Gilbert de Montsalvat SIGNATURE Pre-Release at The Chedi Andermatt
Gilbert de Montsalvat SIGNATURE: On March 28, 2023, Gilbert de Montsalvat's new SIGNATURE line of cigars was presented in a grandiose pre-release at The Chedi Andermatt. The brand was born out of the collaboration between author Thomas Brunnschweiler and brand owner Raymondo Bernasconi. But the genesis was bumpy: "This will be a flash in the pan, Bernasconi won't last long!" was the comment at the time. But Bernasconi is still on the cigar parquet and others for it no longer. Also present were the author and the brand owner Bernasconi, who celebrated his birthday that day.
Table of contents
Photos: The Royal Cigar Company (unless otherwise noted).
Once upon a time... and still is!
Author Thomas Brunnschweiler created the character of Gilbert de Montsalvat in his story "The Pope of Geneva" from the book "Perpetuum fumabile: Cigars make history(s)" in 1999. Bernasconi came across the story one dreary Sunday and was initially depressed because the hero of the story could neither smell nor taste. But eventually he realized the message behind it: Trust your own judgment and don't listen to the opinions of "popes."
Gilbert de Montsalvat - the cigar - was born
Thus was born the idea to create a cigar brand with a wink that stands out from other brands. In 2006, the development of the cigar began. On April 1, 2008, the Gilbert de Montsalvat brand was officially launched and since then it has enjoyed great popularity among cigar lovers.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RAYMONDO!
The photo on the cake (below) was taken in the Dominican Republic at the cigar factory where the Gilbert de Montsalvat is made. Left: Tim-Martin Weber (Executive Assistant Manager, The Chedi Andermatt) and on the right: Raymondo Bernasconi (Gilbert de Montsalvat brand owner and owner of The Royal Cigar Company, Basel).
The Chedi Andermatt has its own pastry chefs who create true masterpieces. One cake in particular, served for Raymondo Bernasconi's birthday, was an incredible taste experience. The cake was not too sweet and had an impressive array of flavors. A special highlight was the edible photo that the pastry team had printed on their own edible photo printer. Guests who enjoy sweet treats should definitely also try the desserts at The Chedi Andermatt.
Gilbert de Montsalvat SIGNATURE and The Chedi Andermatt
The presentation of the new SIGNATURE cigar line at The Chedi Andermatt took place in a small circle of about 15 participants. At a late hour, Brunnschweiler read a short story from an as yet unpublished book in which Gilbert de Montsalvat met Fidel Castro on his journey around the world. The story provided much entertainment and once again showed the ironic and humorous side of the Gilbert de Montsalvat brand.
The first-class ambience of The Chedi Andermatt, which is known for its exclusive events "The Chedi Cigar Circle", provided the perfect setting for the presentation of the new cigar line. With an outstanding 32-course menu in small bites and first-class drinks, the physical well-being of the guests was also taken care of.
With its new line of cigars, the Gilbert de Montsalvat brand proves once again that it stands for quality and exclusivity. With a wink and a lot of humor, it stands out from other brands and conquers the hearts of cigar lovers.
Tasting notes
I had the opportunity to participate in this event and taste the different formats such as the "Chubby", the "Short Robusto", the "Robusto" and the "Gordo". At this point, I would like to thank you again for the generous invitation. The "Chubby" stood out the most for me personally and offered an outstanding taste experience.
The taste of the SIGNATURE line is characterized by aromas of cedar and other wood, nuts, cocoa and especially coffee beans. A pleasant slight acidity rounds out the flavor profile. While some participants spoke of a slight sweetness, I could not personally confirm this. As with any cigar, the sense of taste varies from person to person and everyone perceives the flavor slightly differently.
However, it should be noted that the cigars arrived in Switzerland only a few days before the event and still need some acclimatization. I recommend storing them in the humidor with cellophane for about 14 days to develop their full potential (maybe even longer).
Overall, Gilbert de Montsalvat's new SIGNATURE line offers a balanced flavor profile with a wonderful balance of strength (3/5) and finesse.
As an experienced cigar aficionado, I can safely say that the new SIGNATURE line from Gilbert de Montsalvat is a highlight for cigar lovers. Fans of the brand will be thrilled, because SIGNATURE offers everything you expect from a first-class cigar: a balanced flavor profile, perfect workmanship and excellent aroma.
But also cigar lovers who do not know the brand yet, should definitely take the opportunity to try the SIGNATURE. The unique combination of the balanced flavors make these cigars a wonderful pleasure experience.
I look forward to lighting my next SIGNATURE and diving into the world of Gilbert de Montsalvat.
Resources on the topic
The Royal Cigar Company by Raymondo Bernasconi
Thomas Brunnschweiler at Wikipedia
Culinary, Photo Impressions
Very nice and interesting post and the food looks incredibly delicious.
I would definitely like to try the Gilbert de Montsalvat.
Love greetings Peter