Fellow CigarPass members, I've recently become aware of an increase in the transmission of counterfeit Cuban cigars. Fakes are being passed in trades, sales, and bombs. In all the cases that have been brought to my attention, those passing the fakes were new members or members with little critical experience with Cuban cigars. One bright spot is that in none of the cases was there apparent ill intent.
Is the number of fakes in circulation actually increasing? Or could this simply be a consequence of better detection and awareness? It's likely to be a little of both. However, I think that there is a strong possibility that this is a real effect especially as compared to 10 or even 5 years ago. The growing number of internet retailers peddling fakes is the most likely reason behind an increase in the number of counterfeits in the hands of the unwary.
Now in regard to the question posed in the title of this post, let me offer this guideline for discussion and debate.
When is it NOT alright to give out a "Cuban" cigar?
1. When you do not know without a doubt that the cigars in question are authentic Cuban cigars. The risk is higher if:
1a. You don't don't know what that particular Cuban cigar should look like or taste like.
1b. You have not verified the authenticity by smoking (if you have experience with the genuine article.)
1c. You bought it from a vendor that you have not confirmed is trustworthy by consulting several experienced members.
1d. You received it in trade or in a bomb and the giver cannot or will not satisfactorily verify their authenticity or provenance.
If any of the above conditions apply or if you have even the slightest doubt or concern, DO NOT SEND THE STICK OUT.
Moki recently posted this related and informative thread, Advice for Cuban Cigar Buyers and I'd suggest that all of those new to the world of Cuban cigars visit there for more complete guidance on sourcing or rather non-sourcing.
Wilkey
Is the number of fakes in circulation actually increasing? Or could this simply be a consequence of better detection and awareness? It's likely to be a little of both. However, I think that there is a strong possibility that this is a real effect especially as compared to 10 or even 5 years ago. The growing number of internet retailers peddling fakes is the most likely reason behind an increase in the number of counterfeits in the hands of the unwary.
Now in regard to the question posed in the title of this post, let me offer this guideline for discussion and debate.
When is it NOT alright to give out a "Cuban" cigar?
1. When you do not know without a doubt that the cigars in question are authentic Cuban cigars. The risk is higher if:
1a. You don't don't know what that particular Cuban cigar should look like or taste like.
1b. You have not verified the authenticity by smoking (if you have experience with the genuine article.)
1c. You bought it from a vendor that you have not confirmed is trustworthy by consulting several experienced members.
1d. You received it in trade or in a bomb and the giver cannot or will not satisfactorily verify their authenticity or provenance.
If any of the above conditions apply or if you have even the slightest doubt or concern, DO NOT SEND THE STICK OUT.
Moki recently posted this related and informative thread, Advice for Cuban Cigar Buyers and I'd suggest that all of those new to the world of Cuban cigars visit there for more complete guidance on sourcing or rather non-sourcing.
Wilkey