by David P. Diaz

[For more photos of the trip, see the CENTRAL COAST HERF SLIDESHOW]

Last weekend, 12 guys from all parts of California and representing several cigar forums, converged on Doc’s Neighborhood for Doc’s 2nd Annual Central Coast Herf. For those of you who don’t yet know, the word “herf” refers to a smokefest with any number of people. It is a time where friends and acquaintances get together to consume any number of cigars and whatever else will add to their merriment. Last year, Doc hosted 6 herfers in what would later be called Doc’s 1st annual Central Coast Herf. Fast forward to this year and the 2nd Annual Central Coast Herf...

Above: Doc records the official kickoff to the herf

The Herf officially began on Saturday, with Herfers from Northern, Southern and Central California starting to trickle into Doc’s Central Coast home. The first cigar was torched at about 11:00 am, and there would be continual cigar smoking from then until around 2:30 on Sunday morning.

Even with daytime temperatures hitting triple digits, nothing seemed to quell the enthusiasm of herf participants who consumed copious amounts of food, libation and, of course, cigars, until the wee hours of the morning.

Below: Sergio and Jesse alias “Churros and Puros”

Food, libation and cigars were at the very highest standard. Camacho, Cusano/Cuvée and Aurora Companies sponsored the herf and generously provided cigars and accessories for the group. Besides 3-company-sponsorship, almost everyone who attended the herf decided to bring cigars to share. It was the proverbial “loaves and fishes” story with cigars multiplying miraculously and to our amazement.

Food was provided throughout the day and included homemade Guacamole, and Mozzarella Caprese, along with fresh baked bread and various cheeses and crackers. The dinner menu was created by John “Iron Chef” Merzon and included: Ahi Spring Rolls, Caesar Salad, Herb-Brined Rack of Pork, Wild Mushroom Potato Gratin, and Baked Asparagus.

Below: Happy Herfers

Sunday morning we were up and smoking cigars and drinking coffee by 9:30 am, and a Mexican breakfast of Menudo and Chorizo and Eggs was served. The 2nd Annual Central Coast Herf came to a close around noon on Sunday as we said our farewells and satiated herfers began their homebound treks.

Be sure to listen in on the May 25, 2008 Stogie Fresh 5 podcast for a special “Herfcast” with live recordings from the herf.