Jason Wood isn’t afraid to color outside the lines. After nearly two decades with Miami Cigar & Co., he’s launched Outcast—a cigar that doesn’t just step out of the box, it lights it on fire. Blending tradition with rebellion, Outcast brings together Dominican fillers, Brazilian Cubra wrapper, and even Black Cavendish pipe tobacco for a smoke that’s as unconventional as its name.

I sat down with Jason to talk about the brand’s bold debut at PCA 2025, the art of balance in blending, and why he thinks being an “Outcast” might be the most authentic thing a smoker can do.

CP: How would you describe the tasting journey of an Outcast cigar, and what kind of flavor experience were you aiming to create?

Jason: It’s a fun ride with a little edge to it! Visually it looks bold, but don’t get it twisty—the Brazilian Cubra wrapper may be dark in color but it will never overpower the smooth complexity of the cigar. We were looking for something adventurous, with earthy tones (Cubra wrapper), hints of spice (Sumatra binder), and a touch of sweetness (Black Cavendish pipe tobacco).

CP: Beyond your role in the cigar industry, what hobby or pastime brings you the most joy when you’re off the clock?

Jason: Spending time with my family is what brings me the most joy, brother. There’s nothing like traveling with my wife and three children, exploring new places, and making memories that last forever.

CP: What were your impressions of the PCA 2025 launch, and what lessons did you learn from debuting Outcast at the trade show?

Jason: The PCA was electric—there’s nothing like seeing your vision finally take shape in front of people. The biggest lesson? Authenticity resonates. Folks connected with the story and vibe of Outcast as much as the cigar itself. I’m extremely passionate about this one, and the passion is contagious.

CP: In what ways does Outcast complement or contrast with other brands in the Miami Cigar & Co. portfolio?

Jason: Miami Cigar & Co. has such a rich portfolio of heritage and tradition. Outcast is the rebel in the family—it complements by adding a fresh, modern edge, but it also contrasts by pushing boundaries in blend and branding.

CP: How did you come up with the concept for Outcast Cigars, and what inspired the brand’s name?

Jason: In 2022, we started experimenting with pipe tobacco at the factory, and one of the blenders mentioned that this was the first time he had worked with pipe tobacco in a cigar in his 40+ years in the industry. That stuck with me, and I made sure to keep that uniqueness in the forefront during the entire process.

CP: Which travel destination is at the top of your personal wish list, and why does it appeal to you?

Jason: Japan is high on my list—the blend of tradition and innovation is inspiring. Plus, I’d love to explore the whisky culture there and see how it might spark ideas for future pairings.

CP: Could you share how your early years at Miami Cigar & Co. prepared you for launching and leading a new brand?

Jason: Since day one, it was always important for me to learn from those around me, and this continues to be true 18 years later. Surrounding yourself with talented people who have a team-first mentality allows everyone to grow together. Iron sharpens iron!

CP: What message do you hope smokers convey when they choose an Outcast cigar—what statement are they making?

Jason: It’s about getting out of your comfort zone and trying something different. Outcast Cigars may not be the profile you’re accustomed to smoking—yet—but I promise it will be a memorable experience you’ll come back to.

CP: Can you walk us through the decision to use rare tobaccos like Brazilian Cubra, and what sets this blend apart from traditional offerings?

Jason: We wanted a leaf with personality—something that brought depth to the blend without overpowering the star of the show, our Dominican fillers and the Black Cavendish pipe tobacco.

CP: Why did you choose the initial vitolas and price points for Outcast’s debut range, and are there plans for limited editions or new formats?

Jason: We picked vitolas that highlight the blend’s character without being intimidating. Pricing was about accessibility—we wanted to invite new smokers in without losing the intrigue for seasoned ones. And yes, limited runs are definitely in the cards; Outcast is about exploration, and special editions are part of that journey.

CP: How do you plan to cultivate a community around the “Outcast” philosophy, and what does success look like from a cultural standpoint?

Jason: Our two biggest platforms to really bring this project to life have been social media and face-to-face engagement with our customers and consumers at our release events. It’s been such a fun and exciting start—and we’re only getting started.

CP: When selecting a cigar for yourself, do you have a favorite pairing with a beverage or food?

Jason: Of course! With Outcast, my go-to drink is the Carajillo. Coffee pairs very well with the blend.

CP: How do you see Outcast evolving over the next few years, and what innovations or collaborations are you excited to explore?

Jason: I see Outcast pushing boundaries—whether through unique tobaccos, creative collabs, or limited-edition projects with artists, bartenders, or even other lifestyle brands. The goal is to keep surprising people while staying true to the spirit of being different.

CP: What challenges did you face in balancing boldness with approachability in the blend, and how did you address them?

Jason: The challenge was not going too far in one direction. We wanted bold, but not harsh; approachable, but not boring. The answer was testing and retesting until the cigar spoke with a strong, clear voice—one that invites you in but keeps you intrigued.

CP: How does the notion of forging one’s own path influence your day-to-day decisions in product development and marketing?

Jason: Every decision starts with: “Does this feel authentic? Does this reflect our identity as Outcasts?” If the answer is no, we don’t do it. Staying true to that principle keeps us honest and helps build a brand that people can trust and relate to.