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TastetheDram

Taste The Dram

  • Bowmore 18 Year Old Review: A Taste of Islay in Brooklyn

    Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky · 18 Years Old · 43% ABV There’s something special about discovering a great whisky when you’re not necessarily looking for one. On a recent visit to Wheated, a Brooklyn spot known for its pizza and impressive whisky selection, I found myself spending some quality time with a pour of […]

    Scotch

  • No Gatekeeping, Just Good Cigars

    A Mood. A Moment. A Cigar. Cigar culture isn’t just about what’s in your hand—it’s about the people you meet, the stories you hear, the moments you create, and the space you give yourself to slow down. For Jessica Williams, that journey has grown into a nine-year exploration of flavor, connection, confidence, and community. In […]

    Cigars

  • Neia B. Custodio Interview: Passion, Cigars & Breaking Barriers

    Every cigar enthusiast has a different path into the culture, but for Neia B. Custodio (Instagram:@neiasmokes), it has always been about authenticity, craftsmanship, and the people who make the experience meaningful. Rather than trying to fit into expectations, she has built her place in the cigar community through knowledge, consistency, and a genuine passion for […]

    Women in Cigars

The Latest

  • Morena & Cigars: An Interview with Fernie Cortez

    Introduction The cigar world has never been more diverse, and women are helping redefine what modern cigar culture looks like. One of those voices is Fernie Cortez, better known as @morenaandcigars, whose passion for premium cigars grew from simple curiosity into a genuine appreciation for the craft, community, and ritual behind every smoke. In this […]

    Women in Cigars

  • Top 5 Best Mezcal Bars in NYC (2026 Guide) | Where to Drink Agave in New York City

    The Rise of Mezcal Bars in NYC New York City has become one of the most influential mezcal destinations outside of Mexico. What was once a niche spirit reserved for enthusiasts has now become a centerpiece in some of the city’s most respected cocktail programs. But not all mezcal bars are created equal. The best […]

    Mezcal

  • “Taste the Place: Why Nicoya Is Pushing Rum Beyond Age Statements”

    INTRO Nicoya Rum isn’t just another bottle on the shelf—it’s a statement. Born out of a shift in how we think about spirits, it challenges the tired metrics of age and replaces them with something far more visceral: place. In a category long dominated by legacy Caribbean narratives, Nicoya steps in with a fresh perspective […]

    Interviews

  • 7 Mistakes Beginners Make When Smoking Cigars (and How to Avoid Them)

    There’s something undeniably compelling about cigar culture—the ritual, the pace, the presence it demands. But for beginners, stepping into that world can feel intimidating, and small missteps can quickly turn what should be an enjoyable experience into a frustrating one. The truth is, cigars aren’t complicated—but they are intentional. And like any ritual rooted in […]

    Cigars

  • Arturo Fuente Opus Forbidden 13 X TAA Review

    Few names in the cigar world carry the same reverence as Arturo Fuente, a brand synonymous with tradition, craftsmanship, and consistency. Within their expansive portfolio, certain blends take on an almost mythical status—rare, elusive, and spoken about in hushed tones among enthusiasts. The Fuente Forbidden 13 is one such cigar. Shrouded in exclusivity and intrigue, […]

    Cigars

  • Bri of HoneyBee Cigars: Building Legacy, Luxury, and Community in a New Era of Cigar Culture

    In an industry rooted in tradition, hierarchy, and long-standing rules, Bri—the founder of HoneyBee Cigars—is quietly rewriting what it means to belong. Her presence doesn’t demand attention in the conventional way; it draws people in through energy, intention, and authenticity. What she’s building isn’t just a cigar brand—it’s a living, breathing ecosystem of people, stories, […]

    Cigars

  • Elegance in Every Draw: Amy of @lavishwanderlust

    There’s a quiet sophistication to the world of cigars that often goes unnoticed by those outside it. On the surface, it can seem like a ritual rooted in tradition and routine—but beneath that lies a deeply personal experience shaped by time, intention, and presence. For those who truly understand it, cigars are less about the […]

    Cigars

  • Smoke Without Permission: Ilona K and the Art of Owning the Room

    Opening There’s a certain kind of presence that doesn’t ask for attention—it naturally commands it. In the cigar world, where tradition and perception often shape the room before the first cigar is even lit, Ilona K moves differently. There’s no performance, no attempt to fit into expectation—just a clear, unapologetic sense of self. Her introduction […]

    Cigars

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Conversations

  • Gabriela Ferreira: Discovering the World of Cigars One Moment at a Time

    For many cigar enthusiasts, the journey begins with curiosity. For Gabriela Ferreira (@gaby_cigars), that curiosity quickly evolved into a passion shaped by experience, ritual, and appreciation for the culture surrounding cigars. From memorable first smokes to thoughtful pairings, Gabriela’s story reflects the way cigars can open the door to an entire world of flavor, history, […]

  • Jennifer Althea: Carving Her Own Space in the World of Cigars

    We sat down with Jennifer Althea (@iam_jennifer) to talk about her journey in the world of cigars, her favorite pairings, and the ways women are shaping cigar culture today. In a culture historically dominated by men, Jennifer Althea (@iam_jennifer) has made her mark by bringing authenticity, passion, and community to the world of cigars. From […]

  • Beyond the Smoke: A Woman Redefining the Cigar Lifestyle

    In a world where cigar culture has long been associated with tradition and exclusivity, Hannah brings a refreshing perspective that blends passion, sophistication, and authenticity. As a woman who has not only embraced cigars but made them an integral part of her lifestyle, she offers a unique voice in a space often dominated by men. […]

All interviews

Whisky & spirits

The Dram

BourbonBy The Dram Editors

Bourbon Review – Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2017

The 2017 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon was drawn from 12 year old barrels from different warehouses and floors. A total of 120 barrels; 93 barrels matured together on the 4th floor of G warehouse, yielding an extremely spice forward expression. The remaining 27 barrels matured together on the 5th floor of K warehouse contributing a […]

All whisky

Cigars

The Humidor

  • Wrapped in Mystery: Inside the World of a Cigar Muse

    The air was warm and faintly perfumed with the rich aroma of aged tobacco as I sat across from Eliny “Mercedes”, a woman whose passion for cigars has carved out a unique space for her in an industry often dominated by men. With an easy confidence, she leaned back, cigar in hand, and greeted me […]

    Cigars

  • Taste the Prestige: Davidoff

    History of Davidoff Cigars Founded by Zino Davidoff in Geneva, Switzerland, in the early 20th century, Davidoff began as a premium tobacconist catering to an elite clientele. Zino’s travels through Latin America during the 1920s and 30s shaped his understanding of fine tobaccos. In the 1960s, the Davidoff brand expanded into cigars, initially working with […]

    Cigars

  • Ash and Empowerment: The Unstoppable Woman of Cigars

    Forget the stereotypes. In a world often associated with hushed gentlemen’s clubs and seasoned veterans, a new voice is rising through the fragrant plumes of premium tobacco. Meet Angel Marie Russell or as she is known on Instagram @ladyaficionada, the charismatic force captivating a growing audience with her insightful reviews, engaging content, and undeniable passion […]

    Cigars

  • Beyond the Boys’ Club: Meet the Woman Shaping Cigar Culture with the Polished Puff

    Imagine a space where the nuances of Nicaraguan ligero and the complexities of a perfect draw are discussed with both expertise and approachability. Welcome to the world of the Polished Puff aka Angela Canete the cigar influencer who’s opening up the often-intimidating realm of premium tobacco to a wider audience. Through her engaging reviews, thoughtful […]

    Cigars

All cigars

Culture

  • Whisky VenuesBy The Dram Editors

    Here are some top-notch whiskey bars in NYC that are definitely worth a visit!

    These whiskey bars in New York City are sure to satisfy your cravings, whether you prefer bourbon, scotch, or rye! Copper & Oak Immerse yourself in the world of whiskey as you step into Copper & Oak, a cozy and illuminated bar with shelves upon shelves of bottles showcasing their impressive collection. With over 600 […]

  • FoodieBy The Dram Editors

    Always remember to stand up for yourself

    Gabby, you run @GabsGoods on IG. Are you a foodie? Tell us more about the project. G: Yes! I would say I am a big foodie. I love to explore the cities I visit, and live in, for all food spots, the known, unknown, hole in the wall, fancy you name it, and I will […]

  • FitnessBy The Dram Editors

    The Life of Joyce Sun

    Joyce, many women tend to shy away from Powerlifting and strength training in general as they’re under the impression it will cause them to instantly bulk-up. Instead, these women feel their time would be better spent on cardio machines, while occasionally making use of those neatly color-coordinated 2.5-5lb dumbbells. If you could give these women […]

All culture

Editor’s picks