Joel Sherman, longtime tobacconist and former CEO and owner of Nat Sherman, passed away on September 9, 2024, at the age of 85 after a long battle with Parkinson’s. Born on August 2, 1939, Joel Sherman spent decades shaping and elevating the family business, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of premium cigars and fine tobacco.
At the age of 10, Sherman worked in the original Nat Sherman store located on 1400 Broadway in New York City where he learned the ins and outs of the tobacco business. His early experiences in the industry led him to suggest relocating the store to Fifth Avenue during his high school years—a move that would significantly elevate the brand’s status. Nat Sherman eventually found its final home on 42nd Street near Grand Central Terminal, where it became a symbol of sophistication and high-quality cigars.
In 1990, after the passing of his father, Nat Sherman, Joel returned to lead the family business, with his children by his side. Under his leadership, Nat Sherman expanded into a prestigious name in the premium cigar world, including developing its own lines of cigars and cigarettes. The company became renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship, even being the exclusive U.S. supplier of Cuba’s Bolivar brand before the embargo.
In 2017, Nat Sherman was acquired by Altria Group Inc., marking the end of an era. However, Joel Sherman’s influence endures. Although the iconic Nat Sherman store closed in 2020, the cigar blends live on under the Ferio Tego brand, now led by Michael Herklots, one of Joel’s longtime associates.
In a statement to the Premium Cigar Association (PCA), Herklots shared the following: “Mr. Sherman was an industry icon. He was beloved by everyone who knew him and certainly those who had the good fortune of working for him. His moral and ethical compass was always guiding the business and above all, he led with love.” Herklots served as the vice president of Nat Sherman International and was a longtime associate to Joel Sherman and his family.