How to buy a good cigar

The smoking culture has been existent for ages and it has been one of the
consistently growing market. Tobacco is the major product related to the
smoking industry. Tobacco is the source of cigar which is one of the must-haves
of males and even females especially in this modern times.

History tells that cigar smoking was common in the Latin American region which
includes countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua. Same
with Cameroon, Honduras, Indonesia and it includes Cuba and the United States
of America. These are also areas where a large quantity of tobacco was grown at
first.

Christopher Columbus is said to be the first to introduce cigar in Europe. Ages
after, cigar smoking has been having this association with masculinity, high
social status, liberalism- that makes cigar an interesting part of a special
smoker's habits. In special occasions, it could be a good form of present for a
friend, a colleague, a boss, a patner... How do one buy a good cigar for a
present? Find out stores specifically smoke specialty stores that sell a great
selection of cigars including those which are extraordinary. Make sure not to
neglect cigar quality.

Consider the smoking experience of the person you would want to give your
present to. This would determine if the size and diameter of the cigar would
suit his or her taste. The cigar diameter is directly proportional to the
richness of the flavor. Cigars that are bigger in diameter and richer in taste
are more appropriate for "experienced" smokers. For "greenhorn" smokers, longer
cigarettes with cooler smoke is commendable.

See to it that the cigar is of good quality and that it is made of one hundred
percent tobacco. Some cigars are more of the non-tobacco components like paper,
glycerine or saltpeter.

Refrain from buying a lumpy cigar. Yopu could check out if its lumpy or not by
giving it a gentle squeeze. Also check the wrapper. Reffrain from picking
cigars that have wrapper discoloration. Make your present more special by
adding up a cigar cutter or an ashtray that would impress the receiver.

Give it with sincerity of course.

There is nothing wrong with cigar smoking. Just see to it that it is being done
in moderation.

Cigar Selection: the process

When you think you already have what it takes to join the cigar smoking
population, you have to know first some of the most important reminders. One
bunch of reminders has something to do with how you choose the right cigar for
you. This must follow a brief process but if followed, it would surely give
such a fulfilling feeling to you as the smoker.

It is very much important to see it that you are choosing the right cigar or
else you would just end up not knowing that you are wasting money. There must
be that quality that you have to consider in order for you to make sure that
you savor what is best from that cigar.

The milder, the better (Choose mild cigars)

This goes out especially to the beginners. Do not shock your lungs and throat,
as you are starting, you have to settle with the lighter taste. And milder
cigars cost lesser so it would not be a heavy burden if you break it
accidentally or what. This would also work well if you are not into strong
tastes yet, it would serve as your preparation as well.

See the quality (Inspect the cigar)

Of course, you do not want to get your money wasted for a cigar that is not
worth a single puff at all. How would you inspect a cigar if it of good
quality? By simply squeezing gently the parts of the cigar and trying to feel
if there are these soft spots, this would not be a good pick for you.

Store well

When you do not have the right container where you could store cigars, better
buy those that could last for more than a couple of days, if they could not
then keep them on their pack. It would keep them in the right condition.

These are the three major tips or steps in choosing cigars. These would surely
help you a lot in selecting what is right and definitely enjoy them to the
extent that you meet your expectations.

Cigar smoking is a relieving experience, once you could choose the right
cigars, it could really be the right jump off. You would enjoy the rest.

Tips on buying the cigar for you

King Edward VII, President Ulysses S. Grant, Sigmund Freud, Karl Marx... these
are names, and not mere names, but names that are huge in history. Could you
draw out any difference or any common point among these men? Well, the fact
is-they were all heavy cigar smokers.

Cigars and men, what is with this pair? In the past, there was that stereotype
that only rich males are the ones who smoke cigar. Nowadays, there is no
definite line that separates the rich men from the not-so-rich men when it is
going to be based with cigar smoking. Any man and today woman could buy and
enjoy a stick, sticks or many sticks of cigar.

There is one thing certain. There is a difference between the excellent and
poor cigar. You must know if that cigar is worth-buying. There are certain tips
to follow when buying one.

Observe if the wrapper has smooth and a bit shine feature. Make sure that it
does not have blemishes and it must not be too firm.

Give the cigar a gentle squeeze. This way you would be able to determine if
indeed it is good enough if it is resilient to hold its shape when you press it.

Refrain from choosing a cigar with soft or hard spots because it is a sign that
it is not of good quality and not of good construction.

Try to take a smell of the cigar and if it does not have that aroma, drop it
off. Refrain from buying a lumpy cigar. Yopu could check out if its lumpy or
not by giving it a gentle squeeze. Also check the wrapper. Reffrain from
picking cigars that have wrapper discoloration. Make your present more special
by adding up a cigar cutter or an ashtray that would impress the receiver.

Give it with sincerity of course.

It is fun to hear lines like: "Sometimes, a cigar is just a cigar." This is
according to Sir Sigmund Freud. "A woman is only a woman: but a good cigar is a
smoke." this one is according Sir Rudyard Kipling in his poetry. This only shows
how cigar smoking is regarded by men since then. Now, even women are into
smoking. Despite all the health hazards, people still go on smoking for no
general reason at all.

What matters is that smoking must be done with moderation and responsibility.
Not merely smoke because you want to show-off your so vcalled "manly' thing.

Cigars versus cigarettes: which is the lesser evil?

There are claims that stress how much cigars are safer to smoke than
cigarettes. Well, this is no a fact at all. It just so happened that cigar
smokers are only occasional smokers and majority of the smoking population are
into cigarettes so the gauge of how cigars is not that obvious. But, it must be
known to people that cigars are not safer at all.

The following are the reasons that would tell you that the choice of smoking
cigar is not lesser evil than smoking cigarettes.

Tobacco is much in amount in cigars than cigarettes. This fact makes cigar much
dangerous for as we all know, there are harmful elements found in tobacco.
According to studies, a single cigar contains more tobacco than a whole pack of
cigarettes.

Experts identified that cigarettes are containing lesser nicotine. Compared
with 8 milligrams found in nicotine, cigars have 100 to 200 milligrams. This
only shows how much danger cigar could cause over cigarettes.

A single cigar a day increases the possibility of acquiring cancer. Cancer
involving the lungs, as well as the pancreas is common for those who are into
cigar smoking.

Cigarette smoke is not as toxic as cigar smoke. As what is shown by studies,
cigars must undergo fermentation, this stage produces some of the most
cancerous elements. Another thing is that the cigar wrappers are less porous
compared to that of cigarettes. This has something to do with combustion.
Proper combustion decreases the amount of harmful elements of a cigar or
cigarette.

For men, cigar smoking is associated with sterility or some problems like
erectile dysfunction. The harmful components of a cigar is penetrating much on
hormones that may cause this disorder.

These are just some of the harmful effects of cigar smoking and how harmful it
could get comparing to cigarettes. The issue here is not what to smoke, cigar
or cigarettes? He point is that, smoking is not beneficial at all. Yes, you
harm yourself and even harm innocent secondhand-smokers.

Concerns on buying cigar for smoking

"Smokers do not grow old, they die young," this is a dictum every Science and
Health book may mention. It has something to do with the health hazards a cigar
could bring.

Throughout the ages, cigar smoking has been undisturbed by many health
campaigns even with the numerous struggles of battling against it, people seem
not to totally feel the threat it gives to lives. It has been built-in with the
culture and culture is too tough to be metamorphosed. Even non-smokers are
affected. Second-hand smoking poses health risks more than what direct smokers
have. With the soaring growth of cigar advertising, more and more smokers are
into the modern day picture. Smokers must just make sure that they do it with
moderation.

In looking for cigar, there are these qualities of a cigar that a smoker must
consider in order to savor what a stick of cigar could offer. When other things
are best served when fresh, cigar and wine re-examines with this line- "the
older, the tastier". The cigars must undergo the necessary process of
fermentation before it could really be of "good taste".

What are the qualities of a good cigar that is worth your money?

It burns evenly all the way down when lit; it is of good quality because if it
does not, it means that it does not have a proper roll.

The cigar produces a firm ash while smoking; it is another sign of good
quality. If the cigar has a firm end, it also makes it a good one.

The cigar is of good quality and that it is made of one hundred percent
tobacco. Some cigars are more of the non-tobacco components like paper,
glycerine or saltpeter.

No to lumpy cigars. You could check out if its lumpy or not by giving it a
gentle squeeze. Also check the wrapper. Refrain from picking cigars that have
wrapper discoloration.

The general criterion of cigars that must be used in determining if it is good
or bad is through the following: body, flavor and aroma. In choosing the cigar
for you, these three are the elements of gauge.

Cigars come in varied flavors like Spice, Cocoa or chocolate, coffee, not or
wood. They also come in different wrappers, fillers and binders.

A part of the history and culture, it could be really impossible to eradicate
smoking cigar in the everyday endeavor of people anywhere and everywhere.

Dangers of cigars when you smoke it

For cigar aficionados, it is the best tasting thing on Earth. When cigar
becomes an addiction, and generally it does, there could also be the spring of
its negative effects. These effects may come as just simple bad breath but it
could also be as big or malignant as cancer. Yes, this must really alarm you a
little for having lung problems or any health problems for that matter would be
a big blow to your life and it must be responded to as early as possible for it
may even worsen.

This article is not here to plant dynamites in you but to remind you that you
have to take care of your health, for your health is but very important and it
has to be taken good care of for it would decide that big portion of how you
live your life.

There are health problems that could be caused by cigar smoking:

Oral cancer

This sickness is of course would really affect you big time. This could lead
you to the difficulty of eating. This disorder could also affect the mouth,
throat, lips and also your tongue. These are necessary parts of your body and
there are really effects that may affect you that bad.

Esophageal Cancer

Studies show that those smokers have really high risks of leaving their
esophagus at its worst.

There is this study that tells us how the gap is so big when it comes to the
possibility of cancer in the esophagus for those who are smokers. As you
increase the number of sticks that you are also increasing the risk of having
these health disorders.

Lung cancer

This would be more possible especially if you inhale the cigar smoke more. It
must be noted by cigar smokers that they must not inhale smoke for it would
surely cause a lot of health disorders involving the lungs.

Cancer of the pancreas or cancer of the bladder

Both of these are also possibly going to be achieved if one smokes cigar a lot.
The more you smoke, the more you push yourself to the health risks.

Smoking could really be soothing or relaxing especially when one is so stressed
out but you have to see to it that you are cautious of how you smoke for it
would lead to your own problems concerning health as well.

How to buy a quality cigar based on construction

The richness of a cigar's taste could be determined by its diameter. The bigger
the diameter, the stronger the taste is. On the other hand, the wrapper of the
cigar also matters. Even color would mean good condition while extreme
discoloration in the wrapper would mean a change in taste.

With this, these two factors, size and diameter must be taken into
consideration in buying a cigar for you. They are parts of the construction of
a cigar. And the construction is considered to be the indicator of care and
quality.

In order that one would buy the right cigar, there are steps that must be
considered and be followed so that you will not end up smoking all your regrets
away.

Observe if the wrapper has smooth and a bit shine feature. Make sure that it
does not have blemishes and it must not be too firm.

Give the cigar a gentle squeeze. This way you would be able to determine if
indeed it is good enough if it is resilient to hold its shape when you press it.

Refrain from choosing a cigar with soft or hard spots because it is a sign that
it is not of good quality and not of good construction.

Try to take a smell of the cigar and if it does not have that aroma, drop it
off.

When the cigar gets lit, it is another true test if it has good construction or
not. When it burns evenly all the way down, it is of good quality because if it
does not, it means that it does not have a proper roll. Moreover, if the cigar
produces a firm ash while smoking, it is another sign of good quality. If the
cigar has a firm end, it also makes it a good one.

There are three criteria that could determine a good cigar. Actually, these
criteria apply to wines too. The first criterion is the body. It means the
strength of the tobacco. Secondly, flavor. Sweet, bitter and salty are the
basic flavor categories. The aroma is another criterion. If a cigar does not
have aroma- it is of no good material.

For a good cigar, it does not take the finest tobacco only but it must also
undergo all the necessary processes included in its fermentation.

As the buyer, you should consider all the above-mentioned tips in choosing the
cigar for you- the one that you will enjoy smoking.

The five for the freshmen

When you are just into cigar smoking for the first few times, you must avoid
smoking those strong-flavored cigars for you are not yet used to them and it
may just cause you effects that you do not want handling. We would be very glad
to help you get to know what the five cigars that could suit you.

These are not that strong for you but not to bland that you would not enjoy the
smoking time at all. Well generally, beginners must really settle for what is
light or mid-strong when it comes to cigars.

Flor de oliva torpedo

This is a cigar from the Oliva family, who is well-known in the cigar industry
for years. This produces a mild to medium mild taste with a dash of sweetness.
A stick of it would cost you a dollar and fifty cents. As its medium component,
it is made of Nicaraguan filler. You could freely choose or get to know more of
this cigar online.

Baccarat Luchadores

The only weakness it has is that you may not taste that rich taste the first
time you try. With the idea of keeping them in humidor, this is not the best
move. This type of cigar tastes well especially when straight from the box
rather than out of the humidor.

Punch Grand Cru Rubusto

Many smokers of this wish that it could be made longer for it really taste
good. The taste is really great especially if it is stored in the humidor for
some months, Honduran cigars with the nice blend of tobaccos, it could surely
be very teasing for your taste buds. A stick may let you spend 3 dollars and 50
cents each. This is a very well-constructed cigar as well.

Arturo Fuente Curly head

From the Fuente group of cigars, this type may be a part of the lowest bracket
of Fuente cigars when it comes to price at one dollar and fifty cents. This
rich hand-made Dominican cigar would surely be enough for beginners. The mild
to mid-mild taste would be great for those who are not into smoking cigar for
such a very long time.

Excalibur number 5

Hoyo Monterrey is the direct seller of this cigar and it is Honduras made as
well. Stick costs 3 dollars and 25 cents. There are different ranges but
Excalibur number 5 compared to 1, 2 or three is mild, tasty and really tasty if
kept in a humidor.

When you are a beginner in smoking, do not let it stop you from tasting the
rich cigars. You have the choices; it is all up to you to savor the tastes that
would surely be great for you. There are loads of cigars out there in all
corners of the world but these are simply the best for beginners.

There is a proper way for that cigar!

Cigar smoking may be a less encouraged act but if you just love it and cannot
stop it, all you have to do is to do it in a proper manner. What could be the
proper way? Is there a difference if you do it right or wrong? Yes, there are
especially health effects. When you think you have such an insufficient
knowledge on cigar smoking, you would definitely need these tips to guide you.

Avoid cancer; do not inhale while you smoke

We know that inhaling cigar smoke could cause cancer and many people around the
world are experiencing this health alarm. You could ignore this health problem
if you try not to inhale the smoke from the cigar.

Age matters this time

When you age your cigars, it is a good method for it would not only improve the
taste of your cigar but as well as protect your cigar from the effects of
improper handling and storing. When you keep your cigar in the right humidor,
you would surely enjoy the pleasure of it especially months after.

Better not put it there

As you light a cigar and decided not to finish smoking it, never put it back
inside a humidor. It would not be good for the other cigars. It would just even
spoil them. When you light and smoke it partially, better put it somewhere and
not inside your humidor with the rest of your cigars.

Drink and smoke the right cigar. People usually smoke while drinking. If this
population of individuals includes you, see to it that you choose a drink that
could not be overpowered by your cigar. There would be no use if you stick with
a cigar that has stronger taste than what you are drinking. You would surely not
enjoy both.

Butane lighter lights out the taste

You have to use butane lighter in order for you to enjoy the taste of your
cigar and it could surely be more enjoyable when it comes to taste. You could
also use the usual match but see to it that you let the sulfur burn out.

These are just some of the many tips you have to equip yourself especially if
you are fond of smoking cigars. You have to consider your own satisfaction.
These tips are surely of help.

When do cigars really taste good?

Smokers are not choosy when or when not to smoke cigars. But, did you know that
there are indeed great times when you would be able to smoke cigar and savor the
greatest taste it could offer. These may seem odd but really true and those who
are familiar with these times could surely attest to this one.

Here are some of the most wonderful times when you could smoke and feel every
strand of it flowing through your throat smoothly:

* Happy birthday to me

Well, it is your day and gives yourself a break. Smoking a good cigar on your
birthday would really be something you could give to your very self. You could
have this as your way of celebrating life.

* After thanksgiving puff it out

During this meal, which could be one the biggest sumptuous meals you could have
for the whole year, it would be good if you enjoy a great smoke after filling up
your stomach. A smoke would come really great with a dessert drink as well.

* A milestone, a smoke

There are these great moments in your life when you bring out that achiever in
you. You deserve to celebrate! As you smoke, you could remind yourself how good
you were on doing such a great job.

* Weekend escapade

You could turn out the weekend into a great one. After a tiring week at work,
give yourself a treat by just sitting around, feeling the breeze, the empty
schedule, just feeling lazy and chilling.

* Gamble and have a cigar

There is that "manly" effect caused by smoking while gambling. This could also
help you out in relaxing while enjoying the game you are playing. This is a
very good way of gambling, you take control of your luck as you taste your
favorite cigar.

These are worth the smoke moments and you do not want to miss them, do you?
Well, it is your moment and celebrate with the great way of relaxing, feeling
free, letting loose and that is by smoking your favorite cigar.

Why Use a Humidor?

If you are not an experienced cigar smoker, you may be wondering why cigar
aficionados use humidors. Humidors are used to store and protect cigars so that
they are kept at their peak flavor. A humidor works by keeping a cigar at a
constant temperature, somewhere between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and about
70-72% humidity.

Many cigar aficionados claim that the ideal temperature for storing cigars is
70 degree F. Any lower will tend to age the cigar, rather than keep it at a
constant level. Humidors are not meant to age, but rather to preserve the
integrity, flavor, and color of the cigar.

What should you look for when purchasing a humidor? The good humidor should
close completely, with a tight fitting lid that will keep the cigars well kept
from the elements and prevent any exchange of moisture. Seams should be smooth
and well fitted for cigars. Cedar, especially Spanish cedar is ideal for the
interior of the humidor. Of course, make certain your brand of cigars fits well
into any humidor you are considering purchasing.

4 Tips for Lighting a Cigar

For new smokers, lighting a cigar can seem as daunting as learning to choose a
good single. Here are four tips to guide you in lighting a cigar for the first
time.

1. Use cedar matches, if possible. If you prefer to use a lighter, make sure
   it's butane lighter to avoid strong odors.

2. Warm the open end of the cigar (aka 'the foot' of the cigar) slowly over the
   flame, without touching it to the fire. Let a black ring form around the end.

3. Place the cigar in your mouth and draw in slowly. Hold the cigar over the
   flame, about half an inch above it, again without touching. Continue to draw 
   in until the cigar draws the flame. Turn the cigar slowly, spinning it to 
   establish
   an even burn.

4. Once your cigar is lit, take it out of your mouth and observe the burn you
   have established. If the burn appears to be uneven, simply blow on the unlit
   sections to draw the burn, and then take one or two draws from the cigar to
   reestablish an even burn.

How to Blow Smoke Rings with Your Cigar

Do you yearn to blow smoke rings with your cigar like a pro? Stogie aficionados
often speak of the ceremony-like deliberateness of smoking a good cigar. Blowing
smoke rings is the mark of a smoker who enjoys the smooth and relaxing effects
of smoking. But how do you blow a good smoke ring? Some argue that it cannot be
taught -- that it will simply come to you with time and practice. Regardless,
here are a few tips to get you going.

Veteran smokers note that in order to blow a good smoke ring, you will need to
create dense smoke. Draw a deep, dense smoke puff into your mouth. Hold the
smoke there and then open your mouth slowly and deliberately. Open your mouth,
shaping your lips into a rounded 'O.' and pull your tongue back as you expel
the smoke.

Keep in mind that you are not exhaling the smoke, but simply pushing it out of
your mouth. Also keep in mind that this maneuver will not work if there is even
a slight breeze in the air. Make sure you try it in a location with still calm
air.

How to Spot Fake Cuban Cigars

Everyone knows that Cuban cigars are the most coveted cigars, renown worldwide
for their smoothness and rich flavors. Indeed, Cuban cigars are so prized that
many illegitimate dealers have been known to sell fake Cubans to unsuspecting
cigar smokers. How do you tell if what you have is a fake or the real thing?
First, make certain that you purchase your cigars from a legitimate dealer.
Buying from your local tobacconist or a reputable mail order business can
protect you from forking your money over for a box of fake cigars.

If you have an opportunity to purchase a box of purported Cuban cigars, but
have your doubts, take the time to examine the box before purchasing it. Here
are a few tips to help you spot the fakes from the real thing.

The most important thing to examine is the box. Authentic Cuban cigars will
contain a green and white warranty seal on the left front side of the box. The
seal will contain an insignia that has a picture of a shield and a hat. On the
upper right hand corner of the box, you should find a white sticker that is
placed diagonally with the word 'Habanos' printed on it. The overall appearance
of the box should be neat and clean. If the box appears damaged, smudged,
frayed, or marked, avoid it. If the color of the box is dull, don't buy it.
Even if the cigars are the real things, their quality may have suffered in
transport. If you are in the market for Cohiba, Trinidad, or Q'dorsay brand
cigars, know that all authentic Cohiba's will contain the green and white
warranty seal on the right hand side of the box.

On the bottom of the box of cigars, you should find a heat stamp with the words
'Habanos.' The heat stamp should be impressed onto the bottom of the box. Fake
Cuban cigar boxes often find other ways to imprint this label, such as using
rubber stamps or paper labels. You should also find a factory code stamp at the
bottom that is stamped in green, blue or black ink. This stamp will tell you
when and where the cigars were rolled.

If you can open the box, take the time to smell the tobacco. Cuban cigars will
have a deep, rich aroma, unmistakable to dedicated cigar aficionados. If the
smell is off, or very weak, chances are you do not have a box of authentic
Cuban cigars in your hands. The cigars should be facing the same way, and the
top row may appear slightly flattened. The caps on all the cigars should appear
identical, and the foot of each cigar should be cut clean. The bands on all the
cigars should also be identical, and should be arranged so that they face the
same direction. If allowed, test the cigars out by pressing down on them. Feel
along the entire length of each cigar, checking for soft or hard spots. The
cigars should feel firm yet pliable.

A Short History of Cigars and Tobacco

Have you ever wondered where cigars were first produced? It is widely believed
that cigars were first produced in Spain. But before cigars became all the rage
in Europe, tobacco was needed to make them. Tobacco is indigenous to the
Americas, where native peoples have produced it for hundreds of years. It is
believed that the Maya of Yucatan peninsula in Mexico and parts of Central
America cultivated tobacco, and even smoked it! Tobacco use spread to other
tribes, both north and south. It is believed that its first use in the United
States was probably among the tribe along the Mississippi. It wasn't until
Christopher Columbus sailed his famous voyage to the Americas in 1492 that the
rest of the world came to know tobacco.

It is said that Columbus was not impressed by tobacco or its use among native
peoples, but many sailors grew found of the strange plant. Soon it quickly
caught on in Spain and Portugal. From there, it spread to France, where the
French ambassador Jean Nicot lent his name to the scientific name for tobacco
(Nicotiana tabacum). The origins of the word tobacco itself are still suspect,
although many believe it is simply a corruption of the word Tobago, which is
the name of a Caribbean island. Still others believe it comes from the word
Tabasco, a region (and now state) in Mexico.

The first tobacco plantation in the United States was established in Virginia
in 1612. More tobacco plantations followed in Maryland soon after. Although
tobacco became a popular crop, it was only smoked in pipes. The cigar was not
introduced to the United States until the late 18th century. Israel Putnam, an
army general who had served in the Revolutionary War, is credited with
introducing the cigar to the United States. He had traveled to Cuba after the
Revolutionary War and returned with a box of Cuban cigars. Their popularity
quickly spread, and soon enough cigar factories were established in the area of
Harford, Connecticut, where General Putnam resided.

In Europe, cigar production and consumption did not achieve widespread
popularity until after the Peninsula War in the early 19th century. British and
French veterans returned to their homelands after years of serving in Spain with
their tobacco pipes in tow. Among the rich and fashionable, the favored method
of taking tobacco was the cigar. Cigar smoking remains a habit associated with
the rich and discriminating of upper society.

The Health Risks of Cigar Smoking

We have all heard of the risks associated with smoking cigarettes, but what are
the risks of cigar smoking? Are the risks of smoking cigars just as dangerous,
or more so? According to the National Cancer Instituted, regular cigar smoking
can result in a major health threat. Scientific research has linked cigar
smoking with cancers of the larynx, lungs, esophagus, and oral cavity. Newer
research also indicates that cigar smoking may be strongly linked to the
development of cancer in the pancreas. Doctors also caution that individuals
who regularly inhale while enjoying a cigar are also at greater risk of
developing lung disease and heart problems.

The health threats of cigar smoking appear to increase dramatically in those
individuals who smoke regularly and inhale while smoking. Someone who smokes
three to four cigars each day will him or herself at eight times the risk of
developing some kind of oral cancer than a nonsmoker. Unfortunately, we do not
yet know the health risks of smoking the occasional cigar. It seems clear
however that smoking cigars on a daily basis can pose serious health risks.

Many individuals wonder if cigars are as addictive as cigarettes. Many wonder
why, for instance, so many people become addicted to cigarettes, and not
cigars? The truth is that any tobacco product can become addictive because it
contains nicotine. Witness the effects of smokeless tobacco products on
individuals. These products, such as chewing tobacco, can become very
addictive, simply because they contain tobacco, which in turn contains
nicotine. Many cigar smokers do not inhale deeply, thus causing the nicotine to
be inhaled superficially. Cigarette smokers tend to inhale, causing the nicotine
to be absorbed faster and more readily by the lungs. Even though most cigar
smokers inhale the nicotine more superficially, it is still possible to become
addicted if the user smokes cigars on a regular basis.

If nicotine is so addictive, why don't more cigar smokers smoke more often? It
appears that more people avoid becoming 'hooked' on cigars for several reasons.
The most obvious reason is that the nicotine is inhaled much more superficially
than in regular cigarette smoking, causing less nicotine to be absorbed by the
body. Also, cigars are not as readily accessible as cigarettes. They are viewed
by most as a luxury item, saved for special occasions and used infrequently.
However, when cigars are smoked on a regular basis, they can become addictive.
The health risks of any kind of smoking increase dramatically as frequency of
use increases.

The Dangers of Being Exposed to Cigar Smoke

We have all heard about the dangers of inhaling second hand smoke. Many people
wonder if the dangers of inhaling cigar smoke are just as dangerous, or more.
Unfortunately, it appears that being exposed to secondhand smoke from a lit
cigar can be just as dangerous -- or more -- than regular cigarette smoke.

All secondhand smoke emitted by tobacco products are classified as
environmental tobacco smoke. Environmental tobacco smoke refers to all the
secondhand smoke released from tobacco products that are lit, such as cigars or
cigarettes. Research indicates that the smoke from cigars and cigarettes
releases many of the same types of irritants. Both cigar and cigarette
environmental tobacco smoke contain nicotine, carbon monoxide, hydrogen
cyanide, and ammonia. The environmental tobacco smoke from cigars and
cigarettes also releases well-known carcinogens such as vinyl chlorine,
benzene, arsenic, hydrocarbons, and nitrosamines. Cigars, because of their
size, usually release more environmental tobacco smoke than cigarettes. Being
around cigar smoke, then, can pose more of a health threat than inhaling
secondhand smoke from a lit cigarette.

Even though both cigars and cigarettes release similarly toxic environmental
tobacco smoke, there are some key differences between the two. These
differences are related to the very different ways that cigars and cigarettes
are manufactured. The production of cigars consists of a long process of
fermentation and aging. During the production and fermentation process, large
amounts of carcinogens are produced. Once a cigar has been fermented and aged,
they are wrapped in a nonporous wrapper that keeps the cigar from burning too
quickly. The fermentation process and nonporous wrapper both contribute to the
high concentrations of carcinogens in the smoke of al it cigar. When a cigar is
lit, the carcinogenic compounds produced during the fermentation process are
released. The nonporous wrapper also contributes to an unclean burn that is
high in carcinogens.

Another reason why cigars produce greater amounts of carcinogens is in their
girth and length. Cigars are simply bigger than cigarettes. Their size allows
them to release much more smoke, and in turn, much higher concentrations of
toxins and irritants. Also, cigars are designed to be smoked much more slowly
than regular cigarettes, and cigar smokers are encouraged to take their time
and enjoy the relaxing experience. This results in longer smoke times, and
obviously, the creation of much more smoke. It is advised for all non-smokers
to avoid areas where cigars are being smoked. If you smoke cigars, make sure to
do so in a well-ventilated area.

Tasting the World: Cigar's From Different Countries

Most everyone is familiar with the much-lauded flavor of Cuban cigars. But how
do you know if you're smoking a Cuban cigar, or a cigar from any other country
for that matter? For those new to the world of cigar smoking, you should know
that every cigar-producing country has its own unique flavor and character. The
soil quality and the way the tobacco is produced and rolled contribute to the
overall flavor of the finished product.

One must of course allow for significant regional variety, here are some very
basic guidelines for getting to know the world's flavors. The famous Cuban
cigars are renowned for their smoothness and 'creamy' flavors. They are
applauded for their rich flavors and overall premium quality. Cigars from
Central American countries like Honduras and Nicaragua are known to be strong
and rich in flavor. Caribbean countries like Jamaica and the Dominican Republic
are known for their milder flavors.

Whatever country you purchase from, remember that a good way to gauge the
overall flavor of a cigar is to note its diameter and length. In general,
cigars with a thicker diameter will have a richer flavor. Longer cigars are
generally cooler.

Old vs. New: Choosing the Right Cigar

Are you confused about old cigars versus fresh cigars? What does this mean,
exactly? If you're new to the world of cigar smoking, these terms can be a
little perplexing. Basically, know that cigars are never really fresh. That is,
you generally can't purchase a cigar just after it has been produced. Most
tobacconists store their cigars at the proper temperature and humidity before
they are stored. Also, the tobacco in most premium cigars is usually aged for
about one to two years before it is rolled into a cigar.

Many smokers prefer old or vintage cigars. Why? Older cigars are not inherently
better than newer cigars. This is simply a matter of personal taste and
preference. How long can vintage cigars last before they lose flavor and
integrity? Cigars that are properly stored at a constant temperature of
approximately 70 degrees, and about 70% humidity, can be stored indefinitely.

What happens if an old cigar is not stored properly, and begins to dry out?
Although the integrity of the cigar will probably be damaged, it can be
restored significantly by re-humidifying it. This process must be done slowly
and with great care to restore the cigar's flavor and consistency

Making the Perfect Cut on Your Cigar

How to clip a cigar properly? Although every cigar aficionado has their own
proven method, here are some basic guidelines to get you started.

First, examine the head, or closed end, of the cigar. This is the part of the
cigar that will need to be clipped. Determine where the 'cap' is. The cap
refers to the part of the cigar where the tobacco leaf was used to close the
cigar. Once you've found the cap, determine its length. As a general rule, you
should not cut any further than the end of the cap. If you cut further than the
cap, there's a good chance your cigar will unravel!

Use a good quality clipper to cut the head at the cap. You don't want a cheap
cutter that will result in frayed or split cuts. You can purchase a special
cigar cutter at your local tobacco shop that is designed to make clean cuts.
Once you have your cutter, hold your cigar at eye level and make a fast and
decisive cut just above the cap. Less is more when cutting -- if you find your
cut is too superficial, simply cut down a bit more.

Cigar Smoking Etiquette

Smoking cigars may be a great source of pleasure in your life, but the
courteous smoker knows that not everyone enjoys the taste (or smell!) of a good
Cuban. With the fervor of anti-smoking campaigns still in full swing, the
importance of enjoying a good stogie while not offending others cannot be
stressed enough. Simply remember that while you are smoking a cigar, it can be
difficult to gauge the smell that others are experiencing. And don't forget
that cigar smokes can leave a mighty strong residue on clothing, furniture, and
even the walls! In order to enjoy your stogie without a heavy conscience, learn
to become a considerate and courteous cigar smoker.

If you live with non-smokers, try to find a well-ventilated area of your
residence where you can smoke comfortably. Although it may be tempting to lock
yourself away in an office or bedroom, it's probably not a good idea to smoke
in an enclosed area unless it has a window. Make sure you have easy access to
the window. Never smoke in a closed area! You are more likely to inhale the
toxic air from your own cigar. If possible, go outside to smoke. Pull up a lawn
chair; relax on the porch, or any other open area where you can smoke
comfortably. Get as far away as possible to non-smokers, especially children
and the elderly. Remember that cigar smoke contains many carcinogens that can
be easily inhaled by non-smokers.

If you must smoke a cigar outside your home, remember that the courteous and
respectful smoker will only light up where legally permitted. Do no light up in
a bar, hotel, or restaurant where smoking is clearly prohibited. The courteous
cigar smoker will also make sure to smoke in the company of other smokers. If
you are with someone who does not smoke, ask his or her permission. If they
agree, be considerate about it. Make sure the smoke isn't wafting in their
direction. Sit near an open window or space. Make sure the air conditioner or
current is moving the smoke in their direction! Also, make sure no one around
you is eating. The secondhand smoke from a discourteous smoker is a surefire
way to ruin a meal.

A courteous cigar smoker will also be aware of their ashes. If you must smoke
outside your home, make certain to dispose of your ashes in a safe and
appropriate container. Don't forget that ashes can easily blow away, especially
in lower quality cigars. Don't litter with ashes, and be careful they don't blow
near anyone around you.

Cigars vs. Cigarettes: Which is worse for Your Health?

Most everyone has heard about the health risks of smoking both cigars and
cigarettes, and the dangers of secondhand smoke. But which is worse? Do cigar
smokers really have the advantage over cigarettes smokers? The answer is much
more complicated than anyone ever thought.

A Matter of Degree

Research from the National Cancer Institute indicates that the health risks
posed by both cigarettes and cigars are strongly linked to frequency of use.
That is, it's not whether you smoke cigarettes or cigars, but how much and how
often you consume them. Individuals who smoke cigarettes on a daily basis are
at a greater risk of developing cancer than people who smoke the occasional
cigar. That said, evidence indicates that cigars contain many more carcinogens
than cigarettes. It also appears that cigar smoke is more toxic than cigarette
secondhand smoke. Much of this is due to the fact that cigars are bigger than
cigarettes, and thus produce more smoke.

To Inhale or Not?

Debate has also concentrated on the issue of inhaling nicotine from cigars and
cigarettes. Dedicated cigar enthusiasts argue that cigars are less dangerous
than cigarettes because they don't require you to inhale as much toxins. The
National Cancer Institute's research indicates that both cigar and cigarette
smokers are exposed to carcinogens, regardless of whether they inhale or not.
Even without inhaling, smokers are still exposing their mouths, tongues,
larynxes, and throats to carcinogens. In fact, simply holding an unlit cigar or
cigarette between your lips can expose you to carcinogens. Furthermore, when
saliva comes in contact with a cigar or cigarette, even momentarily,
carcinogens are swallowed. When carcinogens are swallowed, the throat, larynx,
and esophagus further become exposed to these toxins and irritants. Cigarette
and cigar smokers appear to swallow similar amounts of carcinogens, resulting
in approximately the same percentage of risk in developing oral and esophageal
cancers.

Research indicates that the health risks associated with both cigars and
cigarettes may be reduced if the degree inhalation is adjusted. Because most
cigarette smokers tend to inhale deeply and smoke on a regular basis, they are
at higher risk of developing cancer of the larynx. To get an idea of how
inhalation of smoke relates to health risks, the National Cancer Institute
tells us that the lung cancer risk of someone who smokes five cigars a day and
inhales moderately has about the same risk as someone who someone who smokes
one pack of cigarettes a day.

How to Purchase Cigars from Cuba

Every cigar aficionado knows that the very best cigars come from Cuba.
Unfortunately, buying the best can often be a risky proposition. But many cigar
enthusiasts are willing to take the risk to get a taste of the very best. If
you're wondering just how one would get their hands on a box of Cubans, read
on. Because of the relationship between the United States and Cuba, know that
there are a lot of people looking to take advantage of cigar aficionados.
Purchasing Cuban cigars should be done with great caution in order to avoid
getting duped.

First, know that importing cigars from Cuba is considered illegal. The United
States placed economic sanctions on the Cuban government in 1963. Ever since
then, Cuban cigars have become the holy grail of cigar enthusiasts. There is,
however, one loophole: visitors to Cuba who return from a sanctioned and
licensed visit are allowed to bring back cigars. However, visitors are not able
to bring back more than $100 worth of cigars, and they must be intended for
personal use, and not for resale.

Any other ways of obtaining Cuban cigars is considered illegal. It is in fact
illegal to buy, sell or trade Cuban cigars in the United States. Fines for
illegal trading, buying or selling of Cuban cigars may face up to $55,000 in
civil fines.

This type of fine, however, is quite rare. The more likely scenario is that
you'll have your cigars confiscated.

When purchasing a box of Cuban cigars, be prepared to fork over quite a bit of
your cash. Prices can range from about $150 to $500 or more. If you're offered
a box below these prices, chances are it may not be the real thing. Most
Internet businesses that sell purportedly genuine Cuban cigars tend to be
imitations. Always avoid shops or retailers that offer "discounted" Cuban
cigars.

How to get your hands on the real thing? The easiest way to get a box of
authentic Cuban cigars is to head north to Canada. Buy them in Canada and
repackage them so that they are not in their original Cuba packaging. Remove
the rings and place the cigars in a different box. Customs agents tend to not
inspect cigars carefully, and it is generally not considered a serious offense
to bring Cuban cigars into the United States. In fact, many clerks at tobacco
shops will even offer to repackage Cuban cigars for you.

How To Properly Age A Cigar

Experienced cigar enthusiasts know well the pleasures of a well-aged cigar. The
subtle flavors and complex constitution of a well-aged cigar is indescribably
and unforgettable. Like wine, many cigar aficionados swear by the process of
aging. A great cigar, the argument goes, is an aged one. How can you attain a
well-aged cigar that provides the mellow, complex flavors you crave? You can
always fork over a good deal of your money and purchase a box of expensive
vintage cigars. If you would rather save the money and experiment with aging on
your own, here are a few tips to help you get started.

First, know that you will have to be patient if you want a properly aged cigar.
You will have to age your cigars for about a year in order to achieve the
flavors and complex subtleties of a well-aged cigar. Also, know that in order
to achieve the rewards of a well-aged cigar; you must begin the process with a
high quality cigar. If you try to age a lower quality cigar, chances are any
amount of aging won't improve their flavor significantly. Many high quality
cigars that you find too strong or odorous are perfect candidates for aging. In
fact, almost all high quality cigars can be improved through the process of
aging.

To age your cigars, purchase a good quality humidor. Cigars must be stored in a
constant and stable environment. Follow the 70-70 rules. That means the humidity
must be at a constant humidity of 70%, and at a temperature of 70 degrees
Fahrenheit.

Of course, the environment in which they are stored is crucial. Follow the
usual 70-70 rules for temperature and humidity. Any more and your cigars will
get moldy; any less and the aging process begins to be stunted. Maintaining a
stable environment for your cigars is key -- a constantly fluctuation
environment can be disastrous. Swings in temperature and humidity cause cigars
to expand and contract, cracking their wrappers and it may disrupt the aging
process. Ideally, the space in the humidor should be about twice the volume of
cigars. The lining should be cedar -- cedar wood is highly aromatic wood, full
of its own oils. With the passage of time, the interaction of the tobacco oils
amongst themselves, and with the cedar oil of the wood it leads to a mellowing
and blending of flavors resulting in that subtle complexity you can only get
from proper aging.

Cigars 101: An Overview of Cigars

Cigars have long been associated with the rich and powerful, with relaxation
and rich flavor. Cigar aficionados have created a culture around the art of
smoking, assembling various theories and accessories to debate and facilitate
smoking. Much like wine tasting, cigar smoking has been seen as a diversion of
the upper echelons of society.

It is believed that cigars were probably first produced in Spain, and then
quickly caught on in other European countries. Although many different
countries manufacture cigars, Cuban cigars have long been highly regarded as
one of the most flavorful and rich of all cigars. This is due to regional
microclimates that are said to produce the highest quality tobacco, as well as
the skill of the country's cigar makers. Other countries that produce
significant amounts of tobacco and cigars include Brazil, Mexico, Honduras,
Ecuador, Cameroon, Dominican Republic, Indonesia, and the United States. Why
have cigars long caught the attention of so many? Many speculate that the
cigar's main attraction is in the way it is manufactured. High quality cigars
are always wrapped by hand. Unlike cigarettes, cigars undergo a lengthy process
of fermentation and aging (much like wine), resulting in subtle flavors and
textures. They are highly individual and the best cigars will provide no smoky
aftertaste at all.

The taste of cigars is much more complex than cigarettes. The majority of all
cigars are created by wrapping three different layers of tobacco leaves
together. High quality cigars usually contain long leaves of nicotine as the
filler, although they may also contain a combination of scraps. This results in
subtle variations, different textures, and complex flavors. Cigarettes, on the
other hand, are mass-produced and generally only contain one type of tobacco.
Cigars also come in an incredible variety of flavors. The dedicated cigar
aficionado can find chocolate, vanilla, apple, and even coffee-flavored cigars!

Although cigars have long been lauded for their smooth and complex flavors,
they can also pose a great health risk. All tobacco contains nicotine. We've
all heard about the negative health risks of nicotine, but what does it do
exactly? Nicotine is a stimulant that produces a sense of euphoria. Even the
casual smoker cannot escape the fact that nicotine is highly addictive and
contains various toxins, carcinogens, and irritants. Although most connoisseurs
of cigars will avoid inhaling the smoke, they are still at risk of developing
various types of oral and larynx cancers.

How to Buy Cigars as a Gift

Is there a cigar aficionado on your gift list? Wondering how to choose a decent
cigar for a friend or loved one? Even if you know nothing about cigars or
choosing a good cigar, just learning a few basics can help you sniff out
(sometimes literally) a good cigar to give to a friend.

Fortunately, cigars have now entered the mainstream. Once the symbol of the
rich and powerful, it's easier than ever for just about anyone to purchase a
good cigar. Of course, you probably won't be able to buy your friend a box of
top-tier Cuban cigars, but you can definitely buy them a good quality cigar
that will put a smile on their face.

First, visit your local tobacconist or specialty smoke shop for the best
quality and widest selection. Avoid 'drugstore' cigars. Although they may be
inexpensive and convenient to purchase, drugstore cigars are usually filled
with preservatives and generally of poorer quality. They may contain, at
minimum, saltpeter, paper, glycerin, and other preservatives and irritants. You
should make sure that the cigars you purchase are made of 100% tobacco. If you
have any questions regarding the cigars ingredients, ask the salesperson. An
experienced and knowledgeable sales clerk will be able to tell you extensive
information about the ingredients.

Your local tobacco shop is a good place to shop because you will generally be
allowed to smell and touch the cigars. Squeeze the cigar gently. A good quality
cigar will give a little when squeezed. The cigar should be firm, with no
excessively soft or hard spots. Never buy a lumpy cigar. Look at the wrapper.
If you notice any drying or discoloration, best not to buy it. Ideally, the
wrapper should be tight and smooth. Inspect the color of the tobacco to make
sure it is even. Do this by inspecting the end of the cigar. Some color
variation is normal, but if the color changes abruptly, chances are the cigar
was not rolled properly. A cigar that is not rolled properly may result in an
uneven burning and unpleasant odors.

If you're not sure how much your friend smokes, choose a longer cigar. Longer
cigars tend to have a 'cooler' taste -- an excellent choice for beginners. If
you know your friend is an experienced and regular smoker, choose a cigar that
is greater in diameter. These cigars tend to have a richer flavor that
experienced smokers will appreciate.

Cigar Smoking 101

What are the basics of cigar smoking? How do you light a cigar? How do you draw
on the cigar properly? Do you inhale? What are the dos and don'ts of cigar
smoking? If you have ever pondered any of these questions, read on. Here is a
simple and accessible primer designed to help you gain familiarity with the
sometimes confusing, always enigmatic world of cigar smoking.

First Step: Lighting Up

First, all new cigar smokers should learn how to properly light a cigar. Use a
clipper designed for cigars to clip off the edge of the head (the section you
put to your mouth). If possible light the foot of your cigar with a cedar
match. Avoid regular cigarette lighters. They produce a nasty odor that can
linger and ruin a good cigar. If you must use a lighter, use butane lighter.
These will keep the odor to a minimum. However, you should always strive to use
a wooden match because lighters can easily taint the foot of your cigar. How do
you light up? Simply strike a match and hold the edge of your cigar over the
flame. Avoid touching the cigar to the fire, simply hold the cigar over the
flame and draw deeply until the cigar is lit.

Second Step: Burn it down to a nub?

Should you burn your cigar down to a nub? Experts recommend you leave at least
two inches to your cigar. Even the finest cigars will tend to get bitter if you
let it burn all the way down. What about ashes? Should you knock the ashes off
of your cigar? Rather than knocking the ashes off the edge, let the cigar rest
in the ashtray when you're not smoking it. The ashes will fall off naturally.

Third Step: Relax and Enjoy

A cigar should never be rushed. By design, cigars should be savored, preferably
after dinner and with a glass of good brandy. Hold the cigar between your thumb
and fingers -- anything else might be considered bad taste. Also, don't inhale
deeply. The smoke should not reach your lung. This is very bad for your health,
and it will not help you taste the cigar any better. Of course, you should
always be considerate of those around you. If possible, smoke in the company of
other cigar smokers. A good cigar can be enjoyed alone and even more so with
friends.

Choosing the Best Ashtray for Cigar Smoking

Is an ashtray just an ashtray? Unlike regular cigarettes, cigars need their own
special space to support their girth and ashes. Many cigar aficionados swear by
the pleasures of finding the proper place to hold their cigars and ashes.

So what are the characteristics of a good ashtray? First of course, make sure
the ashtray you buy is big enough to hold your cigars. Cigars come in varying
sizes, so you will want an ashtray that can accommodate the single of your
choice. Next, consider your personal style of smoking. Do you produce a lot of
ash? Do you let your cigar rest for extended periods of time? These are all
important considerations when choosing your ashtray.

Look for ashtrays made of metal, heavy glass, or ceramics. Ideally, you will
want the ashtray to be big enough to hold the ashes for two cigars.

Where can you find the best ashtrays for your cigars? Many cigar aficionados
swear by antique ashtrays. Search out flea markets and antique stores for good
deals. Tobacco shops, mail order catalogues, and Internet shops are also good
places to look.

How to Pair Cigars and Alcohol

The cigar has long been viewed as a luxury of the rich and powerful. Images of
well-to-do men puffing on a stogie and swirling a glass of good brandy have
been well documented and memorialized in films and TV. If you are just becoming
interested in cigars and would like to relax with a stogie and drink after a
long day's work, here are a few tips to get you started.

Traditionally, the cigar has been paired with a strong drink. Popular spirits
include rum, brandy, or whiskey. Some argue that a good cigar should always be
paired with a strong drink that has a hint of sweetness. Indeed, cigar smokers
have long enjoyed these popular pairings. For years, the idea of pairing cigars
with beer has gone overlooked. But why overlook good old beer? Recently, the
trend has been to pair cigars with various varieties of beer. It seems that as
cigars have entered the mainstream, it has been democratized and popularized.
What better way to enjoy a puff of this newly popularized treat than to pair it
with beer?

Pairing a good cigar with a good beer is not an easy feat, but when
accomplished, it is well worth the effort. Much of the pairing has to do with
your experience level. If you are a novice, you will probably need help in
pairing your specific cigar with an appropriate beer. If you have a more
experienced palate, and you know what you like, you can probably make
connections between certain types of cigars and beers.

Because cigars are so strong and flavorful, one of the challenges in pairing is
to find a beer that complements the intensity of most cigars. Most cigars will
pair nicely with a good barely wine or a single malt scotch. If your cigar can
be described as woody, spicy, with hints of cedar, try pairing it with a barley
wine. The fruity hint of barely wine should complement nicely with the spicy
flavor of your cigar. The combination of a spicy cigar with a slightly fruity
beer can create an overall creaminess that enhances the flavors of each
significantly.

If you have no clue as to what flavor combinations might work, experiment.
First, find a cigar that you enjoy. Try to identify the characteristics that
you enjoy about it. Then, find a beer whose flavors you think might 'match' or
complement the cigar. Many incredible discoveries have been made in much this
same way.

How to Choose the Perfect Single

Wondering how to choose the perfect cigar? If you're a newcomer to the world of
cigar smoking, here are a few tips to choosing the best cigar.

First, note the texture of the cigar. Squeeze it gently. Is very soft, or
rigid? Ideally, the cigar should give slightly, but not too much. Very gently,
squeeze the length of the cigar to check for lumps. A good cigar will have a
consistent texture.

Next, inspect the cigar for flaws. Any cracks or discolorations are the signs
of a lower quality cigar. The cigar's wrapper should be wrapped smoothly.

Finally, look at the ends of the cigar. Pay particular attention to the exposed
end where cigar is lit. If you're new to cigars, it can be difficult to gauge
the quality of the tobacco. The simplest way to judge the tobacco quality of a
cigar is to inspect the color of the tobacco. If you note any abrupt color
changes, this may indicate that the tobacco leaves were not laid out properly.
Look for a cigar with a smooth blend of tobacco.

The Parts of a Cigar

What are the different parts of a cigar? Many long-time smokers enjoy their
stogies without learning the basic parts of their cigar. While it's true that
you can enjoy a cigar without knowing how it was put together, learning the
basic parts of a cigar can be instrumental in helping you choose the best
quality cigars.

The first thing many smokers notice about a cigar is the wrapper, the layer of
tobacco on the outside of a cigar. A cigar's wrapper is very important because
it provides much of the flavor of the cigar. The best quality tobacco leaves
are usually used to construct the wrapper. They range in color from very clear
(claro) to very dark (oscuro).

Binders are known as the 'intermediate leaves.' They are used to hold the
tobacco filler together. Binders can vary considerably.

Last but certainly not least is the filler used to make a cigar. The filler is
the tobacco. Generally, filler can be either long or short. Long filler
consists of whole tobacco leaves, while short filler consists of scraps.

Fighting the Beetles: Protecting Your Cigars from Infestation

Your cigar box may be at risk of a secret predator. Many cigar aficionados have
been shocked and repulsed at finding their treasured cigars infested with
Lasioderma Serricorne, also known as tobacco beetles. This dreaded beetle feeds
on your precious cigars. They don't care if your cigars are drugstore
mass-market brands, or imported beauties.

What is the tobacco beetle, and where does it come from? The tobacco beetle
exits in all countries where tobacco is produced. It thrives on tobacco plants,
infesting their leaves before it is processed. Tobacco beetles thrive in hot
climates, and especially in the warm countries Caribbean countries where much
of the world's tobacco is produced. Tobacco beetles lay larvae that are white
and up to 4 mm long. When the larvae hatch, they produce moths that proceed to
hungrily eat their way through the tobacco leaves. Unfortunately, the tobacco
beetle has been known to survive the process of fermentation and production
that is used to make most cigars. Although many countries have made the effort
to rid their tobacco crops of this dreaded pest, mostly by spraying crops with
gases, the tobacco beetle has proven highly resistant.

If the tobacco beetle survives into the finished product, many cigar
enthusiasts may open their cigar boxes to find that their cigars have been
eaten through. Sometimes the presence of the tobacco beetle can be detected
through the presence of small puncture-like holes on the wrapper. The holes can
make an average cigar resemble a flute.

What can you do if you find your cigars infested with the tobacco beetle?
Research has shown that your microwave may be your best defense in destroying
the tobacco beetle larvae. Before using your microwave, remove and dispose of
any infested cigar from your collection. The rest of your cigars can be
treated. In order to rid the remaining of your collection of this pest, you
should make sure to microwave your cigars together, never individually.
Microwave them for about three minutes. After being warmed, immediately place
the cigars into the freezer. After freezing them for 24 hours, remove them and
allow them to thaw at room temperature. After they have thawed completely,
place them in a humidor. This treatment has proven effective in removing the
presence of the tobacco beetle. Before removing a cigar from the humidor to be
smoked, examine each cigar individually. If the cigar shows no evidence of
infestation, it is safe to smoke.

Drugstore Cigars: A Good Buy?

The sheer diversity of cigars can be confusing for new smokers. Many new
smokers want to know: is it OK to buy cigars from their local drugstore or
chain store? What is the quality of these cigars? Can you expect to get good
flavor from these cigars?

While of course, it's perfectly OK to purchase these cigars, be aware that
these packaged cigars are usually of poorer quality. Most 'drugstore' cigars
contain preservative or other non-tobacco ingredients. Common ingredients found
in packaged cigars may include paper, Glycerin, and saltpeter. High quality
cigars will contain only tobacco. Packaged drugstore cigars will generally
contain these extra ingredients designed to keep them stored on the shelves for
extended periods of time.

In order to get the best quality cigars, you will have to visit your local
tobacconist. While many mail order businesses do carry good quality cigars, be
aware that they usually will not sell singles, thus you will have to purchase
whole boxes. Visiting your local tobacconist allows you to test different
brands before settling on a box.

Check the Ashtray: Using Ashes to Determine the Quality of Your Cigar

How to tell if your cigar is of the highest quality? Check the ashtray -- the
ashes left behind can speak volumes about the quality of your cigar. Here a few
simple tips to determining the quality of your cigar.

First, note how fast your cigar burns. A cigar that seems to burn too quickly
or disposes ashes that break apart easily is probably a lower quality cigar. If
the ashes seem too messy, and don't break apart together, this may also indicate
a lower quality cigar. Also, check the color of the ashes. If the ash color
seems to change, the tobacco leaf mix may be of poorer quality.

The highest quality cigars, those that are well packed, will burn very slowly
and burn stiff ash. The 'stiff ash' can remain intact up to two to three inches
long, and remain on the cigar without breaking apart. A high quality cigar can
be burned down to the nub. Even high quality cigars may vary in taste,
especially when they are smoked down to the nub. Many times, you can usually
get 'burn past' these bitter spots by letting the cigar burn on its own for a
few minutes.

All Styles and Sizes: The Basic Types of Cigars

For the new smoker, the different styles and sizes of cigars can seem
mind-boggling. It helps to know that all cigars can be divided into two broad
categories: parejos and figurados.

Parejos refers to cigars that are basically straight. They are subdivided into
three categories: coronas, panatelas, and lonsdales. Coronas come in a variety
of styles and famous brands. They are known as cigars with an 'open foot' (or
tip) and a rounded head. Panatelas are generally longer than coronas, are
thinner. Lonsdales are also longer than coronas, but are thinner than panatelas.

The second basic category consists of the figurados. Figurados refers to cigars
with that are irregular or somehow hand-shaped so that they are not strictly
straight. The smallest type of figurados is the belicoso cigars, which are
known for a larger foot and a smaller, rounded head. Another basic figurado
cigar is the pyramid, which have pointed heads that taper to a large foot. The
perfecto is a figurado cigar that is tapered on both the head and foot, with a
thinner middle. The largest figurado is the diademas, known as the 'giant' of
cigars because it is always eight inches or longer.

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