As the sun dips earlier each evening, moreover, the golden sunsets remind us to savor every last summer moment. If you’re not living on the coast, that sea view where the sun hides behind the horizon will soon be just a photo on your phone—proof of your summer escape. That’s exactly why every lingering warm evening should be savored.
VILLIGER 1888 NICARAGUA, FLOR DE OLIVA CONNECTICUT
This summer, just like last year, we enjoyed a few days on the island. This time our destination was island Vis, an ex-military island, with dear people, sunrises and sunsets. With a glass or two of rum and of course with five different budget friendly cigars.
The only rules: under 10€ each and only smoked when the moment was perfect.
PARTAGÀS MILLE FLEURS-Petit Corona( Cuba)
First, we kicked things off Cuban-style, at the Marshal Hotel Bar (fittingly named after Tito, Castro’s cigar-loving friend). With the Vis marina in view and a Mount Gay XO rum in hand, this petit corona delivered exactly what we wanted: creamy smoke, floral notes, and earthy undertones. At 8.20€, it’s small but mighty—perfect with a morning espresso (and maybe a splash of rum)
LA LIBERTAD-Robusto (Nicaragua)
The next day, Fort George’s panoramic cliffs set the stage. La Libertad’s full-bodied character, rich espresso and chocolate notes, and pairing with Botran 18 rum created a bold yet balanced experience. At well under 10€, it felt like a small luxury against that breathtaking backdrop.
EL CRIOLLITO A.FLORES-Robusto (Dominican Republic)
Beach days called for something lighter. El Criollito brought woody aromas and subtle herbal hints—a simple, mild smoke for hot afternoons. While the pairing with local beer and espresso wasn’t perfect, the cigar itself is an easygoing choice for a relaxed coastal afternoon.
VILLIGER 1888 NICARAGUA-Toro (Nicaragua)
The standout of the group—both in size and flavor. At 9.90€, the Villiger 1888 Nicaragua Toro commands attention with black pepper, cocoa, and walnut notes that evolve over its generous 90-minute burn. It’s a cigar for connoisseurs, with smoking time over one and half hour you have more than enough time to experience each aroma separately.
FLOR DE OLIVA CONNECTICUT-Torpedo (Nicaragua)
For our final day, we ventured to Smokvica Vela, a quiet abandoned military island. With nothing but the sea, ruins, and a bottle of Black Tot Finest Caribbean Rum, this Connecticut Torpedo delivered light creaminess that perfectly complemented the rum’s bold Caribbean character. A simple, blissful smoke in a stunning, stripped-down setting.
Which was the best? Honestly, none stood out above the others—because the magic wasn’t just in the cigars. The magic was in the moments: sunsets, laughter, a stolen quiet hour, or a sip of rum with the right breeze. These five cigars, though very different in wrapper, filler, and strength, all delivered the same result—pure enjoyment.
Whether you’re on a windswept beach or your own balcony, each of these cigars proves that you don’t need to spend more than 10€ to savor the final whispers of summer.
