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 interview, Fernie shares how she first fell in love with cigars, the blends she keeps coming back to, why she believes the cigar community is far more welcoming than most people expect, and what advice she has for women who are thinking about lighting their very first cigar. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just getting started, her perspective is a reminder that there’s no “right” way to enjoy cigars—only your own.
Q: What was the moment you realized cigars were more than just a hobby for you?
A: Honestly, I don’t think there was one big moment. It just happened naturally. I started out curious, but before I knew it I was looking forward to trying new cigars, learning about different blends, and meeting people in the community. That’s when I realized it wasn’t just something I did once in a while—it had become something I genuinely enjoyed.
Q: Do you remember the first cigar that truly impressed you? What made it unforgettable?
A: The first cigar that really impressed me was Crazy Alice. I was still new to cigars, and I honestly didn’t know what to expect. What stood out was how smooth and sweet it was—it wasn’t overpowering, and it made the whole experience enjoyable instead of intimidating.
That cigar opened the door for me. It made me realize cigars aren’t just about strength; they’re about flavor, craftsmanship, and taking the time to slow down and enjoy the moment. Crazy Alice will always be memorable because it was the cigar that started it all for me.
Q: The cigar world has historically been male-dominated. What has your experience been like carving out your own space in the industry?
A: At first, I knew I was stepping into a space that has traditionally been male-dominated, but I never wanted that to define my experience. I’ve been fortunate to meet a lot of welcoming people who were happy to share their knowledge and passion for cigars. I’ve also learned to be confident enough to ask questions, because that’s how you grow.
As a woman, I enjoy bringing my own perspective to the cigar community. I hope that when other women come across my page, they see that you don’t have to fit a certain mold to enjoy cigars. You can be feminine, confident, and completely yourself. There’s room for all of us, and that’s what makes this community so special.
Q: If you had one cigar and one dram to enjoy tonight, what would you choose and why?
A: I’d choose a Drew Estate ACID Blondie with an Espresso Martini. The Blondie is smooth, naturally sweet, and aromatic, making it an easy cigar to enjoy whether you’re new to cigars or have been smoking for years.
Paired with the rich coffee flavors and subtle sweetness of an Espresso Martini, it’s the kind of combination that feels relaxed, a little indulgent, and perfect for unwinding at the end of the day. Sometimes the best pairing isn’t the most traditional—it’s the one you genuinely enjoy.
Q: What is something about the cigar industry that most people would be surprised to learn?
A: I think what surprises most people is how welcoming the cigar community really is. From the outside, it can seem intimidating or exclusive, but once you step into a lounge, you’ll find people who genuinely love sharing what they know.
It doesn’t matter if you’re smoking your first cigar or your hundredth—most people are happy to help, recommend something new, and just enjoy the conversation. At the end of the day, cigars have a way of bringing people together.
Q: What does the ritual of lighting a cigar mean to you personally?
A: For me, lighting a cigar is a moment to slow down and be present. Life can get busy, and sometimes we’re always taking care of everyone and everything else. That little ritual—cutting the cigar, lighting it, and taking that first draw—is my reminder to take a moment for myself.
It’s not just about the cigar; it’s about the experience, the conversation, and enjoying the little moments. It gives me a chance to relax, reflect, and appreciate where I am in that moment.
Q: How do you think women are changing or influencing cigar culture today?
A: I think women are bringing a whole new energy to the cigar culture. We’re showing that cigars aren’t just for one type of person or one type of lifestyle. Women are coming in with confidence, curiosity, and their own style, and we’re creating our own space within the community.
I love that more women are learning about the craftsmanship, the history, and the experience behind cigars instead of just seeing it as something that belongs to men. Whether you’re dressed up, casual, feminine, bold, or somewhere in between, there’s room for you at the table. I think women are helping make cigar culture more diverse, welcoming, and exciting.
Q: If you could share a cigar with any person in history, who would it be and what would you smoke together?
A: If I could share a cigar with anyone in history, I would choose Frida Kahlo. As a Mexican woman, I admire her strength, creativity, and the way she embraced her identity without ever trying to fit into anyone else’s expectations. I think sitting with her, hearing her stories, and talking about life, art, and culture would be unforgettable.
I’d pair that moment with a Drew Estate Tabak Especial and a good añejo tequila. The cigar’s sweet coffee notes paired with the smooth, rich flavors of tequila would feel like the perfect blend of tradition, warmth, and Mexican culture. I think Frida would appreciate something with character and a story behind it.
Q: Is there a cigar brand or blend you think deserves far more recognition?
A: I think Gurkha deserves more recognition. I feel like it’s a brand that doesn’t always get talked about as much as some of the bigger names, but they have a lot of unique blends and really beautiful presentation.
As someone who enjoys sweeter, smoother cigars, I appreciate that they offer options that are approachable but still feel like a special experience.
I think sometimes people overlook brands until they take the time to actually try them. There’s so much variety in the cigar world, and part of the fun is discovering those hidden gems that become personal favorites.
Q: For women curious about cigars but intimidated to try, what advice would you give them?
A: My advice would be: don’t be intimidated and don’t feel like you have to know everything before you start. I was once the person who didn’t know the difference between blends, wrappers, or what I was even supposed to look for in a cigar. The only way to learn is to step into it and ask questions.
Find a cigar shop or lounge where you feel comfortable, start with something smooth and approachable, and just enjoy the experience. Don’t worry about fitting into what you think a cigar smoker is supposed to look like. Whether you’re feminine, casual, dressed up, or completely new to it, there’s a place for you.
At the end of the day, cigars are about enjoying the moment, connecting with people, and finding what you personally like.
Q: Have you ever felt that being a woman in the cigar world changes how people perceive your palate or expertise—and has that ever worked to your advantage?
A: I think being a woman in the cigar world can sometimes surprise people. Some may assume you’re just there for the lifestyle, but I’ve learned to trust my own palate and enjoy the journey. I’m still learning, but I’m confident in what I like. Being a woman has also helped me connect with others who are curious about cigars but may feel intimidated to try.
Q: Is there a cigar you love that most “purists” would secretly judge you for—and why do you enjoy it anyway?
A: Probably a sweeter cigar like Crazy Alice. I know some traditionalists may prefer more classic, bold profiles, but I love that it was the cigar that introduced me to this world. It’s smooth, sweet, and reminds me that enjoying a cigar is personal. At the end of the day, the best cigar is the one you genuinely enjoy, not the one you feel like you’re supposed to like.
Conclusion
Fernie Cortez’s journey into cigars proves that you don’t need decades of experience or an encyclopedic knowledge of tobacco to belong in the cigar world. Curiosity, an open mind, and a willingness to enjoy the experience are more than enough.
Her story also reflects something that’s becoming increasingly clear: cigar culture is evolving. More women are discovering premium cigars, sharing their perspectives, and helping make the community more welcoming than ever before. Whether it’s enjoying a sweet Crazy Alice, pairing an ACID Blondie with an Espresso Martini, or simply slowing down for a moment of reflection, Fernie reminds us that the best cigar isn’t the one someone else recommends—it’s the one that makes you want to light up again.
