Whisky & Smoke News Network

Ep. 10 - 1/25/26 - Amanda Micallef - Micallef Cigars - "Texas Cigar Specialists"


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Episode 10 of the Whisky & Smoke News Network, hosted by Chris Kumnick and airing January 25, 2026, delivers your weekly roundup of the latest in whisky, cigars, pipes, and pipe tobacco. This entertaining episode features in-depth news coverage, including major whisky industry developments like GHF's acquisition of Fielden English whisky, Stoli Group USA's shift to Chapter 7 liquidation, the court-ordered sale of Luca Mariano Distillery, the global spirits oversupply crisis, the Uncle Nearest asset acquisition bid, bourbon industry slowdown and "ghost distilleries," plus exciting new releases from Lochlea (7-year-old single malt), Kavalan (Lunar New Year Golden Steed & Peonies gift set), Badachro Distillery's upcoming production start, Old Forester documentary, House of Hazelwood Warehouse Reserve, and Duncan Taylor Octave expansions. Cigar highlights include ADVentura's French market entry, Black Works Studio Hawaii Hornet, Tabletop Cutter's Palió Quad, United Cigars Bandolero and Independence Firecrackers, Selected Tobacco's new Madrid facility, Monaco's Ramon Allones Casino regional edition, Cohiba Behike 15th anniversary BHK 58, Ara’o Terrón Maduro, Serino Elenor Rose RPM 45, JM Tobacco's 25th Aniversario, and Prometheus God of Fire KKP expansions. Pipe and tobacco news spotlights Cornell & Diehl's 2026 Summit Series plugs and Peterson's St. Patrick’s Day 2026 pipes. Upcoming events cover tastings, festivals, and master classes worldwide. The episode features an exclusive in-person interview with Amanda Micallef of Micallef Cigars (Weatherford, TX / Estelí, Nicaragua), discussing her background, the brand's major lines, marketing initiatives, and industry insights. Chris shares his "What’s in My Mouth" segment: Pullman Distilling Bourbon Barrel-Finished American Single Malt Whisky (a standout Scotch-like dram with red fruit, vanilla, caramel, and oily finish) paired with the Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 Toro cigar (rugged Maduro wrapper, cocoa, espresso, spice, and creamy balance). Tune in for irreverent fun, education, and industry passion—subscribe, like, comment, and review on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more for whisky news, cigar reviews, pipe tobacco updates, and engaging interviews! Drink and smoke responsibly.Social Media LinksWhisky & Smoke News NetworkInstagram - / whiskynsmokenn Facebook - / whiskynsmoke Please subscribe, ring the bell, like, and comment below!!

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Whisky & Smoke News NetworkBy Chris Kumnick - Host