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The Nicaragua Cigar Tour 2025 was an unforgettable experience, offering a deep dive into the heart of Nicaragua’s cigar culture. Over the course of a week, Leighton explored the finest cigar factories, met the master blenders and factory owners behind some of the world's best smokes, and witnessed firsthand how the craft of cigar-making supports local communities.
Leighton shares his experience below:
After a long journey, we were graciously welcomed into the Oliva family, where we enjoyed a traditional Nicaraguan feast featuring Gallo Pinto. The evening was relaxed, filled with live music, great company, and of course, exceptional cigars. This intimate gathering set the tone for the adventure ahead.
Our first stop was a local Nicaraguan school,Colegio Belén quietly sponsored by Tor and, in part, by UK-based retailers through the sale of New World Cigars. Seeing the direct impact of the cigar trade on the community was eye-opening—it’s about more than just cigars; it’s about shaping a better future.
From there, we headed to Joya de Nicaragua, the oldest cigar factory in Nicaragua, where we met Juan Martinez and his team. We were taken through the rich history of Nicaraguan cigars and even had the chance to blend our own cigars, an unforgettable hands-on experience.
The day began in Oliva’s tobacco fields, where we traced the journey of a cigar from seed to smoke. We then toured their factory, witnessing the rolling process, aging rooms, and more.
Later, we visited the My Father Cigars factory, where we were welcomed by the entire Garcia family. This factory recently won Cigar of the Year with The Judge, and it was fascinating to see their meticulous production process—including the craftsmanship behind their stunning cigar boxes.
At the Perdomo factory, Nick Perdomo walked us through his innovative techniques designed to maximize quality and consistency. His meticulous approach to barrel aging, fermentation, and production truly sets Perdomo apart in the industry.
One of the most exciting days of the trip was our visit to AJ Fernandez’s facilities, including his experimental factory just outside Estelí. We explored the shade-growing facilities and got a sneak peek at the 20th Anniversary Cigar before its UK release. We also saw and smoked the Días de Gloria Brazil, which ranked #3 in Cigar Journal’s Top 25 Cigars.
The morning began with a visit to Padron’s factory and fields, a name synonymous with cigar excellence. In the afternoon, we toured Drew Estate, where we witnessed their modern take on cigar production. From their unique infusion techniques to their bold branding and eccentric artwork, including collaborations with Metallica, Drew Estate is redefining the cigar industry.
Our journey ended with a breathtaking trip to Volcán Mombacho, overlooking Lake Nicaragua. We then set sail on a boat tour, watching the sunset over the lake, a perfect close to an unforgettable week.
The Tor Tour 2025 was more than just a factory tour—it was an immersion into the culture, craftsmanship, and community that make Nicaraguan cigars world-renowned. From legendary brands to the next generation of innovation, this trip reinforced why Nicaragua remains a powerhouse in the cigar world.
For those passionate about cigars, Nicaragua is a pilgrimage worth taking.
