GEORGES DUBOEUF is ecstatic about this year’s Beaujolais harvest, predicting it one of the best Beaujolais vintages in the last 50 years. “The grape bunches are small with a fine purplish black color, and are exceptionally rich in sugar. The berries are thick, and the seeds are a gorgeous amber color, a sign of perfect phenolic maturity. Their brightness, intensity, and above all, their perfect health are something to behold. We have not seen anything like this for a long time.”

EVER SO often, I come into contact with people who complain about the high prices of authentic Cuban cigars. Contrary to popular belief, the world’s most famous cigars offer excellent value for money!

Although sometimes a bit on the expensive side, significant effort is poured into making sure that each Habano meets the highest standards of quality possible. One important aspect of the “quality assurance” program for Habanos is the technical tasting conducted daily at each cigar factory in Havana.