A visit to Pinar del Rio is not complete without a stop at the Rabaina farm to see my good friend Hirochi. A lot has happened in his life over the last year and he was full of stories to tell, some of which cannot be repeated. He has launched a brand of cigars outside of Cuba for those of you who don't know. The brand is called HR which stands for Hirochi Robaina. Sales have been phenomenal with limited production and distribution. I'm happy that things are working out for him. I found him in exceptionally good spirits and yes, he's still on his farm doing what he does best, tending to the things that matter on his farm. Last year wasn't a bad year and in comparison to the two previous years it was spectacular. Hopefully this year will turn out to be the same but it's hard to tell how things will be when they plant in November. Right now there is a water shortage all over the country, with Pinar del Rio being no exception. If now was any indication of how things will be, they may be in trouble. However, we are in the tropics and things can change overnight, lets hope for the best. Regardless, Hirochi is doing fine and I don't see an ounce of worry in him. There's also been a new addition to the ranchon, a life-size wooden statue of Alejandro in a rocking chair. I had to pinch myself occasionally, it fealt like he was right there with us. Below are just a couple of pictures I took, Hirochi hiding behind his grandfather, he's usually shirtless when I visit.
Love the Statue.....
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