Hand rolled cigars, fine Cuban rum and cocktails, what more could you want on a lazy Saturday afternoon?  This was a relaxing and enjoyable afternoon.  It is unusual for us to meet in the afternoon but it really did work.  Sitting back enjoying a Mojito with a freshly rolled cigar and great company, aaaaahhhhh.

Saturday 17 November 2007 - 2pm
The Restaurant Courtyard - The Horse and Trap, 3 Infield Street, MT EDEN, Auckland.

Sponsored by Havana House and Havana Club Rum

CIGAR 

Included in the Full Monty or Cigar Only ticket price was a handmade Corona Gorda size cigar, handmade on the day from original Cuban tobacco leaf.  Yasmel Rodriguez displayed his unique skills for all to watch, partake and enjoy.   A freshly rolled cigar is a very different experience to those bought in the shops in NZ which are usually a minimum of 12 months old.

Yasmel was born in Havana in August 1982. At age 21 he started as a roller in the Patagas factory. He improved his skill rapidly which qualified him to the 9th grade, the maximum level for this trade. He is capable in rolling all vitolas.  The Asia Pacific trip was his first trip abroad & he spent over six weeks demonstrating his trade throughout Hong Kong, Thailand,Australia as well as his sole appearance in NZ.

RUM TASTING

Havana Club Rum is the most famous of the Cuban rums.  With a variety of bottles and vintages in the range, there is something to please any rum aficionado or beginner. 

Cocktails are part of the history of rum and are essential to experience the versatility of this fine spirit.  So cocktails werebe on the agenda at this event for the full learning experience.  Mojitos were a hit along with a few new ones as Tim, an award winning cocktail creator slash magician. 

Check out more photos from the event on Picassa click here