I won some of these about 8 - 10 months ago (smaller size than the Churchill), and smoked one last month. Was very mild, had a good draw, a good ash, and was enjoyable. Maybe you just got unlucky? For the price I won these, I'd get more! I agree with others, contact Cbid to resolve the problem ---- if they're as dry as you say, doesn't sound like they were stored properly.