NEDELEA DOMINATES AGAIN AS CSWC BY OLIVA CIGARS RETURNS TO PESCARA

Precision, poise, and a touch of Adriatic elegance marked the return of the CSWC by Oliva Cigars to the city of Pescara — and once again, Marian Nedelea proved why he remains a formidable force on the Italian slow-smoking circuit.

Marian Nedelea (second from left), top performer of this pre-qualifier, pictured with Judge Alberto and the other two best competitors."

Hosted by the respected La Compagnia del Sigaro cigar club and officiated by seasoned CSWC judge Alberto Mancinelli, the event took place in the refined ambiance of Cigar Room Iervese, located inside the well-known tobacconist Coffee & Cigarettes. With a full field of dedicated competitors and curious newcomers, the stage was set for an intense and stylish battle.

This year’s competition centered on the new Oliva Mareva, the official cigar of the 2025 season. While its flavor complexity and aroma were widely praised, the cigar also posed challenges. A few examples revealed fragile ash and less compact construction — enough to turn a small mistake into a major setback. One competitor, due to a misfire during lighting, saw their chances vanish with an uncontrollable burn.

But for those who remained composed, the rewards were substantial.

Reigning Italian Champion Marian Nedelea delivered a clinical performance, navigating every nuance of the Oliva Mareva with finesse. His winning time of 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 10 seconds not only secured his local victory but sent a strong message ahead of the national final in July.

In second place, Massimiliano Di Domizio held steady for a commendable 1 hour and 30 minutes, while Giovanni Iervese, host and competitor, claimed third with 1 hour, 9 minutes, and 20 seconds — a proud showing on home turf.

The level of competition continues to rise across Italy, and with each regional qualifier, the path to the CSWC Grand Final in Split sharpens in focus.

As always, the CSWC is made possible through the partnership of its international sponsors who elevate each event:

Oliva Cigars, ST Dupont, Cuervo y Sobrinos Watches, DeART Humidors, Boveda, Damat Tween, Cigar Journal, InterTabac Fair, Les Fines Lames, Bosquet Paris Cigar Etuis, and Hulecos — brands that define global excellence in cigar lifestyle and competition.