J.C. Newman, Tampaβs oldest cigarmaker, has released the second edition of the brand named for LeRoy Neiman, the cigar-smoking artist renowned for his vibrant art. The 2024 version of the LeRoy Neiman cigar from J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is now on its way to cigar stores. This series, introduced in 2023, pays tribute to Neiman, best known for his colorful paintings of athletes in motion and his love for cigars.
Changes in the 2024 Edition
The 2024 release brings some changes. While the 2023 edition was a toro, this yearβs cigar is a Churchill, measuring 7 inches (178 mm) by 50 ring gauge. The box features different artwork: βLeft Bank CafΓ©,β a lively 1987 image of a Parisian cafΓ©.
βWe chose this image because LeRoy was the official painter of the Olympic games for decades, and this yearβs summer Olympics are in Paris,β says Drew Newman, fourth-generation owner of J.C. Newman. βWe are releasing these special cigars early so that they arrive ahead of the opening ceremony of the Paris games.β
Composition and Packaging
Like last yearβs release, the cigars use an Ecuadoran wrapper, referred to by J.C. Newman as βHavana Rosado,β along with a sun-grown binder from Florida, and filler from Nicaragua and the United States. The cigars are crafted in Tampa at J.C. Newmanβs El Reloj factory, priced at $22 each, and packaged in 20-count cabinets. Only 600 boxes are being produced, with the first 400 shipping now and the remaining 200 to be released in November. The packaging lithography of Neimanβs art was done by Vrijdag Premium Printing in Holland.
LeRoy Neiman’s Legacy
LeRoy Neiman’s influence spans multiple facets of art and pop culture. Some might remember his risquΓ© cartoons in Playboy Magazine, while others appreciate his vibrant portraits of athletes, capturing Olympic sports with his expressionist style. Fans of the Rocky series may recall his appearances as a ring announcer and his painting of Rocky Balboa against Apollo Creed in the conclusion of Rocky III.
Supporting Arts and Education
This project is a collaboration between J.C. Newman and the LeRoy Neiman Foundation. Profits from this cigar will support arts and education in public schools, continuing Neiman’s legacy of enriching lives through art.
With the release of the 2024 LeRoy Neiman Collectorβs Edition, J.C. Newman not only honors the artist’s legacy but also contributes to a worthy cause. Whether you’re a cigar aficionado or an art lover, this special edition offers a unique experience that celebrates the best of both worlds.
