How to select a cigar

The best way to begin smoking a cigar is to buy a cigar and smoke it right away. This can be done either at a local tobacconist, a cigar lounge or in the company of friends or family who already enjoy smoking. Ideally, just as you learn to crawl before you walk, it’s wise to procure a mellow to medium bodied cigar. Selecting one that’s too strong can either result in a poor experience thanks to a palate not accustomed to its richness, or worse, becoming intoxicated from the cigar which replicates the symptoms of alcohol intoxication but without the buzz. The second most important step in selecting a cigar is to choose one that’s well made. Inexpensive machine-made cigars won’t give you the same experience as a finely aged hand-rolled cigar. Many of the cheaper sticks use chemical agents

Climate differences and Cigars

Geography and climate can have a great effect on plants and leaves and how they taste when they are fermented and rolled. Every sort of tobacco grown in different parts of the world ends up taking on characteristics of the soil, climate and rainfall. This is called terroir. The term terroir refers to soil composition, sun exposure, rain and fluctuations in temperature. It is most referred to for its impact in wine making, but the same can be said in tobacco. In Nicaragua alone (images), you have four different regions that grow tobacco. You can take the same seed and plant it in those four different regions and get a different flavor profile. You have Jalapa, which is in the mountains on the Honduran border where they grow a lot of wrapper leaves. Then down the street you have Condega,

How Long Do Cigars Last in Storage?

How long cigars stay smokeable depends almost entirely on storage conditions. A practical guide to what to expect at different RH levels and what happens when conditions fail.

How to Cut a Cigar Without a Cutter: Emergency Techniques

The scenario of being without a cigar cutter can be frustrating for any aficionado. Whether travelling, at an outdoor event, or simply misplacing your usual tool, an un-cut cigar presents a challenge to an otherwise perfect moment. A clean cut is paramount for an optimal draw and to prevent the wrapper from unravelling, ensuring the full flavour profile can be enjoyed. While a dedicated cutter is always recommended, understanding emergency techniques can salvage the experience. An unexpected situation where your cutter is absent can feel like a significant impediment to enjoying your chosen cigar. The absence of a proper cut can lead to an uneven burn, a restricted draw, and a compromised flavour experience. Do not allow this minor setback to diminish your enjoyment. With a degree of resourcefulness, it is possible to prepare your cigar for smoking, even without

Cigar Gifts for Someone Who Actually Knows Cigars

Gift ideas for cigar lovers in Thailand — what works, what to avoid, and how to buy legally imported cigars as a gift.

How to select a cigar