Too Big Too Small
It's Not About the Size
Today we ask the age-old question in the cigar world: does size really matter? Is a colossal stogie the key to heightened enjoyment, or is it all just a smoky illusion? Well, my fellow enthusiasts grab your smoking jacket because we're delving into the captivating world of cigar size.
Firstly, the measurement dance. It's all about length and ring gauge. Length, straightforward as a country road. So just how many inches does that bad boy stretch? Then comes the ring gauge, the numeric expression of the cigar's circumference, a mysterious code that translates to 1/64 of an inch per increment in North American terms. A 60-ring gauge cigar? That's almost an inch of smoky circumference, a veritable beast of the cigar kingdom.
Now why does size matter? Scientifically speaking, when the maestro blender crafts a cigar, they're like a mad scientist concocting a potion. The balance of flavors is crucial to the experience, it's akin to a culinary masterpiece. But it's not just about taste; it's about the burn. Most cigars are tailored to a Toro or Robusto size, delivering the perfect marriage of flavor and burn quality. Go too big or too small, and the delicate dance of tobacco proportions might need adjusting, altering the intended flavor profile. A smaller ring gauge lets the wrapper shine, while a larger one drowns it in a sea of binder and filler influences.
Next, we need to take a closer look at the flavor symphony. Picture this; you've got a cigar in your hands and it's a petite one, maybe a Corona. The smaller ring gauge ensures that the wrapper, that outer cloak of flavor, takes center stage. It's like sipping a fine wine; each note is distinct, and the subtleties are not lost in the ensemble. Then there's the tactile tango. Now ask yourself, how does that cigar feel in your hands? If you've got mitts the size of a catchers' glove, a petite ring gauge might feel like holding a toothpick. Conversely, a mammoth stogie might be a jawbreaker in your mouth. Comfort my friends, comfort is key.
On the flip side, a larger ring gauge is the cigar equivalent of a grand orchestra. It's not about the individual instruments; it's about the symphony they create together. The wrapper's influence takes a step back, allowing the binder and filler to shine. It's a bold and flavorful journey, like a hearty feast where every bite is a blend of complementary tastes. Remember that functionality is the unsung hero. A larger ring gauge demands a bit more finesse to keep lit, while a smaller one might turn into a fiery torch with an enthusiastic draw.
So, what's the "best" size? Well, that's your personal smoky journey. Experiment, my friends, with different sizes. Some cigars might whisper sweet nothings in a petite form, while others belt out a symphony in a grandiose size. The choice is yours, and remember, in the world of cigars, it's not about the size; it's about the flavor-filled journey.
Masterpiece or Misfit
No Rush to Glory
Are you pulled to the allure of a freshly rolled cigar, a masterpiece straight from the hands of a tobacco maestro? If you are my fellow aficionados, before you spark up that newborn stogie, let's waltz into the delicate dance of freshness.
Now, a fresh hand-rolled cigar is like a newborn baby, full of potential but needing a bit of time to find its groove. How long, you ask? Well, it's not a microwave dinner; patience is the name of the game. Generally, letting that fresh creation sit in your humidor for a few weeks, or even better, a couple of months, is like letting a fine wine age. It mellows, it matures, and it becomes the cigar equivalent of a seasoned pro.
But is a freshly rolled cigar just a novelty, a flashy debutante at the cigar ball? Not necessarily. While it might lack the refined sophistication of its aged siblings, it has a vibrant, youthful energy. It's like the difference between a classical symphony and a rock concert; both have their charms, but they cater to different tastes.
Flavor and burn rate, the twin pillars of cigar satisfaction. A freshly rolled cigar is like a chef's dish just out of the kitchen - it needs a moment to settle. The flavors might be a tad bold, the burn rate a bit unpredictable. It's the teenager of the cigar world, still figuring out its identity. Compare this to an aged cigar; it's like enjoying a vintage wine. The flavors are harmonious, the burn is a slow, seductive dance. The cigar has become refined, it's experienced and ready to show you a good time.
So, my smoky companions, when faced with a fresh hand-rolled wonder, exercise a bit of patience. Let it age, let it mature, and when the time is right, unleash the potential within. That's not just a cigar in your hand, it's an experience, from its birth, to brilliance, to a smoky odyssey that promises to be worth the wait.
Into a Dry Wilderness
From Crispy to Classy
Oh, the sad, sad state of a dry cigar, like a wilting flower in a parched garden. But fear not, my fellow aficionados, for there's hope for these crispy comrades. So, your cigar is drier than a desert wind. It's so dry it makes the Sahara look like a waterpark. The touch is like sandpaper, and you're wondering if all is lost. But fear not, for the humidor is your oasis in this dry wilderness.
Rehydration is the key, and it's like giving your cigar a spa day. First, you need a humidor that's in its prime, not a slacker in the humidity department. Place your Sahara-dry cigar in there, and let the magic begin. It's like sending your cigar to a tropical resort; the humidity gently coaxes life back into those dry leaves.
Now, the trick is patience, my smoky compatriots. Rome wasn't humidified in a day. Depending on the level of dryness, it might take weeks for your cigar to regain its mojo. It's like waiting for a fine wine to age or a soufflé to rise; good things come to those who wait.
But will a rehydrated cigar provide an enjoyable experience? Yes, my friends this is the million-dollar question, and the answer is a hopeful yes. While it might not recapture the glory days of its youth, a rehydrated cigar can still offer a pleasant smoking experience. It's like a faded rock star coming back for a reunion tour; the brilliance might not be the same, but there's still a spark of the old magic.
So, my humidor heroes, don't give up on those dry stogies just yet. With a bit of humid love and some patience, you can breathe life back into them. Rehydrate, rejuvenate, and let those once-deserted cigars rise like smoky phoenixes from the ashes. Cheers to the art of saving dry cigars, turning them from crispy to classy once more!
A Soggy Journey
The Waterlogged Waltz
Today we will investigate the humid humidor, where cigars soak up moisture like a sponge at a pool party. But, my cigar aficionados, can there be too much of a good thing? Let's embark on this dry to soggy journey.
Imagine your humidor as a tropical rainforest for cigars. Now, cigars are like the divas of the forest - they like it just right. Too much humidity, and it's like a spa day gone wrong. The flavors get waterlogged, the aroma is like a damp basement, and aging becomes a slow dance with mildew.
Flavor is the prima donna here. Too much humidity and your once bold and expressive cigar is now doing a soggy ballet. It's like a chef drowning a steak in sauce; you lose the essence of what makes it special. The delicate dance of flavors turns into a waterlogged waltz, leaving your taste buds in a state of confusion.
Now, aroma, that intoxicating prelude to every puff. Too much humidity, and it's like a wet dog in your humidor - not the fragrance you're aiming for. The delicate notes that once pirouetted through the air become a heavy, musty odor, more of a damp cellar than a symphony of scents.
And aging, oh, the aging process, that magic that turns a good cigar into a great one. Too much moisture is like aging in a sauna. Instead of the slow, graceful maturation, you get a hurried, sweaty mess. It's like trying to age a fine wine in a hot tub; the result is not something you'd proudly display.
So, my humid humorists, the key is balance. Like Goldilocks seeking the perfect porridge, your humidor needs the right amount of moisture. Not too much, not too little - just that sweet spot that turns your cigars into flavorful maestros, aromatic poets, and gracefully aged connoisseurs. So, open that humidor, check the humidity, and let your cigars dance the perfect dance. Cheers to the delicate art of keeping it not too wet, not too dry, but just right!
The Square Peg
A Pressed Masterpiece.
Let’s explore the box-pressed cigar, the square peg in the round hole of the cigar world! Is there any advantage to this odd geometric smoke? Well grab your smoking jacket and ready yourself for a lively review as we dive into the rectangular realm of delights.
The first thing for us to consider is the cigars lifespan and durability. Picture this; the round cigar is like a free-spirited artist, rolling wherever the wind takes it, but the box-pressed cigar is the disciplined accountant, structured and firm. This means it can handle the chaos of your cigar humidor like a lineman on the defensive team. No rolling around, no mess - just orderly stogies, neatly pressed and ready for action.
Now let’s consider burn rate. A box-pressed cigar is like a marathon runner pacing itself. The squared edges allow for a slower, more controlled burn. It's the tortoise in the race, not the hare. So, if you're the type who likes to savor every puff, appreciating the slow dance of flavors, the box-pressed beauty is your smoky soulmate.
Flavor profile and consistency, ah, the very heart of the matter. A box-pressed cigar with its rounded and compressed corners will offer a unique smoking experience. It's like the difference between sipping a fine wine and chugging a can of soda. The flavors have time to mingle, tango, and form a complex symphony on your palate. Now what about consistency? Well, a box-pressed cigar is like that reliable friend who's always there when you need them.
Now, the draw and overall smoking experience. Picture a straw in a milkshake; that's the draw of a box-pressed cigar. It's a smooth easy and consistent experience. No struggling, no wrestling - just a blissful inhalation of premium tobacco goodness. The overall experience is what it's like to drive a luxury car. The box-pressed cigar is sleek and sophisticated, designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
In the grand tapestry of cigars, the box-pressed wonder stands tall, offering a unique shape that's not just aesthetic but functional. It's the square peg that fits snugly into the round hole, creating a smoking experience that's both structured and flavorful. So my fellow aficionados, the next time you reach for a cigar, consider the advantages of the box-pressed beauty. It's not just a smoke; it's a finely pressed masterpiece.
THE ZEN OF CIGAR ENJOYMENT
Where Smoky Science Meets Leisure
Ah, the fine cigar - that exquisite dance partner in the world of leisure. But what exactly is leisure, you ask? Is it a moment of contemplation, lounging by the pool with a sophisticated adult beverage, or perhaps it's lively banter with pals at your favorite local cigar shop? Well, my fellow aficionados, the definition of leisure is as subjective as choosing your favorite cigar. It can encompass a plethora of activities or none at all. The real challenge you are faced with is how you can revel in the embrace of your favorite smoke.
Let's take a moment to explore the scientific ballet that unfolds within the leafy realms of your cigar. You see a cigar is not just a roll of dried leaves; it's a living, breathing entity. The tobacco your cigar is made from has been plucked, dried, and cured, it remains an organic wonder, packed with flavorful oils. Now, here's the rub – smoke that stogie too briskly, and you risk overheating those precious oils. Overheated oils, my friends, are the saboteurs of taste, turning your delightful cigar into a sour, bitter spectacle of disappointment. Not the kind of drama you'd want in your leisure adventures, right?
Consider too, the impact on the smoke you're drawing. Swift short puffs equal scorching smoke, a phenomenon that could play havoc with your discerning palate, considerably diminishing your leisurely pleasure. After all, who wants a hot mess instead of a smooth draw?
Now, let's transition into the art of true leisure in cigar enjoyment. Picture this: it's akin to savoring a gourmet feast or slowly imbibing a rare whiskey. It's about taking your sweet time, letting the minutes stretch like a languid cat, and relishing every nuance of your cigar experience. Even if your grand plan involves pairing your smoke with less-than-glamorous tasks like garage cleaning or lawn mowing, fear not! You can still elevate the mundane into a leisurely affair. But heed this caution: even the most industrious of chores deserve a leisurely-paced puff. A bitter, overheated cigar is a poor companion, even in the midst of the most mundane endeavors.
Now, the burning question – what is the perfect amount of time for your cigar? Here's my personal rule of thumb: for a Robusto size cigar, I earmark a generous hour for the smoking ritual. And lo and behold, as the size of the cigar flexes its leafy muscles, adjust your smoking time accordingly. A quick touch test is another trick up your leisure sleeve. If your cigar feels like a hot potato well ahead of the fire it's a sign to ease up. This is key indicator that you need to slow down and let the flavors unravel at their own pace.
In the grand symphony of leisure, the cigar is an exquisite solo, meant to be savored, embraced, and thoroughly enjoyed. So, the next time you spark up, take a moment to slow down, to let the leisure unfold, and to revel in the sublime experience that is a well-enjoyed cigar. Remember this; it's not just about the smoke, it's about the leisurely journey that comes with it.
A Flamboyant Debate on Cigar Lighting
The Burning Question
Ah, the eternal conundrum of cigar aficionados: When is enough fire truly enough? How many flames must dance upon the foot of our beloved stogies to ignite perfection? A query for the ages, my friends so let’s embark on this fiery journey of discovery!
Behold the basics of cigar lighting, a delicate dance between flame and leaf. Picture this; gently toast the foot, caressing it with the tender embrace of your chosen source of ignition. Your goal? A subtle char, a mere whisper of ignition. Slowly rotate your cigar ensuring an even toast, akin to a culinary maestro turning a spit. Next, with the grace of a ballroom dancer, guide the cigar to your lips, continuing to rotate as you coax forth the fiery passion within. And voilà, the crimson glow, the siren call of cigar bliss. Now you are truly ready to embark upon your smoky odyssey!
Yet the question lingers like the fragrant smoke in the air: How much flame is truly necessary? Ah, the age-old response - it depends. Allow me to elucidate. Picture yourself in the cozy embrace of an indoor cigar lounge, surrounded by the warm camaraderie of fellow aficionados. Here my friends, the dry cedar stave reigns supreme. A nod to tradition, with a dip into the well of cigar lore. Light your cigar with this venerable tool and you'll feel as if you've stepped back in time, embracing the rituals of yesteryear. Some may swear by this method, claiming it imparts no "foreign" flavors to the tobacco. A notion I find debatable, but hey, to each their own in the world of cigar pleasure!
But alas not every smoking sanctuary boasts the luxury of an indoor haven. Fear not, for your backyard patio or deck shall serve as your personal cigar lounge, albeit with its own set of challenges. Mother Nature in her capricious glory, may unleash a gentle breeze, threatening to snuff out the delicate flame of your cedar stave. Enter the trusty butane lighter, your steadfast ally in the battle against the elements. You can opt for a single flame for greater control over the burn process. Should the winds howl with greater ferocity, do not hesitate to escalate to a double or even triple flame. Always remember control is key in the fiery tango of cigar lighting.
And then, we dare to venture into the realm of extremes - the hallowed golf course, where man and nature collide in a battle of wills. Here, my friends, you can brandish the quad flame lighter, a beacon of power amidst the verdant expanse. With this mighty tool in hand you’ll defy the wind gods and ignite your cigar with the fervor of a true warrior. But heed my counsel, fellow enthusiasts, for even in the midst of this fiery spectacle, remember the golden rule: low and slow reigns supreme.
So, my fellow aficionados as you embark upon your next smoking adventure, remember this fiery wisdom. Whether in the cozy embrace of an indoor sanctuary or the wild expanse of the great outdoors, let the flame be your guide. Embrace the nuances, savor the journey, and may your cigars burn bright with the spirit of leisurely pleasure!
A Novice's Guide to Navigating the Cigar Wonderland
Sage Advice for the Beginner
Welcome, welcome, dear novices to the wondrous realm of cigars! What a delight to welcome yet another "brother of the leaf" into our esteemed fraternity. Brace yourselves, for you're about to embark on a journey filled with flavor, camaraderie, and, dare I say, a few rookie missteps along the way. But fear not, for we, the seasoned veterans of Select Savor Share, are here to impart some sage advice to steer you clear of the pitfalls that may lie ahead.
Pondering Your Palate - The first stumbling block, underthinking your cigar choices. Before you dive headfirst into the realm of premium cigars take a moment to ponder your palate. Do you revel in the robust embrace of strong black coffee, the velvety allure of a well-crafted whisky, or perhaps the savory symphony of a medium-rare steak with garlic butter and pepper? If so, my friend, you'll find little joy in the realm of milder cigars. Skip past the timid offerings and venture into the realm of "milder" maduros, blended with Nicaraguan or San Andres tobaccos, promising a fuller spicier experience to tantalize your senses from the get-go.
Reviews vs. Real Talk - Oh the allure of cigar reviews, a veritable rabbit hole of opinions and perspectives. But heed this warning; don't let them be your sole guide. Venture forth to your local cigar lounge, seek out the wise old tobacconist, and drink from the fountain of their knowledge. Take the time to meet with fellow brothers of the leaf and listen to their insights and their tales of smoky conquests. Armed with this wealth of information embark upon your own tasting journey, savoring each note, each nuance, and discovering your own preferences one puff at a time.
The Art of Slow Smoking - The cardinal sin of cigar novices, smoking too fast! Picture this: you're racing through your cigar like a cheetah on fire, oblivious to the delicate dance of flavors unfolding with each draw. Slow down my friend, for haste makes waste in the world of premium cigars. Allow the tobacco to smolder gently, coaxing forth its nuanced flavors without scorching the delicate oils that lie within. Remember cigars are a luxurious experience meant to be savored like a fine wine or a decadent dessert.
Embrace Exploration - You’re taken with the allure of familiarity, the comfort of the known. But beware dear novices, for locking into one cigar is a perilous path indeed. Yes, finding that one cigar that speaks to your soul is a joyous occasion, but do not let it be your sole companion on this smoky odyssey. Take the time to explore explore new blends, brands and experiences. For who knows what hidden treasures await beyond the confines of familiarity? Embrace the journey my friends, for it is in exploration that true enlightenment is found.
Expand Your Horizons - Ah, the solitary confines of the garage or backyard, a sanctuary for many a cigar enthusiast. But heed this call my friend - do not be content with solitude. Seek out the company of fellow aficionados, bask in the glow of lively conversation, and perhaps, indulge in a libation or two to complement your smoky indulgence. For a cigar is not just a solitary pleasure but a shared experience, best enjoyed in the company of kindred spirits.
So, my dear novices as you embark upon your cigar journey heed these words of wisdom. May your path be filled with flavor, your company be merry, and your humidor always brimming with tantalizing treasures. Welcome to the fold, and may your cigars burn bright with the spirit of adventure!