Ashton
Ashton Cigars was founded in 1985 by Robert Levin in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Levin, a seasoned tobacconist, partnered with the prestigious Fuente family to create one of the most respected brands in the premium cigar industry. Ashton Cigars quickly gained recognition for their quality and craftsmanship, and over the years, the brand has grown to become a top choice for cigar enthusiasts around the world.
Leadership and Philosophy, The philosophy of Ashton Cigars centers around uncompromising quality and consistency. Under the leadership of Robert Levin and the Fuente family, Ashton is dedicated to producing handmade cigars that offer an exceptional smoking experience. Their leadership ensures that every step of the production process—from tobacco cultivation to hand-rolling—is carried out with meticulous attention to detail, preserving the brand’s reputation for excellence.
Production and Craftsmanship
Tobacco Sourcing: Ashton Cigars sources its premium tobacco from the Dominican Republic, particularly from the renowned Fuente farms. The Dominican Republic's fertile soil and ideal climate produce some of the world’s finest tobacco, which is essential to Ashton’s premium tobacco cigars. These select tobaccos form the foundation of Ashton’s distinctive flavor profiles.
Production Process: Ashton’s cigars are hand-rolled by expert craftsmen at the Fuente factory, where every stage of production is carefully overseen. Their commitment to traditional hand-rolled cigars ensures that each cigar is crafted to perfection. The blending, fermentation, and aging processes are tightly controlled to maintain the consistency and quality that Ashton is known for.
Product Line and Key Cigars
Signature Blends: Some of Ashton’s most popular cigars include the Ashton Classic, Ashton VSG (Virgin Sun Grown), and Ashton ESG (Estate Sun Grown). The Ashton Classic offers a mild, creamy profile, while the VSG is full-bodied with rich, spicy notes, and the ESG delivers a complex, medium to full-bodied experience. Each blend is crafted to provide a premium cigar experience that satisfies a wide range of tastes.
Variety of Offerings: Ashton Cigars caters to both novice and experienced smokers. For beginners, the Ashton Classic provides a smooth, mild smoke, while more seasoned smokers can enjoy the bold flavors of the Ashton VSG and ESG. This wide range of handmade cigars makes it easy to find Ashton Cigars online or in stores, offering something for every palate.
Industry Recognition and Awards
Recognition and Awards: Ashton Cigars has received numerous accolades in the cigar industry, with many of their blends consistently earning 90+ ratings from prestigious publications like Cigar Aficionado. The Ashton VSG has been particularly celebrated, frequently appearing on "Top Cigar" lists and gaining a loyal following for its rich, full-bodied flavor.
Customer Loyalty and Reputation: Ashton Cigars has built a strong reputation for producing consistently high-quality premium cigars. Cigar enthusiasts and experts alike praise the brand for its attention to detail and the superior smoking experience its hand-rolled cigars provide. This commitment to excellence has fostered long-lasting customer loyalty.
Market and Distribution
Distribution Channels: Ashton Cigars are widely available both in brick-and-mortar shops and through online retailers. Customers looking for Ashton Cigars online will find a broad selection of their blends from major online cigar retailers, making them accessible to smokers around the globe.
Global Reach and Popularity: Ashton Cigars enjoys a significant global presence, with their products distributed in markets worldwide. Their premium cigars are highly sought after, and the brand's commitment to quality craftsmanship has made it one of the most popular and respected cigar brands in the world.
Craftsmanship and Artisanal Approach
Artisan Work: The craftsmanship behind Ashton Cigars is second to none. Every cigar is hand-rolled by skilled artisans, many of whom have honed their craft over generations. The Fuente family’s expertise plays a crucial role in ensuring that every cigar meets Ashton’s high standards, making their handmade cigars a benchmark for quality in the industry.
Commitment to Tradition: Ashton Cigars strikes a delicate balance between tradition and innovation. While they adhere to time-honored methods of hand-rolling and tobacco aging, they also continuously seek ways to enhance the cigar-making process. This commitment to both tradition and progress ensures that Ashton remains a leader in the premium cigar world.
FAQs and Common Questions
Common Questions: Ashton Cigars are ideal for smokers who appreciate quality craftsmanship and premium tobacco. They offer a wide range of options suitable for both beginners and seasoned cigar enthusiasts. The unique blends and consistent quality are what make Ashton Cigars stand out in a crowded market.
Cigar Experience: Smokers can expect a smooth draw, even burn, and rich, nuanced flavors from Ashton Cigars. Whether enjoying a mild Ashton Classic or a more robust VSG, each cigar offers a premium experience, making them a favorite for those seeking quality cigars online or in-store.
Company Size and Production Scale
Factory and Production Scale: Ashton Cigars are produced at the Fuente family’s factory in the Dominican Republic, one of the largest and most respected in the industry. Despite their large-scale production, Ashton remains dedicated to the art of hand-rolling cigars, ensuring that every cigar reflects their high standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Sustainability or Ethical Practices: Ashton Cigars, in partnership with the Fuente family, emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices in their operations. They are committed to supporting local farming communities and using environmentally responsible methods in tobacco cultivation and production, ensuring that their premium tobacco cigars are crafted with care for both people and the planet.