Steeped in historical significance and iconic imagery, the relationship between Sir Winston Churchill and his beloved cigars remains an enthralling tale for every cigar aficionado.
Churchill’s cigar legacy is not merely an anecdote from history. Still, it continues to have an influential presence in the cigar industry.
In this deep dive, we’ll explore the origins of Churchill’s love affair with cigars, his favorite brands, how he got a cigar named after him, and how his smoking habits continue to shape the world of cigars.
Churchill’s Preferred Cigar Brands
Historical evidence suggests that the Romeo y Julieta and La Aroma de Cuba brands were among Winston Churchill’s favorite cigars.
But his choice was not solely based on taste alone.
He was known to be a budget-conscious consumer, often buying multiple brands at a time depending on the cost.
The Fox store’s report reveals this interesting aspect of Churchill’s buying behavior.
However, despite his practical approach, the prime minister’s home in Kent housed an impressive cigar storage room, always stocked with between 3,000 and 4,000 cigars.
This allowed Churchill to savor a range of flavors and experiences, demonstrating the breadth of his cigar appreciation.
Churchill’s Introduction to Cigars
In 1895, a young Winston Churchill found himself in Cuba, eager to understand the island’s fervor for liberation from Spain.
Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of political change, Churchill was introduced to a local treasure – the Habano.
This encounter marked the beginning of a lifelong love affair with cigars that would, unknowingly to Churchill at the time, go on to influence the cigar industry in numerous ways.
How the Churchill Cigar Shape was Named
The traditional image of a cigar smoker often conjures a portrait of Churchill, cigar in hand, wreathed in a cloud of aromatic smoke.
This image is so ingrained in the collective consciousness that the term “Churchill” is now used to describe a specific cigar size.
This wasn’t always the case. It was not until the 1940s, during a later trip to Cuba, that the cigar known as a Julieta No. 2 in most factories and the Romeo y Julieta Clemenceau became the “Churchill.”
Though some argue the naming didn’t take place until the 1950s, post World War II, the term has stuck around.
Today, almost any cigar between 6.75 and 7.5 inches long with at least a 47-ring gauge risks being called a Churchill.
This honor underscores Churchill’s monumental impact on the cigar world.
Churchill’s Cigar Consumption
The Churchillian association with cigars is not merely symbolic but deeply rooted in his daily life.
Sir Winston Churchill was an avid cigar smoker, consuming approximately 10 cigars daily through puffing or chewing.
This dedication to his habit is documented in the records of the legendary London cigar shop, James J. Fox.
These accounts indicate that Churchill bought hundreds of thousands of cigars during his lifetime, including over 1,300 within six months in 1964, a year before his demise.
The fact that Fox was not the only store selling him cigars only amplifies the extent of his passion.
Interestingly, Churchill was not solely committed to smoking the 7-inch by 47-ring gauge cigar named after him.
His love for cigars was far more expansive, offering a fascinating glimpse into his smoking habits.
Churchill’s Legacy in the Cigar Industry
Winston Churchill’s profound influence on the cigar industry is far from ephemeral; it continues to resonate strongly to this day.
The non-Cuban Romeo y Julieta Churchill line is a testament to this enduring legacy.
It comes in various forms, but a standout favorite is the 1875 Reserve, boasting a Honduran filler and a Nicaraguan wrapper.
This variant, priced at about $7, offers an ample cigar experience for enthusiasts.
Similarly, the La Aroma de Cuba Churchill from Pepin Garcia presents an elegant, medium-bodied cigar with Nicaraguan filler and a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper.
Slightly broader and priced a little above $6, it’s a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a bit more strength in their smoke.
The La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor, enveloped in a San Andrés wrapper and priced around $8.50, is an equally tempting offer.
These cigars mirror a wealth of Cuban nuances in terms of strength and complexity, indicative of the brand’s heritage.
The prestigious Davidoff brand also pays homage to the great statesman with its own ‘Winston Churchill line.
Wrapped in an Ecuador Connecticut or an Ecuador Habano, these cigars command a higher price point, hovering around $20, and showcase the luxurious side of the Churchill legacy.
Conclusion
Winston Churchill’s relationship with cigars has transcended beyond his personal propensity to become an integral part of his enduring image.
His influence on the cigar industry continues to be evident today in the preferences for brands, sizes, and smoking habits of many enthusiasts.
This legacy also significantly impacts the practices of other famous cigar smokers.
Whether you’re a seasoned cigar aficionado or a curious newcomer, there’s no denying the allure of lighting up a Churchill and letting your thoughts wander – just as Sir Winston would have done.
Enjoy these cigars’ rich legacy and exceptional craftsmanship, accompanied, perhaps, by a large glass of Scotch – a fitting tribute to the man and his legendary love for cigars.
