How to choose the right cigar for yourself.

 

"When it comes to choosing your cigar, there are several things that you will want to keep in mind, all which play a part in your decision. First, the size and shape of the cigar. Second, the color of the cigar. Third, and Lastly, the price you will pay for a cigar.

 

Let's begin with size and shape. there is no right or wrong size or shape to choose. You choose what you like and feel the most comfortable with. A cigar is not going to know who is smoking it! You should be content with your choice for that particular smoke. Women, this goes for you especially. There is absolutely nothing wrong with you smoking a Robusto or Double Corona. Everyone should go with what they feel comfortable smoking. Again, there is no rule that says you should or should not smoke a certain sized cigar because of who you are and/or your size. Therefore, get to know the various sizes and discover which one is right for you.  The length of a cigar is measured by inches. The ring size of a cigar is measured in 64ths of an inch. Therefore, a cigar with a ring size of 52 is 52/64ths of an inch in its diameter or thickness. 

 

Next, let's consider color Basically there are seven colors of cigars. These deal with the wrapper. In general, the darker the color of the tobacco, the stronger the flavor might be. However, just because a cigar is dark on the outside, does not mean it will be a strong cigar. If the filler of the cigar is made with darker tobacco, then it may very well mean that this particular cigar will, in fact, be strong. Darker tobacco is due to the fact that the tobacco leaves have spent a longer time on the tobacco plant itself, allowing it to mature a little longer by added sunshine. These leaves are also taken from the upper part of the plant where they will receive more sunlight. The sunlight in turn causes the leaves to produce oils in order to protect the leaves. Therefore, if a manufacturer produces a cigar with strong or darker filler tobacco and a darker wrapper as well, you can assume that you will end up with a rather strong cigar. On the other hand, you might have a maduro (darker) wrapper with much milder and lighter filler tobacco on the inside which will prevent the cigar from being super strong. 

 

A cigar is a work of art. On average, a premium cigar is going to take at least three years to produce. It will be completely hand made from start to finish. Including the leaves before it is rolled, a cigar will be touched by hundreds of hands before it is touched by yours. But probably the best part of this journey is in the fact that every step will be a labor of love for all those involved. From the farmer who plants the seeds, to the people who put them in the boxes, and everyone in between. Therefore, when you choose your cigar, be sure to take the time to appreciate the love and care that went into it. That will make your labor of love in smoking it all the more meaningful."

 

 

 

Reprinted with edits from  http://www.columbia.edu/cu/cigar/started.html