Los Angeles, November 16 – Cigar companies sometimes sponsor events which seem a little far afield. But after C.A.O. introduced its richly-flavored Italia line in 2004, it was only a matter of time before it became a part of the National Italian America Foundation Convention held annually in Washington, D.C.

More than simply a cigar named for Italy, the blend actually includes Italian-grown tobacco from the Benevenuto region in the filler. At the 31st edition on October 20-21, C.A.O. was there in high style, along with President George W. Bush, continuing a tradition of Presidential appearances that back to the earliest days of the Foundation’s convention.

A special Grappa and C.A.O. Cigar Bar was set up for invited guests at the pre-convention Gala, which included a performance by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. As was customary for souvenir cigars at major events and conventions in the “old days,” C.A.O.’s presentation of cigars at the show included a special double-banded version of the Italia line, with the golden second band emblazoned with the Foundation logo.

Equally ancient is the gift of cigars to leading dignitaries at the event, always presented in a specially-made humidor. Such items – normally given to government officials or ambassadors – are highly collectible and Cuban examples are highly sought after today. C.A.O. continued this tradition with a specially-inscribed humidor presented by the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Adam Shepard, to Giovanni Castellaneta, the Italian Ambassador to the United States. The Italia-branded box contained one hundred of the 6 1/4-inch by 54-ring Gondola torpedo cigars.

Remembering that C.A.O. also makes a Brazilia line, the Brazilian Embassy may be waiting for a call. Maybe an appearance at the Carnaval in Rio is next?!