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A Buyer’s Guide to Apostate Cigars: The Rebellious Brand with a Story to Tell

A Buyer’s Guide to Apostate Cigars: The Rebellious Brand with a Story to Tell

Posted by Cigar Tom on 3rd Mar 2025

Apostate Cigars:

In the world of boutique cigars, Apostate Cigars isn’t just another brand—it’s a statement. Founded in 2020 by Kendrick Woolstenhulme and Brandon Oveson, this Utah-based company doesn’t just sell cigars; it challenges tradition. Born and raised in the LDS (Mormon) Church, these two guys walked away from their faith and built a brand that embraces rebellion, independence, and damn good cigars.

The Founders: From LDS to Cigar Aficionados

  • Kendrick Woolstenhulme knows cigars. He launched Beehive Cigars, a well-known Utah shop, back in 2009. His years in the business gave him the chops to create a brand that meant something.

  • Brandon Oveson started working at Beehive in 2016, eventually becoming the general manager. He fell in love with cigars, the industry, and the culture, and when it was time to build something new, he was all in.

They knew what they were up against—Utah isn’t exactly cigar-friendly, and stepping away from the LDS Church carries its own weight. But instead of hiding from their past, they embraced it. That’s where Apostate Cigars comes in. The name itself is a middle finger to convention—“apostate” is what the church calls those who leave. Woolstenhulme and Oveson took the label and made it their own.

Blending Faith, Rebellion, and Damn Good Tobacco

Apostate doesn’t just slap a name on cigars and call it a day. Each cigar in their lineup has deep meaning, drawing from Mormon history, symbolism, and iconography. But make no mistake—these cigars aren’t some gimmick. They’re meticulously crafted, high-quality blends, handcrafted in the Dominican Republic at Tabacalera Palma, Jochy Blanco’s renowned factory.

The Lineup: Cigars with Meaning

Every cigar tells a story, and Apostate’s portfolio is stacked with blends that reflect their founders' journey. Here are some of the standouts:

Apostate The Initiatory

The Initiatory is a smooth, approachable cigar for newcomers. Wrapped in Ecuadorian Connecticut, this mild-strength cigar delivers flavors of cream, cedar, and light spices.

Strength: Mild
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut

Apostate The Deseret

The Deseret takes its name from a Mormon term meaning "honeybee." Wrapped in San Andrés, this mild-medium blend delivers notes of cocoa, earth, and subtle sweetness.

Strength: Mild-Medium
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: San Andrés

Apostate The Liahona

The Liahona, inspired by a mystical compass in the Book of Mormon, features a Dominican Corojo wrapper and a medium-strength profile with hints of nuts, dried fruit, and white pepper.

Strength: Medium
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Dominican Corojo

Apostate The Feathered Serpent

The Feathered Serpent pays homage to Quetzalcóatl, a Mesoamerican deity. Wrapped in Candela, this medium-strength cigar delivers herbal, grassy, and spicy notes.

Strength: Medium
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Candela

Apostate The Sword Of Laban

The Sword of Laban is a nod to a legendary weapon in Mormon lore. Featuring a San Andrés wrapper, this medium-full-bodied cigar offers deep flavors of dark chocolate, espresso, and leather.

Strength: Medium-Full
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: San Andrés

Apostate Moroni's Trumpet

Moroni’s Trumpet, named after the angel Moroni, a key figure in LDS faith, comes in a Dominican Habano wrapper. This medium-full cigar delivers notes of earth, spice, and roasted nuts.

Strength: Medium-Full
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Dominican Habano

Handcrafted in the Dominican Republic

Apostate’s cigars aren’t just about symbolism—they smoke like a dream. Every stick is made at Tabacalera Palma, ensuring top-tier construction and well-aged tobaccos. Apostate isn’t here to throw shade at their past; they’re here to build something new—something for those who don’t fit the mold but still appreciate an expertly crafted cigar.

Where to Get Apostate Cigars

Apostate is making waves, and their cigars are showing up in lounges and retailers across the U.S. If you’re looking to get your hands on them, you can find them at Cigars N Cigars—because we don’t just stock cigars, we curate the best of the best.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Cigar

Apostate Cigars isn’t about religion—it’s about choice, rebellion, and taking ownership of your path. Woolstenhulme and Oveson built something real—something that speaks to people who don’t want to be told what to do or how to live. If you’re looking for a cigar with a story, one that’s crafted with skill and packed with meaning, Apostate is worth a spot in your humidor.

Light one up, take a deep draw, and enjoy the flavor of independence.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What makes Apostate Cigars unique?

Apostate Cigars challenges traditional norms with rebellious branding and expert craftsmanship. Each cigar is blended to offer a distinct, high-quality smoking experience.

2. Where are Apostate Cigars made?

Apostate Cigars are hand-rolled in the Dominican Republic using premium aged tobaccos.

3. What is the best Apostate Cigar for beginners?

The Initiatory is an excellent choice for beginners, offering a mild and creamy smoke with an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper.

4. Are Apostate Cigars full-bodied?

Apostate offers a range of cigars from mild to full-bodied. Cigars like The Covenant and The Prophet cater to those who enjoy bold, complex flavors.

5. Do Apostate Cigars pair well with drinks?

Yes! The Deseret pairs well with coffee, while The Covenant complements bourbon or whiskey.

6. Where can I buy Apostate Cigars?

Apostate Cigars are available at select retailers and online through Cigars N Cigars.

7. Are there limited edition Apostate Cigars?

Yes! Apostate releases special blends periodically, such as The Prophet, which features a unique Dominican Corojo wrapper.

8. How should I store Apostate Cigars?

Keep your cigars in a humidor at 65-70% humidity and 70°F to maintain their freshness and flavor.

9. Do Apostate Cigars use natural or infused flavors?

Apostate Cigars focus on naturally aged tobacco flavors rather than infused or flavored blends.

10. How long do Apostate Cigars typically smoke for?

The smoking time varies by size, but most Apostate cigars last between 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the vitola.