Cigar aficionados finally have a truly special place to light up on the California Coast. Overlooking the Pacific, the gorgeous Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara ice the proud site of the very first Cohiba Experience cigar lounge in North America, and the first outdoor patio cigar lounge in the area.
Pursuitst was in attendance for the grand opening, joining Bacara General Manager Steven Janicek and Cohiba’s debonaire Brand Ambassador Sean Williams for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, bourbon toasts, and a full range of Cohiba cigars including freshly-rolled ones made on site by Cohiba master David Haddad. Williams even showed off his practiced rolling skills while enthusiasts looked on, cocktails and cigars in hand. Williams now hosts quarterly events such as cigar pairings, handmade cigar seminars, and exclusive cigar release parties.
The Bacara’s Cohiba Experience is a first-of-its-kind place where every cigar puff can be savored in a relaxed, al fresco environment. Located on a second-floor veranda overlooking the prestigious Bacara spa pool and courtyard, the outdoor setting is genuinely unique among traditional private cigar lounges, breathing fresh air into the posh smoking — and drinking — experience.
Outfitted with hand-painted murals, lounge seating, tabletop firepits and a walk-in, cedar-lined humidor, the Cohiba Experience is set against the scenic backdrop of the elegant hotel’s sprawling Spanish Mission-style estate. An array of masterfully-crafted cigars — from Cohiba and other respected brands — come together with curated cocktails and a connoisseur’s assortment of fine wine and spirits, to create the ultimate coastal cigar lounge.
“Cohiba has always been a brand that elevates tradition,” said Christopher Tarr, vice president of marketing for Scandinavian Tobacco Group which owns the Cohiba brand in the US. “Together with Bacara, we have created a unique new take on the classic cigar lounge. This bespoke cigar lounge will provide memorable smoking occasions that cannot otherwise be replicated.”
Meticulously handcrafted and proudly featuring the iconic red dot logo, Cohiba cigars are crafted by artisans who produce legendary cigars of the highest quality. Made from the finest, hand-selected, aged tobacco and blended to create rich, dimensional smoking experiences, Cohiba cigars have become synonymous with extravagant taste.
“We are incredibly pleased to launch the first permanent Cohiba cigar lounge in the US,” said Janicek, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, and a cigar devotee. “The mystique that surrounds Cohiba, and our signature, laid-back luxury vibe come together to create a rarefied experience for cigar connoisseurs and those who relish the good things in life.”
The Ritz Carlton Bacara is one of California’s most spectacular coastal resorts, known for its breathtaking views, plush accommodations, and secluded beach access. The Cohiba Experience cigar lounge is open to hotel guests, club members, and to the public (21 and up), with limited private humidors available through the lounge’s new membership club.
