Phoenix Humidor: Helping to revitalize downtown Grass Valley

LESS THAN A YEAR AGO, Stucki Jewelers opened Phoenix Humidor, the biggest walk-in cigar humidor in the foothills. Owners James and Nichole Arbaugh stocked the humidor with premium hand-crafted cigars along with loose-leaf tobacco and accessories such as cigar cutters, lighters and ashtrays.

Their new venture has been a major success, making Stucki one of the independent retailers that is helping to revitalize downtown Grass Valley. Stucki has added a dozen new labels to the humidor, bringing the total to 70 labels and over 1,000 cigars in stock — and counting. And in just over 10 months, Stucki has sold over 1300 hand-rolled, premium cigars.

The world-renowned brands include Arturo Fuente, Padroń, MyFather, Montecristo, and Ashton, among others. The cigars are hand-rolled with premium tobacco from places such as Honduras, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua. The selection includes top-rated and rare cigar samplers and gift sets, as well as individual cigars priced from $8-$35.

The name Phoenix was inspired by Phoenix Drugs, which occupied the jewelry store location in the 1930s. The original Phoenix sign is on display in the humidor.

The Arbaughs, imaginative and experienced merchants, have found that the premium cigar humidor compliments their mainstay jewelry business — providing offerings for men and women shoppers.

The creativity and innovation of cigar and jewelry pairing has awarded Stucki Jewelers the title of “Best of the Best Jewelry Stores” in America. The recognition comes from a national trade magazine that recognizes one store a month in the jewelry industry within the United States.

“We work hard to stay fresh and relevant. We are flattered to be recognized for our efforts,” says James.

Jewelry and premium cigars are luxury-lifestyle products (think Robb Report magazine), and both are gifts for “right of passage” celebrations such as birthdays, graduations and weddings. Stucki Jewelers also carries distinctive gifts such as crystal decanters and flasks.

The Arbaugh’s idea for a cigar humidor also stemmed from Stucki’s annual “Gentleman’s Soiree,” an event that kicks off Father’s Day weekend with premium scotch tastings, hand-rolled cigars, gourmet food from Emily’s Catering (owned by James’ brother, John, and his wife Emily), as well as shiny vintage cars parked outside. Some of the event’s proceeds are donated to a local nonprofit, such as the Friendship Club.
STUCKI JEWELERS, 148 Mill St., GV 530-272-1266
PhoenixHumidor.com