Homeliving in Style

Way back in 1915 in Key West Florida, the Thompson Cigar company was founded and can rightly claim to be the oldest mail order cigar company in the United States and it holds the Postal Permit #1 for Tampa, Florida. The company is well known for delivering a huge selection of products that could cover all prices as well as tastes and various Thompson Cigar cigars reflect their desire to provide the finest cigars at the lowest possible costs. Thompson Cigar has a call center that provides personalized service to customers and many of their representatives have been serving the company for more than twenty years and so have unrivalled knowledge about the industry.

More Than 300,000 Cubic Feet of Storage Area

Thompson Cigar has the biggest inventory storage humidor anywhere in the US and it takes up more than 300,000 cubic feet of storage area and so ensures that the cigars one buys from them are of superior quality and not some cigar that has been stored in any hot and dry storehouse. Thompson Cigar also has an on-site retail store that supplies the same quality inventory that one would find in their catalogs or on their website and also keeps accessories along with giving daily discounts on special products.

Some of the other attractive features of Thompson Cigar are that it allows buyers to create their own personalized brand of cigars and thus enable them to say Thanks for the business or Thinking about you, as always or Glad to share moments with you with their very own custom made cigars. Any hand rolled premier cigar will become the buyer s own distinct as well as unforgettable memento and can by used for either advertising or commemorative or for celebrating an occasion. It could be used to celebrate the birth of a new child with each cigar having the name of the newborn on it as well as the child s date of birth. All in all, it can lend importance to an occasion.

Thompson Cigar may be thought of as being a benchmark for customer service as well as for the quality of its cigars and it is known for filling orders on time and the general shopping experience is pleasurable. Their humidors are excellent and make for excellent quality cigar storage even in places that are excessively hot and require the cigars to be kept in humidors that protect the cigar and still retain their desired humidity levels and also retain the flavor.

Just like a fine wine, there is an extensive process in creating a fine cigar. The process involves more than just growing, processing the tobacco and marketing the cigar. Involved in the process is the quality of tobacco used, where it is grown, the aging process, the flavors blended together, and the commitment of the cigar company. One such cigar company that has established a reputation for uncompromising attention to the process of creating a fine cigar is the Padron Cigar Company. The origins of the Padron Cigar Company are deeply rooted in Miami Florida. Established in 1964, Jos O. Padron followed meticulously the Cuban art of providing cigars. The Padron Cigar Company is a family owned business and as such the pride of producing a quality cigar is a major factor that contributes to the production of a product that carries the family name.

The objective of the Padron Cigar Company is not to produce the most cigars, but the finest cigars. They adhere to this commitment by staying true to the process and limiting the production of cigars. The limitation of the number of cigars manufactured is in direct proportion to the quality of the tobacco that is available to produce the Padron cigar and to maintain the integrity of the full process in producing these fine cigars.

The Padron Cigar

The Padron cigar is grown from the finest seeds of Cuban tobacco. The actual tobacco fields are located in Nicaragua and the creation of the cigars takes place in Nicaragua and Honduras. The cigars produced range from cigars that are classified as moderate to full flavor cigars. The Padron cigar is available in two wrappers. Those two wrappers are the maduro and the natural wrapper. The maduro wrapper, when burned, will exude an aroma that can be likened to an espresso coffee. The natural wrapper has a hint of spices. The wrapper is the exterior portion of the cigar. Wrappers reflect the quality of the cigar and the better the wrapper, the more expensive the cigar.
There are three major purposes of the wrapper. The first purpose is to offer flavor. The second purpose speaks to the burning of the cigar. A quality wrapper will provide steady burning of the cigar which is critical for the full enjoyment of the product. The final purpose of the wrapper is the look that it lends to the cigar. A fine wrapper will not only make the cigar feel good to the touch of the cigar lover, but will give the appearance of a finely crafted cigar. Today, the Padron Cigar Company maintains its headquartering presence in Miami. The Padron Cigar is appreciated for its mixtures of tobacco, the unwavering taste and affordability.

In the heyday of the 50s TV programming, when our moms and dads sat glued in front of that little black and white flickering screen, watching such shows as The Texico Star Theater , I Love Lucy and the Ed Sullivan Show , they were also witness to one of America s first icons in TV advertising history, the Muriel cigar. The earliest commercials consisted of an animated dancing female cigar, singing I’m today’s new Muriel, the fine cigars… Often this spot included her male counterpart and a child cigar. Then in the early 1960s Edie Adams became the face of the Muriel Cigar with her provocative May West come on, “Hey big spender, spend a little dime on me”. Later Edie hosted her own series sponsored by Muriel Cigars called “Here’s Edie”. The position of the Muriel Cigar girl was later taken over by fashion model Susan Anton in the 1970s.

A Bit of History

The Muriel cigar actually had a much earlier beginning before its memorable jump to TV stardom. The brand was originally owned by P. Lorillard and Company of Jersey City New Jersey, one of America’s largest and oldest manufacturers of tobacco products during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The Muriel Cigar brand was acquired by Consolidated Cigar in 1959 where it began its claim to TV fame and through time and many transitions now belongs to Altadis U.S.A., a company with a vast and deeply rooted history in the American cigar industry. The company has only grown, both bigger and better as time went by.

A Slice of Americana

Gone are the days of the ten cent cigars and such TV icons as I Love Lucy and Ed Sullivan, now all a slice of American nostalgia. We won t be seeing any cigars dancing across our big screen color TVs but some things endure in a changing world, and one of these is the Muriel Cigar. Today the Muriel cigar is one of the best known and affordable cigars in America with its distinctive tip and a broad selection of traditional and flavored cigars, in blackberry, strawberry and chocolate, the Muriel Cigar is bound to please any cigar aficionado. Oh, and if you look really hard, you might just find an old clip of that sexy Muriel Cigar and her dancing partner, singing and tapping their way across your little flickering computer screen.. Take time out of your day, and enjoy a cigar.

Cigars just like anything else today are branded according to their quality, flavor and aroma; their reputation coming solely from the cigar aficionados who rate them by not only the tobacco used, which of course is the main ingredient, but also the tobacco leaf used to roll it in, the roller, the company who makes it and last but not least the name it carries. Montecristo cigars were named after the famous novel written by Alexander Dumas, which is The Count Of Monte Cristo , It is said that in the factory, where the cigars were being rolled, the novel was read out loud for the enjoyment of the rollers many times; the story of The Count of Monte Cristo is of love and revenge and thus, bringing a lot of passion and emotion out on the rollers of the cigars. In 1935, Menende, Garcia and y Cia, who already owned a cigar factory known as the H. Upmann decided to create their own brand of cigars and name them Montecristo cigars. The quality of the Montecristo cigars spoke for themselves and therefore they become famous overnight.

There are two main sources that produce the Montecristo cigars today and they are one in Cuba by Habanos SA and the other in the Dominican Republic by Altadis SA. Cuban cigars are illegal in the US therefore the only Montecristo cigars you will get will be the one made in the Dominic Republic.

Different types of Montecristo Cigars

During the years due to its huge success around the world there are a number of different types, shapes and sizes of Montecristo cigars that were created and they are: the hand rolled Cuban Montecristos are No 1 through No 5 made in different sizes, Especial No1 and No 2; Joyita, Tubo, Petit Tubo and Edmundo. Limited edition Montecristos are: Double Corona and Robusto in 2001, C in 2003, D in 2005 and Robusto in 2006. Special Edition of the Montecristo cigar was the Millennium Reserve Robusto (or Rothschild) and B. Montecristo cigars can also be found in mini series under the following brands: the Mini, The Club and the Purito.

Conclusion

In order to enjoy a Montecristo cigar, you need to ensure that you have preserved it at the right temperature, cut and lit it well as well as if accompany it by a snifter of cognac in which you can dip the end part occasionally before pulling a smoke. You may also like to read the novel The Count Of Monte Cristo by Alexander Dumas, just so you can be on the same spirit and mind with the maker and cigar rollers of this famous brand.

Ramon Cifuentes was born in 1908 Cuba, cigar making was a part of his life from a very young age, and he enjoyed making cigars there in Cuba until the 1960 s when all the cigar companies and factories were taken over by the communist party. At this time he was offered a position by the government to operate all the Cuban cigar companies, he refused them however and migrated to the United States, he then moved to New York City with only his wife and what possessions they could carry, as the government seized all their remaining assets. After a time Ramon Cifuentes began working with the tobacco in Connecticut learning how to grow the renowned shade tobacco, eventually earning his place as a master cigar maker for the General Cigar Company. As Ramon moved through the company and he was eventually sent to oversee operations in Jamaica; he was creatively responsible for the Macanudo cigar line. Because of his experience with Partagas cigars, which originated in Cuba, Ramon Cifuentes crafted the Macanudo cigars to become the leading premium cigar.

Daniel Nunez

Angel Daniel Nunez began his journey to become a great tobacco farmer and cigar maker when he was very young, his father was also a farmer, he had a great desire to become a tobacco farmer himself. Due to problems in schools in Dominican Republic in the 1960 s Daniel Nunez began his education in the United States, at Texas A&M. He worked and studies in Texas until 1974 when he began working for the General Cigar Company; and under the tutelage of Ramon Cifuentes. Daniel Nunez was taught by Ramon Cifuentes the secrets of crafting cigars, and gave Daniel Nunez the inspiration and knowledge to create his own line of Macanudo Cigars.

General Cigar Company

General Cigar Company is based in Connecticut they produce shade leaf wrappers, binding tobacco, and filler tobacco. The General Cigar Company has been synonymous with quality cigars for decades; especially since the addition of master cigar makers Ramon Cifuentes and Daniel Nunez to the creative team. These master cigar makers are responsible for the company s most popular brand, the Macando Cigars. Ramon Cifuentes is responsible for the creation of the original Macanudo Caf line and other diversities within the Macanudo cigar line. Daniel Nunez is the creative inspiration behind the robust flavored Macanudo s that are more complex and full bodied than their other brands.

Macanudo Cigar Specifications

Macando cigars are made from the finest quality Connecticut wrappers and a variety of filler and binder tobaccos from the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Africe and Connecticut. The tobacco is cured before being made into cigars to promote the signature sweet spicy flavor; the rolling of Macando cigars is also a fine art form that is only learned from a master. Every aspect of the cigar making process insures quality over quantity and is one reason why Macando cigars are among the most popular in the entire country.

The international cigar differs from the traditional cigar in that it is machine made in which a bundle of tobacco gets rolled into a tubular shape and the bundle is known as the filler which is held tightly by the binder and both of them are covered with the wrapper. Making an international cigar is totally automated and an operator is used to feed the machine with the different parts of tobacco. The advantage of an international cigar is that it is more consistent as well as uniformly constructed than is the case with a handmade cigar. With additives present in the these homogenized tobacco products one can also control the rate at which the cigar burns which would be more steady as well as gives a milder smoke. There are many good machine made international cigars including Agio, Davidoff, Fleur de Savane, Henri Wintermans, King Edward and La Paz, to name a few.

A Few Different International Cigars

The Agio international cigar is made in Sri Lanka because it requires labor intensive inputs and the binder as well as wrapper can be cut to the desired size here. The leaves are machine cut into a characteristic shape that depends on the cigar model in which it needs to be wrapped around. The pre-cut leaves are put in fabric and rolled up and leaves the factory as a semi-manufactured goods and is wrapped in another factory and is a good example of how present day international cigars are made.

Another famous international cigar is named King Edward and owes its name to King Edward VII who struck down Queen Victoria s ban on smoking by uttering the famous words Gentlemen, you may smoke. This brand of international cigars is now world famous and is also a best seller worldwide because it is smooth, mild and also affordable that may be bought as five-packs or 50-count boxes that are available in more than 60 countries worldwide.

Other famous international cigars include Davidoff Cigarillos that contain hundred percent delicate nature tobacco and these small formatted cigars provide excellent taste as well as flavor. Another manufacturer of international cigars that was formed in 1904 and has more than a hundred years of experience is Henri Wintermans that make well constructed as well pre-cut and machine made Dutch cigars that are wrapped individually and are mild as well as aromatic and give a smooth draw as well as a pleasant aroma.

The humidor cigar should be aerated a minimum of once in a fortnight so that the cigars get adequate as well as regular supply of fresh air since cigar tobacco is known to breathe and cigars use up oxygen as well as emit gases into the air and so require regular aerating so that they have fresh oxygen and the humidor cigars should get plenty of internal humidity, though a hermetic seal is neither desirable or necessary. Humidor cigars should be stored in temperatures in the region of 64 to 70 degree Fahrenheit as this will allow for its proper ageing since at lower temperatures this ageing process gets impaired and so wine cellars can be used for storing the humidor cigars to a certain extent and higher temperatures are not at all good for them and they should not be exposed to direct sunlight.

Constant Relative Humidity

Humidor cigars are normally stored for unlimited times as long as they get relative and constant humidity of 65 to 75 percent along with regular supply of fresh air. For premier and high quality humidor cigars these conditions would help in further developing a strong flavor if they have been stored well for many years and in Great Britain there is a tradition of storing humidor cigars so that the tobacco flavor improves in such a manner.
The humidor cigars can ripen through the ageing process and thus become smoother and have a more balanced flavor and because cigars are much in demand they may not have ripened to the required extent and so are kept in humidors to overcome this shortcoming. Humidor cigars, after three to six months following their purchase, should provide smokers with a good taste and better flavor and in fact, some premium cigars are know to acquire a very fine flavor after having been stored for years in humidors.

Humidor cigars are known to absorb aromas from wherever they are stored in addition to the aroma present in its interior wood lining as also from other cigars stored in the same humidor and to lessen this, dividers may be used in the humidor though the best solution to preventing cigars from getting other flavors is to store them in separate humidors or in cabinet humidors that allow cigars to be stored in their original boxes. There are however, some aficionados that like the mixed flavors and so store on purpose many different cigars in the same humidor, for many months. Humidor cigars may also not require the cigar to be kept wrapped in cellophane wrapping as it cannot provide optimum humidity levels and should not be used, though it is open to individual preferences with premium cigars being often kept in their cellophane wrappings.

When a special event or occurrence happens in one’s life, generally a celebration follows. For example on a wedding anniversary a couple s love and commitment for each other is celebrated through the exchange of an anniversary gift and going out on the town for a dinner. Another celebratory event is one’s birthday. Traditionally, a cake is baked and there is the giving of gifts to the person whose birthday is being celebrated. Another time-honored celebration is upon the birth of a child. Often, it was customary for the new father to pass out cigars. This tradition dates back to the end of the 17th century when cigars were treasured because of their rareness and unavailability. Because of the preciousness of cigars in a household, the giving away of a cigar was considered to be a reflection of deep gratitude.

Therefore, to honor the birth of a child, and specifically a son, a cigar was given, by those who could afford this gesture, to the friends of the family in celebration of the blessed event. The father would come out and let everyone know it was time to have a cigar. During this timeframe the arrival of a son was especially important because of that child’s value to the father and to be the village on a whole.

The Making of a Cigar

To have a cigar and enjoy the experience it may serve the individual to know how a cigar is structured. A cigar is comprised of three different parts. Those three different components are the filler, binder and wrapper. The filler is that portion of the cigar that provides the basic taste to the individual when they have a cigar. In comprising the filler of the cigar there are three standard types of leaves that are used as the filler. Those leaves are the Volado, Seco and Ligero. Surrounding the filler is the part of the cigar known as the binder. The binder is formed around the filler and provides the basic contour of the cigar. Generally, because of their support role, the leaves used as the binder are sturdier. To fulfill this role the leaves that are near the base of the plant are used due to their being more dense and stronger.

To have a cigar experience that is extremely pleasurable, the last step in constructing a cigar will be the most important. That final step is the wrapper. The wrapper enfolds the other two stages and packages the cigar. The wrapper serves two functions. The first function is to provide a look that is appealing to the consumer. Secondly, it needs to be a premium leaf so that when the cigar is held to the nose the aroma will be appealing. In addition that fragrance needs to be carried through when the cigar is enjoyed.

So Have a Cigar

So have a cigar when those special events happen in your life. Those special events could be at wedding, the celebration of an engagement, a well deserved promotion or pay raise, or the birth of a child. In fact, have a cigar when you have a good day or a bad day. The scent and taste of a fine cigar will transport you from the events of your day and bring you into a world of enjoyment that appreciates the finer things of life.

Fuente s cigars aren t a business, they are a family tradition; the members of the Fuete s family have been making cigars for generations. The current president of the Fuente s cigar company, Tavacalera A.Fuente is a third generation cigar maker. His grandfather was born on Cuba, but moved to America when he was a young man; his Cuban cigar company was started in 1912, and his American company in 1924. Carlos Fuentes Sr was raised with cigars all around him; they were a part of his life as long as he could remember. Carlos Fuente Jr grew up with both his father and grandfather teaching him the love and commitment that creating cigars requires.

The production of Fuente cigars and tobaccos have been tried and tested; as their factories have suffered no fewer than three devastating fires, to come back like a phoenix, and produce better cigars and more unique cigars than before. In addition, the area that the Fuente s family made cigars was a cigar making central; all the neighbors around them also made cigars, keeping recipe s and ideas secret was difficult if not impossible. Their choice of both tobacco leaf and rolling methods met controversy from their fellow producers.

The Tobacco

The tobacco for Fuente cigars are grown today in more than one location, each gives the cigar a unique and interesting flavor; some of the tobacco is grown on their farm Chateau de la Fuente, this particular tobacco is grown from Cuban seeds, and is grown both in the sun and the shade. The leaves grown in the shade can be used for the wrappers; most wrappers were not grown in the Dominican Republic before the Fuente family started growing them. Also the Fuente Family uses some Connecticut seeds and even some that have cross-bred because they enjoy the flavor so much.

The Art

For the Fuente family cigar making is an art form; as such they consider themselves more like chefs than business men. The Fuente family creates new blends with out ever writing a recipe; cigar making is such a part of their history that rather than tobacco they are seemingly blending herbs and spices, striving for the perfect balance of taste, texture, and aesthetic appeal. The goal for the Fuente cigar is not to be popular, or follow any existing form, but to be the best tasting cigar, with the best smoke, the best ash, and the best smoking experience.

Fuente cigars come in several lines, some of which are only available for special fundraising or other events. Each line of cigars is specially crafted for specific flavor and smoking experience, Fuente is one of the largest producers of hand rolled cigars in the Dominican Republic. Some of the more popular lines such as the Don Carlo and Opusx are specially blended by the family to create the unique taste experience that consumers have come to expect from the Fuente brand. Additionally the Fuente families of cigars have been innovators in the shape and size of their cigars, starting new trends with in the market.

Availability

Fuente cigars are only made in small batches preserving the finest quality; the Fuente family refuses to sacrifice quality to meet the high public demand. As such most lines of Fuente cigars are back ordered and are released only when the cigars reach perfection. The cigars are aged for enhanced flavor; each has its own time and conditions under which they are cured. All these measures provide the superior quality and smoking experience for the cigar aficionado s enjoyment.

Nowadays, people seem to like to have everything flavored, from their water to their vodka. Power water and so forth may not be much to cheer about, but one could argue that flavored vodka is a reason to shout. In the cigar world, flavored cigars are not anything all that new. Almost since its discovery, people throughout the ages have tried to add a little kick to their tobacco leaf by adding additional ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. Purists might sneer at anything that s not 100% tobacco. However, for those who are more adventurous flavored cigars are a way to experience something new and different.

Cigars and Kahlua

No doubt most adults are at least familiar with the coffee liqueur Kahlua, but were you aware that in 1995, Kahlua-flavored cigars were born? Drew Estates invented the Kahlua cigar, and they eventually added products such as White Russian cigars and even martini-flavored cigars as well. If you re not all that keen on mixing your favorite alcoholic beverage, there are much more exotic flavored cigars out there for you. If you re looking for an Oriental flavor, consider the Cojimar Exotic cigars. They actually have chai-flavored cigars, with mandarin honey mixed in!
They even have other imaginative creations such as their white sage with rose honey cigars or orange spice with vanilla cream. Now, if only someone would up with a donut-flavored cigar; Homer Simpson would no doubt be in heaven.

Fictional characters aside, keep in mind that flavored cigars are generally at the lower end of the cigar market. Most of them are likely to be under five dollars each, so they certainly won t bust the bank. Another brand that you might want to try is Acid, created by Drew Estates founder Johnathan Drew. These cigars incorporate essential oils from herbs and other botanicals, just in case you d like something that reminds you a little less of food and drink when you light up your stogie.

A Taste of the Tropics

If you love cigars and want something with a tropical flair, try Royal Hawaiian cigars. They have three flavors, but the vanilla-coconut or Kona coffee may be your best bet, and as with other flavored cigars, they re low-priced. Don t be afraid to try something new once in a while, and give these cigars a shot. You might just be pleasantly surprised if you do. It could turn out to be your favorite type of cigar.

Dutch masters cigar have been sold in the U.S since 1911 and are available in 17 different shapes and sizes. They are one of the most popular types of cigars in the market today. They are fairly inexpensive compared to other similar quality cigars and are considered to be of very high quality for the price. If you are in the market for and inexpensive cigar that is of a good quality then the Dutch master cigar is defiantly worth to try.

There are many of other types of cigars in the market that have the same style but no other has the reputation of quality that the Dutch Masters Cigar has. They are made form very high quality Tobacco and have been very carefully crafted into shape to take advantage of the taste of Tobacco that has been used. Some people will think that a Cigar that has been purchased from a convenience store can not be compared to other cigars of a higher price. All I can say is your can not dislike something you have never tried.

Because the Dutch Masters Cigar comes in so many shapes and sizes it is sure to have exactly what you are looking for and if you keep a box around the house you will have one to suit all people and all events. Because of it all-round nature you will see that they are available at almost anywhere you can buy tobacco products. You can also buy these great Cigars in Online store in bulk at extremely cheap prices and you will never be without one of the best Cigars you can find.

These Cigars are first found by people that are new to the Cigar market and it is a very good place to start fine tuning you cigar taste buds. I m sure you will find that they will stack up very well against some of the higher end Cigars at only a fraction of the price.

The Dutch Masters Cigar is with out a doubt one the best cigars that you can purchase at reasonable price and not have to go to a specialty store to buy such as a high end Tobacconist or a dedicated Cigar store. If you ever get the chance to try a Dutch Masters Cigar by all means give it a go I m sure you won t regret it and you may even add it to your list of favorites.

The Dutch Masters Cigar is well worth its reputation and should be tried by all that have an interest in Cigars.

The Davidoff cigar has a unique and interesting history. The founder of the Davidoff cigar line is Zino Davidoff, whose life-story reads like an adventure novel. Originally born in Kiev in 1906, the future cigar-maker s family fled after the Russian Revolution and move to Switzerland where they opened a successful shop. It was Zino Davidoff who made Davidoff cigars famous however. As a young man, he went to South America in the mid-1920s to study tobacco production and cigar-making. He eventually spent two years in Cuba before eventually returning to Switzerland to take over his parents shop. After World War II, business really took off for Davidoff cigars, and Davidoff became a brand that is known worldwide.

From Cuba to the Dominican Republic

Initially, Davidoff formed a partnership with Cubatabaco and to roll its high-quality Davidoff cigars in a factory in El Laguito. A number of different labels were created, including ones based on wines, such as the original Chateaux series. These cigars were widely renowned, but business disputes eventually led to the end of the formerly fruitful partnership. Davidoff then switched to Dominican tobacco and now produces some of the finest Dominican-leaf cigars around. Although Zino Davidoff died in 1994, the company continues on and makes cigars that are fairly affordable, given the level of quality. You can find Davidoff cigars ranging from $8 per cigar to around $20 per cigar.

A Brand That Goes Beyond

Today, the Davidoff brand has moved beyond just producing cigars. The Davidoff name is now associated with a wide-ranging variety items that you might not expect including briefcases evidently. Still, its mainstay is tobacco. Although it is possible to find Cuban Davidoff cigars around, expect to pay a premium price if you can get hold of one. According to a user who wrote a review at one online cigar-related website, he managed to acquire a Cuban Davidoff from an acquaintance for $75 and seemed to consider it a very good deal. If you can t afford that, perhaps you should consider some Davidoff cologne instead. In all serious, the Cuban Davidoff cigars really are the most desirable and are said to have a very rich flavor, while the newer Dominican-leaf cigars are said to be a bit mellower and generally seem to be placed in the medium-flavor category based on a check of several websites. Whichever type you choose, you re sure to have a good smoke with a Davidoff.

Humans have used tobacco since the very beginning, as history mentions its presence and usage in tribes as well as kings and queens whether it was chewed or smoked through pipes and/or pots. Cigars are enjoyed mostly by those who develop a taste for them gradually and not by cigarette smokers alone; sometimes cigar smokers don t even smoke cigarettes at all but will but enjoy an occasional cigar with a glass or cognac.

A Brief History of the Cohiba Cigar

It is said to have all began with a bodyguard of Fidel Castro, the president of Cuba, who was named Bienvenido Perez also known as Chico who used to enjoy the famous Cohiba cigars that were put together from a special selection of tobacco and hand rolled by Eduardo Rivera. The unique aromatic smell of the Cohiba cigar got Fidel Castro s attention and as soon as he tried one he was won over by the elegance and smoothness of it to the extent that he approached Eduardo Rivera to roll these cigars exclusively for him. The Cohiba cigars were made exclusively for Fidel Castro since and it was not until 1982 that some of the Cohiba cigar bands were put on the market for public use such as the Panetela, Lancero and Corona Especial.

In 1989 three more Cohibas were put out on the market for the use of the public and they were: Robusto, Exquisito and Esplendido. In 1992 Havana SA, the manufacturers of Cohibas decided to dedicate a whole series of cigars to Christopher Columbus, which were called the Linea 1492 and each size was meant to mark the century that has passed since the great explorer came to Americas. The Cohiba cigars series dedicated to Christopher Columbus are: Siglo I, Singlo II, Siglo III, Siglo IV, Siglo V and Siglo VI, which was added to the series in 2002.

What Makes the Cohiba Special

Most cigar connoisseurs would say that you would have to smoke one in order to experience its uniqueness however, if one would have to describe it would have to be a perfect balanced cigar that is smooth yet strong with aromatic taste that leaves your senses tingling and refreshed.

What You Should Know About the Cohiba Cigars

Cuban cigars are illegal in the US however, you can find Cohiba cigars, which are manufactured in the Dominican Republic and are marketed by Davidoff in the US. In order to enjoy a Cohiba cigar ensure that you have a snifter with cognac and dip the end of the cigar in it slightly before you smoke for the best possible combination; you can also have it with coffee. If you have a large number of Cohiba cigars ensure that you store them at the right temperature in order not to dry them out and be able to enjoy them whenever you desire.

There is a fine art to cigar smoking that is more than just exuding an air of class and one should be aware that cigar smoking is a culture of its own and one has to learn how to cut a cigar, light it and then smoke it. It may all begin with choosing the cigar itself and factors that may influence in its selection includes the length as well as diameter of the cigar which is related to the cigar s intensity. To ascertain the quality of the cigar, one may need to squeeze it a bit to ascertain that there are no lumps and also ensure the tobacco at the end has not lost color. In the United States, Cuban cigars would be difficult to obtain and when buying the cigar, ask if the cigar contains hundred percent tobacco as that is what is required.

Cigar Types

There are also various cigar types that are distinguished from one another by where they are made and the tobacco leaves used. Some of these cigar types include Churchill, Corona, Pyramid, Robusto, Torpedo, Panatelas, Culebras, Diademas as well as Perfecto. Once one has chosen a particular cigar, one can then get down to the nitty-gritty of cigar smoking and the first step in that direction would be to cut the cigar so that there is enough of an opening to smoke the cigar in comfort and also maintain the original shape of the cigar.

The next step in cigar smoking is of course lighting up which follows the selection and cutting of the cigar and plays an important role in maintaining one s image by properly lighting up the cigar. The ideal tool for lighting the cigar is to use a cigar lighter as matches give off ammonia that may spread to the cigar and change its taste as well as smell. It is advisable, in cigar smoking, to not use matches, cigarette lighters or candles, and the last is especially not recommended.

The final step in cigar smoking is of course, smoking the cigar and for this, there is a proper etiquette that calls for the removal of the band at some point during the actual smoking experience. This is done in order that before smoking of the cigar the band will prevent the cigar from tearing and once the cigar has been lit, there is no need for the band any longer. One should savor the stogie and remember not to inhale and having had a dozen or so puffs remember that the band needs to be removed, that is, if it hasn t fallen off already because of the heat.

Cigars have become a trend amongst all age groups and the popularity has grown enough to dedicate cigar bars in most cities, which are very crowded and some even operate on a closed member s circuit only. What makes cigars better than cigarettes and why they are not as criticized even though they contain nicotine and are as harmful to the health? In order to enjoy a cigar you need to have basic knowledge about the tobacco that was used to make it, how to light the cigar and finally how to smoke it without getting chocked. Cigars are enjoyed and not smoked, as cigarettes therefore are not considered as addictive.

People who smoke cigars will do so in areas that is dedicated for them such as in a cigar bar and/or their homes for the simple fact that cigars take time to be smoked and cannot be consumed as quickly as the cigarettes therefore, the cigar smoke is usually exposed only to those who are smoking them. However, cigar smoke is as injurious as and at times even more so than cigarettes smoke because in cigars the tobacco used is more refined and pure than that used in cigarettes. Second hand cigar smoke is dangerous and can cause serious damaging injuries to those who expose themselves to it.

Dealing with Cigar Smoke

Due to the fact that cigar smoke is a lot stronger than that of cigarettes, it is more likely to linger and get into fabric, skin and hair therefore it is recommended you have proper ventilation where you smoke cigar and use cigar smoke neutralizers that help clear the air and keep it as clean as possible. Most cigar smokers don t mind the cigar smoke however, you have to keep in mind that the cigar smoke will penetrate the clothes, furniture especially leather chairs, which are a usually used in lounges of specially designed rooms and places for cigar smokers and also the walls and floors with time.

If you want to keep the cigar smoke out of them you need to ensure that the room is properly ventilated and after every cigar session well cleaned from top to bottom. Today there are many odor eliminators available in the market even for strong cigar smoke smells. If you are not a smoker try and stay away from second hand smoke whether it is cigar or cigarettes as it is at times even more harmful than smoking yourself.

Perhaps you re new to the cigar world and don t quite know what suits your palate just yet. Consider trying out cigar samplers to get as wide a variety of cigars as possible and get a feel for what you really like. There are many sites online where you can purchase cigar samplers and even order custom cigar samplers if you want. One online shop that you can check out is Neptune Cigars at neptunecigars.com for lower to mid-range cigars. You can find cigar samplers such as their Cohiba Selection, which includes six cigars at a reasonable price. You can also put together your own cigar sampler at their website. Prices range from under three dollars to close to 15 dollars at most, so they re quite affordable.

If You Have Money to Burn

For those who want to sample somewhat more expensive products, try visiting the cigar.com website. While they also have affordable cigars, you can find super-premium cigar samplers such as their Perdomo Edicion de Silvio Assortment Box, which includes 16 cigars that average a bit over $20 per cigar. They also have four-cigar samplers of the Forbidden X, which retails for $149.95.You can also join various cigar of the month clubs in case you just want to let the experts choose for you. If you decide to join a cigar of the month club, why not join a drink of the month club as well? After all, cigars and whiskey are an almost classic combination, and you can find a whiskey that meets your needs at sendliquor.com, and online store that has a wide range of products. You can choose a low-end scotch whisky or extremely high-end scotch aged for 25-35 years, and no matter what you select, it will no doubt enhance your cigar-smoking experience.

Did You Know

Did you know that one of the most expensive cigars in the world costs $470 a piece? Until something higher-priced comes around, the Cohiba Behike cigar can be called the world s most expensive cigar. Made in a limited edition of 4,000 cigars total, the Behike cigar was created to celebrate 40 years of the Cohiba brand. They re being sold in humidors containing 40 cigars each for a whopping (hold on to your hat) $18,860! Suffice it to say, you re not too likely to find a Behike in any of your cigar samplers anytime soon, but you can always dream!

People hold wine-tasting parties and cheese-tasting parties all the time, along with parties for just about every other gourmet item around, but what about a cigar party? If you don t want to pack on the calories but do love a good smoke, consider attending a cigar party along with your fellow cigar connoisseurs. If you enjoy the taste of cigar-smoke rolling across your tongue and your spouse or significant other can t stand having your house reek of tobacco, then you ll be far better off attending a cigar party outside your home. You can start by looking for cigar clubs in your local area, as many do have regular events that you can attend.

There are a wide variety of such. Doing an online Google search will provide you with a number of examples such as a martini and cigar party that was listed, although cigar parties involving whiskey-tasting seemed to be more prevalent. Parties can range from being as simple as cigars only to ones that include gourmet dinners and entertainment.

If You Like Privacy

If you re lucky enough to have a more tolerant spouse or are well-off enough to have a cigar room (or walk-in humidor) of your own, consider hosting a cigar party at home. Take on a theme such as having a selection of Cuban cigars for everyone to try, if you have access to a supply of them. You can also create a theme according to the cigar s flavor profile, such as having an array of strong, medium or light cigars. Also, you can have a selection of labels from one maker for everyone to enjoy. Although it may be clich , you can also combine your favorite pastimes for a less formal gathering and add a little poker-playing to your cigar party.

For fun, have everyone bring several of their favorite cigars and assign a chip value to each cigar equivalent to its dollar value. At the end of the game, the winners can then use their chips to purchase a cigar of their choice. You can later trade cigars or just pass them out afterwards depending on your preferences. If you want to take a look at a high-end event however, check out the updowncigar.com website for pictures of their 100th Anniversary Zino Davidoff Cigar Banquet. While you re not likely to host a party quite so ritzy, be sure to have fun with your cigar party.

The Partagas cigar is among the most famous of all Cuban cigars. This highly popular brand has a very rich and colorful history. Jaime Partargas, a Spaniard transplant, established the company in 1845 after years of working in the Cuban tobacco industry. Partagas acquired many of the best plantations in Cuba and quickly established a successful enterprise. Partagas was murdered and his son Jose took over the family business. The company was sold several times and eventually ended up in the hands of Ramon Cifuentes and his associates.

Ramon Cifuentes died in 1938, and the business was passed on to his son of the same name. The business continued to thrive acquiring other brands and becoming the second largest exporter of Cuban cigars by 1958. After the Cuban Revolution, the tobacco industry was nationalized. Ramon Cifuentes refused to run the industry for the government and fled Cuba.

Nearly 17 years later, Ramon Cifuentes started to produce Partagas cigars again after discovering that superior quality wrapper leaves were available in Cameroon. Production started in Jamaica, but was eventually moved to the Dominican Republic where it remains currently.

Today, the wrapper leaves are a key component to the success of Partagas cigars. Cameroon, a Central West African country, has a sub-tropical climate that is perfect for growing wrapper leaves. These leaves have a very rich flavor that make them distinctive. Partagas cigars are made with filler that is a combination of Dominican and Mexican tobacco.

The Partagas Black Label

Partagas cigars of the Black Label are so called because of their extremely dark color and rich flavor. They are made with Cuban-seed Medio Tempo wrappers which are aged on the plant 50 percent longer than most wrapper leaves. They contain a blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican Piloto Cubano Ligero and a sun-grown binder producing a full-bodied experience.

The Partagas Series S

The Series S are Figurado shaped Partagas cigars. The history of the Figurado shape is unclear, but the purpose is not. This shape enhances the fullness of the cigar s flavor making it a perfect fit for use with the wrapper leaves from Cameroon. The Series S includes five different Figurado shapes.

Of course, there are many other Partagas cigars to choose from. Partagas cigars are known for their richness in flavor. They are smoked by connoisseurs who enjoy a full-bodied experience. The Partagas brand carries a history and quality that makes it a favorite among cigar smokers.

When it s time to relax, many people decide to do it in different ways. Some people take nice day trips to the water or a museum, while others spend their time in night clubs. However, even others decide to join and take part in a cigar lounge, where cigar lovers from many different backgrounds can get together and enjoy what they love most; cigars!

The biggest problem with people who want to visit a cigar lounge but work a lot or have many different responsibilities, is that they don t have the time to visit a cigar lounge. This issue doesn t have to stop cigar lovers from being able to take part in their favorite pass time, as they can create their own cigar lounge at home!

Different Ways to Create the Best

You don t have to have a lot of room in your home to create the perfect cigar lounge, as there are many different ways to do this. Using an extra or spare room is one way to create an intimate lounge that your closest cigars buddies can feel comfortable in, all the while not imposing on the family areas of your home. Putting a couple comfortable lounge chairs or couches in the room along with a small cigar fridge and some mood lighting can work wonders!

You can also create an amazing cigar lounge right in your garage. This area will more than likely offer plenty of room to create a club scene, while not requiring too much work on your part. Put your cigar fridge along with some seating and even a pool table and a bar, and there you have it. The theme is what will really make or break a lounge feel, so think long and hard before deciding on a theme for your lounge.

If you don t seem to have a place that you can call your own, then work with what you have! You can simply place a low profile cigar storage unit anywhere such as in your living room or even your bathroom! After all, who s to say where you can and cannot create your own cigar lounge? Granted, you probably won t want to invite many people to your bathroom placed cigar lounge, but you will have the opportunity to visit the lounge comfortably on your own anytime you need some rest and relaxation.

The sky is the limit when finding a place to put your own lounge, so use your creativity and run with it!

In order to enjoy a cigar, you will be told by cigar aficionados, you need to have the right accessories to go with it such the right cigar cutter and the right cigar lighter. A cigar cannot be lit by a normal lighter as it takes at times even a couple of minutes in order to be fully lit and ready to be savored therefore you will need a special cigar lighter that can provide a continuous flame without burning your fingers in the process. There are many types of cigar lighter available out of which many are famous such as the IM Corona Double Corona Cigar Lighter. However, you don t have to go with the most expensive and famous cigar lighter on the market in order to get the right one for you; here are the qualities that your cigar lighter must posses in order to make it perfect: comfortable size to hold, create a flame without your having to keep holding a button as it may be a while until your cigar lights and that button can get hot enough to burn your fingers and also create a constant flame so you don t burn your cigar in the process of lighting it.

Where to Shop For Cigar Lighters

Cigar store are the best place to look for lighters, as they will have specific design lighters to match every style, personality and house d cor. Some popular brands for cigar lighters are: Colibri 3003, Dupont and Zippo. These lighter can range anywhere from $20 to hundreds of dollars depending on the make and rarity of the items as some of them are collector items and come in limited edition. A cigar lighter also makes a great gift for any cigar enthusiast or aficionado, as one can never have enough lighters especially if it is a rare item or collector s piece.

Myth or Fact

Some cigar aficionados will insist that cigar matches will always be the only right way to light a cigar as the flame is slow and uniform for the right amount of time however there are many others who have long ago given up matches and enjoy the lighters just as much.
What are the disadvantages of matches versus lighters well, there are many times when matches cannot fully light a cigar, especially the thicker types and also the possibility of burning your fingers in the process even with the specially designed cigar matches therefore, most cigar aficionados today will invest in a reliable cigar lighter then depend on old fashioned matches.