How do the new Djarum cigars compare to their original kretek (clove cigarette) lineup? Djarum Blacks, Bali Hai and Special Blend cigars versus the original cigarette versions. The epic battle. As of September, 2009, Djarum can no longer sell a clove-flavored tobacco product in America if it is wrapped in paper. This is due to the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (often referred to as “The Marlboro Monopoly Act”). However, the United States defines a cigarette as “tobacco wrapped in paper” and so the act did not attack cigars (defined as “tobacco wrapped in tobacco”). These are loose versions of the actual definitions, but you get the point. Marlboro had aimed to knock out the independent market, especially cloves, and Djarum countered with the release of their cigars. But how do they compare? As a diehard clove smoker, I have been experimenting with the new cigars and would like to report back on my own unsolicited opinions.

Djarum Black Cigars: The d:black cigars are 4/5ths of what a black once was. There is a slight hint that this is a mini-cigar, but only slight. They are wider than the original d:blacks, just a bit wider than the average cigarette. They most commonly come in packs of 12 and are painfully expensive. The price hike is the hardest hit personally. As a replacement, I am incredibly happy to at least have these as a legal alternative at the moment. I’ve pretty much stopped smoking but on weekends since the ban, so the price hike isn’t as painful as it could be.

Djarum Bali Hai Cigars: The Bali Hai cigars make the best transition of all the brands. On a 5-star system, they are still only 4/5ths the original Balis, but on a 10-star system they would be 9/10ths the original. The fruity traces to the Bali Hai blend coat over the hint of cigar flavor. They are the same new width as the d:black cigars and come in the same 12-pack with the same price hike. Preferable to the original? No. Acceptable alt? More than acceptable!

Djarum Black Vanillas: I do not remember their being a black vanilla before the ban. If there was, I never had it, so can make no comparison. What I can say is that this is my favorite brand from the new cigar lineup they’ve released. They are only slightly sweet, adding hints of vanilla atop the clove. Same 12-pack, same price hike, but worth the most for the money. Tasty!

Djarum Special Cigars: The worst transition, as the original cigar was so distinct. The new ones are sweeter, don’t have that same lingering burn as the original and you really feel they are lacking something. Those who smoked special lights would likely give them 3 out of 5 stars, whereas I only smoked specials every once in a while. Still, they are here, they are legal and they are not exactly dirt… they are just not as good as they once were.

In the end, I have quickly realized that America is not the country for me. I have my eye set on a few third world countries where smoking is still more than affordable and where I can set up proper shipping lines. My one requirement for income is a WiFi signal, and the smoking ban isn’t the first thing in my life to be declared illegal. The original Djarums are only a few bucks in other countries, down under a dollar in the Eastern World. A move is in order. If anyone suggests a particular country, or has stories to add, drop a comment! Much love peeps!

Until then, here is a photo to remind other Djarum smokers of the good stuff: