How to buy a cigar

Today we talk about How to buy a cigar.

Entering the world of cigars can be exhilarating yet overwhelming. My initial confusion gave way to excitement as I unraveled the complexities of how to buy a cigar. With over 2.5 billion cigars sold in the U.S. annually, understanding your choices is key to selecting the right one. Whether I’m looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a quiet evening, I’ve learned that the right cigar elevates the experience.

Step 1: Research the Options

The first thing I did was research cigar options available in the market. I specifically focused on brands like Padron and Arturo Fuente, which consistently score above 90 in reviews from cigar enthusiasts. Websites like Cigar Aficionado provide annual rankings of the top cigars, which guided my selection process effectively.

Things You Should Do

1. Introduce Yourself & Say Hello

My first visit to a cigar shop taught me the value of forging connections. When I introduced myself, the staff quickly welcomed me and offered a wealth of knowledge. Establishing rapport not only made me feel comfortable but also opened the door to personalized recommendations tailored to my tastes.

2. Ask Questions

Asking questions took my cigar-buying experience to the next level. I remember asking, “Which cigars pair well with coffee?” The staff enthusiastically shared that medium-bodied cigars often complement coffee’s richness. Engaging in these conversations helped me curate my selections better.

3. Ask If Smoking Is Permitted

Before I lit up my first cigar in the store, I made sure to ask about their smoking policy. I’ve found that many shops allow smoking in designated areas or lounges. Knowing this in advance prevented any potential awkwardness on my part and ensured an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

4. Pay for Your Cigar Before Cutting and Lighting It

One crucial piece of etiquette is to pay before cutting or lighting my cigar. This policy is common in most shops, and it respects the establishment’s rules. Paying upfront allows for a more pleasant experience, minimizing disruptions for both staff and fellow patrons.

5. Be Courteous & Patient

Years of shopping have taught me that courtesy and patience are vital. I found that being respectful to staff and other customers often resulted in better service and sometimes even exclusive recommendations that aren’t available to the general public.

Things You Shouldn’t Do

1. Avoid Handling Cigars You Don’t Plan to Buy

When I first entered a store, I wrongly assumed that I could freely examine all cigars on display. However, I quickly learned that it’s best to avoid handling those I didn’t intend to purchase. This practice keeps the cigars pristine and respects store policies.

2. Don’t Rub Cigars Under Your Nose

I remember my first instinct was to smell a cigar by rubbing it under my nose. This action can ruin the delicate wrapper and alter its flavor profile. Instead, a simple sniff from the foot of the cigar offers a cleaner way to appreciate its aroma without causing any damage.

3. Don’t Squeeze the Cigars on a Store Shelf

Squeezing cigars on the shelf was another mistake I made initially. I learned that it can affect their construction and lead to an uneven burn. Gently rolling the cigar between my fingers has proven to be a more respectful way to assess its quality.

4. Don’t Smoke Cigars You Purchased Somewhere Else

To maintain respect for the establishment, I’ve followed the guideline of not smoking cigars purchased elsewhere in a shop. This practice enhances the atmosphere and ensures that every patron can enjoy their experience without distractions.

Taste & Aroma

Finding Your Tobacco Taste and Aroma Preferences

During my journey, I discovered that tasting cigars is like fine wine tasting. Cigars can have flavor notes ranging from earthy and spicy to sweet and creamy. By trying different brands, I found that I preferred cigars with a medium body, often marked by a rich yet smooth smoke, enhancing my overall experience.

Cigar Quality Assessment

Use Your Senses: Evaluating a Cigar for Quality

I’ve learned that quality assessment begins with my senses. A quality cigar should have an even burn and a well-constructed wrapper. Using the information from Cigar Aficionado’s annual reviews, I discovered that cigars rated over 90 typically indicate superior quality.

Packing and Draw: What to Look For

Assessing the packing and draw was enlightening for me. A well-packed cigar feels firm but not hard and should draw easily without excessive effort. If it draws too tightly, I’ve found that the smoking experience can be compromised, leading to frustration.

Construction Quality: How It Affects Smoking

Understanding construction quality became essential; it dramatically affects the smoking experience. Cigars that are well-rolled will maintain their shape and allow for a consistent burn. Research indicates that poorly constructed cigars can leave an unpleasant aftertaste and uneven burn, diminishing enjoyment.

How to Choose a Cigar

Picking a Good Cigar

I learned to focus on reputable brands when looking to pick a good cigar. Brands like Cohiba and Montecristo consistently receive accolades and have become staples in my collection. Their reliability assures me of consistent quality and flavor.

Understanding Size Matters: Cigar Sizes and Timing

Understanding cigar sizes fascinated me! A robusto typically lasts about 30-45 minutes, while a Churchill can take an hour or more. Tracking this helps me plan my smoking experience according to how much time I have available, enhancing my enjoyment.

Learning the Lingo: Size, Shape, and Composition

I’ve taken the time to learn cigar terminology. Terms like ’Toro’ for a 6×50 size or ’Torpedo’ for a pointed end carry specific meanings that influence both size and flavor. This understanding allows me to make informed decisions when selecting my cigars.

Shopping for Cigars

Shop for Cigars Online

Shopping for cigars online has revolutionized my buying experience! Websites like Famous Smoke Shop offer extensive selections and customer reviews, allowing me to compare prices and products before I purchase. Online shopping often comes with discounts, which is a definite perk.

Popular Brands You Should Consider

I often gravitate towards brands like Oliva and Ashton, known for their quality and reliability. Over 80% of consumers report being satisfied with their purchases from these brands, making them worthwhile considerations for any cigar buyer.

Where to Buy Cigars Locally

I’ve found that local cigar lounges not only offer a curated selection but also nurture a sense of community. Often, these shops host tastings and events which allow me to try unique offerings that aren’t available online.

Cigar Pairings

What to Drink with a Cigar

Pairing my cigars with drinks has become an art form. On average, I find that about 70% of enthusiasts recommend pairing cigars with spirits like whiskey or rum. The right pairing enhances flavor notes and transforms the overall experience.

Whiskey, Coffee, and More: Perfect Pairings

I frequently experiment with different pairings. For example, pairing a Maduro cigar with an aged bourbon provides a delightful richness, while a lighter cigar alongside a latte creates a perfect morning indulgence. It’s all about matching the intensity of the cigar with the drink.

Storing and Caring for Your Cigars

How to Choose and Buy a Humidor

Choosing a humidor was a significant step in my journey. I found that a good humidor should maintain humidity levels between 65-75%. This range ensures my cigars remain fresh and ready for enjoyment.

How to Set Up Your Humidor

Setting up the humidor correctly was vital. I ensured to season it for a couple of days and added distilled water or humidity packs. This process has made sure my cigars stayed flavorful for months.

Store Your Sticks Right: Getting the Most Flavor from Cigars

Storing my cigars properly has significantly impacted taste. By maintaining the ideal humidity and temperature, I avoid flavor loss. Generally, I aim for 70% humidity and around 70°F to keep my cigars at their best.

Final Tips for New Cigar Buyers

Building Your Confidence as a New Cigar Smoker

Through practice and exploration, I’ve built confidence in my cigar smoking skills. Every new cigar provides an opportunity to learn more about my palate and preferences, making my journey enjoyable.

How to Build a Satisfying Cigar Collection

Forming a satisfying cigar collection involves variety. I typically aim for a mix of different brands, sizes, and flavor profiles. This method has led my collection to include over 50 unique cigars in just a year’s time!

FAQ

How to buy cigars for beginners?

For beginners, I suggest starting by visiting a local shop and asking about cigars with moderate strength. Many stores offer starter packs to help new buyers get the hang of it.

Is $20 expensive for a cigar?

While $20 may seem pricey, many premium cigars fall into this range due to quality. The investment often leads to a richer experience that’s worth the price.

How to pick a good cigar?

I recommend picking cigars based on flavor profiles and brand reputation. Utilizing reviews and asking staff for suggestions can lead to great selections that match your taste.