Rocky Patel,friend or foe?

[kaisersozei]

Originally Posted by sodomanaz

I just think the hobby is possibly getting a bit worn thin by these overzealous blenders/companies.

I hear what you're saying, but for me the hobby is about variety. Finding new sticks, testing things out, discovering new flavors--that's the biggest reason why I smoke cigars. There are more blends out there than I'll ever get around to smoking, but I'm more inclined to try something new from a brand where I have already enjoyed a few different lines: RP, DPG, and Oliva fall into that category.

On the other hand, I can appreciate a company that just produces a few lines but does that very, very well: Padron comes to mind, as well as some of the new boutique players who don't have a ton of lines on the market, like illusione & Esencia.

I guess I just like experimenting. It's the same with me & beer. Over the years I have bought (or brewed) a huge variety of beer, but I also usually keep a 6 pack of Sierra Nevada or Victory on hand for when I want just that.

If someone like Rocky helps enhance my enjoyment of the hobby by producing good quality, enjoyable cigars, then I consider him a friend.