It’s that time of year again – IGNITE 2025, the UK’s leading trade show for independent tobacco retailers, returns this weekend for its 2025 edition from 16–18 May at Whittlebury Hall, Northamptonshire (near Silverstone Circuit motor racing track).
Launched in 2021 by the Association of Independent Tobacco Specialists (AITS), IGNITE quickly established itself as the go-to event for the UK tobacco retail sector, replacing the former National Tobacco and Gift Fair. It brings together suppliers, retailers, and industry experts for a weekend of networking, deals, seminars, and insights.
Why should we be interested? One word: cigars. IGNITE draws a strong presence from UK cigar retailers, brands, and distributors, making it a key event for anyone involved in the cigar industry. New cigars will be launched at the event — and soon after, they’ll start appearing on store shelves, ready for us lot to buy and enjoy.
Exhibitors at this year’s event include Hunters & Frankau, Tor Imports, Bright Leaf, Davidoff, 1573 Cigars, Global Leaf Co, Kiskeya, Charaton London, Barkers of Harrogate, Trident Military Cigars – just to name a few!
What’s instore this weekend at IGNITE 2025?
The IGNITE 2025 weekend begins on Friday 16th May with the Friday Fiesta, hosted by TOR Imports. Guests can enjoy cigars, bold flavours, live music from Omar Rios Melendez, a welcome whiskey or rum, and a bespoke BBQ buffet.
Saturday 17th May is the main day of The Exhibition, featuring over 18 leading suppliers across 4,300 square feet.
The day also includes a range of seminars, including conversations with Paresh Patel, Plasencia’s deep dive into terroir, an exploration of the UK’s evolving tobacco legislation, and a panel with Drew Estate, AJ Fernandez, and Casa Carrillo.
Midday features Plasencia’s New Cigar Launch with House of Rum, sponsored by Davidoff. The day ends with the Gala Dinner, including a three-course meal and live performance by Adrian Garcia, sponsored by Bright Leaf.
The event concludes on Sunday 18th May with the final day of The Exhibition and more seminars. Highlights include a session from 1573 Cigars, a Montecristo 90th anniversary presentation and tasting, and the Hunters & Frankau Cigar & Champagne Reception. The weekend wraps up with the Chairman’s Address & Goody Bags.
Cigars launching at IGNITE 2025
Several exciting cigar launches are expected at IGNITE 2025, including premium offerings from some of the most respected brands in the industry. Below is a summary of the key cigars that will be unveiled at the event.
Montecristo – Open Slam
Hunters & Frankau, the exclusive distributor of Cuban cigars in the UK, will launch the Montecristo Open Slam at IGNITE 2025. This new vitola expands the Montecristo Open series, a line inspired by the elegance of golf.
The Montecristo Open Slam is a refined yet accessible addition to the Montecristo Open Series. Crafted in Cuba using Vuelta Abajo tobacco, this cigar offers a perfect balance of rich flavor and smooth complexity, catering to both new smokers and seasoned connoisseurs.
This Idilicos vitola features a 52-ring gauge, allowing for a cool, effortless draw. The flavor profile starts with light wood and creamy notes, transitioning into subtle hints of almond, cedar, and delicate spices. As the cigar progresses, its medium-bodied profile evolves with earthy and cocoa flavors, delivering a smooth and satisfying smoke.
Pairing Recommendations:
Perfect for daytime smoking, the Montecristo Open Slam pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, a classic mojito, or aged rum.
Details:
- Length: 5 3/5″ (142mm)
- Ring Gauge: 52
- Strength: Medium
- Packaging: Box of 20 Cigars
- Vitola: Idilicos
- Smoking Time: 35-45 minutes
For those interested, City of London Cigars will host a launch and sampling event for this cigar here.
Plasencia – Alma del Cielo
Davidoff UK will introduce the Plasencia Alma del Cielo cigar at IGNITE 2025, with special guests Roy Sommer and Rodrigo Medina Mendieta of Plasencia Cigars.
Grown at an incredible 1,300 meters above sea level in the Plasencia family’s prized Finca San Julián in Condega, Nicaragua, the Alma del Cielo Toro is the world’s highest elevation cigar.
The flavor profile begins with creamy sweetness, featuring marzipan and honey notes, complemented by hints of nougat. As the cigar evolves, earthy undertones and traces of orange zest develop. The heart of the smoke reveals warm cedar and additional nougat, with the finish showcasing a refined ginger spice that lingers.
Details:
- Size: 6 1/4″ x 54 ring gauge
- Strength: Full-bodied
- Wrapper, Binder, Filler: Nicaraguan
- Flavor Notes: Dark chocolate, plum, cinnamon, oak, molasses, nougat, ginger
For a post-IGNITE event, Havana House will host an exclusive Plasencia cigar launch paired with Lakes Distillery spirits. Learn more here.
CigarKings
According to Cigar Dojo, and one I’m really delighted to hear is that Bright Leaf will officially be launching CigarKings, a Germany-based premium cigar brand that continues to grow its presence-across the UK.
Known for its handcrafted cigars made from high-quality Nicaraguan tobacco, CigarKings blends traditional cigar-making techniques with a fresh, modern brand identity — a combination that sets it apart in a competitive market.
Founded in Munich, the brand has earned recognition for its lineup of both classic vitolas and limited-edition releases. Speaking at the launch, CigarKings CEO and founder Philipp Kugler says, “With our UK launch, we’re excited to bring something fresh to a mature cigar market – a bridge between heritage and modern lifestyle.”
The UK expansion marks a significant milestone for CigarKings as it enters one of Europe’s most established cigar markets.
This launch reinforces the growing appeal of boutique cigar brands that respect tradition while embracing contemporary aesthetics — a trend clearly resonating with today’s discerning cigar enthusiasts.
You may remember Philipp from an interview I did with him a few years back – its so great to see a younger generation of CEO shine through too! 🚀
West Tampa Tobacco – Circle of Life
Bright Leaf will also unveil West Tampa Tobacco Company’s “Circle of Life,” a cigar that embodies the journey of life through its complex and rich flavor profile. Crafted with intention, this cigar makes a statement.
While specific size and blend details are yet to be released, the “Circle of Life” cigar promises a dynamic smoking experience with bold notes and smooth transitions. The striking gold-accented band symbolizes the cycles of life, making it as visually stunning as it is flavorful.
Las Villas Cigars
Barkers of Harrogate will introduce Las Villas Cigars to the UK market at IGNITE 2025.
These cigars are crafted in Estelí, Nicaragua, under the expert guidance of master blender Guillermo Pena, known for his exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Known for their high-quality tobacco and craftsmanship, Las Villas cigars are set to impress. While specific details about the size and blend will be shared later, the reputation of Las Villas suggests that these cigars will be a valuable addition to any aficionado’s collection.
This weekend is set to be an exciting one as IGNITE 2025 gets underway. While the event is reserved for industry folk, you can still catch a glimpse of the action — keep an eye on social media for updates and highlights throughout the weekend. There’s bound to be plenty to see!
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