Cigar Fundamentals Archives - Page 6 of 9

Is a Custom Cigar Poker For You?

Posted on April 4, 2021 by Staff

If you’ve ever visited a cigar lounge or cigar event, you’ve probably seen a cigar poker or “nubber.” They kind of resemble a dart or a needle. Some cigar smokers attach them to the nub of the cigar to smoke that last little bit. Cigar pokers range widely in style and price. Yet, many are more art than a cigar accessory. Despite no real market sales data, the popularity of cigar pokers is accelerating.

Cigar Life Guy caught up with Robin Blue of BlueSmokeATL, a leading maker of custom cigar pokers. If you’ve ever considered getting a cigar poker, keep reading. Robin shares what you should look for when shopping for a cigar poker.

What is a Cigar Poker?

Cigar Life Guy (CLG): What is a cigar poker? What are they used for?

Robin Blue (RB): A cigar poker is a cigar accessory that serves two purposes. First, a cigar poker serves as a nubber allowing you to enjoy cigars to the very end without burning or staining your fingers. Second, you can gently slide them into the top of the cigar to loosen the tobacco. They improve the overall draw from your cigar.

CLG: I imagine they are made from a wide variety of materials?

RB: Cigar pokers are made from a variety of materials ranging from beads to glass to gemstones. There are also various levels of quality that define the overall look, feel, and durability of your poker.

Manufactured vs. Handmade Cigar Pokers

CLG: One way to segment the market is by how they are manufactured. There are mass-produced and custom, or bespoke, pokers made individually, correct? What are the key differences between the two types?

RB: Very true. Manufactured pokers typically have very few unique options and a lot of the same designs. What they lack in originality you can save in overall cost. The items adorned on the pokers are not as carefully curated and are usually bought in bulk quantities. The durability is shorter than a quality, luxury, handmade poker.

Handmade crafters select each part of their process. It’s more creative and unique since a business makes each one. The quality standards are higher since someone with a love for craft started the business. It also shows their sense of pride. Handmade cigar pokers can be customized for a personal impact on the consumer. For this reason, handmade pokers are usually more expensive than manufactured ones. Yet, they are also more durable and long-lasting.

CLG: Even within the bespoke segment of cigar pokers, there are many differences in how they are made. Correct?

RB: In the bespoke poker segment, there are several factors that a shopper should look at when buying. First, the overall quality of the work is huge. The materials used in creating a cigar poker are critical. You also must consider what kind of customer service experience is provided. Does it include a guarantee or warranty on craftsmanship? Can the designer offer ideas or recommendations? Can the designer translate the individual’s vision into a beautiful product? You’ll see a wide variation in a designer or brand’s ability to deliver on all these elements.

You Get What You Pay For

CLG: So, should someone totally avoid a $15 cigar poker, or is there a place for that in the marketplace?

RB: There is a place for $15 pokers, but it depends on your budget and how often that you smoke. If you smoke once every six months, then these pokers may work fine in the beginning. Then, you graduate from there. Your pokers usually match the price of your other cigar accessories. The cigar culture purchases a lot of disposable products. And, $15 pokers should be thought of as disposable. It’s similar to disposable lighters. You definitely get what you pay for.

CLG: Who buys cigar pokers?

RB: I have sold cigar pokers to everyone. It’s really a matter of preference. I typically sell more to men than women, but that may be due to the number of men vs. women smokers. And, yes, men use cigar pokers too.

CLG: Are they really art first and function second or do I have that backward?

RB: For BlueSmokeATL, it’s really art first, and then function. We love the artistry and luxury of it all.

Hot Trends in Cigar Poker Customization

CLG: What are some of the most popular customization trends or themes you see on cigar pokers?

RB: Right now I’m seeing a lot of interest in cigar clubs, fraternities and sororities, sports teams or sport-themed, and hobbies. Really, anything that makes a personal statement about you and your personal journey is a hot theme. The only limitation is your imagination and creativity.

BlueSmokeATL

CLG: Tell me about your business: BlueSmokeATL.

RB: BlueSmokeATL is a timeless collection of carefully curated cigar pokers. The name is a play on my last name, Blue. I started the business in 2019. We offer unique cigar pokers to compliment your ability to smoke in style. We offer exclusive custom designs as well. Our elaborate and high-quality designs have catered to every type of smoker from beginner to aficionado.

One of our core missions at BlueSmokeATL is to make our brand as inclusive, diverse, fun, and accessible as possible. We pride ourselves on our quality pieces and excellent customer service. Our pieces are sure to add the “Wow” factor to your current smoking accessories.

We have an online and retail presence to engage with our fans and consumers. BlueSmokeATL is also owned by a woman of color.

For more information on BlueSmokeATL you can check out:

BlueSmokeATL.com

ETSY

Instagram

Disclosure: From time to time, Cigar Life Guy will highlight innovative businesses in the cigar community. This is not an advertisement. Cigar Life Guy is not affiliated with BlueSmokeATL. It receives no compensation for any products sold or referred by this article, nor is it responsible for any purchases made.

Photo credit: BlueSmokeATL

How Cigar Shapes and Sizes Affect Your Smoke

Posted on March 27, 2021 by Staff

Every cigar lover has a favorite type of cigar, from a standard corona to a beefy Churchill. There’s something to love and appreciate about different cigar shapes and sizes. What some might not know is that there are some key differences between each that make each style of smoke a unique experience.

Vitolas is the term that refers to cigar shapes and sizes, and cigars will smoke differently depending on which one you pick. So, we came up with a list of ten different styles of cigars and how they differ. If you want to branch out from your favorites or try something new, use this as a resource to get started.

Two things primarily determine the style of a cigar: the length and the ring gauge.

The Cigar Length

This is pretty self-explanatory, but the length of the cigar determines how long of smoke it is. The baseline for the length of a standard cigar is around 5-5 ½ inches.

The Ring Gauge

A ring gauge is essentially the circumference or fatness of your cigar. A fatter cigar has more tobacco in it so you can expect a stronger flavor from the blend of tobacco used.

Conversely, a thinner cigar has less tobacco which means the wrapper has more of an impact on the taste. This makes it interesting to compare different sizes of the same blend of a cigar to note the differences. You may find you enjoy one size more than another.

The Corona

Corona is pretty much the benchmark for a standard full-size cigar. You can expect a clean and even burn that will last a fair amount of time when smoking one. The ring gauge on one of these is between 42 and 44.

If you were introducing a friend to their first “real cigar” this would be the size to go with, not too small to end the experience quickly, but not such a stogie that they become overwhelmed.

The Mareva

A slightly smaller cigar, also known as a “petite corona” at 4 1/2 inches and a ring gauge of 40 to 42, this one won’t smoke as long as a standard corona but is still a decent size.

You can expect the wrapper to play more of a role in the flavor of one of these due to the tighter ring gauge. If you were wanting to enjoy a quick smoke, in-between activities, this is a good option.

The Churchill

Now we’re moving up to the big boys. The Churchill is a slightly longer and fatter friend of the corona. The Churchill cigar received its name after the famous prime minister, Winston Churchill. Churchill smoked upwards of 300,000 of these cigars during his lifetime.

At 7 inches long and with a 47-52 ring gauge, you’re looking at a good beefy smoke with lots of flavors. A Churchill is probably not ideal as an amateur’s first smoke, but once you graduate to one of these bad boys, you’ll likely never look back.

The Robusto

A true fat boy, the Robusto is 5 inches long with a ring gauge of between 50 and 54, these cigars pack a ton of flavor into a relatively short length. You can expect a full-bodied flavor when smoking one of these.

While the shorter length means you won’t get as long of a burn, the size of the smoke means you’re guaranteed the full flavor of the tobacco blends used. These are a good replacement for a corona if you want a richer experience.

The Toro

Another of the big boys, and slightly longer than a Robusto at 6 inches, with a ring gauge between 50 and 54 as well, a Toro is a good choice when you want a longer smoking stogie.

These are on the larger end for cigars packing plenty of flavor into their bulging frame, a must for fans of bulky cigars.

The Gordo

The true big boy of the bunch, Gordo’s sport a massive 60 ring gauge and can range in length from 6 to 7 inches. If you’re a fan of a fat cigar, then you’re looking at the biggest out there.

These are great for a full-bodied flavor where the taste of the tobacco leaves an impression. Even if you’re not a fan of the beefier varieties, you should try one of these at least once.

The Double Corona

You could easily call the double Corona an “all day smoke.” It’s almost double the length of a standard corona. So, you can expect to smoke this one for a while. It also has a bit more thickness to it with a ring gauge of 49 to 52.

This is the perfect golf course cigar. These pack in tons of flavor while giving you something to relax with in-between holes. If you like to kick back with a nice long smoke, you can’t go wrong with one of these.

The Lancero

Lancero’s are a bit on the slender side, with a ring gauge of just 38, but at a length of 7 1/2 inches, gives you a decently long smoke. You could call them a “gentleman’s cigar” with the thin profile, a Lancero gives you the full experience of the wrapper and the tobacco while being long enough to enjoy.

If you’re not a fan of the beefier varieties, a Lancero is a good choice for the selective cigar smoker.

The Lonsdale

The Lonsdale is another contender for the “typical” cigar. It’s about an inch longer than a corona and has a 42 ring gauge. Smoking gives you a nice balanced flavor between tobacco and wrapper.

This is a good second option if you’re looking for an introductory cigar to give out to people that are new to the lifestyle and want to try a “real cigar”.

The Pyramid

These carry a distinctive taper to the head. The cut foot squares off. The pyramid is a bit longer than the standard corona or Lonsdale with a length of 6-7 inches. The ring gauge will also vary due to the taper with a low of 40 at the head and 54 at the foot.

The unique thing about pyramid-style cigars is the experience from the head to the foot. The foot is thicker and packed with more tobacco. This gives you get a richer flavor towards the back end of the cigar. Definitely, one that you grow to enjoy more the longer you smoke.

The Perfecto

The true stogie is a Perfecto with a tapered and slightly rounded head. It has a fat middle and a closed foot. They range in length between 4 1/2 to 9 inches with the standard length sitting somewhere in the middle, giving you plenty to enjoy, and the ring gauge varies from head to foot from 38 to 48.

The perfecto is aptly named because it strikes the perfect balance between a light beginning, a heavier middle, and a smooth end. You’ll get the full experience of the wrapper, the tobacco blend, and a smooth and even burn if you smoke one of these, making it a great all-around smoke.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a cigar lover, you likely have favorites that you stick to. Yet, branching out a bit with different styles can enhance the experience, including how your cigar tastes. Sampling different cigar shapes and sizes offer ample smoking experiences. For some, this includes discovering their favorite cigar brand tastes better in a different style. If nothing else, it’s worth exploring what the different cigar shapes and sizes offer in terms of the taste experience.

Photo credit: epcarillio.com

What’s Special About Premium Cigars?

Posted on March 13, 2021 by Staff

Ask the average person the difference between a machine-pressed cigar and a quality premium cigar. The only answer you’ll likely get is the price. Sure, the price does differ, but the cost is not the only thing that makes a cigar a premium cigar. A one-dollar stick has a different taste because everything about it is different. Those who live the cigar lifestyle know these differences. There are differences in the process, the materials, the packaging, and the flavor. However, you may not know why the top cigars are all premium cigars.

The Mechanics of It All

We all know that the process of hand-rolling premium cigars gives them their quality. The reason for this comes down to the process. Factory or machine-pressed cigars result in lower quality due to mass production. It’s impossible to ensure that every machine-made cigar in a batch of thousands will have the same consistent quality. Even if the materials are superb, large batches are prone to errors, and quality assurance is non-existent.

The very nature of a hand-rolled cigar makes it of higher quality. A human being rolls and wraps each cigar before finishing it. Hand-rolling adds a built-in method of quality assurance. Any roller worth their salt will ensure that each cigar is as good as it can be.

The Materials Make the Difference

Most cigar enthusiasts know that premium cigars also use better tobacco leaves. The truth is, everything about the tobacco in premium cigars is better. For one, the leaves run the entire length of the cigar, which distributes the flavor throughout the cigar from the first drag to the last. Beyond the size of the leaves, they are all harvested and sourced from the same relative place.

Cuban cigars are good international cigars because of the unique flavor of Cuban-grown tobacco. However, tobacco is a delicate plant that takes work to grow. Therefore, each region that produces quality cigars grows its own tobacco; This includes niche products such as limited-run artisanal cigars and miniatures like cigarillos and jr cigars.

Machine-pressed cigars often use mass-produced, low-quality filler tobacco. The tobacco gets chopped and made into the filler. Unfortunately, this also usually includes stalks and other scraps to fill the cigars. These parts of the tobacco plant can lead to a bitter, undesirable taste. Cutting, of course, saves money and keeps the cigars less expensive by volume.

You will not find a machine-pressed cigar created from higher-grade tobacco. The cost of raising the crop often presents a barrier to this. Certain varieties are challenging to tend to or are only grown in small batches by local farms. The cost and resources to mass-produce these would be astronomical and not worth the effort for a stick that only costs a buck or two.

The Wrappings of Premium Cigars

Part of the handmade process involves wrapping and oiling the cigar. Premium cigars that are hand wrapped are wrapped tight and even from end to end. The wrapping is usually oiled to keep it smooth and to give it a little gloss. The purposes of this process are twofold. One, it provides the cigar with a distinct look. You can always tell a hand-rolled premium cigar by the wrapping. A premium cigar will look glossier and professionally wrapped. The second purpose is for the cigar to burn even when smoked. Eliminating these plant materials ensures smooth and clean smoke all the way through. The wrapper is also all-natural in a premium cigar which is a benefit over machine-pressed cigars and cigarettes.

Machine-pressed cigars are not glossy. Therefore, their wrapping also needs to be tight and smooth. You can tell this immediately by the dull appearance of the cigar. In addition, the tobacco of a loosely wrapped cigar does not hold together well, which leads to a poorer smoke. Worse yet, the wrappers in many machine-pressed cigars are not all-natural due to the cost of materials. Sourcing filler tobacco is easy enough, but putting tobacco in the wrapping to mass-produce cigars is tricky and inefficient.

Let It Age a Bit

Much like a fine wine or a vintage car, age factors into the quality of a cigar. Many premium tobaccos age to achieve a particularly rich or full flavor. A good premium cigar will taste better over time, so long as you store it at the right temperature and humidity in a good humidor.

Unlike cigarette tobacco, which decays over time due to chemicals and other fillers, cigar tobacco can and does age well if stored correctly; This is different for mass-production cigars. Tobacco for these cigars doesn’t age. Instead, it is picked, bagged, and chopped. Then, it becomes the cigar filler. The flavor profile takes two things into account: tobacco variety and growing location. Yet, the other part of the profile is the aging process. Not allowing the tobacco to age in machine-pressed cigars leaves a mellower flavor.

Premium Cigars for a Reason

The difference between factory-made and authentic premium cigars may only sometimes be evident. Still, for cigar lovers, the difference is noticeable. From start to finish, premium cigars are simply the best cigars. Everything is superior in a premium cigar, whether it’s the production, materials, or wrapping.

Photo credit: “Owner of Gentlemen’s Breakfast, Van de la Plante,” by Tim Mossholder, Unsplash

Smoking Double: Barbeque and Cigars Go Together

Posted on February 27, 2021 by Staff

For centuries man has smoked cigars and for centuries he has also smoked meat. When did the two activities first get paired together? No one knows. One thing is certain, though: barbeque and cigars pair well. Many cigar smokers enjoy a good barbeque and many backyard barbeque fans enjoy a good cigar, even if they only smoke cigars occasionally.

Meet Barbeque & Smoke

Cigar Life Guy had a chance to meet up with a D.C. area Brother of the Leaf, Mac Bostic. Bostic and his partner Donnis Roberts are the founders of Barbeque & Smoke, a venture that combines barbeque-related items and cigars in a curated box that delivers to your home on a regular basis. Here is a bit of the conversation:

CLG: What is Barbeque & Smoke?

B&S: Barbeque & Smoke is a monthly subscription business developed for lovers of the leaf, barbeque specialists, and people who are always looking for a change or something different for their palate and senses.

CLG: How did you decide to turn this into a business?

B&S: We have had two distinct interests. Donnis is a wizard with sauces and rubs. I enjoy a variety of cigars. We both enjoy the fact that when people grill, they seem to find time to have a good smoke. Over time, after trying D’s sauce and rubs, I asked if he thought about putting the items together. We talked about it and researched it. No other retailers provided this combination even though the items are consumed together frequently.

We tested our concept of cigars paired with barbeque-related treats with our friends and family and they received it well. Yvonne and Yvette Rodriguez, owners of Tres Lindas Cubanas were extremely helpful with us being able to launch our brand Barbeque & Smoke and release our initial box. Since then, we haven’t looked back! We’re blessed to continue moving forward under the mentorship of Yvonne and Yvette Rodriguez as well as Mike “Cigar Mike” Bennett.

Barbeque and Cigars in One Package

CLG: What does the box of Barbeque and Smoke include?

B&S: The box has premium cigars, barbeque sauce, rub, chocolates, vegan cookies, scented candles, and a cigar poker. As a cigar guy, I knew cigars paired well with chocolates, so I found a chocolate maker who used 100% chocolate. The vegan cookies were just plain good so they went well, too.

CLG: A big part of any subscription service is the curation. What’s your approach to curation for the boxes in general and in particular the cigars you include?

B&S: The subscription contents change monthly so our family of customers gets to vary their senses of taste, touch, and smell every month. We made connections with many cigar companies from boutique brands to some of the larger companies. We also attempt to place five cigars of varying flavors and strength in each box. Finally, we include fantastic chocolate, different vegan cookies, and wonderful aromatic candles. Our master sauce maker custom designs the sauce and rub for each month. You will not receive anything like it anywhere on the market.

CLG: What surprised you the most as you’ve launched Barbeque and Smoke?

B&S: We’re thrilled with the way the cigar community came together. It has supported our product and provided information and products to enhance our subscription box. The cigar community is truly amazing. The relationships we have made thus far are also amazing. Yvonne Rodriguez and Cigar Mike mentored us, which was an honor. They kept us on the correct path during this journey.

Relaxation is Central to Barbeque and Cigars

CLG: Why do barbequing and smoking cigars go so well together?

B&S: There is a relaxation that you find when you are barbequing and the soft scent of smoke wafts across your nose. Most barbeque chefs work hard over the smoker or grill and take in the aroma and flavors of the meat. Once they finish their labor, they want to relax from their hard work, not just sit down and eat. The best thing to do is have a good smoke. Some even add a favorite adult beverage. Cigar smoking is a relaxing event that you can share. While the grills and smokers are cooling off, the cook can cool down as well.

CLG: I know this a loaded, final question but what’s your favorite type of barbeque?

B&S: I’m a beef guy! Give me beef ribs, brisket, and steaks. My partner Donnis is more of a chicken and beef ribs guy.

There you have it. Barbeque and cigars do make a great pair and provide for a good, relaxing time. It’s one more reason to fire up the grill and grab your favorite stick.

If you’re interested in learning more about Barbeque & Smoke, you can check them out here:

Email: info@barbeque-and-smoke.com

Website: Barbeque-and-Smoke.com

Facebook: Barbeque & Smoke

Instagram: BarbequeandSmoke

Disclaimer: From time-to-time Cigar Life Guy will highlight innovative businesses in the cigar community because they may be of interest to the CLG reader. This is not an advertisement. Cigar Life Guy receives no compensation from the sale of any B&S products. Cigar Life Guy is not responsible for any items ordered from B&S.

Photo credit: Barbeque & Smoke

Bourbon and Cigars: The Perfect Combination

Posted on February 14, 2021 by Staff

A good pairing of bourbon and cigars pairing is the right way to end a long and stressful day. That much, we all know. Whether you’re relaxing on the deck or watching a game, a good smoke paired with a nice, single malt or rum cocktail is always a winner. Although scotch and rum are great choices, don’t overlook a good American bourbon.

Scotch and bourbon are both excellent forms of whiskey. The former is Scottish and the latter is American. Yet, there are distinct differences in the distillation process, materials used, and the overall flavor. That makes choosing one over the other important choice for any cigar aficionado. Pair an Ashton ESG with a swig of Gentleman Jack for a full-bodied flavor with a hint of warmth and spice, for example.

Much like with the rise of infused cigars, the right flavor combination is essential when pairing a drink with a smoke. The reason certain drinks and cigars work well is that the flavors complement each other. Understanding which drinks and cigars pair best is key to a rich, cigar-smoking session you’ll never forget.

Why Bourbon Works

There’s a distinct reason why certain spirits work with cigars and why others don’t. Generally, the rule is, the more full-bodied the cigar flavor, the more full-bodied the drink you should pair with it. This is precisely why spirits like vodka and gin are poor pairings for cigars. The taste of even a medium cigar completely overpowers the taste of most clear spirits like vodka.

Even flavored varieties of some alcohol don’t pair well with most cigars because the alcohol lacks smoothness or leaves an undesirable burn or aftertaste. This is why rum often pairs well with true Cuban cigars. The flavors match each other.

Similar to the variety and age of tobacco in finer cigars, the aging process and ingredients of bourbon produce unique flavors that complement cigar smoking. For instance, pairing a Padron 1964 with a swig of Knob Creek goes down smoothly. Yet, the subtle sweetness and earthy spices of the Padron 1964 also perfectly complement the woody flavors in Knob Creek bourbon. Vanilla vodka and peach schnapps just can’t provide the same combination.

Finding the Right Bourbon and Cigars Pairing

Pairing your favorite cigar with the right bourbon is as much about your own personal taste as it is the experience. To know what goes well together you need to fully understand the flavors in the bourbon and the cigar.

To think of it as food, you wouldn’t put fish sauce on a T-bone. In the same way, you wouldn’t mix a smooth and easy-burning Cohiba with a shot of Jim Beam. For cigars, it’s mostly about the flavors the tobacco and wrapper bring into the mix. For bourbon, there’s the entire distillation process.

Bourbon is made from many more ingredients than a cigar, namely corn, barley, rye, and for milder varieties, wheat. This gives every bourbon coming off the line a distinct flavor profile with different hints of this or that to consider.

It’s much the same as Cuban tobacco differs from Nicaraguan or Dominican tobacco. Each brand of bourbon changes the ratio of ingredients, additives, distillation time, and other factors. The final result produces a unique blend and taste for you to enjoy.

Ideas for Pairing Bourbon and Cigars

You’ll find that the most exquisite cigars have an equally complex flavor profile. One example is a medium-bodied Nicaraguan San Cristobal Revelation, which has a woody flavor like cedar or oak. In this case, the ideal pairing will have complimentary notes of sweetness. The slight hints of vanilla and caramel found in a bottle of Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon are a great accompaniment to a San Cristobal. For a slightly different taste, Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon with its hints of toffee and honey balances earthy or woody flavors.

Full-bodied cigars that offer a blend of spice, leather, and wood, and a hint of sweetness from the wrapper, are more at home with a sweeter finishing bourbon. A full-bodied Honduran specialty like a Rocky Patel compares well with a glass of Wild Turkey or Jim Beam. The flavors of vanilla, toffee, and caramel complement the cayenne kick and mahogany finish of a Rocky Patel.

Conclusion

Sometimes finding the right pairing takes a bit of trial and error. It’s much like learning to savor a good cigar. Finding the right bourbon and cigars pairing is a process. It’s similar to swirling the smoke from a cigar around in your mouth to really taste the distinct flavor of the tobacco. The same is true for bourbon.

The best way to find the right pairing of bourbon and cigars is to slowly taste the drink. Take note of the different flavors that comprise the bourbon. When you savor and enjoy every sip, you’ll find the right pairing and gain a broader appreciation for the right combination.

Image Credit: Unsplash

How to Host Your First Cigar Party

Posted on January 30, 2021 by Staff

Celebrities, athletes, and politicians know there’s nothing better than a good cigar. Nothing makes a good cigar better than the good company you keep. Despite popular belief about stuffy cigar lounges, there are many ways to enjoy a good cigar and camaraderie together. Even celebrities understand this and a cigar party.

Cigar parties are more than just about cigars. Although, that is part of it. They are also about the people…the fellowship of great conversations over equally great smokes. The Governator himself made many friends thanks to his regular cigar parties. He also found many kindred spirits among the people he invited. Several of those same friends are now lifelong cigar lovers. The idea is less of a party atmosphere and more of a gathering of like-minded individuals.

Determine the Type of Gathering

Putting together a cigar party doesn’t need to be a big Hollywood affair. Yet, you’ll probably want to plan the correct type of gathering for the people involved. So, first, decide who you’re going to invite.

A cigar party also doesn’t need to be lavish or exclusive. Yet, it’s much more than a celebratory smoke after a promotion at work or the birth of a new grandchild. Instead, it should be a gathering of friends who enjoy cigars in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Even a new or casual smoker can enjoy a cigar party with the right people involved.

Once you’ve nailed down the guest list, it’s time to pick a date and location. Friday nights after work are perfect for getting together and winding down over a good smoke. The important thing is that it’s convenient for all guests.

Enjoying a fine cigar does not need to be a stressful affair. Relaxing and sharing the latest news and stories with friends is an excellent source of enjoyment for all. Host a cigar party over a game of poker if you want something with a bit more flair or activity. Or, combine it with some premium scotch.

Choose the Right Locale

You don’t have to roll out the red carpet for your cigar party, but you should choose the right room in your house for the gathering. Most times, a den or “man cave” works well. Another option is to set up in the basement and allow everyone to enjoy themselves without worrying about the rest of the house. The dining room will do fine if you’re going for a poker night. The most important thing is that everyone is comfortable with smoking in your home. Eliminate the hassle by choosing a room where everyone can sit in comfort.

Set Up Your Cigar Party

Once you know who, when, and where, you can start to prepare the what. A good host will provide everything a cigar smoker needs to enjoy a smoke. You don’t have to break out the premium hand-rolled Cubans for a cigar party, but having a box of good quality cigars available for your guests will make you a good host. Besides providing cigars, guests will also need cutters, ashtrays, and lighters. Having all the tools of the trade will make the experience much better for everyone involved.

If the gathering runs longer than a couple of hours, it is advisable to provide refreshments. However, you don’t need Gordon Ramsey to cook a meal for your guests. Instead, keep it simple by setting out finger foods or light snacks for everyone to enjoy.

Cocktails are another excellent suggestion. If your gathering is already centered around alcohol, such as Scotch tasting, you’ll already be covered. However, if you don’t have beverages built into the party, provide a bottle or two of everyone’s preferred drink. Alternatively, asking guests to bring something of their preference is acceptable. It’s also OK to invite guests to chip in on the content of the cigar party, especially if you’re making it a regular occurrence.

Themes for a Recurring Cigar Party

If you’re planning on creating a regular cigar party encounter, schedule a theme for each party. Having a theme doesn’t mean having your guests dress in costume and pretend to solve murder mysteries. Simply put, it means picking an agenda for the evening; This might include having everyone try a new brand or flavor of the cigar. Or, you might want to theme a cigar party around comparing a light or mild domestic cigar with a premium heavy cigar.

Still, another option to consider is to create a combination event. Combining poker with cigars is natural and often quite enjoyable, even for a casual smoker; This offers an excellent experience for new cigar smokers. It also helps them become acquainted with the different strengths of cigar flavors. After all, a cigar party is more about inclusion than exclusion.

Cigar Party vs. Cigar Lounge

The atmosphere is the big reason for hosting a cigar party over going to a cigar bar or lounge. Cigar bars and lounges are businesses. They operate in a way that is not inviting to all cigar enthusiasts. The crowds, age ranges, or experience levels that a lounge caters to are sometimes off-putting to some. The exclusive, sometimes stuffy atmosphere might feel uncomfortable as well.

There is often an assumption that cigar smokers only love the finer things in life. While this is true, it is not the only way to enjoy a cigar lifestyle. Cigar lovers may also know how to roll with the punches and have a good time with friends. Hosting a cigar party at home is a great way to enjoy the company of friends and the flavor of a great cigar. It also helps eliminate the headaches that accompany going to a cigar bar. That includes paying for overpriced drinks and dealing with people outside your social circle.

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Lancero Cigars: Elegant Cigars for Distinguished Palates

Posted on January 3, 2021 by Staff

David Bowie’s nickname was the “Thin White Duke” for a reason. Like David Bowie, Lancero cigars are also thin and noble in stature and deserve the recognition of every serious cigar smoker. The trend towards large, brawny ring gauges continues to be embraced by cigar makers. However, Lanceros remain the distinguished smoker’s cigar of choice.

What is a Lancero?

The Spanish word “Lanceros” translates to “lancers,” and is evocative of the lances that horse-mounted knights used. Long and slender, the official Cuban cigar factory dimensions are a ring gauge of 38 and 7 ½ inches long. Cigarillos are small but not thin cigars. Panatelas, according to classification, encompass ALL thin cigars, which include Lanceros. However, only a gran (long) panatela is considered a Lancero.

When Did Lancero Cigars Become Popular?

Lancero cigars are somewhat similar in proportions to a cigarette. However, they have not been around as long. Lanceros are relatively new and were a creation specifically made for Fidel Castro in 1960. In fact, these El Laguito Number 1 cigars came into being shortly after the Cohiba brand became established. Such was their demand that Castro commissioned the Cohiba Trinidad. The Lanceros then became a much sought-after trophy cigar only used for diplomatic gifting.

Imitation is the Most Sincere Form of Flattery.

Cigar giant Davidoff was the first major producer to follow in Cohiba’s footsteps and continue to make Lanceros after moving from Cuba to the Dominican Republic. For decades, they were the only non-Cuban producer to continue with Lanceros in their portfolio. Today, as tastes continue to favor the larger ring gauges of big smokes, only a few elite brands offer the traditional Lancero.

How Do Lancero Cigars Smoke?

Size does make the difference, and Lanceros are the polar opposites of their big gauged brethren such as Torpedoes and Churchills. With the larger cigars, the flavor is produced by a significant amount of filler. Therefore, producers must pay careful attention to the tobacco blend. With Lanceros, the wrapper is the most important component, since there is little filler to overpower it.

You Get What You Pay For

The one complaint with Lanceros is they often become “plugged” or hard to draw because of their construction. This is why most lounges or retail outlets only carry the best producers who pay careful attention to build and proper storage. It also means that Lanceros can be expensive.

Taste Says it All

True connoisseurs want to taste the tobacco and know about the farm or Finca from where it came. And, that’s who you’ll find enjoying the Lanceros most often. The wrapper’s taste is the tobacco leaf in its purest form. Some of the newer, top producers like Alec Bradley and Oliva have offered Lanceros as an expression of the quality and purity of their tobacco and wrapper combinations. Carlos Fuente Jr. says the Lanceros offers the best size of cigars that Fuente makes. Additionally, he favors the Opus X Lancero, primarily due to the purity of its flavor.

True Aficionados Love Lancero Cigars

For many cigar makers and smokers with distinguished palates, the Lancero is the cigar of choice. Some feel the size tends toward “effeminate”– they have been the occasional cigar of choice by Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna. However, you can also spot country singer Brad Paisley with them, and claiming their size doesn’t affect his singing as much. Even though celebrities may make certain cigars seem trendy, one thing is certain – the classics are here to stay, and Lanceros are true classics.

Photo credit: Fox Cigar/foxcigar.com

Cigar Lounge Membership: Is It a Good Deal?

Posted on December 27, 2020 by Staff

Famous comedian and cigar lover Groucho Marx once said, “I don’t want to belong to any club that will accept me as a member.” Yet, with the complete benefits packages offered by either a public or private cigar lounge membership for the avid smoker, Groucho might have reconsidered.

Cigar Lounge Membership Benefits

For an annual fee, the best cigar lounges offer a relaxing environment for you to smoke in style. A key feature of most memberships is not paying “cutting fees” to smoke cigars (you can bring your own vs. buying from the humidor). Memberships solve the dilemma for retailers that need revenue but also understand many cigar smokers like to enjoy sticks purchased elsewhere. Climate-controlled private lockers allow you to safely store your daily cigars or the rare trophies saved for a special occasion. Lounges have a way of becoming a home away from home. Excellent ventilation systems make them an ideal place when it’s too cold to smoke in your backyard.

How to Enjoy the Cigar Lounge Lifestyle

True aficionados already have a home humidor to store their favorite smokes safely. A membership with a cigar locker means you can pop in and listen to some killer new music or watch a game without leaving a lingering stench in your improperly ventilated home. Ideally, stored cigars mean lighting up is easy, with no concern about dried-out or exploded tips. The lounge vibe is essential; you need to feel comfortable if you are the only person smoking or when the place is packed.

Cigar Lounge Membership Privileges

In addition to perfect storage, most lounges offer significant discounts on retail products, including hard-to-find cigars and new releases. Some clubs allow you to store a bottle of cognac or your spirit of choice for sipping or purchase a bottle of liquor at a discounted rate, depending on local regulations. Exclusive invitations to sold-out, cigar-friendly events always go to members first.

Cigar Lounge Friendships

One of the most significant reasons for membership is the ability to interact with other cigar lovers. There is no better way to broaden your smoking palate than by trading and sharing cigars with other members. Cigar smoking is a very social enterprise. Dying to try that new box-pressed cigar? Curious about that trendy European cigarillo? Share what’s in your locker.

What’s in it for the lounge?

Cigar lounge owners work hard to keep their members happy. Loyal members typically take advantage of retail discounts, which means the opportunity to expand product offerings to a target-rich audience. Membership fees also create a regular recurring revenue stream for owners and, at launch, can provide an owner with a nice short-term cash flow bump. Happy members invite new members. Nothing begets success like a packed club, and celebrity sightings are common. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, among others, have lockers in the high-end Grand Havana Room in Los Angeles.

Cigar Lounge Membership Cost

Much like a gym membership, you typically pay monthly. Most memberships are less than a thousand dollars yearly, with many under five hundred per year, but elite clubs may charge ten times that amount. The cost varies considerably based on local market demand and geography. Like the gym, it only makes sense if you use it. So, location is a crucial factor.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Deciding if a membership is worth the cost is an individual decision. For many, regular membership pays for itself in a few months, mainly when you visit regularly. If you want to bring your cigars (avoiding cut fees) or the establishment allows you to buy liquor at discounted rates, the savings represent one of the best deals a cigar smoker can find. Conversely, it might not be a good deal if you don’t think you’ll often go to the place, even if it is relatively inexpensive. You’d be financially ahead by paying full price when you visit. The best advice is to visit a few times and determine if you like the place and whether you could make it a second home before shelling out the membership fee. If you do, then visit often and enjoy!

Editors note: Membership features will vary significantly at every establishment, as will the costs and billing practices. In addition, some features, including alcohol, are unavailable in some areas due to local laws. This is meant to provide an overview of what typical memberships entail. Before joining, ensure you understand a cigar lounge membership’s costs, features, and rules.

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Cigarillos Are More Than Just Small Cigars

Posted on December 13, 2020 by Staff

When you think of a cigarillo, often the image that comes to mind is Clint Eastwood chewing on a tiny cheroot. Or a distinguished cigar slightly bigger than a cigarette carried in an exquisite silver case, a la James Bond. Whatever you envisage, there is more to cigarillos than meets the eye!

Where Did Cigarillos Originate?

The literal Spanish translation of “cigarillo” is “little cigar.” Given Spain’s early domination of the cigar market, it is assumed that cigarillos were a Spanish invention. The first recorded mention of a cigarillo was in the 1830s. Their real popularity didn’t catch on until almost a century later. Then, rules were enforced to ensure they were hand-rolled and maintained specific size and shape ratios.

The Golden Age of Cigarillos

The influx of European blockbusters hit American cinemas in the 1950s. Then, the American cigar-smoking public fell in love with the jaunty, quick little smokes featured on screen. They enjoyed tremendous popularity in Europe, particularly among the working class who smoked one during a lunch break. Their popularity waned in the 1960s through the 1980s, though. This was mostly due to aggressive American cigarette industry marketing campaigns.

Are Cigarillos Made Different From Cigars?

Today, cigarillo makers create these little smokes, most often using machines. The cigars of many leading brands feature an all-tobacco wrapper. However, these same cigars may also contain up to 25% cellulose in their homogenized binder. Although purists often scoff at the homogenized binder, it provides a more even burn when lit. It also is what makes cigarillos a very cost-effective smoke! While there are no specifics for the size and shape, typical cigarillos are between three and four inches long. They also offer a slight taper, not to be confused with torpedoes.

Can You Taste the Difference?

Because of their small size, cigarillos offer a perfect, quick smoke. In fact, they are often flavored and used as an after-dinner “snack” in lieu of dessert. Henri Winterman’s Café Crème cigarillo is one of the top-selling brands in the world. Duty-free airport shops often feature it. In the United States, Swisher Sweets have been a longtime favorite. They are often featured in TV Westerns and on the big screen as the smoke of choice by gruff leading men.

The Renaissance of Little Smokes

High-end smoking lounges are embracing these little trophy cigars. Many cigar smokers enjoy the ability to smoke several little treats for the same time it would take to smoke a massive Churchill! Better production from smaller, independent cigar makers has been at the forefront of the cigarillos’ popularity in the States. Europe, however, remains the top-selling market, with almost 45% of cigars sold in Belgium alone being cigarillos.

Cigarillos Are Growing in Popularity

Cigarillos have captured a fast-growing segment of the cigar-smoking population: female smokers. With pop superstars like Rihanna and Shakira seen smoking them, it’s not hard to see why. The advent of flavored cigarillos has become quite popular as options at bachelorette parties and weddings. They offer a sort of his and her option for those who want a lighter, flavored smoke. The quality and consistency continue to improve, carving out more space and certainty for these little smokes. Cigarillos will continue to occupy a prominent niche in the cigar market for cigar lovers wanting a quick, easy smoke.

Photo credit: Fox Cigars

The Advent of the Best Torpedo Cigars

Posted on November 22, 2020 by Staff

There is a relevant quote from the cult classic “The Princess Bride” when it comes to Torpedo cigars; “You keep using that word… I don’t think it means what you think it means.” Retail stores and cigar lounges often refer to cigars as Torpedoes when they are something else. In fact, one of the most beloved Torpedoes and best-selling Cuban cigars, the Montecristo Number 2, is NOT a Torpedo. It’s a Piramide.

What are Torpedo cigars?

Most smokers see a cigar with a tapered end and assume it is a Torpedo cigar. More often than not, it is a Belicoso or a Piramide. According to technical specifications, a true Torpedo should have a closed foot, a slight bulge in the middle, and taper to a rounded point at the head. The length should be 6 1/8” with a gauge of 52. Because of these specifications, true Torpedo cigars are hard to find, even in some of the best-stocked cigar lounges.

But How Do They Smoke?

The genius behind the Torpedo’s shape is the channel that concentrates the cigar’s flavor towards the narrow tip. The typically larger ring gauge allows the blender to experiment with a more broad range of tobaccos. The result? A trophy cigar that packs the flavor of a large cigar, but smokes like a much smaller one. True aficionados will notice that the unique draw can result in a different smoking experience, even among cigars from the same line.

Measure twice; cut once.

The point which draws all the flavor requires a very delicate cut. Some folks cut too deeply, essentially destroying the purpose of the cigar’s design. A guillotine cut taking off the very tip is the most preferred method for a proper smoking experience. A punch cut, the preferred method for box-pressed cigars, can be very tricky and runs the risk of damaging the cap and causing excessive peeling. One popular method is a guillotine cut done at a 45 degree, downward angle. The idea is to take the already concentrated draw and channel it downward towards the palate.

Torpedo Cigars Rate Highly

Cigar critics love Torpedoes. The 2019 Cigar Aficionado Cigar of the Year was the Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Maestro, a box-pressed Torpedo. In 2017, half of the Top fifteen cigars were Torpedoes. Ratings aside, they still don’t always find their way into humidors. Because of the difficulty in properly rolling, boxing, and transporting Torpedoes, they tend to be more expensive. The selling point of having the flavor concentrated in a longer smoke often leads to the quandary of too much of a good thing is exactly that!

Torpedoes Are Starting to Surface

While they have been slow to be embraced within Cuban factories, distinguished brands like Oliva, Rocky Patel, and My Father’s Cigars have created Torpedo cigars with a significant appeal. LeBron James has posted numerous Instagram images of him smoking Torpedoes, favoring the Yaxel Ortiz Y.O. Robert Downey Jr. has been photographed enjoying a My Father’s Le Bijou 1922 while filming on the Avengers set. Cigar lover Rihanna provided the seed capital for her brother’s cigar company Legado, which prominently features both a traditional and a box-pressed Torpedo. There is no denying the link between celebrity enjoyment of Torpedo cigars, and their inevitable inclusion in home collections.

Photo credit: Cigar.com