Cigar smoking is a great way to relax, but it is important to understand the basics before you light up. With the right information, you can enjoy a great cigar with confidence.
From the A to the Z of cigars, here’s what you need to know:
A is for Aging
Aging is the process of allowing a cigar to mature over time. Aging helps to develop the flavor of the cigar and can also improve its burn and draw. Aging is an essential part of the cigar-making process and can take anywhere from a few months to several years.
B is for Blending
Blending is the process of combining tobaccos from different regions and countries to create a unique cigar. The tobaccos are blended together to create a distinct flavor profile that is unique to the cigar. Different tobaccos can be blended to create new flavors, such as a spicy, sweet, or nutty flavor.
C is for Cigar Shapes
Cigars come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common shapes are the parejo and the figurado. Parejo cigars are cylindrical in shape and have an even burn, while figurados are tapered at the head and have a more complex flavor profile.
D is for Draw
The draw is the amount of smoke you get from a cigar when you take a puff. It should be smooth and even, with a good amount of smoke produced. A good draw will give you a full-flavored smoke, while a poor draw can make the cigar taste harsh and unpleasant.
E is for Wrapper
The wrapper is the outermost layer of a cigar and is responsible for the cigar’s flavor and appearance. The wrapper is made from of tobacco leaves, such as Connecticut Shade, Sumatra, and Corojo, which give the cigar its unique flavor, aroma, and color.
F is for Foot
The foot of a cigar is the end you light. It should be dry and free of any damage. If the cigar is too moist, it can cause the cigar to burn unevenly and taste unpleasant.
G is for Gomma
A flavorless, odorless vegetable adhesive used to secure the head of the wrapper leaf around the finished bunch. Also called gum.
H is for Humidor
A humidor is a container used to store cigars and keep them at a consistent humidity and temperature. The ideal humidity for cigars is around 70%, so a humidor is essential for keeping your cigars tasting their best.
I is for Infusing
Infusing is the process of adding flavors to cigars. This can be done by adding essences, syrups, or oils to the tobacco blend. Infused cigars have become increasingly popular in recent years and can add a unique flavor to your cigar.
J is for Jumping
Jumping is the term used to describe when a cigar starts to burn unevenly. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as an improper cut, a bad draw, or a wet foot. If your cigar is jumping, you can try to fix it by cutting the end a bit more or relighting it.
K is for Keeping Track of Your Collection
Keeping track of your cigar collection is an important part of being a cigar enthusiast. You can easily keep track of your collection by using a cigar journal or an app like CigarLog. This will help you remember which cigars you have tried, what you thought of them, and which ones you still need to try.
L is for Lighting
When lighting a cigar, it is important to use the right technique. The best way to light a cigar is to use a butane lighter and light the cigar in a circular motion, making sure to ignite the entire foot evenly. If the cigar is not lit evenly, it can cause an uneven burn and a poor draw.
M is for Mulling
A finishing step done on some, but not all tobacco, before it is used in a factory. Tobacco is mulled in a hot, humid room to finish tobacco leaves that may have been on the side or the top of a pilón. . Away from the center of a pilón, the temperatures are not high, so tobacco may miss part of the fermentation process. The mulling room, at 95 to 100 degrees, with humidity of 90 percent, darkens and sweetens the tobacco as needed.
N is for Nubbing
Nubbing is the practice of smoking a cigar down to the nub, or the. This practice is becoming increasingly popular among cigar enthusiasts, as it allows you to enjoy the full flavor of the cigar. Nubbing also allows you to experience a cigar’s flavor in greater depth, as the flavor profile develops as you smoke it down.
O is for Origins
Cigars have a long and interesting history, with the origins of cigar smoking dating back to the early days of the Mayan civilization. Since then, cigars have been embraced by cultures all over the world and continue to be enjoyed today.
P is for Pairing
Pairing cigars with drinks is a great way to enhance the flavor of the cigar. Different drinks can bring out different flavors in the cigar, so experiment to find the perfect pairing for your favorite cigars.
Q is for Quality Control
Quality control is an essential part of the cigar-making process. Quality control ensures that each cigar meets the manufacturer’s standards for flavor, construction, and consistency. A good quality control program will ensure that each cigar is of the highest quality and an enjoyable smoking experience.
R is for Rolling
Rolling is the process of rolling the tobacco leaves into a cylinder to form the cigar. This is done by hand, using a variety of tools and techniques. A good roll is essential for a good cigar, as it determines the cigar’s shape and burn.
S is for Storage
Proper storage is essential for keeping your cigars fresh and flavorful. Cigars should be stored in a humidor at a consistent humidity and temperature. This will help to preserve the cigars and keep them tasting their best.
T is for Taste
Taste is one of the most important aspects of a cigar. Cigars have a wide range of flavors, from sweet and mild to spicy and full-bodied. It is important to try different cigars to find the flavor profile that is best for you.
U is for Upkeep
Upkeep is an essential part of being a cigar smoker. You should regularly inspect your cigars for damage, keep your humidor clean and well-maintained, and rotate your cigars regularly. Doing these things will help ensure your cigars stay fresh and flavorful.
V is for Variety
Variety is the spice of life! Cigars come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and flavors, so there is something for everyone. Try different cigars to find the one that is perfect for you.
W is for Wrapping
Wrapping is the process of wrapping the cigar in cellophane or another material. Wrapping a cigar helps to keep it fresh and prevents it from drying out. It also adds an extra layer of protection to the cigar and makes it easier to transport.
X is for X-Factors
When enjoying a cigar, there are many x-factors that can affect the overall experience. These include the environment, the time of day, the type of drink you are enjoying, and the company you are with. All of these factors can have an impact on the flavor of the cigar and the enjoyment of the experience.
Y is for Yearning
Cigar smoking is an enjoyable and relaxing pastime, and it is easy to see why it has been so popular for centuries. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned smoker, there is always something new to learn and something new to try. So, if you find yourself yearning for a great cigar, go ahead and light up!
Z is for Zafadores
The Cuban term for workers who sort cigar tobacco. In a cigar factory, tobacco leaves are sorted in many ways, including by type, size and color.
