Buying Quality Cigars

If offered a box of cigars often the contents will all be the same. So if you like the brand in question or are just curious then take one and wait for all the other people to be offered theirs.

If you are lucky enough to be offered a humidor full of a wide variety of cigars, check with the host as to which you can and cannot smoke, remember some may be gifts and some may even be investments !

Use the cutter (Much better than a punch or a knife)to remove the end of the cigar straight is my cut of choice. Some people prefer to cut them at an angle however.

Leave the band on the cigar, It looks better and gives you something to hold. Only remove it if you are going to smoke the cigar to the end.

Use a lighter (gas is best) and hold the flame away from the cigar end and puff to draw the flame to the cigar and slowly rotate, lighting is all important. If it burns unevenly the cigar will note taste as good and may not last as long.

Once lit smoke your cigar slowly. A puff a minute is about right. Take it slow and savour every flavour, a cigar is far more complex than any wine.

Enjoy your cigar with a drink that complements it. Try a deep red wine like Rioja or maybe a fine port. I prefer a nice Cognac such as Remy Martin Grand Cru or a fiery scotch like MaCallan 1979.

Enjoy your cigars in moderation folks and if the very idea of one at a meeting fills you with dread then say no. Everyone respects people with their own opinions !!!

This is as easy going and enjoyable as they come. This cigar would suit almost everyone. It is a great cigar with many rich flavours which only come out when you smoke it slowly. This is a great cigar with a coffee and also unlike most cigars goes very well with a nice crisp, and cold white wine like Pinot Grigio. It is also not so large that you draw attention smoking it, it also should not take you hours to smoke. This is ideal for a nice walk around the park for example.

INFO:
Cigar type: Corona, Ring gauge: 42, Cigar length: 6 inches Average UK price £7.40 + VAT

I'm not going to get all preachy here.. but it is important to remember that Cigars like all tobacco related products are not good for you. I do not feel that one every so often is a big problem and that enjoyed responsibly they cannot form a very enoyable part of your life.

There are of course risks, you can get certain cancers from smoking and also it will effect your general fitness and for the vain ones amongst you it will stain your teeth.

Also I do hate inconsiderate smokers. Never smoke around children or pregnant women, also if people object to you and your cigar don't make a scene just put out your cigar. Politeness costs nothing and you can always relight your cigar later.

Also I never, ever wish to see young people encouraged to try smoking. If they wish to try it they will in their own time and way. Never try and tempt the young into it. It is a destructive, yet enjoyable habit.