#Cuban Coffee Maker

[rhysnolastname]

It is Tu BeShvat but we all forgot because rabbi isn’t here 😭

[squadmuse]

GET TO KNOW THEM ALPHABET

THE RAFAEL BARBA EDITION

Accessories: do they wear them and what kind?

Rafael wears a few different accessories. He has his tie clips, his suspenders, watch and pocket squares.

Bad habits: do they have any?

Rafael is a workaholic and he is closed off at first so takes a while to open up fully.

Clothing: what's their style and what do they wear at home/out and about?

Rafael wears full three piece suits for work, but is still quite formal when off duty and likes a nice suit with a slightly unbuttoned shirt. He does like sweaters and scarves. Rafael is meticulous about wearing outfits that complement each part.

Date: what would their ideal first date look like? Do they enjoy datenights when in a relationship?

Rafael will wine and dine you at a high end restaurant and perhaps take you to a Broadway show or art gallery, perhaps even dancing afterwards. He enjoys date nights with you and makes sure to spoil you as he feels guilty about his long hours at work.

Emotional: are they an emotional person?

Rafael is an emotional person but doesn’t show it until he feels truly comfortable with someone. He’s an insecure guy who has his trust broken and just feels so much.

Fears: what are they afraid of?

Rafael fears losing you or his mami. He hated losing his abuelita and seeing himself age triggers his worries about leaving you in years to come. He also has some fears about becoming a dad due to how his own treated him and his mami.

Gifts: what makes them happy?

Rafael loves being spoiled. He loves when you cook for him or drop by at the office to see him, as you drag him out of the drudgery of his caseload. He enjoys music and loves getting to spend an evening dancing with you.

Helpful: do they help others, or are they rather selfish?

Rafael isn’t that selfish. Sometimes he gets lost in his thoughts or caseload that he doesn’t pay the usual amount of attention to you, but at heart is he a good guy with a heart of gold. But if you double cross or hurt him then he will not.

Insecure: do they have any insecurities?

Again, Rafael struggles as he becomes more and more older. There isn’t a large age gap between you both but he feels you’re aging so beautifully and not at the same time while he is greying at a high speed. He hates that he found you later in life. But Rafael also has insecurities about himself; he’s just a kid from The Bronx who got to Harvard through working his ass off and he worries he’s never good enough.

Jealous: are they of jealous nature?

Rafael does struggle with jealousy over you. But it is rooted in his own insecurities having had his heart broken before.

Kitchen: can they cook? Do they have a signature dish?

Rafael enjoys cooking some Cuban dishes that he was taught by his mami and abuelita, but he doesn’t have much time usually to do so. He cooks a nice tortilla de patatas and arroz con pollo.

Laugh: what makes them laugh?

Rafael likes a good comedy theatre on the weekend or date night with you. He also loves it when you’re quick witted and snarky.

Morning routine: what are they like in the morning?

Rafael wakes up and groggily makes his way to the shower after getting home late or working into the night in his study. You’ll whip up a cup of really good strong coffee for him which he accepts as if the Holy Grail itself. If he’s not working that day then Rafael will happily sleep in, cuddled up to you.

Night routine: how do they unwind before going to bed?

Rafael has his scotch. He has a little bit before retiring to bed, where you are waiting with a book. Sometimes you’ll narrate whatever book you’re reading, he loves a good book and your voice is so soothing to him.

Occupy: what does their home look like?

Rafael has a pristine home. He works long hours and if home, usually ends up in his study for a while. He has a few bookcases scattered throughout the home filled with fiction and nonfiction. He has a really good coffee maker too.

Pet peeve: what are things they absolutely can't stand?

Rafael can’t stand messiness or anyone who doesn’t pull their weight. He also likes professionalism and respect so anything that goes against that, he dislikes.

Quirky: what's their quirky trait?

Rafael colour coordinates his outfits from his socks, ties, pocket square waistcoat and suspenders. His suit has to complement whatever colour he chooses.

Relax: are they easily stressed out or do they go with the flow?

Rafael has a high stress job and has learned to cope and deal with it all. But he does snap out sometimes and hates when he does it to you.

Spontaneous: are they?

Rafael is spontaneous when he has his days off or vacation days. It is then that he can dedicate himself to you and will whisk you away somewhere or make reservations for shows and dinner for you both.

Truthful: how much of the truth do they tell others?

Rafael is closed off at first. He struggles to open himself up and tell you how he truly feels about whatever it bothering him. Once he feels you’re not going to abandon him then Rafael becomes quite open and truthful.

Upset: are they upset easily? And what upsets them?

Rafael hates seeing you cry, and he hates it even more when he is the one to have made you cry.

Vain: how vain are they?

Rafael is quite the fashionable guy and has his hair and beard trimmed perfectly and his outfits pristine. He worries about his ageing body and looks though too.

Work: what kind of job do they have/would they like?

Rafael enjoys his job but he hates the corruption of the law or police detectives and will stand up for ethics and integrity. He’d like to do work within human rights law or civil rights law.

X-factor: do they have a talent for something?

Rafael has a talent for dancing and has a decent singing voice, although he doesn’t show it much.

Yield: how easily do they give in to something/someone?

Rafael is so stubborn. He is extremely unyielding and especially if he knows he is right. That being said, he has a serious soft spot for you, your family together and his mami.

Zealous: what are they enthusiastic and passionate about?

Rafael is passionate about his job, you & your family and his mami, about fashion too. He also loves literature and collects books.

[the-real-things-tournament]

0.5mm Pencil Lead

2002 Honda Civic

320 Pack Glitter Gel Pens

A Blunt

A Candle That Smells Like Fragrant Evergreens

A Copy of "The Book Thief" (2005) by Markus Zusak

A Daisychain

A DVD Copy of Over the Hedge (2006)

A Train

Ace of Spades Playing Card

Adderall

Adipose Plushie

Adorable Cow Creamer

Airpods

An Innumerable Amount of Lost DS Styli

Animal Shaped Rubber Bands

AP French Exam Packet

Argon (The Element)

Aviator Goggles

Baguette Body Pillow

Battery

Bead Maze

Beaded Curtain

Beanbag Chair

Bed

Beehive

Best Rock

Big Drinking Fountain

Black Out Curtains

Blanket

Blue Jeans

Blåhaj/Ikea Shark

Bread

Bright Orange VHS for the Rugrats Movie

Broken Alarm Clock

Bubble Toy

Bucket

Bur Oak Tree

Buttons (for clothes)

Can of Beans

Cast Iron Pan

Cat Collar With Bell

Chalk Boards

Cheese Grater

Chew Necklace

Chicxulub Impactor

Claw Hairclip

Clip-On Earrings

Clock

Coconut Broom

Colored Fairy Lights

Comically Oversized Lollypop

Construction Cone

Contraception

Crane Machine

Crayons

Dead Baby Possum Killed by Chihuahua (RIP)

Digivice V-pet

Dildo

Dirigible

Dirty Glass Bottle You Find In The Woods

Disinfecting Wipes

Dice

Dragon Ball Z Volume 4 (Manga Paperback)

Drinking Bird Desk Toy

Earth

Egg Slicer

Elementary School Yearbook

Empty Pizza Box

Every Basket

Every Knife

Eye Mug From a School Ceramics Sale

Fake Dictionary Lockbox

Fancy Showerhead

Fantasia 2000 VHS Tape

Fencing Mask

Ferrofluid

Finger Cymbals

Finger Cymbols

Fingerless Gloves (made of wool)

Flower Bush By The Pavement On The Street

Four Seasons Puzzle

Froggy Chair

Furby

Furby

Garden Gloves With Claws

Garlic

Gendang

Generic Paw Of A Monkey

Geode

Glow in the Dark Celing Stars

Glow Stick Liquid

"god i wish that were me" Screenshot

Golden Acorn Statue

Googly Eyes

Guitar

Half An Onion

Halloween Skeleton Decoration

Hand Mixer From The '60s

Haunted Callie Calamari Doll That Drinks All Your Pepsi and Calls You a Bitch

Heart-Shaped Glasses

Holly the Dragon Beanie Boo

Homemade Hand Sanitizer

Hurdy Gurdy

Ice Cube

Ice Maker

Japanese 5 Yen Coin

Kids Watercolor Set

Kitchen Sink

Knockoff Garfield Plush

Knäckebröd

La Croix Sparkling Water Pamplemousse

Late Night Infomercials

Lavender Scented Candle

LEGO Spring 2007 Catalog

Lightning McQueen Crocs

Lindt Gold Bunny

Lint Roller

Lip Smackers Watermelon Chapstick

LNER Peppercorn Class A1 60163 Tornado

Lobster Ornament

Loch and Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster Ladles (one solid, one with strainer holes)

Loofah

Lun-Class Ekranoplan

Mammatus Cloud

Manatea Tea Infuser

Meat Cleaver

Meat Tenderizer

Mechanical Pencil

Microscope

Microwave

Mini Cuban Flag on Plant

Mini Fan

Monopoly Dog Piece

Mop

NA Mazda Miata (Specifically With Googly Eyes)

Native American Fire Opal Blade

Nebula

Nokia Phone 3310 (2000)

Occlupanids

Old Faithful

One Crouton

One Flavor Blasted Cheddar Goldfish

Onion Chopper/Mini Food Processer

Opalized Fossil

Oumuamua

Our Sun

Paint Tube

Palm Leaf Rose

Paper Crown

Paper Leaves

Paracetamol Tablet

Pencil

Pizza

Plastic Lightsaber

Plastic Play Food Set

Polly Pocket Website (circa 2005)

Popstar Microphone

Potato

"Previously on X-Men" (YouTube Video)

Rainbow Desk Lamp Christmas Gifted By Aunt

Rainbow Pride Flag

Red Bouncy Ball

Rice

Rocking Horse

Roller Skates

Rounde (Sheep Plush Adored by Friend Group)

Rubik's Cube

Russian Nesting Doll

Salt and Vinegar Chips

Sand-Filled Frog Toy Named Floppy

School Chair Attached To Desk

Screwdriver

Seattle Space Needle

Seki Edge Nail Clippers

Sewing Pin

Sharpie

Shoe Insoles

Shoelaces (From The President)

Silver Hoop Earrings

Simply Southern T-Shirt

Single Macaroni Noodle

Siren Percussion Instrument

Slap Bracelets

Sliced Bread

Slinky

Slip N' Slide

Slotted Spoon

Snowman Headband

Solar Eclipse Sunglasses

Soviet-Era Apartment Complex

Spamton Plush

Sparkly DND Dice That Look Like They Should Be Edible But Aren't

Spoon

Squirmles

Squishmallows

Squishy Water Tube Toy

Stained Glass

Stand-Up Bass

Starbucks Coffee Cup

Steel/Metal Pipe

Stick (From the Ground)

Stop Sign

Stuffed Animals

Styrofoam

Subway Employee Hat

Swiffer

Tamagotchi

The Bible

The Demon Core

The Entirely Of Wikipedia Printed Out

The Giant Canadian Rubber Duck

The International Space Station

The Internet

The Kaaba

The Milky Way

The Mona Lisa

The Moon

The Spinx

The Statue Of The Shoe That Almost Hit George Bush

The Tiny Jack Hiding In The Wall Of My Trunk For When I Have A Flat Tire

The Transistor

The Voynich Manuscript

The Wheel

The World Trade Center (WTC)

The Zener Diode

Theremin

TI-84 Graphing Calculator

Tofu

Tom Scott's Best Thing Survey

Torn Apart Skunk Dog Toy

Trans Flag

Tumblr Anon Hatemail

Tungsten Cube

Two Paper Cockatiels On A Wire Stand On My Desk

Umbrella Hat

Unicorn Pillow Pet

Vicks Vaprorub

Vincent Van Gogh's Sunflowers Painting

Vintage Railway Poster

Walkable City

Water

Water Bottle

Water Snake Wiggler

White Boards

White Out

Wind Chime

Wings of Fire Slightly Used Coloring Book

Wireless Headphones

Working McDonalds Ice Cream Machine

www.hasthelargehadroncolliderdestroyedtheworldyet.com

Xbox 360

Yoga Ball

Yu-Gi-Oh Cards

Zipper

Ōdachi

[magicaltickles]

8:Want any tattoos?

14:Biggest turn offs

27:A description of the girl/boy I like

34:What I find attractive in women

44:A random fact about anything

Hello totally inconspicuous anon that I have no idea who it is

8:Want any tattoos?

YES MANY the ones I want are a Cuban coffee maker or general coffee pot with sunflower imagery, a purple heart, a red among us character, a sun, Chuuya's hat, and something to represent Dazai

14:Biggest turn offs

A lot of things but nothing that specifically comes to mind lol

27:A description of the girl/boy I like

A dumbass that's basically the sun

34:What I find attractive in women

When she's willing to get heavily into bsd for me <3

44:A random fact about anything

OKAY SO HOWLS MOVING CASTLE, SOMETIMES IT LOOKS LIKE HOWLS EARS ARE PROPERLY PIERCED AND OTHER TIMES IT LOOKS LIKE HE HAS CLIP ONS

[ganja-hq]

My parents are so extra omg we're on a weekend trip and they brought our cuban coffee and espresso maker from home because they refuse to drink substandard coffee 😩

[imanes]

To the coffee anon - u can also just use a stovetop espresso maker. I had a cheap espresso machine and lemme tell u the stovetop coffee was way better and the cafetieras arent expensive. If u want ur espresso with a little crema on top look up cuban coffee recipes

Thanks!

[cityoflondoncigars]

Most Popular Cigars in the UK

Unveiling the Most Popular Cigars in the UK: A Guide by City of London Cigars

In the sophisticated realm of cigar aficionados, the United Kingdom holds a distinguished place. From seasoned connoisseurs to those just embarking on their journey into the world of cigars, the UK boasts a vibrant community of enthusiasts. Within this landscape, the City of London Cigars stands as a beacon, offering a curated selection of the finest cigars from around the globe. Today, we embark on a journey to uncover the most popular cigars in the UK, guided by the expertise of the City of London Cigars.

1. Cohiba Behike 52

Hailing from Cuba, the Cohiba Behike 52 is a true masterpiece in the world of cigars. Renowned for its impeccable construction, luxurious flavor profile, and unparalleled craftsmanship, this cigar consistently ranks among the top choices for aficionados. With its smooth draw and rich, complex flavors, the Cohiba Behike 52 is a testament to the artistry of Cuban cigar making.

2. Montecristo No. 2

As one of the most iconic Cuban cigars, the Montecristo No. 2 holds a special place in the hearts of cigar enthusiasts worldwide. With its robust flavor profile characterized by notes of leather, cedar, and spice, this cigar offers a truly unforgettable smoking experience. Whether enjoyed as a celebratory indulgence or a daily luxury, the Montecristo No. 2 never fails to impress.

3. Davidoff Winston Churchill The Late Hour

For those seeking a departure from Cuban cigars, Davidoff presents an exceptional option with their Winston Churchill The Late Hour series. Featuring a unique blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican tobaccos aged in Scotch whisky barrels, this cigar delivers a one-of-a-kind flavor profile with hints of oak, pepper, and dark chocolate. As a tribute to the legendary statesman, Winston Churchill The Late Hour is a fitting choice for moments of reflection and contemplation.

4. Padron 1964 Anniversary Series

Hailing from Nicaragua, the Padron 1964 Anniversary Series showcases the mastery of Padron cigars in crafting premium, aged tobaccos. With its flawless construction and rich, full-bodied flavor, this cigar has earned a devoted following among enthusiasts in the UK and beyond. From its smooth draw to its notes of coffee, cocoa, and earth, the Padron 1964 Anniversary Series is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Padron family.

5. Romeo y Julieta Churchill

As one of the most recognizable names in the world of cigars, Romeo and Julieta continues to captivate aficionados with its timeless blends. The Churchill format, named in honor of Sir Winston Churchill himself, is a standout choice for those seeking a classic smoking experience. With its medium-bodied profile and notes of wood, nuts, and spice, the Romeo y Julieta Churchill is a beloved staple in the humidors of cigar enthusiasts across the UK.

In conclusion, the world of cigars is a vast and diverse landscape, the most popular cigars in the UK offering a myriad of choices to suit every palate. Whether your preference leans towards the rich heritage of Cuban cigars or the innovative blends of modern cigar makers, City of London Cigars is your trusted companion on the journey of exploration and discovery. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for quality, we invite you to indulge in the finest cigars the world has to offer. Cheers to the pleasures of the leaf!

[leowhite092]

Dive into the World of Pairing Machine-Made Cigars with Beverages and Foods

Cigars, whether hand-rolled or machine-made, have a rich history and a devoted following. While aficionados often celebrate the craftsmanship of machine-rolled, they also have their place in the world of tobacco enjoyment. In this bookmarks, we’ll explore the art of pairing some of the best machine-made cigars online with various beverages and foods, enhancing your smoking experience.

Why Pairing Matters

Pairing cigars with complementary flavors can elevate the overall sensory experience. Just as wine enthusiasts savor the interplay between wine and cheese, cigar enthusiasts seek harmonious combinations. Here’s how to dive into the world of pairing:

1. Whiskey and Machine-Made Cigars

Scotch Whisky:

Pairing Notes: The smoky, peaty flavors of Scotch whisky resonate well with medium to full-bodied cigars. Consider a classic Glenlivet or Lagavulin with a Villiger Export Pressed Maduro, one of the top swiss machine-mades.

Best Matches: Highland Park 12, Ardbeg 10, or Glenfiddich 15.

Bourbon:

Pairing Notes: The sweetness and caramel notes in bourbon complement milder cigars. Try a bourbon like Maker’s Mark with a Connecticut-wrapper cigar like the Villiger Export Pressed.

Best Matches: Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Woodford Reserve.

Irish Whiskey:

Pairing Notes: Irish whiskey’s smoothness pairs beautifully with lighter cigars. Opt for a Jameson or Bushmills alongside a mild cigar.

Best Matches: Villiger Export Pressed, La Paz Cigarillosor Redbreast 12.

2. Wine and Machine-Made Cigars

Red Wine:

Pairing Notes: Full-bodied red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, complement robust cigars or Cuban Cigars and Cuban Culture. The tannins balance the cigar’s flavors. 

Best Matches: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Zinfandel.

Port Wine:

Pairing Notes: A rich, sweet port wine pairs wonderfully with a dessert cigar. The sweetness of Mehari's Red Orient enhances the cigar’s nuances.

Best Matches: Ruby Port or Tawny Port.

3. Coffee and Machine-Made Cigars

Espresso:

Pairing Notes: The boldness of espresso contrasts beautifully with a mild cigar. Enjoy this combination after a hearty meal.

Best Matches: Dark roast espresso or a cappuccino.

Cold Brew:

Pairing Notes: Cold brew coffee’s smoothness complements a medium-bodied Villiger Export Round cigar. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon smoke.

Best Matches: Nitro cold brew or homemade cold brew.

4. Food Pairings with Machine-Made Cigars

Dark Chocolate:

Pairing Notes: Dark chocolate’s bitterness balances the sweetness of many cigars. Try it with a Maduro or Oscuro cigar.

Best Matches: High-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher).

Nuts:

Pairing Notes: Almonds, cashews, or pistachios provide a crunchy contrast to the cigar’s texture.

Best Matches: Roasted almonds or salted cashews.

Charcuterie:

Pairing Notes: Sliced cured meats like prosciutto or salami enhance the savory experience of Meharis Ecuador cigar smoking.

Best Matches: Prosciutto di Parma or Spanish chorizo.

Remember, pairing is subjective, and personal preferences play a significant role. Buy cigars, experiment, explore, and find what delights your palate. Whether you’re enjoying a machine-made cigar on the patio or at a cozy lounge, these pairings will enhance your smoking journey. 

[bokauffmann]

Top Cigars of the Year for the Past 20 years

There is an interesting pattern in the Top Cigar of the Year awards, that has developed over time.  See if you can figure it out.

Hello cigar enthusiasts.  Cigar Aficionado magazine was started back in 1992, and has grown to an estimated monthly readership of 1 million readers, and a youtube channel with 117,000 subscribers.

In 2004 the magazine started it’s yearly ‘Top 25 Cigars’ list.  Although there are many other such lists out there, the one created by Cigar Aficionado is considered the standard of the industry, and referenced most often.

Here is a list of the top cigar for each of the 20 past years, from 2004 until 2023.  A pattern has emerged, and I’ll tell you what that is, at the end of the video.

The first “Cigar of the Year” was awarded, in 2004, to The Padrón Serie 1926 40th Anniversary. This is a Nicaraguan cigar that offers a complex blend of flavors. It is known for its balance and aroma, with strong notes of chocolate, espresso, and leather, and a sweeter edge compared to other cigars in the series. It received a respectable 93.

In 2005, the Fuente Fuente OpusX Double Corona was voted best cigar and received 95 Points.

This Dominican cigar is celebrated for its full-bodied flavors that include leather and earth, complemented by an essential sweetness typical of strong cigars. Its finish is rich and satisfying, making it a favorite among aficionados.

The Bolivar Royal Corona is a Cuban classic, offering a robust and full-flavored smoking experience. It is characterized by its earthy core, with nuances of nuts and coffee beans, providing a well-rounded and traditional taste profile.  In 2006, it received 94 points from Cigar Aficionado.

In 2007, The Padrón Serie 1926 repeated their success of 3 years earlier, this time with the number 9, a Nicaraguan cigar that stands out for its extra aging, resulting in a slightly thicker wrapper and more strength. It is considered to be sweeter than its counterparts, with a rich and exclusive flavor profile, and received an astounding 97 points.

2008 saw the rise of a Nicaraguan puro, the Casa Magna Colorado Robusto, which is known for its exceptional balance of flavor and aroma. It delivers a medium to full-bodied smoke with a smooth and complex character, and stood proud with 93 points and a first-place rating..

2009 saw the third time that the Padrón Family took top spot, with their Reserve No. 45 Maduro.

This Nicaraguan cigar is a full-strength masterpiece radiating with notes of chocolate, espresso, and leather. The Padrón Family Reserve number 45 Maduro is a testament to perfection and a must-have for serious cigar enthusiasts, and received 95 points..

The 2010 top spot went to the Cohiba Behike BHK 52, a Cuban cigar that is highly sought after for its exclusivity and rich flavor profile. It features a blend of the finest tobaccos, offering a luxurious smoking experience with a complex array of flavors, and for this, received a very nice 97 points.

In 2011, Alec Bradley’s Prensado Churchill was awarded the top spot. Hailing from Honduras, this cigar is renowned for its bold and sweet initial flavors that transition into a bold and spicy profile. It is a well-crafted cigar that provides a memorable smoking experience, and was rewarded with a 96 score.

2012 saw the top spot go to one of my favorite cigar makers, ‘My Father Cigars’.   The Flor de Las Antillas Toro is a Nicaraguan cigar that has been praised for its creamy nougat, white pepper, coffee, and cedar notes. It is a medium-full strength cigar that envelops the taste buds with its rich flavors, and received a rating of 96 points.

Montecristo No. 2 is a Cuban cigar known for its stately appearance and substantial flavor profile, and took top honors in 2013. This cigar is less common than some other Cuban cigars but offers a solid core of earthy flavors, nuts, and coffee beans, and also received 96 points.

We’re at the halfway point, and since you’re still here, you must be enjoying the information? Do me a favor and subscribe, right now?  Thank you.

In 2014, the Oliva Serie V Melanio Figurado, a Nicaraguan cigar that delivers a medium-bodied smoke, took the top spot.  With notes of fruit, coffee, roasted nuts, and a hint of black pepper, it is recognized for its consistent combustion and classic aromas. Very respectable 96 point rating.

2015 saw the second time for My Father Cigars, with their  Le Bijou 1922 Torpedo Box Pressed. This Nicaraguan cigar is bold and very sweet upon first light, with a profile that changes to bold and spicy. The My Father Le Bijou 1922 Torpedo Box Pressed is characterized by its Criollo and Habano tobacco flavors, and received a very nice 97 points..

2016’s top honors go to the La Flor Dominicana Andalusian Bull, which is a Dominican cigar that offers a dynamite smoke. It is a complex powerhouse with full-bodied flavors of leather and earth, and a finish that includes the essential sweetness found in the best of strong cigars. This one received 96 points from Cigar Aficionado.

Arturo Fuente's Don Carlos Eye of the Shark took the top spot in 2017.  This stick is known for its high consistency and smooth, naturally sweet tobacco blends. This Dominican cigar provides a unique smoking experience with its distinct flavor profile, and received 97 points.

In 2018, a well respected cigar maker with a long history,  E.P. Carrillo took top spot with his Encore Majestic stick.

This Dominican cigar is recognized for its intriguing complexities and a harmonious blend of rich flavors. It offers notes of sweet cedar, nuts, and spices, supported by a creamy feel, making it an elegant and memorable smoke.  Rated at 96 points.

It’s 2019, and the  Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Maestro took top honors with 96 points.  The Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Maestro provides a bold and deeply satisfying smoke with tones of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and black pepper. Its Nicaraguan origins lend it a strong yet nuanced profile.

2020 saw the first time a top cigar is awarded 98 points.  That honor went to  E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel.  This stick is a well-balanced cigar with a synergy of cocoa, espresso, and woodsy notes. It delivers a full-bodied experience emblematic of the finest Dominican blends, leaving a lasting and rich aftertaste.

In 2021, The Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series Torpedo is celebrated for its cocoa, earthy undertones, and nutty flavors, enveloped in a smooth, natural Nicaraguan wrapper—perfect for those seeking a not-too-heavy, well-aged smoking experience.  It took top spot with a rating of 97 points.

2022 H. Upmann No. 2 (Cuba, 98 points)

The year is 2022, and the H. Upmann No. 2 exudes classic Cuban craftsmanship with its distinct earthy qualities intertwined with touches of spice, cedar, and cream. A robust cigar that carries the iconic aromas associated with Cuban soil.  This marked the second time a cigar received 98 points.

And the most recent recipient is 2023’s Fuente Fuente OpusX Reserva d’Chateau.  This is a full-bodied Dominican masterpiece, offering leathery and spicy tastes balanced by a subtle sweetness with hints of baking spice, nutmeg, and vanilla. This Churchill sized cigar received a rating of 97 and has a retail price of around 20 bucks US.

I promised that we saw a pattern in the top cigars.  Do you see it?  Let me give you a hint….it has to do with the points awarded.

Looking at it closer, the first 5 cigars, from 2004 to 2008, received an average score of 94.4.  The most recent 5 meanwhile, received a score of 97.2,  nearly 3 points higher.

So the question seems to be: Is the scoring getting softer or are the cigars getting better?  I hope it’s the latter, and we will soon see some perfect scores?  What do you think?  Please let us know in the comments below.

Here's a fun fact: nearly half of the winners came out of Nicaragua, with the Dominican Republic in second place.

Bonus fun fact: The Dominican Republic is now the largest producer of cigars in the world, eclipsing Cuba.

And if you enjoyed this video, please do 2 things: Hit the subscribe and watch the next video which has been selected especially for you, by youtube’s algorithm.  Til next time, put some smoke in the air.

[palmoilnews]

TOP NEWS Agricultural Commodities > USDA opens applications for $300 mln to help exporters break into new markets > GRAINS-Wheat extends gains on short covering; soy, corn drop > Conab sees record sugarcane, sugar output in Brazil in 2023/24 > Vilsack sees China's purchases of US corn rising again, urges end to over-reliance > Financial investors raise net short position in Euronext wheat again > CBOT soybeans firm on adverse weather in Brazil > SOFTS-NY cocoa futures hit 46-year peak, raw sugar falls > India to spend over $141 bln to extend free food grains program > COLUMN-US soybean ledger oddly tight versus corn, acreage shift may correct -Braun > US allows pork plants to keep operating at accelerated speeds > Colombia expects coffee production to reach 16 million bags in 2027 > Cuban rum makers fret as another dismal sugar harvest looms > VEGOILS-Palm slips ahead of full month output estimates > South Korea’s KFA Incheon buys up to 65,000 T corn -traders > Return of bird flu brings test for French vaccination strategy

[bizkaffee]

Classic Stovetop Espresso Maker

Classic Stovetop Espresso Maker by Coffee Secrets CRAFT COFFEE AT HOME: Produces six demitasse/espresso servings of rich, smooth espresso coffee in minutes. Craft your own espresso, Americano, Cuban coffee, Italian-style coffee, Moka, lattes, cappuccinos and more from the convenience of your home. DURABLE DESIGN: Carefully crafted with cast aluminum for long-lasting durability. Provides thorough…

[solesoldier-a]

( @hayema ) kaidan : ' since it's your birthday commander, i'm going to share my secret coffee stash with you. just today though. '

❛  Whaaat? You been holding out on me, Alenko?  ❜ The commander assumes a usual stance: balance on the back foot, arms crossed, and a shit - eating smirk plastered across her face. She doesn't even want to begin to imagine what the cost of importing something like that is; then again, she doesn't have to, hence the distinct lack of cuban cigars she's tried to acquire. His earnestness is what makes it worth it — it's a brief glimpse into something personal, something treasured, and the sentiment is not lost on her despite the teasing. ❛  I was going to offer to fill up the coffee maker but then I pictured the expression you'd make at the idea of even suggesting it.  ❜ She shakes her head, grin wearing on, as they move towards the kitchen.

❛  Anyways, you're the expert. I'll just watch.  ❜

[notesformyselfnotyougoaway]

How to do the tabs

Tape down tabs on the top of first sheet one on the middle ish part of each side at the top of the paper. Use masking tape

Put down metal tabs where it fits in the holes and tape them down

Put next tabs in the knobs on the metal tabs and then put tape underneath them facing up. Nice side of paper up

Put paper on tabs and take off knobs

Cuban coffee maker

[bestcoffeemakerintown]

Best Cuban Coffee Maker You Can Buy On Amazon

All of the products we recommend in this article can be used in either a business or a home. You want to use it for both hot and cold coffee, as well as latte and cappuccino. We went through hundreds of best cuban coffee maker over the past 5 years and chose the best ones based on what customers said about them. Quick, go buy it now!

This is the best time to buy anything you want, but don't forget to use the best cuban coffee maker. If you look at the list of products we've made, you'll probably have a better idea of what to buy than you did before. Don't shop a lot. Only buy what you need. Good luck!!

🔥 CHECK NOW 🔥

[caffeinesam]

2018

I think I died four years ago.

The year started with me trying to handle still living with her in spite of us having made it clear it was not to be. My contract up North on a hold, I was stuck at home. We were still watching Twin Peaks together to pass the nights. I slept on the sofa bed, since she had bought the bed and mattress when we moved. The kids felt the tension, A. fled to her friends' homes, S. cried a lot, G. grew distant of us both.

She found some people on Tinder. I asked her "just wait for a bit, we'll figure something". I also found some people on Tinder, or well, J. found me. I cut my hair. Then my employer sent me back to the North. I spent a few weeks, dealing with orders, logistics and the warehouse. Chatting with her and J., I thought I could have something good once back home. Something might even be done to salvage our life. Who knows.

One Friday I saw we were to have a lull in the deliveries and work, so I drove the nine hours on the icy, lonely road, going insanely fast in my old beat-up truck, thankful I had bought the single best, almost magical tires in existence. I didn't go home, I went to J's place. I got there by 3 in the morning. She was waiting asleep in her bed. We kissed, it felt so natural, like we had been together for a decade, and had sex for hours. I woke up in the afternoon, J. was gone ice fishing but had left some croissants if I wanted. I figured her coffee maker, had breakfast, texted her, went home, unsure if I wanted to. Hugged the kids. Felt they were happy but a bit nervous. It crushed me.

I made pizza for dinner. We ate rather quietly. She opened a bottle of merlot that we shared. The kids watched a movie then went to bed. A. went to a friend's party. We were alone.

She wanted an open relationship or to move out, either way continuing renovating the house didn't interest her. I said we could work something out. We got drunker. Laughed. Watched Twin Peaks. She was planning a trip to Cuba with a guy from Alberta. We went to bed. Each in their bed. I took the kids to snowshoe the next day. After lunch I said I had to go back.

I went to J. We fucked again. As I lay with her she told me where we first met. When she was sixteen, she dated the guy I was driving to college - we lived in another town. She's been wanting me ever since. She told me it was better that we do it in the day while her landlord didn't listen - it excited him she said, but sometimes his ten years old was in the room upstairs. I stayed until the last minute and drove the 900 kms to my work camp. I drove in the village with the first rays of the sun, confused and barely coherent.

For the few weeks I spent there I took a more hands-on approach to remain interested in my job. To stay awake. Talking to her didn't interest me as much, J. had taken my thoughts by the groin. She didn't help, more interested in her Cuban escapade than whatever dumb shit I had to say. I couldn't blame her. So I did some electrical works, carpentry, lots of drywall and cleaned up the warehouse. I tried getting the mechanic to do his job but couldn't. He got fired.

I drove back another time, just for J. She told me I could stay the weekend. Waiting for me in her bed at 3 AM again, with a bunch of sex toys we didn't even think of using on her bedside table. The passion of dumbasses needs no help. I lived a physical love I had not lived in years. It was confusing, it was wonderful.

Up North the contracts I helped oversee were about finished. None of the contracts I was initially hired for were going anywhere. I spent my three weeks. Went even further North once to fetch two carpenters who could not land in the village. Too windy. The road was a mess, so was I. I stopped in the only Caucasian village and bought a crate of beer on the way. Accomodations had been arranged beforehand, so me and the two carpenters had our best meals in weeks right there, courtesy of an actual cook being hired for that work site. The dessert were to die for, and I say that as *not a dessert guy*. On the way back we pulled one of my distant cousins from the ditch. We're not supposed to act like tow trucks but in such an isolated place you just do what's right.

Come February, I was back south and management called me to the office. I was "becoming kind of redundent", since the contracts had been granted to the usual contractors. They suggested I went on unemployment for a while, keeping my benefits and all. J. was ok with me coming to live in her place for a time. She was also ok with trying to figure a way to live together. I started with going home for a few weeks, it didn't work out very well. I returned to the sofa bed. Then decided I was better off taking J's offer.

She was tired of her job, so I walked her through the unemployment benefits process and how it could fit into a career boost. I applied left and right. She applied to some jobs. More importantly, we made a kind of life together. We didn't want to. It was obvious we would be happy together but we would never allow it to be.

This whole thing was just a missed college fling taking shape in our mid thirties. She was not the tiny dumb cute blonde girl who had fallen for the long-haired goth imbecile that I was not anymore. But I felt things with her that I didn't feel for a long time. It felt fresh, I felt alive.

We made it clear, even though I slept in her bed every night, we were not "together" together. Even though I cooked and cleaned for her as she tried new jobs and new outlets, I was not in any way hers, she was not, in any way, mine.

But how did she want me, and how did I want her...

We were just friends, in bars, just friends. Until our hands found each others. We were friends, just friends, roommates even, just doing our groceries dancing together in the aisles cheek to cheek. I was not even properly separated, she was trying to learn to go free after a 10 years shitty relationship. We were just helping each other go through a rough patch.

It was painful. We were so perfectly cut for each other. Her one missing tooth, my chipped one from my tongue piercing. Her constant fear of herpes outbreaks, my constant fear of a psychotic outbreak.

She went on a date out of town once. Romantic ski resort thing. I went to my cousin's place, 350 miles away. He had a new girlfriend, college girl. Half his age. It was a bit weird. Barely older than my eldest daughter.

I drank too much. Blacked out. Apparently, I hit on some 20-somethings until my cousin told me they were in uni with his girlfriend. Freaked me out. The next day, I was a mess. Didn't move much from his couch until I was able to drink again. A swig of bourbon and we hopped in his beige Cadillac (it's just a winter beater he swore) and he took me to the Casino. Took a couple glasses of wine and a burger, went back to abusing alcohol. Won a couple dozen thousand dollars somehow.

Hit the road the next day, met an old friend in Montreal. My mind was on J. I slept there, hopped into my truck, obsessing over the meeting point we had agreed on. A particular grocery store she knew of. We were both surprised as we ran into each other, her white SUV and my blue pickup truck, trying to find a spot in the icy parking lot.

We both have a passion for food. A palate that wants quantity as well as quality. We went on a spree. I bought kilos of seafood and fish, she shoveled cheese in the basket. We took some vegetables and cans for good measure. We were kissing and groping in the aisles, acting like teenagers. On the road we set a common playlist and our phones on speaker to stay together. We drove recklessly until the network failed in La Verendrye. We had to stop, regroup and kiss before going on.

We spent a couple weeks of bliss. I picked the girls at school, went for a walk, dropped them home, picked J. at her office. She liked sitting right beside me on the bench. I thought we could make something work, but it was not to be. At some point I wore out my welcome. J's many lovers left me with an unfair advantage, I was in the way of her plans, whatever the reason, I had to go.

At some point in the bliss phase she showed me a college planner from a year she was still in high school. She had to steal is somewhere or to buy it from some older acquaintance. My picture was circled with hearts and stars. It felt weird.

Anyway, I went back to my parents for a bit. Driving back and forth for whatever temporary work I could find. I still had J's key, slept there when she was at some new fling's place. Taking care of the cat. Cleaning up the flat. Hoping she would come back and wake up by my side. She never did, and one night I dropped my key in her mailbox, never to return.

One April morning, not knowing where to go or what to do, I went for a drive around the area. Now, the scale and isolation of the region I live in has to be mentioned. The region has about the size of the United Kingdom at least, for maybe 200k inhabitants, concentrated in three towns and maybe 20 tiny municipalities. It is huge, lonely and empty. So I drove on a full 135 liters tank of gasoline until it was almost empty, filled it, drove until it was empty again, filled it again, and drove into logging roads that were not maintained since two weeks before.

I will pause here and remind that these are snowy, icy conditions. These are our daily lives almost half of the year. And there was a surprise snowfall the previous day. When a road is not maintained, not used, the snow piles. When you drive on piled snow, it goes in your engine bay. If it is not properly protected, and mine was not, snow will accumulate where you do not want it to. Accrete as snow, melt as water, and freeze back as ice. Ice, a solid, will cut through rubber. Through kevlar. This is what happened.

25 kilometers into a logging road, the entrance of which was 45 kilometers north of the last time I saw my phone have any sort of signal, my motor's drive belt snapped. I lost control of my steering, lost the alternator, lost everything. Soon, when the battery died, the motor would die and not start back. I strained to park on the side of the trail and assess my situation.

-1°C, cloudy, 70 kilometers north of any cell phone signal, in a wool coat and thin leather boots, with no food or water.

Maybe I could make a run for it. I had run a few marathons the year before, ran ultras before ultras were a thing. In the context, survival was definitely possible, but considering how tired I was, how late it was, only moderately probable. I weighed my chances. Staying there was certain death anyway. Maybe I would find a trail to a cabin somewhere.

I rummaged through the truck, found an old wool hat and a better pair of boots under the back seat. One single granola bar in the glove compartment. I swapped my boots, wrapped my face in my scarf and started to jog in my tire tracks.

My body heat up, blood pumping, the familiar strain of the first few miles. I shut down my phone to save battery, just in case. Then after about half an our the snow started to fall.

Thick, heavy, very wet snow.

I was thinking of when I would be found, dead, cold, maybe ten miles north of my salvation. It pissed me off. If there was a god, that was a cheap death, such a fucking cheap death. "Fucking asshole, you better let me win this one! You can't make me end up like this!" Thankfully, my coat, no matter how unfit for the situation, was made of real wool. Dry or wet it would keep my body warm.

I kept jogging, angry and getting desperate. I would probably die there between a pine grove, a patch of 20 years old birch and a bog. I had run maybe 8? 10 kilometers? This was so stupid. An experienced mechanic, dying because of a busted drive belt.

The dark clouds suddenly split, showing the 3 PM sun, drying my black coat a bit. I made a salute to it "Thanks mate, real appreciated" Vapor rose from me as I ran on. I thought of the granola bar, as hunger had made its way into my body. "Later. One more mile. One more mile." The wet snow came back, slapping my face with violence, making my jeans wet and cold.

This is where it becomes anticlimactic and I would bet my last dollar that I died and slipped into another plane of existence. As I pushed on, refusing to eat my bar, a pair of headlights appeared. Not those of a semi or a pickup truck, but of a tiny Subaru.

"The road doesn't lead anywhere" I said.

Inside the car was its own college frat microcosm. The Boston terrier that cheerfully invited me in made a few strides outside and jumped on me. He reminded me of hers, poor dog she didn't have the time or knowledge to raise. It ended up biting S's face so I left her with a choice, find it a home or the SPCA. She found it a home, but they had to put it down anyway. Poor thing had a violent streak. Killed two other pups.

"I'm trying to go to [military base], I'm a weaponry tech! I come from [town], my girlfriend is a radio DJ for NRJ there."

"What the FUCK are you doing here kid?"

"Google Maps showed me a shortcut, but I lost signal."

"OK so turn around. Either you're supposed to save my life here or it's the complete opposite."

"What?"

"The road you want is many miles South. You missed a turn somewhere, I'll show you. So turn around, this road has not been maintained for a few weeks."

"Oh hahaha that's why there's a foot of snow hahahaha!"

"Uhhhh yeah and that's why my truck broke down. Look I can show you where your shortcut is, but can you drop me at the convenience store in [town]?"

He drove me there. I gave him two bottles of Gran Coronas cabernet. I called my ex, she was asleep. I called my dad, no one picked up, they were probably asleep. I called J.

"Are you too drunk to drive?"

"Uhhh not yet. Why? I'm with [the other J] by the way."

"Look I'm in [town], I tried to reach everyone else I know. Can you come and get me?"

"[mutter mutter] Hehe yeah!"

I waited about an hour, but sure enough J. and J. showed up both completely drunk in the snowstorm. My J. gave me the most elusive kiss I ever got, her J. went in the store to buy some white wine. I fell on the back seat, tired and hurt. They dropped me at my house. I got in. My ex got up the stairs, asked what the fuck was up. I gave her a vague answer, opened the sofa bed and fell into a slumber.

I fucking died between a fucking pine grove, a patch of 20 years old birch and a bog.