Marvin R. Shanken, the founder, editor and publisher of Cigar Aficionado, has died, according to news published on their website this evening.
One of the most influential figures in the international cigar industry, Shanken transformed the way premium cigars were presented to the public, combining their rich traditions with interviews, culture, celebrity and luxury living.
From Wall Street to publishing
Born in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1943, Shanken began his career in finance before moving into publishing.
In 1973, he acquired Impact, a newsletter covering the wine and spirits trade, laying the foundations for M. Shanken Communications.
His publishing portfolio grew to include Cigar Aficionado, Wine Spectator, Whisky Advocate and Market Watch.
Changing the image of cigars
Launched in 1992, Cigar Aficionado brought premium cigars to a wider audience, celebrating their craftsmanship, history and the people behind them.
Under Shaken’s leadership, Cigar Aficionado became renowned for its in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most celebrated figures, including actor Robert De Niro, basketball icon Michael Jordan and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Among its most memorable moments was Shaken’s 1994 interview with Cuban leader Fidel Castro, a landmark encounter in the magazine’s history.
Shanken helped establish a global platform for cigar enthusiasts, connecting readers with the makers, traditions and stories that define the industry.
A lasting legacy
Beyond cigars, Shanken made a significant contribution to wine and spirits publishing through Wine Spectator and his wider business. His achievements were recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Magazine Media in 2019.
Tributes
“The passing of Marvin Shanken is a profound personal loss. Marvin was more than the founder of Cigar Aficionado; he was an old school businessman and mentor, but most importantly, he was a remarkable friend who touched my life in ways words can hardly express. He helped broaden my perspective on life and left an indelible mark on me that will never fade.
One of the greatest lessons Marvin taught me was that success was not simply measured by what we achieve, but by what we choose to give back. His life was an example of that. Through his generosity and commitment to causes such as prostate cancer awareness and helping children in need, he demonstrated that true success carries a responsibility to make a difference in the lives of others.
Marvin showed me that the greatest legacy we can leave behind is not what we accumulate, but what we contribute to the world and the lives we touch along the way. He also taught us to fight – fight for what we think is right and what we know to be true. I will carry these lessons with me always.
I will forever be grateful for his friendship, his influence on our beautiful industry, and the doors he opened for us all. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but the values he lived by and the difference he made should continue to inspire us all.
Rest in peace, Marvin. You will never be forgotten.”
Carlos “Carlito” Fuente, Jr.
“Our deepest condolences to the entire Shanken family. Marvin you were a visionary, pioneer, and a dear friend. You will be missed but never forgotten.”
Rocky Patel
“Marvin Shanken was a true original. He took his passion for cigars, wine and the good life and built something the whole world could share. When everyone told Cigar Aficionado would fail, he did it anyway, and he sparked a cigar revolution that brought people together all over the world. Marvin was a visionary, a champion for charity, and a great friend. My thoughts are with Hazel and the whole family. I’ll light up a stogie for Marvin tonight.”
“Sad news Marvin Shaken has passed away, the man that changed the world of cigars. Thank you for bringing the world of cigars to life in every country.”
Ajay Patel of No 6 Cavendish
“So sorry to hear this. Without him the cigar world and appreciation of cigars would not be with us today. Marvin introduced so many of us to appreciate fine cigars. RIP Marvin”
James Barber of James Barber Tobacconists
His passing marks the loss of a pioneering publisher whose influence extended well beyond the magazines he created. Through his work, he helped shape an industry and brought together generations of readers, enthusiasts and professionals.
Rest in peace Marvin! 🙏🏻
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