Author Archives: Max

In the past, smoking came with its own unwritten code: how to light up, when to share, what never to ask for, and the small rituals that shaped everyday smoker etiquette.

A translated review of Doctor Pipe’s unusual new twist-style pipe tobaccos, Black Twist and Brown Twist, with notes on their Brazilian leaf, packaging, moisture, strength, and what makes these releases so different.

A hands-on review of Principes Original by La Aurora: construction, draw, flavor, strength, packaging, and whether they deserve the ‘better than Cuban’ praise.

An English translation of a 2008 European Cigar Cult article exploring the Maya roots of cigar smoking and the long Honduran tobacco tradition behind Flor de Copan.

An in-depth look at Guiyan Jinbaihe, a respected mid-priced Chinese cigarette known for its symbolic design, Guizhou tobacco blend, and refined flavor that recalls classic 1990s Dunhill International with a subtle fruity nuance.

A look back at the English cigarette brands that stood out during the 1990s, from Sovereign and Dunhill to 555, Pall Mall, and Silk Cut.

A first-hand review of Benson & Hedges Blue Gold cigarettes sold as a European original: pack design, tobacco quality, smoke profile, strength, and whether this pricey import is actually worth the money.

A look at the top-selling cigarette brands in the United States, from Marlboro and Newport to Basic and Eagle 20’s, with notes on flavor, regional popularity, and average pack prices by state.

A nostalgic look at square cigarette packs from the 1990s, from JPS International and Golden American to Rothmans, Oscar International, and St Moritz Menthol.

A detailed side-by-side comparison of Kent Nano Silver cigarettes: the official excise-market version versus the so-called clone. Here’s how they differ in packaging, construction, blend, flavor, strength, and price.