From Humidor to Heritage: Nick Melillo on Crafting Cigars with Soul
In this episode of The Last Easy Mile, Josh sits down with Nick Melillo, founder of Foundation Cigar Company and one of the most respected names in the world of handmade cigars.
What started as a college job at a local cigar shop in Connecticut eventually led Nick to Nicaragua, where he would spend over a decade learning the art of blending, fermentation, and tobacco sourcing at the highest level. After helping build one of the largest handmade cigar factories in Central America, Nick made the bold decision to walk away from his secure, high-ranking position to launch Foundation—a brand rooted in authenticity, cultural homage, and deep respect for the tobacco plant.
In a conversation that spans history, craft, and personal philosophy, Nick shares the lesser-known realities of the cigar industry, including how to blend flavor profiles, the unique characteristics of Nicaraguan tobacco, and why authenticity always outshines marketing.
They also explore:
- How a college kid with a love of cigars found his calling and moved to Nicaragua at 24
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Why the term “boutique” still matters in a handmade world
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The transformation of cigars from an “old man” stereotype to a modern ritual
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What goes into crafting a truly memorable cigar—from soil and seed to box design and branding
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The cultural significance behind Nick’s blends, including El Güegüense and Highclere Castle
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Why Connecticut tobacco is some of the best in the world, and the glacier story you’ve never heard
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How to get started if you’re new to cigars—without being overwhelmed
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Why the best cigar shops still matter in a digital world
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What it was like to get a shout-out from Joe Rogan—and how it led to a custom blend for him
This episode isn’t just about cigars. It’s about risk, craftsmanship, identity, and the pursuit of meaning through hard-earned skill. Whether you’re a cigar aficionado or someone drawn to the soulful side of creating something real, this conversation offers a rare look inside a world few truly understand.
Resources & Mentions:
• Foundation Website: FoundationCigarCompany
• Store Locator: FoundationStoreLocator
Nicholas Melillo
Founder of Foundation Cigar Company | Master Blender | Global Cigar Craftsman
Nicholas Melillo is one of the most respected figures in the cigar world, known for his deep reverence for tobacco tradition and unmatched blending artistry. As the founder of Foundation Cigar Company, Nick has built a reputation for creating some of the industry’s most sought-after and critically acclaimed cigars, combining deep cultural knowledge with a passion for craftsmanship.
Before launching Foundation, Nick served as Executive VP of International Operations at Drew Estate, where he helped revolutionize the premium cigar industry and built relationships with some of the world’s most storied tobacco farms. With decades of experience traveling between Connecticut, Nicaragua, and other key growing regions, he brings a unique, global perspective to the art of cigars.
Nick’s portfolio reflects more than just taste—it reflects history, place, and story. He is widely admired not only for his expertise, but for his authenticity and deep respect for the cultures behind the leaf. He’s even crafted private blends for notable figures like Joe Rogan—custom creations designed entirely from palate intuition.
When he’s not in the factory or on a tobacco farm, Nick can be found studying ancient history, supporting artisan economies, or sharing stories that blend old-world knowledge with new-world passion.
