Dissident Cigars: Rooted in Legacy
Dissident Cigars isn’t just another name in the cigar industry; it’s a narrative of change, rebirth, and relentless evolution. Launched initially in 2013 by visionaries Jason Webster and Neil Edwards, the brand has seen multiple transitions, each adding to its rich tapestry. From the very start, when The Humidor in Wichita Kansas was the center of operations, Dissident Cigars aimed for distinctiveness, a quality which still characterizes them today.
The Faces Behind the Brand of Dissident Cigars
What’s intriguing about Dissident Cigars is the individuals who have become its public image. Gordon Crippen and Ryan Johnson, during their tenure, gave the brand a certain flair, a persona that cigar enthusiasts resonated with. However, by 2015, as Crippen and Johnson moved on and the brand took a momentary pause, the cigar community felt the void.
It was not until 2019, under Benjamin Holt’s leadership, that Dissident Cigars experienced a renaissance. Holt’s association with Black Label Trading Company proved beneficial as he played an instrumental role in reintroducing this beloved brand, complete with a refreshed image and redefined product line.
Embracing Change: The Coburns’ Era in Dissident Cigars
Today, the torchbearers of the Dissident Cigars legacy are Cynn & Joshua Coburn, two individuals whose multifaceted personalities have added depth to the brand. Their background, as cigar industry marketing stalwarts, authors, motivational speakers, and innovative entrepreneurs, has layered Dissident Cigars with an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity.
The Coburns have become synonymous with a dynamic approach. Their takeover signaled the brand’s third ownership transition, but with this change came a revitalized energy and direction. The duo’s passion is palpable. As Cynn Coburn commented, “We are all dissidents in some way. It’s a celebration, an embrace of our unique individualities.”
Craftsmanship at its Core
Every Dissident Cigar is an artwork, meticulously handcrafted at the Fabrica Oveja Negra facility in Nicaragua. The transition in 2021 to Cynn and Joshua Coburn’s leadership hasn’t altered this commitment to quality. If anything, the couple has reinforced the brand’s foundational pillars, ensuring that each cigar is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
The Dissident Cigars Range: A Symphony of Flavors
While the Dissident Core line remains a cherished offering, the brand’s portfolio has seen evolutionary additions. Icons like Soapbox and Bloc continue to be favorites. However, the introduction of Rant, Rave, and Tirade as core line offerings has added exciting dimensions to the range, catering to both the traditional aficionados and the new-age cigar enthusiasts.
It’s easy to assume that cigars are merely about the blend, the roll, and the smoke. Yet, for Cynn and Joshua Coburn, it’s always been about the people. The cigar lifestyle, for them, is about forging connections, fostering a sense of community, and celebrating individuality. Their active engagement on social media platforms is not just promotional; it’s a genuine effort to connect, share stories, and build a loyal Dissident Cigars family.
Cynn’s transparency on these platforms is commendable. She effortlessly portrays the real-world challenges and triumphs of being at the helm of a brand like Dissident Cigars, inspiring many in the process.
Dissident Cigars: The Line-Up
Dissident Bloc: A BP Lonsdale cigar that stands confidently at 7×42, Dissident Bloc is a flavor journey. As you take the first puff, chocolate notes greet your palate, soon joined by an earthy undertone. Midway, you’ll find hints of sweetened coffee, wood, mild pepper, and walnut. With its medium-full intensity, it perfectly suits both new smokers and seasoned aficionados. The Ecuadorian wrapper and binder add to its unique aesthetic and taste, while the Dominican and Nicaraguan filler tobaccos enrich its flavor depth. Ideal for relaxation or celebration, every puff is a moment to savor.
Dissident Rant: The Petite Corona, with a size of 4-1/2×46, Dissident RANT offers a tantalizing taste spectrum. Beginning with a sweet molasses paired with a kick of pepper, it progresses to earthy undertones and a whisper of baking spices. Despite its compact size, the RANT boasts a full-intensity profile. Its Pennsylvanian Broadleaf wrapper, complemented by an Ecuadorian binder and a Dominican and Nicaraguan filler, guarantees a memorable and satisfying smoke. A perfect choice for moments of reflection or festivity.
Dissident RAVE: This Robusto, sized at 5×50, promises an engaging flavor adventure. Start with a sharp bite of pepper, transitioning to a woodsy cedar aroma. As you delve deeper, nutty notes combine with rich leather undertones, followed by robust espresso, Cheerios aroma, and a sweet finish. With a medium intensity, The Dissident RAVE is both approachable for novices and complex enough for seasoned smokers. The Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, paired with an Ecuadorian binder and a blend of Dominican, Pennsylvanian Broadleaf, and Nicaraguan fillers, ensures each draw is delightful.
Dissident SoapBox: With the majestic size of 6 3/4 x 54, the Dissident SOAPBOX unfolds a symphony of flavors. Beginning with a kick of pepper, it soon introduces the hearty aroma of rye bread, followed by earthy, nutty tones and concluding with chocolate and spices. Leaning towards a medium-full intensity, it’s a treat for both newcomers and veterans. Its Brazilian wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, and Nicaraguan filler combine to create a sensory tapestry that’s hard to forget. Truly, a cigar for memorable moments.
Dissident Tirade: Sized at 5-1/2×46, the Dissident Tirade Corona Gordo is a flavor masterpiece. Starting with hearty earth tones and a zing of pepper, it soon evolves to reveal notes of the forest floor, sweet maple, and a blend of baking spices. With its full-intensity, the Tirade promises a smoke that’s both strong and flavorful. The unique taste of its Mexican San Andres wrapper, combined with an Ecuadorian binder and a Dominican and Nicaraguan filler, creates a smoking experience that’s both profound and delightful. A perfect cigar for those special moments of relaxation or celebration.
Re-defining Dissidence
The term “dissident” often bears a heavy, sometimes negative connotation. However, for the Coburns, it’s about positive disruption, standing out, and staying true to one’s beliefs. They envision a world where being a dissident is about acceptance, love, perseverance, and unwavering positivity.
Cynn articulates this vision perfectly, “It’s about embracing your unique self. In a world that often demands conformity, being genuine and kind is what truly counts.”
Navigating the intricate world of cigars isn’t without its challenges. Transitioning from mere consumers to brand owners came with a steep learning curve for the Coburns. Yet, their adaptability, coupled with the brand’s established reputation, made the journey smoother. Their dedication is evident in their ongoing efforts to rejuvenate stock, connect with distributors, and re-establish lost partnerships.
With the combined force of their innovative spirit and Dissident Cigars’ enduring legacy, the future seems promising.
Join the Revolution
Are you ready to be a part of this transformative journey? Dive deep into the world of Dissident Cigars. Embrace the blend of past traditions and today’s innovations, and become a part of a community that values authenticity, passion, and excellence.