend Robusto
• Pairings: Diplomatico Rum, Blackwell Rum
• Tools: Les Fines Lames cutter, Vintage L1 DuPont lighter
For any cigar enthusiast living in or visiting Dublin, Decent Cigar Emporium is a must. Their events are the perfect setting to discover new smokes and meet fellow aficionados. Here’s to embracing the cigar lifestyle, one robusto at a time.
photo by Dario Rodighiero
