Experience an unforgettable gathering of the cigar industry’s most respected figures, From
master blenders to renowned aficionados, these guests bring a wealth
of knowledge, passion, and craftsmanship to the event. Meet the faces behind your favorite brands,
hear their stories, and share a cigar with the legends who shape the industry.
Festival Icons & VIPs
Jonathan Drew
Drew Estate Cigars
Drew is recognized for his entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and deep passion for cigars, which helped establish Drew Estate as a major player in the boutique cigar market.
Rocky Patel
rocky patel Cigars
A pioneer in premium cigars, Rocky Patel is known for quality, innovation, and expertly crafted blends.
Tom Lazuka
Asylum Cigars
Asylum Cigars’ co-founder, known for pioneering large ring gauge cigars. Before Asylum, Lazuka created innovative blends that shaped the cigar industry.
Carolina Velazquez
Wild Bill’s Cigar Ambassador
Known for her effortless style and passion for premium cigars, Carolina brings a fresh, modern energy to the cigar scene. As an ambassador with Wild Bill’s, she’s redefining what it means to enjoy the cigar lifestyle.
Izola Woods – IZZY
Drew Estate Cigars
Drew Estate’s Lifestyle Ambassador and Executive Bourbon Steward, pairing premium cigars with fine spirits.
Ernesto Perez Jr.
E.P Carrillo Cigars
The master blender behind E.P. Carrillo , known for it’s rich, award-winning cigars.
Pedro Gomez
Drew Estate Cigars
Drew Estate’s Global Brand Ambassador, originally from Estelí, Nicaragua. He started in the factory in 2006, later managing Cigar Safari tours before moving to the U.S. for marketing and PR.
Jorge Maique
Habanos S.A cigars
Co-president and commercial vice president at Habanos S.A., overseeing iconic Cuban cigar brands.
George Rico
Gran Habano Cigars
Founder of Gran Habano Cigars, is known for crafting rich, high-quality blends rooted in Honduran tradition.
Michael Llaneza
Drew Estate Cigars
Drew Estate’s Eastern Region Wholesale Manager, based in Detroit, managing retailer relations and events alongside
Bianca Lopez
Gurkha Cigars
Gurkha Cigars’ Marketing Director, leading launches like Fantasma and the 35th Anniversary humidor, and active in Women of PCA.
Abe Flores
PDR cigars
The founder of PDR Cigars, is known for his expert craftsmanship and innovative blends, making him a respected name in the cigar industry.
Litto Gomez Jr.
La Flor Dominicana’s
Upholds La Flor Dominicana’s legacy of bold, full-bodied cigars crafted with premium Dominican tobaccos.