Cigar smoking has been a traditional hobby, existing for many years. Yet, recently, it’s become trendy again and is appealing to younger ages. If you’re new to cigars, you might be looking to learn the ropes so you can enhance your experience. First, you need everything from the flavorful cigars to a humidor and the right lighter. Here’s a guide that’s going to help you gather all of the materials you need to have an enjoyable cigar experience.
Selecting the Perfect Cigars
Cigars come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors, catering to a wide range of preferences. If you’re new to cigars, it’s crucial to grasp the basics. The strength of a cigar—whether it’s mild, medium, or full-bodied—plays a significant role in your enjoyment. Additionally, familiarize yourself with different cigar shapes, from the popular Robusto to the elegant Churchill, and discover which suits your taste.
Recommendations for Beginners
For those embarking on their cigar journey, opting for beginner-friendly cigars is a wise choice. Brands like Arturo Fuente and Perdomo offer excellent entry-level options. Experiment with different blends and find what resonates with your palate. Remember, everyone’s taste is unique, so don’t hesitate to explore a variety until you discover your favorites.
Essential Cigar Accessories
Cigar Cutters
A proper cut is fundamental to a good smoking experience. There are various types of cigar cutters, each with its unique benefits. Guillotine cutters provide a clean, straight cut, while punch cutters are perfect for a concentrated draw. Experiment with different types to find the one that suits you best, and always remember to cut just above the cap.
Lighters and Matches
Investing in a quality cigar lighter is a game-changer. Torch lighters are popular for their precision, ensuring an even burn. When using matches, opt for wooden ones to avoid altering the cigar’s taste. Whichever method you choose, the key is to light the cigar evenly, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable smoke.
Humidors and Storage
Maintaining the right humidity is critical for preserving the freshness and flavor of your cigars. A humidor is a must-have accessory, providing a controlled environment. Choose a humidor size based on your cigar collection, and opt for one with a reliable hygrometer. Proper storage ensures your cigars age gracefully, enhancing their characteristics over time. You can check out northwoodshumidors.com for quality humidors, whether you’re searching for a traditional style or an electric model.
Ashtrays
A stylish and functional ashtray is the finishing touch to your cigar-smoking experience. Look for ashtrays with deep wells to prevent ashes from blowing away. Consider one that complements your personal style and enhances the ambiance of your smoking area.
Maintaining Optimal Conditions
Humidity and Temperature Control
Understanding the impact of humidity on cigars is essential. Aim for a relative humidity (RH) level between 65% and 70% for most cigars. Invest in a digital hygrometer to accurately monitor humidity levels in your humidor. Keep the temperature consistent, ideally between 65°F and 70°F, to prevent fluctuations that can affect your cigars.
Storage Do’s and Don’ts
Proper storage involves more than just placing cigars in a humidor. Arrange them carefully, ensuring proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding to prevent uneven humidification. Never store cigars in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature can dry them out. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll maintain optimal conditions for your cigars to age gracefully.
Premium vs Cheap Cigars: Is There Really a Difference?
You’re planning your cigar collection. You’ve come across cheaper cigars, as well as those big brands that are renowned for offering a premium experience. But, is there really any difference in these cigars, or is it all just down to money?
The truth is that there is a big difference between cheap and premium cigars. While you can enjoy both, you can’t deny the quality touch of premium cigars. From offering a refined and better flavor to more even burns, let’s take a closer look at why premiums are worth the extra expense.
The Taste and Flavor
Let’s start by considering the taste and flavor of cheap cigars. Generally, you’ll find that they use lower-grade tobacco. This can generate a basic flavor with fewer nuances and interest. But, when it comes to premium cigars, the brands set out to offer a refined smoking experience. This includes having different flavor variations, as well as layers to their cigars. Overall, the smoking experience is better.
The Creation
Let’s not forget how the cigars are created, which plays a big part in your experience. When you have cheap wrappers and makeshift creation processes, this can lead to cigars that aren’t up to scratch. For example, it can burn unevenly and offer inconsistent draws.
This won’t happen with premium brands. They take a long time to perfect the construction process and ensure that customers get the best quality cigars. They are often hand-rolled to ensure a certain standard is reached before they’re sold.
The Quality Control
With cheaper cigars, there can be inconsistency, which often frustrates smokers. You can have the same box, with some having a better flavor than others. So, you can enjoy smoking some and be disappointed with the rest, which is the last thing you want if you’re having guests over.
The good thing about premium cigars is there are often better quality control measures. This leads to consistency with cigars, ensuring that no matter what one you select from the same box, you’re going to have the same great experience.
