Today we dive into the very essence of what makes the word BOUTIQUE so very special in the world of premium cigars. What does it mean ? Tune in and find out. This is just a brief idea of our take on the terminology and the philosophy behind boutique cigars.

We want to take a moment to wish everyone a Happy New Year filled with much health and happiness.

From your friends at the Boutique Cigar Association.

Wheel & Fowl Fine Cigars and Spirits owner Mr. Alden Wheeler joins us this evening to discuss the hottest spot in Anderson, South Carolina. Fantastic show .... We hope you enjoy.

In this episode, our founder Dr. Gaby Kafie and President Armen Caprielian take a moment to reflect on recent events unfolding across the Southeast United States. From the devastation caused by hurricanes to the looming 2024 Presidential elections just three weeks away, there's much to discuss. With so much happening in these challenging times, Dr. Kafie and Armen share their thoughts, updates, and hopes for the future. Let’s come together, stay informed, and pray for a positive close to the year. Tune in for insightful commentary on these pivotal moments and what lies ahead.

Mario Caraballo of Caraballo Cigars exemplifies authenticity, passion, and dedication in the premium cigar industry. In Part II of our podcast, Protecting the Legacy, we were able to capture the essence of a man who truly puts people first. Mario’s love for his craft, combined with his natural ability to connect with others, makes him a standout figure among the best in the industry. His story and commitment are a testament to the spirit of boutique cigars and the people behind them.

Tonight we had the great privilege of speaking to the most interesting person we have yet to interview.

Mario Caraballo is a highly experienced security executive with a career spanning over 40 years, including extensive work in the military, government, and private sectors. He is the founder and Chief Operating Officer of Seven Arrows Risk Management Services and Casa Caraballo Cigars. His notable government service includes his role as the Assistant Deputy Administrator for Homeland Security, where he managed a $90 million portfolio focused on critical infrastructure and homeland security programs.

Key Highlights:

• Military Background: Mario is a retired Army Warrant Officer with operational experience in special operations and intelligence, participating in combat campaigns across the globe, including Grenada, Panama, Somalia, Afghanistan, the Balkans, Iraq, and many others.
• Senior Government Roles: He served in high-ranking positions, such as the Director of the Department of Defense Counterintelligence HUMINT Center, managing espionage counterintelligence and efforts to safely recover U.S. nationals held hostage abroad.
• Private Sector Expertise: Mario has provided personal and corporate security solutions for business leaders, diplomats, and ultra-high-net-worth families. He has also managed over 100 kidnap and high-risk crisis response events worldwide.
• Advisory Roles: He has acted as a military and police academy advisor in various countries, including Honduras, Haiti, Ecuador, El Salvador, Colombia, Panama, and Peru.
• Educational Background: He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the State University of New York and a Certificate in Leadership and Emergency Disaster Management from Penn State University.

Mario Caraballo's career is characterized by his extensive experience in crisis management, counterintelligence, and security operations across diverse and challenging environments worldwide. He is recognized as an authority in his field and continues to contribute his expertise to both his businesses and advisory roles in the security industry.

For more information please visit https://www.casacaraballo.com/

Welcome to another episode of Protecting the Legacy! Tonight, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Rocky Khoury, owner of The Cigar Savant. It was a fantastic session filled with insights and great conversation. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did!

In the latest episode of the "Protecting the Legacy" podcast, sponsored by the Boutique Cigar Association, we explored the dynamic role that boutique cigars and family-owned businesses play in cigar festivals such as the Cigars & Baseball festival in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and the Buffalo Cigars Festival in Buffalo, New York. These festivals are a celebration of the premium cigar culture, offering enthusiasts a chance to engage with the very people who craft the cigars they love.

One of the highlights of these festivals is the unique opportunity they provide for consumers to interact directly with the owners of boutique cigar companies. Family-owned businesses, such as those represented by the Boutique Cigar Association, bring a personal touch to these events. Unlike large corporations, these smaller, artisan-focused businesses are deeply connected to their craft, often involving family traditions passed down through generations. This personal connection resonates with cigar enthusiasts who appreciate the authenticity, passion, and dedication that these owners bring to their brands.

The presence of boutique cigar brands at these festivals goes beyond just selling cigars; it’s about storytelling and building relationships. Consumers get to hear firsthand the stories behind each blend, the challenges and triumphs of running a small business, and the meticulous processes involved in crafting premium cigars. This level of engagement creates a meaningful connection between the brand and the consumer, fostering loyalty and a deeper appreciation for the art of cigar making.

At the Cigars & Baseball festival and the Buffalo Cigars Festival, boutique cigar companies played a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience for attendees. Their involvement underscores the importance of community and the shared love for premium cigars. These events serve as a reminder that boutique cigars and family-owned businesses are not just about products; they are about people, passion, and preserving a rich cultural heritage. By participating in these festivals, boutique cigar companies continue to strengthen their bond with consumers, ensuring that the legacy of premium, handcrafted cigars lives on.

Dr. Garo Bouloukian is a distinguished figure in the premium cigar industry, celebrated for his dedication and craftsmanship over the past 30 years. As the founder of Garo Cigars, he has built a legacy of producing high-quality, innovative blends that have resonated with cigar enthusiasts around the world. Dr. Bouloukian's journey in the cigar industry began with a passion for creating unique smoking experiences, a passion that has only deepened with time. Now, as he prepares to release his special 30th anniversary blend, Dr. Bouloukian reflects on three decades of challenges, triumphs, and the evolution of his brand.

In this episode of Protecting the Legacy, we sit down with Dr. Garo Bouloukian to explore his storied career, the inspiration behind his newest blend, and the lessons he's learned in the ever-changing landscape of premium cigars. Join us as we delve into the rich history of Garo Cigars and gain insights into what the future holds for this iconic brand.

In this episode of Protecting the Legacy, the Boutique Cigar Association explores the phenomenon of the Cigar Boom and its current status. Is the Cigar Boom truly over, or is it evolving into something new? Join us as we delve into the implications for the cigar industry, examining what this means for both the short and long term. We also pay homage to the legacy brands that built the foundation of the industry and discuss the ongoing resistance and resilience within the cigar community. Discover how these pioneering brands continue to shape the future and uphold the rich traditions of cigar craftsmanship. www.boutiquecigarassociation.com

If you wish to write us you can do so at [email protected] or please give us a call at 305-255-6368.

In this episode of Protecting the Legacy, we sit down with Dirk Ebener, a prominent figure in the cigar community known for his website  Cigars for Beginners and his role in the North Georgia Cigar Festival. Dirk shares the story behind his website, offering insights for newcomers to the world of cigars and discussing how he engages and grows his audience.

We dive into the vision for the North Georgia Cigar Festival, exploring its impact on both the local community and the broader cigar culture, and Dirk’s exciting plans for collaboration with the Boutique Cigar Association.

Dirk also opens up about his involvement with the Rotary Club, including his role as president, ongoing projects, and how his efforts align with his passion for cigars. He reflects on his personal journey, offers advice to beginners, and shares his future goals for both his website and the festival. We wrap up with a Q&A session, where Dirk answers many difficult questions and provides ways for the audience to get involved and support his initiatives. Tune in to hear Dirk’s inspiring story and discover how cigars can connect communities and create meaningful impact.