... the open box ...

This is from Rich at CF ...

For several years now, Carlito has been working on a very special cigar in honor of his grandfather.

He has made this cigar not only to commemorate his grandfathers' heritage but also to lead his company into its next century.

This cigar will be packed in a box of 13. Why 13 cigars?

Arturo Fuentes life was 85 years long, 8 and 5 equals 13. The brand Arturo Fuente was founded in 1912, when you add 1,9,1 and 2 together it equals 13. Ever since he was a little boy, Friday the 13th has always been a very lucky day for Carlos Fuente Sr. Still, to this day, 13 is his favorite number. There are many other reasons for a box of 13 but I will leave that to Carlito to share with you later.

Carlito has always known in his heart that a cigar so special to him personally, could only be first released directly to his Cigarfamily.

Carlito also knows that his Grandfather would be so very proud to have a cigar made in his honor, to commemorate his lifetime of success, failure and perseverance donated to give Children hope, opportunity and a chance at a better life. Therefore, per Carlito's request, 100% of the purchase price of these boxes will go directly to the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation.

There are only 100 of these boxes made. Each cigar comes with a simple white band that has a reproduction of Arturo Fuentes actual signature and an individual number. This first release will only be made available to Cigar Family members.

And this is a what John J. Oliva said about them, and the Fuente's and Newman's ...

Both the Fuente and Newman families, through their general nature and business manner, have befriended a large population of cigar enthusiasts. And through this, many of us have been able to enjoy a product that we share as a hobby and common interest with each other and with the Fuente and Newman family members personally. I for one, am glad to see them even attempt to share the first release exclusively with members of the Cigar Family community. To me, this shows the two families' commitment to us as consumers and fans of their craft and product.

Keep in mind, the way I read the announcement these first 100 boxes are just the initial offering- meaning that there should be more available and I am sure most everyone here will have a reasonable opportunity to try this cigar.

I just don't want to see something that I believe was done with good intentions, by what are inarguably some of the most dedicated people in this business turned into a negative issue.

- John J. Oliva

When will these be available?

... and when and where can you get them? Any ideas about anticipated pricing?

Box of 13 was $130.

No telling when they will be released to the shops just yet ...

FYI ... the Bands that were shipped on the first 100 boxes, were designed just for them.

Carlito is working with the same folks that designed the OPUS and Maximus band for the ones that will be going out to the shops!

Oh, and judging from the price of the fist release ...

... I'm guessing the MSRP would still be the same, around $10 each ...

Which means that out here in California, that would mean they would sell for around $17.50 each after taxes ... :^(