The best cigars for Hanukkah
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the 2nd century BCE. Observed for eight nights starting on the 25th day of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar, this festival involves lighting candles on a nine-branched menorah. As Hanukkah approaches on December 14th this year, we’ve curated a list of kosher cigars and those with Jewish heritage for enthusiasts looking to enjoy a smoke during the festivities.
BOSSNER Cigars: Excellence with Kosher Certification
BOSSNER, a brand rooted in Berlin since 1993, offers a luxurious selection of cigars, chocolate, cognac, and menswear. Their kosher cigar line, introduced in 2013, is particularly noteworthy. Supervised by a rabbi throughout the entire production process—from leaf selection to fermentation—these cigars meet rigorous kosher standards. The glue used is tree sap-based, and the cigars are kept separate from non-kosher products to ensure purity. Certified by Kosher Supervision of America (KSA), these cigars are suitable for Passover and beyond, making them a thoughtful addition to Hanukkah celebrations.
Davidoff: A Legacy of Jewish Heritage
Zino Davidoff, born into a Jewish family of tobacconists in Kiev, fled to Switzerland due to political tensions and founded the eponymous Davidoff brand. Although Zino passed away decades ago, his legacy lives on in the luxurious cigars that bear his name. While Davidoff cigars themselves are not kosher, their connection to Jewish heritage makes them a fitting choice for Hanukkah. Lighting a Davidoff or Zino cigar can serve as a nod to the brand’s rich history and its founder’s roots.
Toreo Cigars: An Israeli Connection
Founded by Zafi Barzilay and his brother Yero in 2000, Toreo Cigars began as an endeavour to bring Nicaraguan cigars to new markets. Over the years, Zafi’s extensive visits to tobacco farms and collaborations with notable figures like Nestor Plasencia led to the creation of unique blends. The Toreo Dominican cigars, crafted in collaboration with the Quesada Family, are a tribute to their dedication. As an Israeli Jewish family behind the brand, Toreo Cigars embody a blend of craftsmanship and cultural pride, making them a great choice for Hanukkah.
League of Fat Bastards (LOFB): A Story of Resilience
Adam Levine, the founder of LOFB, is a descendant of Holocaust survivors—his grandfather was saved by Oskar Schindler famous list. Although the cigars are not directly tied to Jewish traditions, Levine’s heritage and perseverance resonate deeply. Enjoying a League of Fat Bastards cigar during Hanukkah can serve as a tribute to resilience and family legacy.
Senor Solomon Cigars: A Kosher Staple
Founded by Gershon Aizenman and Don “Kiki” Berger, Senor Solomon Cigars is renowned for its kosher-certified cigars. With KSA certification, these cigars adhere to strict standards—from kosher-approved glue to avoiding non-kosher practices like cooking leaves in coffee or alcohol. Even the work area is inspected for compliance. These cigars are perfect for year-round enjoyment, especially during Hanukkah, and the company’s commitment to quality ensures a superior smoking experience. Additionally, a portion of their proceeds supports schools for children with emotional and learning disabilities, aligning with the spirit of giving during the holiday.
Meerapfel: Behind the Scenes of Excellence
The Meerapfel family has been a cornerstone of the tobacco industry since the 1800s. Known for their contributions to Cameroon tobacco, their influence extends to iconic cigars like Fuente Hemingway. For Hanukkah, cigars from their proprietary lines, such as La Estancia, Maestranza, or the exclusive Meerapfel series (Richard, Meir, Heller & Ernest), offer an unparalleled experience. These cigars blend heritage with innovation, making them a luxurious addition to any celebration.
Lighting Up the Festival of Lights
Hanukkah is a time for family, reflection, and celebration. Whether you choose a kosher-certified cigar like BOSSNER or Senor Solomon, or a heritage-rich option like Davidoff or Meerapfel, these selections offer something special for the occasion. So, light a candle, pick your favourite cigar, and savour the flavours of tradition and craftsmanship this Hanukkah.
