When we are in Switzerland, Brigitta often organizes company visits or guided tours. Two years ago, we visited Camille Bloch at my special request! Last year we inspected the Simplon north ramp on a BLS hike. And before that we visited Kambly in Trubschachen.

Yesterday we visited the Villiger cigar factory in Pfeffikon, in the canton of Aargau. A few weeks ago, Brigitta brought me home the typical Villiger Export in the yellow box. (At first, I thought to myself: «What’s the point of it here – I don’t smoke cheroots!») However, that changed after I smoked the first Villiger Export. I have been enthusiastic about these cigars ever since. (In Switzerland they are called «Stumpen» (cheroot)s because they are open on both sides.)

The tour, which lasted an hour and a half, was very interesting. Wherever we went, the smell of cigars wafted everywhere! The smallest part of the tobacco for cigars and cigarillos comes from Switzerland. Countries of origin also include Cuba, Nicaragua, Indonesia and Brazil. At the end we were led to the smoking lounge. There we enjoyed a fine Villiger cigar. (In contrast to cigarette smoke, the smoke from a cigar smells delicious – even in your clothes!) Before we said goodbye, we succumbed to temptation in the factory shop. We left with dozens of cigar boxes, including the famous «Krummen».

Apropos: Speaking of «Enjoyment without regret» – the owner, Heinrich Villiger, who will celebrate his 95th birthday next year, enjoys a fine cigar that bears his name every day!

PS: If you want to know more about Villiger and its cigars, read here.