LGC Puritos (in Tokyo)

[EasternPromises]

I picked up a 5er of these LGC Puritos while I was in HK. I asked the salesperson whether these were discontinued and he had no idea and no interest in having this discussion, and instead tried to convince me to buy a box of RyJ Belicosos for USD2k.

I’m currently in Tokyo and managed to duck downstairs and sneak in a quick morning smoke while the missus is getting ready. Initial burst of sweetness which I loved before settling down into a smooth, mild and fairly generic “toasted tobacco” flavor. Great 10 minute morning smoke and sadly a more enjoyable smoke than some of my recent longer format sticks. 

Would anyone have an idea when these Puritos were discontinued? A quick check of CCW doesn’t yield much info unfortunately.

[JohnS]

It's true that information on these smaller, machine-made cigars is not as widely available as Habanos cigars. Consider then, what it was like to try to find information on Habanos cigars prior to MRN's, 'An Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Post Revolution Havana Cigars' in 2002 and Trevor establishing Cuban Cigar website on-line in 2006!

I can tell you that there was change in the manufacturing process for ICT cigars (Internacional Cubana de Tabacos s.a) in 2002. Via a search of our forum, there was one reference to the LGC Purito in 2016 and that member lamented that they were possibly discontinued back then. So, that gives you a window into how long these have been unavailable. You may well have 'struck it lucky'!

[EasternPromises]

Thanks, John - would you have any information regarding the change in manufacturing process in 2002? Construction was solid and I had a very solid and straight ash throughout, in addition to being a very smooth smoke and with all the other hallmarks of aged tobacco. May pick up a few more packs for when a quick smoke or the need for something very cheap and cheerful arises!

[JohnS]

In 2002, all ICT cigars (i.e. puritos, cigarillos and minis) reverted to been manufactured in Cuba. Immediately prior to this, some brands were made outside of Cuba.