That’s right, Piers Morgan has just taken home the top honour at tonight’s prestigious Santa Rita Cigar Smoker of the Year Awards 2024, hosted at the iconic Boisdale of Canary Wharf in London.
Piers is a British broadcaster, journalist, and television personality known for his bold opinions and sharp interviewing style. A prominent figure in the media, he has hosted shows such as “Piers Morgan’s Life Stories” and “Good Morning Britain.” Off-camera, Morgan is also known for his love of cigars, often sharing moments of his passion for the pastime on social media.
Watch a clip of his acceptance speech 👇
This black-tie gala, a cornerstone of cigar culture, brought together enthusiasts, celebrities, and industry leaders to celebrate the craftsmanship and tradition of fine cigars. Hosted by Tom Parker Bowles, this year’s event also marked a milestone: the 150th anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill’s birth.
Past winners
The Cigar Smoker of the Year Awards at Boisdale has recognised numerous notable individuals over the years. Some of the previous winners include:
Arnold Schwarzenegger (2014), the inaugural winner of the event, recognized for his passion for cigars.
Jonathan Ross (2015), who received the top honor, with Burt Reynolds being awarded a lifetime achievement recognition.
Chris Noth (2018), known for his acting roles in “Sex and the City” and “The Good Wife”.
Dolph Lundgren (2019), the star of action films such as Rocky IV.
This year’s event
The evening radiated sophistication, featuring a champagne reception, a gourmet three-course dinner complemented by Santa Rita wines, live entertainment, and an array of premium cigars. Guests enjoyed exclusive gifts and participated in a charity auction benefiting The International Churchill Society.
Social media buzz and reports from the event highlighted appearances by notable attendees such as Jeor Mormont from Game of Thrones, Kelsey Grammer, Ray Winston and Tamar Hussain.
Source: Getty
Here’s a glimpse into the luxurious itinerary:
And menu for the evening:
These cigars were also included with the ticket:
Standard Guests Cigars:
- Plasencia Cosecha 151: RRP £23.99, 5″ x 50 RG
- EP Carrillo Encore Majestic: RRP £22.99, 5 ½” x 52 RG
- Aladino Cameroon Robusto: RRP £17.49, 5″ x 50 RG
- Casa 1910 Revolutionary Edition Cuchillo Parado Robusto: RRP £20.99, 5″ x 50 RG
Premium and VIP Guests Cigars:
- Davidoff Grand Cru Robusto: RRP £39.75, 5 ¼” x 52 RG
- Romeo y Julieta Wide Churchill: RRP £46.49, 5 ¼” x 55 RG
Auction
Over £50,000 was raised in the auction.
A Ramon Allones Hunters & Frankau Aniversario 225 Humidor sold for £11,000. Among many featured items, a signed travel humidor containing Romeo y Julieta Wide Churchills by Hunters & Frankau’s Jemma Freeman were up for auction during the evening’s festivities.
Winners of the night
Cigar Communicator of the year Ana Lopez
Cigar Sommelier of the Year Blue Curran of The Emory
Cigar Producer of the Year Award Plasencia
Cigar Newcomer of The Year Casa 1910 Revolutionary Edition Cuchillo Parado Robusto
Robusto of The Year Davidoff Grand Cru Robusto
Churchill Cigar of the Year Romeo & Julieta Wide Churchill
Cigar of the Year Award 2024 EP Carrillo Encore Majestic
Cigar Spirit of the Year Tomintoul Cigar Malt
Cigar Chef of the Year Niall Keating
Cigar Sportsperson of the Year David Haye
Cigar Musician of the Year Paul Oakenfold
Cigar Smoker of the Year Award 2024 Piers Morgan
Cigar Lifetime Achievement Award Mitchell Orchant
Tickets for the Cigar Smoker of the Year 2025 dinner and awards are likely to go on sale quite quickly after tonight’s event, so be sure to keep an eye on the Boisdale website at https://boisdaletickets.co.uk/ if you’re interested in attending next year!
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