Founders

Chris grew up immersed in the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and always with a dog by his side. But it wasn’t until he became a K9 handler with the Sheriff’s Office that he truly understood what it meant to work with a dog as a partner, tracking down violent criminals and trusting each other in high-stakes situations.

Later, he began training his own retriever for duck hunting. That’s when he met Mark at a local retriever club. They hit it off instantly, bonding over a shared love for waterfowl, working dogs, and the tradition that surrounds both. They started hunting together regularly, and for Chris, nothing compares to duck hunting with a well-trained dog. Watching a dog perform at its genetic peak, that’s the magic.

After the hunt, cigars became part of the ritual. Sharing stories, reflecting on the morning, and enjoying a good smoke in good company, that’s where the idea for Drake & Barrel was born. This brand isn’t just about cigars, it’s about honoring the tradition, camaraderie, and soul of the hunt. It’s a lifestyle. A purpose. A legacy.

Mark’s story with cigars began at 16, lighting up with his father and learning early on that a good cigar is more than smoke.. it’s about the company, the conversation, and the quiet reflection that follows a long day. 

In college, Mark trained his own black lab to retrieve ducks. It was during that time he met Chris at a local retriever club. They connected instantly, brought together by their shared love of waterfowl and dogs.

Drake & Barrel Cigars was born from those moments after the hunt when the birds are down, gear’s packed, and the cigars burn slow. This brand is a tribute to the hunt, the bond, and the smoke that ties it all together.

We hand-select every blend to reflect the richness of those moments — bold, smooth, and memorable. Whether you’re in the blind or on the back porch, light up a Drake & Barrel and be part of the story.