Davidoff cigars are often associated with Sir Winston Churchill, the iconic British Prime Minister. While he favored the Cuban Romeo y Julieta brand, Davidoff created a line named after him. These cigars command high prices due to several factors, including the use of select aged tobaccos, meticulous craftsmanship, and a prestigious brand image cultivated through decades of marketing and quality control. The careful selection of Dominican Republic tobaccos, combined with expert blending and construction, results in a complex and nuanced smoking experience.
The expense associated with these high-end cigars reflects not only the tangible aspects of production but also the intangible value of luxury, heritage, and exclusivity. Churchill’s name carries significant historical weight, adding to the allure and perceived value. The meticulous quality control throughout the production process, from seed to finished cigar, ensures a consistently premium product that caters to discerning aficionados. This commitment to excellence and the associated costs contribute to the higher price point.
This exploration of the factors influencing the cost of these cigars will further delve into the specifics of tobacco sourcing, manufacturing processes, and brand legacy, providing a comprehensive understanding of the value proposition offered by Davidoff.
1. Prestigious Branding
Prestigious branding plays a significant role in the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. The brand cultivates an image of luxury, exclusivity, and heritage, associating itself with a figure of historical importance. This carefully crafted image contributes directly to consumer perception of value. The name “Winston Churchill,” synonymous with statesmanship and a discerning palate, adds an aura of sophistication and elevates the cigars beyond a mere commodity. This association, combined with Davidoff’s established reputation for quality, allows the brand to command premium prices.
The brand’s marketing efforts further reinforce this image. High-end packaging, carefully chosen retail partnerships, and targeted advertising campaigns contribute to the perception of exclusivity and luxury. This strategic positioning within the luxury market allows Davidoff to justify higher price points compared to brands without such a cultivated image. Consumers are often willing to pay a premium not just for the product itself, but also for the associated status and experience.
In conclusion, the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars is inextricably linked to the brand’s prestigious image. The association with Winston Churchill, coupled with decades of cultivating an aura of luxury and exclusivity, allows the brand to command premium prices in the luxury cigar market. This demonstrates the power of branding in influencing consumer perception and purchasing decisions within this specific niche.
2. Dominican Tobacco
Dominican tobacco plays a crucial role in the cost and quality of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. The specific terroir of the Dominican Republic, with its unique combination of climate, soil, and rainfall, contributes significantly to the flavor profile of the tobacco leaves used in these cigars. This particular type of tobacco is known for its smooth, refined character, often exhibiting notes of cedar, spice, and sweetness. This distinct flavor profile is a key component of what makes these cigars desirable and contributes to their premium pricing. Utilizing Dominican tobacco allows Davidoff to maintain a consistent flavor profile across its Churchill line, meeting the expectations of its discerning clientele. The selection and cultivation of this specific tobacco represent a significant investment, contributing to the overall cost.
The process of cultivating and harvesting Dominican tobacco also adds to the final cost. Skilled agricultural practices are employed to ensure the quality of the leaves, involving careful monitoring, hand-picking, and curing. This labor-intensive process represents a substantial investment. Furthermore, Davidoff’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices, while beneficial in the long run, also adds to the production costs. These factors, coupled with the increasing global demand for premium cigars, contribute to the higher price point. For instance, the Yamas region of the Dominican Republic is particularly renowned for its high-quality tobacco, and leaves grown in this area often command a premium price due to their exceptional characteristics.
In summary, the use of Dominican tobacco in Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars is a key factor influencing their cost. The specific characteristics of this tobacco, combined with the meticulous cultivation and harvesting processes, contribute significantly to the final product’s quality and price. The choice of Dominican tobacco is not simply a matter of origin but a strategic decision reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and its influence on the luxury cigar market. This dedication to a specific type of tobacco is a key component of the brand’s identity and justifies the premium price within the competitive landscape of high-end cigars.
3. Skilled Craftsmanship
Skilled craftsmanship is a cornerstone of the Davidoff Winston Churchill cigar’s high price. The meticulous hand-rolled construction of each cigar contributes significantly to its quality, consistency, and ultimately, its value. This intricate process requires a level of expertise honed over years of dedicated practice and represents a significant investment in human capital, impacting the final cost of the product.
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Bunching and Shaping:
The precise bunching of the filler tobaccos determines the cigar’s draw and burn. Skilled “buncheros” carefully arrange the filler leaves to create a consistent airflow and even burn. This meticulous process requires both experience and an understanding of the different tobacco types and their characteristics. Inconsistencies in bunching can lead to an uneven burn or a tight draw, affecting the smoking experience and highlighting the importance of this stage.
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Applying the Binder:
The binder leaf holds the filler together and provides structural integrity to the cigar. Skillfully applied, it ensures the cigar burns evenly and maintains its shape during smoking. This step requires precise hand movements and a keen eye for detail. The binder also influences the cigar’s flavor profile, adding another layer of complexity to the craftsmanship involved.
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Wrapping with the Wrapper:
The wrapper leaf is the final, and arguably most visible, element of the cigar. It is carefully selected for its appearance and texture, and its skillful application dramatically affects the cigar’s presentation and smoking experience. A flawlessly applied wrapper enhances the aesthetic appeal and contributes to a smooth, even burn. This intricate process demands a high degree of dexterity and an artistic eye, further justifying the higher price point. The wrapper’s appearance also plays a role in quality perception, influencing the overall value assigned to the cigar.
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Quality Control and Inspection:
Throughout the production process, rigorous quality control measures are implemented to ensure each cigar meets Davidoff’s exacting standards. Trained inspectors meticulously examine each cigar at various stages, checking for imperfections in construction, draw, and appearance. This commitment to quality control adds to the production cost but ensures a consistently premium product that justifies the premium price. This meticulous attention to detail underscores the value placed on craftsmanship and reinforces the brand’s commitment to excellence.
These elements of skilled craftsmanship combine to create a premium cigar that justifies its higher cost in the luxury market. The expertise involved in each step, from selecting the finest tobaccos to the final inspection, contributes to the overall quality and experience. The price of a Davidoff Winston Churchill cigar reflects not only the cost of materials but also the investment in the highly skilled labor required to create such a refined product. This focus on craftsmanship differentiates these cigars from mass-produced alternatives and solidifies their position within the luxury goods market.
4. Meticulous Selection
Meticulous selection is a critical factor contributing to the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. The brand’s commitment to selecting only the finest tobaccos and rigorously inspecting them throughout the production process ensures a consistently premium product, justifying the premium price. This dedication to quality begins with the careful selection of seeds and continues through each stage of cultivation, harvesting, and manufacturing.
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Seed Selection:
The process begins with the selection of high-quality seeds from the best tobacco plants. These seeds represent the foundation of the final product, and careful selection ensures desirable traits such as flavor, aroma, and disease resistance are passed down. This initial selection process is crucial for maintaining consistency and quality across generations of tobacco plants.
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Leaf Selection During Harvesting:
During harvest, only the finest leaves are selected based on factors such as size, color, texture, and aroma. Different leaves from different parts of the plant contribute different flavor characteristics to the final blend. This careful selection ensures that only the most desirable leaves are used in Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars, influencing the overall smoking experience and justifying the premium price.
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Post-Harvest Selection and Inspection:
After harvesting, the leaves undergo further inspection and selection during the curing and fermentation processes. Leaves are carefully examined and sorted based on their evolving characteristics. This rigorous selection process eliminates any leaves with imperfections or undesirable qualities, ensuring only the highest-quality tobacco is used in the final product. This meticulous process is another key factor in maintaining the brand’s reputation for quality and consistency.
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Blending Selection:
The final stage of meticulous selection involves the careful blending of different tobacco leaves to achieve the desired flavor profile. Expert blenders meticulously combine different leaves, considering their individual characteristics to create a complex and balanced blend. This process requires years of experience and a deep understanding of tobacco, contributing to the final cost of the product. The precise blend is a closely guarded secret, adding to the exclusivity and prestige of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars.
This meticulous selection process, from seed to final blend, significantly impacts the quality, consistency, and cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. The brand’s commitment to selecting only the finest tobaccos at every stage justifies the higher price point for discerning consumers seeking a premium smoking experience. The combination of careful selection and expert blending creates a unique product that stands out in the luxury cigar market. This dedication to quality reinforces the brand’s image and justifies the premium price tag associated with these sought-after cigars.
5. Expert Blending
Expert blending plays a crucial role in the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. This intricate process, akin to a perfumer crafting a fragrance, involves combining different tobacco leaves with varying flavor profiles to achieve a specific, complex, and balanced taste. The “Master Blenders” at Davidoff possess years of experience and a profound understanding of tobacco varietals, their individual characteristics, and how they interact with each other when combined. This expertise is a significant factor contributing to the elevated price of these cigars. Consider the analogy of a chef creating a signature dish; the careful selection and combination of ingredients ultimately determine the final flavor profile. Similarly, the master blender’s skill in selecting and combining tobaccos determines the cigar’s unique and desirable smoking experience.
The blending process is far from arbitrary; it involves meticulous consideration of factors like strength, aroma, flavor notes, and burn characteristics. For instance, a ligero leaf, known for its strength and spiciness, might be balanced with a milder viso leaf to create a smoother, more nuanced smoking experience. The specific proportions of each tobacco type in the blend are carefully guarded secrets, contributing to the exclusivity and mystique of the brand. This proprietary knowledge and the resulting unique flavor profiles justify the premium price point in the luxury cigar market. Examples of other prestigious cigar brands further demonstrate the value of expert blending in the industry; brands like Padrn and Ashton also emphasize their master blenders’ expertise in creating unique and desirable blends, resulting in higher prices for their products. This highlights the market’s recognition of blending expertise as a key factor driving value.
Understanding the role of expert blending provides insight into the value proposition of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. The high cost reflects not only the quality of the tobacco itself but also the expertise involved in transforming those raw materials into a sophisticated and refined product. This meticulous blending process is a key differentiating factor between mass-produced cigars and those crafted for the discerning palate, justifying the premium placed on these cigars within the luxury market. The price thus reflects the intangible value of the master blender’s skill and knowledge, which ultimately determines the cigar’s complex flavor profile and overall smoking experience.
6. Aged Tobacco
Aged tobacco contributes significantly to the cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. The aging process, often spanning several years, allows the tobacco leaves to mellow and develop more complex flavors. Similar to fine wine, tobacco undergoes chemical changes during aging, reducing harshness and enhancing smoothness. This refinement results in a more nuanced and desirable smoking experience, justifying the premium price. The extended storage period also necessitates specialized facilities and careful monitoring to maintain optimal humidity and temperature, adding to the overall cost.
Consider the analogy of aging a fine steak. Over time, enzymes break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender and flavorful cut of meat. Similarly, aging tobacco allows for the breakdown of harsh compounds, resulting in a smoother, more refined smoke. This process requires careful control of the environment and regular monitoring of the tobacco’s condition. This meticulous attention to detail adds significant time and expense to the production process, impacting the final price of the cigars. Specific examples of aging processes, like the pilones method used in some premium cigars, further illustrate the complexity and expense involved. In this method, tobacco leaves are stacked and pressed together, allowing them to interact and develop deeper, more nuanced flavors over time. This process requires specialized expertise and adds to the overall cost.
The aging process represents a substantial investment for cigar manufacturers. The cost of storage, maintenance, and the potential loss of product due to spoilage or improper aging must be factored into the final price. However, the resulting improvement in flavor and aroma justifies this expense for many aficionados. The premium placed on aged tobacco reflects the value consumers place on a smoother, more complex smoking experience. This understanding allows for a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship and dedication to quality that contribute to the high cost of these cigars, separating them from mass-produced alternatives. The higher price not only reflects the cost of aging but also signifies a commitment to delivering a superior product.
7. Limited Production
Limited production plays a significant role in the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. Restricting the number of cigars produced annually creates an aura of exclusivity and scarcity, driving demand and justifying premium prices. This strategy targets discerning consumers willing to pay a premium for rare and sought-after products. This section explores the facets of limited production and their impact on the cigar’s cost.
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Controlled Supply and Demand:
By limiting production, Davidoff carefully controls the supply of Winston Churchill cigars, creating a higher demand than if the cigars were mass-produced. This artificial scarcity increases the perceived value and allows the brand to command higher prices. This principle operates similarly in other luxury markets, such as limited-edition automobiles or rare timepieces, where restricted availability drives up desirability and price.
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Maintenance of Quality Standards:
Limited production allows for greater control over quality. With a smaller output, more attention can be devoted to each cigar, ensuring adherence to the brand’s stringent quality standards. This focus on detail contributes to a superior product and justifies the higher price point. Conversely, mass production often necessitates compromises in quality control to meet higher output demands.
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Enhanced Exclusivity and Prestige:
Scarcity inherently breeds exclusivity. The limited availability of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars enhances their prestige and desirability among aficionados. Owning a limited-production cigar becomes a status symbol, further justifying the premium price. This exclusivity contributes to the brand’s image and reinforces its position within the luxury market.
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Increased Collector Value:
Limited-edition cigars often become collector’s items, further increasing their value over time. Certain releases, particularly those commemorating special events or anniversaries, can appreciate significantly, attracting investors and collectors. This potential for appreciation contributes to the initial high cost and positions the cigars not just as consumables but also as potential investments.
In summary, the limited production strategy employed by Davidoff for its Winston Churchill line contributes significantly to the cigars’ high cost. This approach creates an environment of scarcity and exclusivity, driving demand and justifying premium prices. By controlling supply, maintaining high-quality standards, and enhancing prestige, Davidoff positions these cigars as desirable luxury goods for discerning consumers. The potential for these cigars to become collector’s items further reinforces their value and contributes to their position within the luxury goods market.
8. Luxury Market
The luxury market plays a crucial role in the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. These cigars are positioned not merely as consumables but as luxury goods, appealing to a discerning clientele seeking exclusive, high-quality products. This strategic positioning within the luxury market allows Davidoff to command premium prices, reflecting the intangible values associated with luxury brands, such as prestige, exclusivity, and craftsmanship. The luxury market operates on principles of perceived value, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that signify status, sophistication, and a superior experience. Davidoff leverages this by cultivating a brand image synonymous with luxury, using high-end packaging, selective retail partnerships, and targeted marketing campaigns. This careful cultivation of a luxury image directly influences consumer perception and willingness to pay higher prices.
Real-world examples illustrate this connection. Luxury brands across various industries, from automobiles to fashion, employ similar strategies to justify premium pricing. A handcrafted Italian leather handbag or a limited-edition sports car commands a high price not solely due to material costs but also due to the brand’s prestige, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. Similarly, Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars are priced to reflect not only the cost of premium tobacco and meticulous production but also the intangible value associated with the brand’s luxury positioning. This understanding is crucial for analyzing pricing strategies within the luxury goods sector. Recognizing the interplay between perceived value, brand image, and exclusivity provides insight into consumer behavior and market dynamics within this specific niche.
The practical significance of understanding this connection lies in recognizing the multifaceted nature of value within the luxury market. Price, in this context, communicates more than just the cost of production; it signifies quality, craftsmanship, heritage, and exclusivity. For Davidoff, maintaining this luxury positioning requires consistent dedication to quality, meticulous attention to detail, and strategic brand management. Challenges include maintaining exclusivity while expanding market reach and navigating the evolving preferences of luxury consumers. Successfully addressing these challenges is crucial for sustained success within the competitive luxury cigar market. Ultimately, the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars reflects a complex interplay of tangible and intangible factors, all carefully orchestrated to maintain the brand’s prestigious position within the luxury market.
9. Churchill Association
The association with Sir Winston Churchill is a pivotal factor contributing to the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars. While Churchill himself preferred Cuban Romeo y Julieta cigars, the Davidoff brand strategically leveraged his iconic image and well-known appreciation for fine cigars. This association imbues the brand with a sense of history, tradition, and prestige, significantly impacting consumer perception and justifying a premium price point. The name “Winston Churchill,” synonymous with statesmanship, wartime leadership, and a discerning palate, adds an intangible value that transcends the tangible aspects of tobacco and manufacturing. This association elevates the cigars from a mere commodity to a symbol of sophistication and refinement, appealing to a specific segment of the market willing to pay a premium for this association.
This marketing strategy capitalizes on the inherent human tendency to associate positive qualities with admired figures. Churchill’s image evokes notions of strength, wisdom, and refined taste. By associating their cigars with this iconic figure, Davidoff effectively transfers these qualities to their product. This connection creates a narrative that resonates with consumers, particularly those who admire Churchill or aspire to the lifestyle he represents. Examples of other brands leveraging historical figures or cultural icons further illustrate the effectiveness of this strategy. For instance, associating a watch with a famous explorer or a clothing line with a renowned artist can significantly elevate the perceived value and justify higher prices. This demonstrates the power of association in influencing consumer behavior and purchasing decisions.
Understanding the impact of the Churchill association provides valuable insight into the luxury goods market. Price, in this context, becomes a reflection not just of material cost and production but also of the intangible value associated with the brand’s carefully cultivated image. The challenge for Davidoff lies in maintaining the integrity and authenticity of this association while navigating the evolving cultural landscape. Balancing historical reverence with contemporary marketing requires careful consideration and a nuanced approach. Successfully managing this association is crucial for preserving the brand’s prestige and justifying the premium price point of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars within the competitive luxury market.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars.
Question 1: Why are Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars more expensive than other cigars?
Several factors contribute to the higher cost, including the use of select aged Dominican tobacco, meticulous hand-rolled construction by skilled artisans, limited production runs, prestigious branding associated with Sir Winston Churchill, and strategic positioning within the luxury goods market. These factors combine to create a premium product that justifies the higher price for discerning consumers.
Question 2: Are Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars worth the price?
Value is subjective. However, for aficionados who appreciate the nuances of premium tobacco, expert blending, and impeccable construction, the price may be justified. The experience offered by these cigars, combined with their exclusivity and prestige, contributes to their perceived value within the luxury cigar market.
Question 3: Did Winston Churchill actually smoke Davidoff cigars?
While Sir Winston Churchill is the namesake of the line, he primarily smoked Cuban Romeo y Julieta cigars. Davidoff created the Winston Churchill line as a tribute to his appreciation of fine cigars and his iconic status.
Question 4: What makes Dominican tobacco so special for these cigars?
The specific terroir of the Dominican Republic, with its unique combination of climate, soil, and rainfall, contributes significantly to the flavor profile of the tobacco leaves. Dominican tobacco is known for its smooth, refined character, often exhibiting notes of cedar, spice, and sweetness.
Question 5: How does limited production impact the cost of these cigars?
Limiting production creates an aura of exclusivity and scarcity, driving demand and justifying premium prices. This strategy targets discerning consumers willing to pay a premium for rare and sought-after products. The controlled supply and increased demand contribute to the higher cost.
Question 6: Where can one purchase authentic Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars?
Authentic Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars should be purchased from authorized retailers. Purchasing from unauthorized sources risks acquiring counterfeit products. Davidoff’s official website provides a list of authorized retailers to ensure authenticity.
Understanding the factors that contribute to the cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars allows for a deeper appreciation of the product and its position within the luxury market. The price reflects not only the tangible aspects of production but also the intangible values of prestige, exclusivity, and heritage.
Further exploration of specific Davidoff Winston Churchill lines and their individual characteristics can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the nuances within the brand’s offerings.
Tips for Navigating the World of Premium Cigars
Discerning consumers seeking high-quality cigars like Davidoff Winston Churchills benefit from understanding key aspects of selection, storage, and appreciation. The following tips offer guidance for navigating the complexities of premium cigars.
Tip 1: Research Reputable Retailers:
Purchasing authentic premium cigars requires careful selection of reputable retailers. Authorized Davidoff retailers ensure product authenticity and proper storage. Research and verify retailer credentials before making a purchase.
Tip 2: Inspect Before Purchasing:
Careful inspection is crucial. Look for consistent color, a smooth texture, and a firm feel. Avoid cigars with cracks, soft spots, or discoloration. A visual inspection can reveal potential issues affecting the smoking experience.
Tip 3: Invest in Proper Storage:
Maintaining proper humidity and temperature is essential for preserving cigar quality. A humidor provides a controlled environment to prevent drying or excessive moisture. Proper storage preserves the delicate flavors and ensures a consistent smoking experience over time.
Tip 4: Understand Flavor Profiles:
Familiarize yourself with different tobacco types and their respective flavor profiles. Understanding the nuances of flavor allows for informed selection and enhances appreciation of the smoking experience. Researching tasting notes can help identify preferred blends.
Tip 5: Allow for Proper Resting:
After purchasing cigars, allow them to rest in a humidor for a few days to acclimate to the environment. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and settle, enhancing the smoking experience.
Tip 6: Cut and Light Carefully:
A precise cut and even light are essential for a proper draw and even burn. Use a sharp cutter designed for cigars and avoid biting the cap. A proper light ensures the entire foot of the cigar is evenly ignited.
Tip 7: Savor the Experience:
Premium cigars are meant to be savored. Take your time, appreciate the nuances of flavor and aroma, and avoid inhaling the smoke. Focusing on the sensory experience enhances enjoyment and appreciation of the cigar’s complexities.
Tip 8: Pair Wisely (Optional):
Consider pairing your cigar with a complementary beverage. Spirits like whiskey, cognac, or port often enhance the flavor profile of a premium cigar. Experimentation can reveal enjoyable pairings.
By following these tips, consumers can maximize their enjoyment of premium cigars like Davidoff Winston Churchills. Understanding proper selection, storage, and appreciation enhances the overall experience and justifies the investment in these high-quality products.
These tips offer a starting point for exploring the world of premium cigars. Further research and exploration can deepen understanding and appreciation, ultimately enhancing the enjoyment of this refined pastime.
The Value of Davidoff Winston Churchill Cigars
The exploration of the factors contributing to the high cost of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars reveals a complex interplay of tangible and intangible elements. From the meticulous selection and aging of Dominican tobacco to the skilled craftsmanship involved in hand-rolled construction, each step adds to the final product’s value. Limited production, prestigious branding associated with Sir Winston Churchill, and strategic positioning within the luxury market further contribute to the premium price. The cost reflects not only the quality of materials and production but also the intangible value of heritage, exclusivity, and a refined smoking experience.
Ultimately, the value proposition of Davidoff Winston Churchill cigars extends beyond the tangible aspects of tobacco and manufacturing. The brand cultivates an image of sophistication and exclusivity, appealing to discerning consumers who appreciate the nuances of a premium cigar and the historical resonance of the Churchill name. The high cost represents an investment not just in a product but in an experience, a tradition, and a connection to a historical figure renowned for his appreciation of life’s finer pleasures. Further exploration of individual cigar lines and personal experiences will undoubtedly enrich one’s appreciation of this complex and fascinating segment of the luxury market.
