Puff Cigar Discussion Forums

Herf N Turf · 09-09-2009, 12:49 PM

When I got home from being out of town Monday night, I looked at my PM box and had a short message, "Call me at xxx.xxx.xxxx asap. Im going to be in town tonight." Unfortunately, it was two days old. I called anyway and had a really pleasant chat with a fellow BOTL from here at PUFF.

Rather spur of the moment, my BOTL decided to brave the two hour drive and come down for a visit. Around noon, he arrived and I greeted him at his car. This was our first FTF meeting and upon the first handshake, it felt comfortable and familiar. After the obligatory introductions and a little get aquainted small talk, I was handed a delicious looking Punch Churchill from 2000. I poured us both a steaming cup of Peet's House Blend; thick and black. Upon informing my guest that it might be a wee-bit strong, he replied, "...and the problem is?" Hahaha! Like minds.

The ensuing hour and a half flew by, being filled with stories of cigar love past, places visited, life experiences and all that goes with a wonderful one-on-one herf experience.

With about 2 inches left of the Punch, we departed for the midday's grinding ritual. My friend happened to know of a place, quite literally within walking distance of my house. "Two cheeseburgers, please." To call this thing a "cheeseburger" is like calling a Bugati a "car". It was stupendous! I can't recall ever having a better burger. I was also introduced to the owner and invited back.

Now, we were off to a couple of local B&M's I frequent so my friend could put on his cigar rep cap. He was smooth, friendly and sincere with the store managers; a practiced and consumate professional. I've dealt with a lot of manufacturers representatives in my time, but my friend was as good as I've seen, never even dancing around a hard-sell, but rather expressing his personal desire to help grow the business.

After that, it was sadly time for me to go to work. We returned to my house for a little mapquesting and to say our final goodbyes.

Here are a few pics of a wonderful day.

Thanks for a great day, Andy!!!

scottw · 09-09-2009, 12:58 PM

Great post Don, I too have had the absolute pleasure of meeting Andy face to face and having some great cigars. His knowledge is only exceeded by his generosity. He met my wife as well and it was as familiar as having an old friend over the house for a meal and some talking. We look forward to going down south to hang out with Andy and his beautiful wife soon. Thanks for sharing the great day!