How do you choose a cigar?

Choosing a cigar is not a trivial matter. Recognising a well-made vitola takes a good deal of expertise. If you want to understand how a cigar is judged, or simply how a cigar accessory is chosen, this article is for you.

Appearance first of all

Recognising a well-made cigar means looking at it, but above all handling it. The wrapper should be slightly « oily » and, crucially, neither cracked nor lifting. An experienced hand will easily tell whether it is too damp or, on the contrary, too dry. This is done by feel: too dry and it will collapse; too damp and it behaves like a sponge. As for colour, the shade of the wrapper has no bearing on the taste.

Choosing the right cigar format

There are always exceptions to the rule, but the starting point is a simple observation: the larger sizes are also the mildest. Because they are not rolled very tightly, the draw is easier, which is why newcomers usually come across them first. Smaller cigars, on the other hand, are rolled more tightly. By definition the draw is less easy and, above all, the aromas are stronger.

It is also worth knowing that the bigger the cigar, the longer it takes to burn through. In other words, beginners are generally pointed towards intermediate sizes. A robusto, for instance, is not the usual starting point, since it represents around 1 hour. By definition, the thinner formats burn faster.

The taste of the cigar

The strength of a cigar is related to its aromas, its terroir and its nicotine content. There is no rule on this point. A beginner may perfectly well take to a very strong vitola, while a long-standing smoker may only care for light cigars. The most reliable approach is to ask the tobacconist, who, after a few questions, will be able to point to the cigar that suits a given palate.