We’re used to tobacco coming from Central America, the Caribbean islands, South America and even Africa, but what about Europe? For the newest installment of Macanudo’s Emissary series, General Cigar Co. turned to in hopes of bringing a new, inspired angle to a very traditional industry. Yes, they’ve put some French tobacco in a cigar. Can French leaf actually be distinct? We rate the entire Macanudo Emissary line, and also look at the new Crowned Heads Blood Medicine. Made in Nicaragua, Blood Medicine was an event-only cigar that’s now available across the United States as a limited edition. It has an interesting back story (see the brand summary) as does the Enclave by Eladio Diaz, a collaboration between Nicaraguan cigarmaker A.J. Fernandez and Dominican industry veteran Eladio Diaz. This brand started as a retailer exclusive, but now that it’s sold on the regular cigar market, Cigar Insider rated the entire line. And Cuba’s Montecristo Open series has received its first new size since the brand was introduced in 2009. Called Slam, the cigar was announced a few years ago, but is finally appearing in global markets. Montecristo Open is intended to be a lighter version of the core Montecristo line and is marketed to those with an affinity for outdoor sporting life. Villiger’s 1888 Gran Reserva isn’t marketed to anyone in particular, nor is the Royal Perfecto from Aganorsa Leaf’s Supreme Leaf series. These new releases are just aimed at cigar enthusiasts who appreciate a good smoke.