A Flame for Justice: The Story of Chaffiot Collection

In 2017, the spark of an idea ignited what would later become the Chaffiot Collection, a brand dedicated to both luxury and a greater cause. However, it wasn’t until mid-2019 that this vision truly took flight, introducing a unique intersection of passion and purpose to the world. This journey began not just with cigars, but with a profound and life-changing experience in early 2018.

It was a sunny day in Melbourne, FL, when the founders of the brand attended a human-trafficking awareness conference in their hometown. The conference featured the testimony of a remarkable woman, a survivor—whom they prefer to call a “thriver” or “overcomer”—who had endured unimaginable horrors. Trafficked by her own father starting at the tender age of three, her suffering continued until she was eighteen. As they listened to her horrific story, tears flowed freely. They left the event profoundly moved, with their hearts heavy yet filled with a determined resolve to make a difference.

Around the same time, their interest in cigars was evolving. Although Justin Chaffiot had been smoking cigars for years, it wasn’t until 2017-2018 that he truly discovered the world of boutique brands. This discovery was facilitated by his local cigar lounge, Paradise Cigars, a true boutique haven. His initial request for well-known brands like Ashton and Macanudo was met with a smirk from the owner, who promptly informed him that he was in the wrong shop. However, with each subsequent visit, he began to introduce Justin to the boutique cigar world. Brands like Ortega, Espinosa, Room 101, and Caldwell blew his mind with their unique blends and exceptional quality.

The idea that cigars could be more than just a personal pleasure, but a vehicle for positive change, solidified in his mind. In early 2018, He attended the Great Smoke in South Florida, armed with nothing more than a newly formed LLC and a modest business card. Despite the prevalent FDA paranoia, three manufacturers listened to his idea. One of them gave him the green light, and soon after, their first cigar was born.

Fast forward to 2019, He had the fortune of meeting Azarias Mustafa, affectionately known as “Z,” from Cordoba and Morales, thanks to a mutual friend who owned a local lounge. He shared with him the mission they were on, and he immediately offered his support. Since then, Z has been an integral part of our journey, collaborating on all their blends. Their first creation together, “Brother’s Keeper,” was a full-bodied, medium-strength Habano Oscuro with an Ecuadorian wrapper and Nicaraguan binder/fillers. When it received a stellar rating of 95 by Stogie Press in 2020, they were over the moon.

To date, Chaffiot Collection has donated over $10,000 to counter-trafficking efforts. They support credible organizations such as Bikers Against Trafficking and Run Against Traffic, which specialize in prevention, rescue, intervention, and aftercare/rehabilitation. It’s essential to vet anti-human trafficking organizations carefully, ensuring they genuinely impact this crucial work, and we are confident in the ones we back.

Bringing this vital conversation to the cigar community has been an honor, and the loyal support They have received is heartening. Many people seek to be part of something larger than themselves, and their cigars serve as a bridge to cross into uncharted and often uncomfortable territories. It is a stark reminder that the well-being of women and children is a collective concern, and abuse must not be tolerated. If smoking Chaffiot Collection cigars can inspire more people to join this battle, then they consider the mission accomplished. Together, we can make a difference, one cigar at a time.

They have a growing line of cigars with new blends and collaborations dropping consistently. Some of these collaborations you may, or may not be familiar with such as Oak Glen Tobacconist, Cigar Clowns and many others. 

Join them on Instagram and Facebook at Chaffiot Collection Cigars, or visit our website at www.chaffiotcollection.com. Let’s light up for justice and make every puff count.