Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 53 minutes ago
Meeting and Relationship: Robert Caldwell and Matt Booth have known each other for approximately 14–15 years, having first met in Honduras. They describe their friendship as intimate and non-traditional, noting that they have traveled together and met in various cities like Paris and Los Angeles outside of the cigar industry.
The "Room 101" Name and Brand Philosophy: Matt Booth explains that the name "Room 101" is a nod to George Orwell’s 1984. He views the brand as a champion for the creative spirit and individual expression against the pressures of conformity. Booth launched Room 101 in 2003 with hand built jewelry and fashion before expanding into cigars.
Industry Perspectives:
Both speakers acknowledge their roles in the cigar industry while noting that they are both independent spirits. They discuss the industry's shift in perception regarding 60-ring gauge cigars, noting that while once considered "big" and less expensive, they are now normalized and demand premium pricing. Both highlight the importance of their respective factory partners—such as William Ventura in the Dominican Republic—in maintaining quality and consistency in their blends.
Creative Processes and Lifestyle:
The speakers discuss their personal interests, including Booth's jewelry making and his background in the Marine Corps. Caldwell and Booth reflect on their personal lives, including traveling with their families and their preference for living active, non-traditional lifestyles.
Future Outlook and Collaboration:
Both have sold their companies—Caldwell to an undisclosed buyer and Room 101 to Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG)—but continue to consult and blend for their brands. They express a continued passion for blending, with Booth mentioning he has a "hopper" full of potential future blends.
Meeting and Relationship: Robert Caldwell and Matt Booth have known each other for approximately 14–15 years, having first met in Honduras. They describe their friendship as intimate and non-traditional, noting that they have traveled together and met in various cities like Paris and Los Angeles outside of the cigar industry.
The "Room 101" Name and Brand Philosophy: Matt Booth explains that the name "Room 101" is a nod to George Orwell’s 1984. He views the brand as a champion for the creative spirit and individual expression against the pressures of conformity. Booth launched Room 101 in 2003 with hand built jewelry and fashion before expanding into cigars.
Industry Perspectives:
Both speakers acknowledge their roles in the cigar industry while noting that they are both independent spirits. They discuss the industry's shift in perception regarding 60-ring gauge cigars, noting that while once considered "big" and less expensive, they are now normalized and demand premium pricing. Both highlight the importance of their respective factory partners—such as William Ventura in the Dominican Republic—in maintaining quality and consistency in their blends.
Creative Processes and Lifestyle:
The speakers discuss their personal interests, including Booth's jewelry making and his background in the Marine Corps. Caldwell and Booth reflect on their personal lives, including traveling with their families and their preference for living active, non-traditional lifestyles.
Future Outlook and Collaboration:
Both have sold their companies—Caldwell to an undisclosed buyer and Room 101 to Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG)—but continue to consult and blend for their brands. They express a continued passion for blending, with Booth mentioning he has a "hopper" full of potential future blends.
