The Circus Has Left Town

After three days of endless smokeathons, meeting up with old friends and making new ones and learning more about the fabulous world of the Habano cigar, the Habanos World Days have moved on to pastures new, leaving the aroma of extinguishing cigars in the heat of a London summer.

Habanos SA – the Cuban state-owned company responsible for the marketing and distribution of Havana cigars – rolled into London for the prestigious three-day event to celebrate the 55th Anniversary of Trinidad. Cigar folk from all over the world descended on London like moths to a flame.

Enthusiasts, distributors and retailers all clouded the capital’s cigar stores and lounges with smoke, morning, noon and night. A million tales are to be told.

The event kicked off with a fabulous Cocktail Party in Belgrave Square. Oyster shuckers vied for guest’s attention alongside waiters bearing Ruinart Blanc de Blanc champagne, Dalmore whisky and a menu of cocktails; canapes were handed out freely and beautiful Trinidad Robusto Extras were smoked in the warmth of a balmy evening.

Next morning, amid some bleary expressions, a round table discussion was held, outlining the history and prestige of the Trinidad brand. Several Cuban tobacco luminaries were present, as was Mexican cigar guru Max Guttman who, alongside London’s own Edward Sahakian, gave fascinating insights into being part of the legendary Dinner of the Century, where Trinidad cigars, signed by Fidel Castro, were fist auctioned off.

In another tent outside the main arena, an exhibition of Trinidad was available for inspection, with some remarkable lots which outlined the history of the brand, which only became commercially available 23 years after first being rolled for visiting dignitaries.

Later that evening, each store and lounge held their own mini Trinidad party with members of the trade and ticketed guests mingling freely in the city’s smoke shops.

On Saturday night, the gala dinner was held in the breathtaking surroundings of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The weather was kind and a sumptuous meal with delicious wines was enjoyed by all. A charity auction raised in excess of five million Euros, with some remarkable humidors inviting strong bidding.

Finally, guests were handed samples of the new Trinidad Cabildos, to enjoy in the museum’s huge courtyard, alongside further copious drinks.

All in all, it was an extravaganza for all the senses and Sautter played its part as you would expect, hosting not only one party on Friday evening at Mount Street but another simultaneously at Knightsbridge, too!

Mr Davis has his customer in mind as always, offering an incredible £100 ticket which included a Trinidad Fundadores, plenty of Cuban rum, and a jolly good night to be had by all.

If you would like to sample the outrageously cool Trinidad Cabildos five-stick Premiere packs – currently only available in the UK – then get in touch quick. Sautter has stock – but it won’t last long.