The Smoke Timer Ep.1 Fire & Flavor: AJ Fernandez Fire, Industry Impact, and the Art of Tasting

In this episode of The Smoke Timer, Stephen and Connor unpack the details of the recent fire at AJ Fernandez’s factory in Estelí, Nicaragua. They discuss what caused the blaze, how it’s affecting production, and the potential ripple effects across the cigar industry. Then they dive into the art of tasting cigars—how to pick up flavor notes, the importance of retrohaling, and how to slow down and really savor your smoke. Whether you're a long-time cigar lover or just getting into the leaf, this episode lights up the stories behind both crisis and craft.

 

Welcome to The Smoke Timer—your weekly dive into the world of premium cigars. Hosted by Stephen and Connor, this show blends cigar culture, industry news, and flavorful conversations with a laid-back vibe. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just getting started, you'll find expert insights, brand spotlights, interviews, and tips on how to truly enjoy your next smoke. From factory fires to flavor notes, we're lighting up the stories behind the leaf—one puff at a time.

New episodes every week. Cut, light, and stay tuned.