The double Grammy-nominated country music band Midland has made headlines with the launch of their new cigar line, Palomino Longneck, now available for purchase. This exciting release comes from their collaboration with Kingmakers and is the culmination of a passion for cigars that band members Jess Carson, Mark Wystrach, and Cameron Duddy have nurtured over the years.

Known for their five-time platinum hit “Drinkin’ Problem,” Midland has carved a niche for themselves in the country music scene with their distinctive blend of classic country sounds and modern flair. The Texas-based trio enjoys unwinding with tequila and fine cigars, which inspired them to develop their own unique brand. After a year and a half of hard work, they are proud to present Palomino Longneck to cigar aficionados everywhere.

Midland has amassed a devoted following, particularly in Texas, California, and throughout the Southwest. With a decade of experience, the band consists of lead singer and guitarist Mark Wystrach, bassist and vocalist Cameron Duddy, and lead guitarist and vocalist Jess Carson. Their harmonious collaboration extends beyond music; they’ve ventured into various projects, including a tequila brand called Insõlito and now this new cigar line with Kingmakers. Kingmakers is known for its own portfolio as well as collaborations with notable figures, including WNBA star Kelsey Plum.

Palomino Longneck pays tribute to North Hollywood’s iconic Palomino Club, a legendary country music venue that has since closed, as well as Midland’s song “Longneck Way To Go” from their album The Last Resort: Greetings From. Both Midland and Kingmakers affectionately refer to this cigar as “the cowboy cigar.”

Wystrach, who has had a long-standing appreciation for cigars, explained that the desire to create a cigar line had been on his mind for years. “Cigars are one of those things that force you into the moment,” he shared. Having grown up with cigars thanks to his father, a former Marine, Wystrach’s passion intensified during the pandemic when he found solace in them. “I’d go for drives, run errands, and enjoy a cigar,” he reminisced.

The partnership with Kingmakers materialized serendipitously as the band sought cigars for relaxation after their shows and busy touring schedules. Wystrach noted, “Cam, Jess, and I wanted our first cigar to be distinctive,” and after testing various blends, they crafted one that resonated with all three.

The Palomino Longneck is available in a single size: a box-pressed toro measuring 6 inches with a 54 ring gauge. Made at Miguel Pinto’s MGE Cigar Factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, the blend is predominantly Nicaraguan, featuring an Ecuador Habano wrapper, a binder from Estelí, and filler tobaccos from Condega and Jalapa. According to Claudio Torres, co-founder and COO of Kingmakers, these cigars were aged for a year before release to ensure optimal flavour. “I aimed to create a blend that pairs beautifully with their tequila,” he said, a sentiment echoed by Wystrach.

Wystrach believes the cigar appeals to both novices and seasoned smokers alike, stating, “It’s complex, but suitable for everyone.” He emphasizes that it’s perfect for special occasions, calling it “a cigar for all occasions as long as they are the good ones.”

The cigars will be packaged in 20-count boxes, with initial sales taking place through Kingmakers’ website. Afterward, select cigar lounges and businesses with established relationships with Kingmakers—such as the Fontainebleau hotels in Miami and Las Vegas, as well as various cigar lounges in New York, Las Vegas, and Miami—will stock the cigars. A larger national release for retailers is planned for the future.

This cigar launch coincides with Midland’s latest album, Barely Blue, which was released last Friday. Priced at $13.75 each or $275 per box, there will also be a limited number of signed boxes available through sweepstakes contests. To purchase, visit www.kingmakerscigars.com/midland.