Rocky Patel’s “Sixty” cigar was named the top cigar in the world by Cigar Aficionado in 2022. It’s a big deal, folks. This prestigious publication reviews around 700 cigars each year, and the reviewers have no idea which cigars they’re smoking. Talk about blind taste testing!
Rakesh “Rocky” Patel, the man behind the brand, attributes his success as a cigar maker to his background in law. He spent his days practicing law in Los Angeles before venturing into the cigar business. According to Patel, it takes four to five years from planting a seedling to getting a cigar in a box. That’s a lot of time and effort, involving 300 different people handling the tobacco. Patel believes in doing things the right way, without cutting corners, just like in the legal profession.
From India to Green Bay, Wisconsin, to Los Angeles, Patel’s journey to becoming a cigar industry mogul is quite the tale. He didn’t have grand dreams of changing the world when he entered law school; he just wasn’t ready to face reality yet. Patel’s work ethic was shaped by his time in law school, juggling work at a law firm during the day and attending classes at night. It wasn’t easy, but it set him up for success in the long run.
After a rocky start with a failed startup, Patel took over and transformed Indian Tabac Cigar Company into Rocky Patel Premium Cigars in 2003. Now, 30 years later, the company is thriving and celebrating its anniversary with a special cigar release. Patel sells millions of cigars annually across the globe, a testament to his hard work and dedication to the craft.
Despite his success in the cigar world, Patel still finds himself dealing with legal matters regularly. Reviewing contracts, working with lawyers, and navigating regulatory challenges are all part of his everyday routine. His legal background comes in handy, proving that you can take the man out of law, but you can’t take the law out of the man.
Patel’s cigars have garnered high praise from critics, with his “Conviction” cigar earning a top spot in Cigar Aficionado’s annual list. The $100 cigar is described as a medium-to-full-bodied delight, with rich flavors that intensify as you smoke it. It’s a testament to Patel’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship in every cigar he produces.
With factories in Nicaragua and Honduras, as well as cigar lounges across the U.S., Patel’s empire continues to grow. His legal battles against FDA regulations have been successful, saving his company millions and preserving the premium cigar industry. From the Wild West of Honduras to the boardrooms of Beverly Hills, Rocky Patel’s journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and a passion for cigars.
And there you have it, folks. Rocky Patel’s rise to the top of the cigar world is a story of dedication, resilience, and a touch of legal savvy. Who knew a lawyer could make such a mark in the world of cigars? Well, now you do!
