Masters of Havana Cigars

The Higher Certificate, developed by Hunters & Frankau, represents the most extensive & prestigious qualification within the UK Habanos market.

Tom Bergström-Randall

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1A St James's Street

1A St. James's Street
St James's
London
SW1A 1EF

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0207 839 6795 contactus@1Astjames.com

Passed: 8th April 2014

What do you enjoy most about working with cigars?

The thing I enjoy most about working with cigars is the atmosphere they can create among fellow smokers. They seem to have this magical quality that I have not seen with anything else where people feel relaxed, sociable and comfortable even in a room of people you may not know.

What first interested you in cigars?

I think the thing that first got my attention with cigars was the first time I saw someone break one apart and seeing that they are just rolled tobacco leaves. I couldn't believe there was nothing else. That really got me thinking about how they were made and what made each one different.

Do you remember your first cigar?

I don't remember my first cigar as it was on my graduation day and I remember very little of that night!

What is the best piece of advice you have for someone just starting to smoke cigars?

Speak to as many people who know about cigars as you can. Having a little bit of knowledge about cigars can make such a difference when you smoke them, as well as making sure you get the best quality.

What are your favourite three cigars?

Montecristo No.2, Romeo y Julieta Wide Churchill, Trinidad Ingenios (Limited Edition 2007).

Has becoming a Master in Havana Cigars helped you in your profession?

Massively. I had only been working with cigars for a relatively short time before taking the exam and the amount I learned really helped when discussing cigars with customers at the store. I feel that now I am much more confident and knowledgeable when talking about cigars and the Higher Certificate definitely helped with that.

Meet the Masters