All our advice on cigars

In a professional context, the cigar humidor is not just a simple accessory: it is a conservation and presentation equipment that ensures the quality of a product sensitive to climate variations. Whether you choose a large capacity cabinet or a small glass humidor intended for display at the counter, the goal remains the same: to guarantee a stable humidity level, a controlled temperature, and a refined customer experience.This guide provides you with practical and technical benchmarks to select the cigar humidor best suited to your needs. Why a professional cigar humidor? A professional cigar humidor is primarily used to maintain a constant internal climate. In practice, one seeks stable relative humidity and a regular temperature, because these are the parameters that determine the aging, aromas, and longevity of cigars. Beyond the technical aspect, the humidor also contributes to presentation: A well-lit display case, placed at eye level, enhances the selection and facilitates advice. Finally, it structures stock management by differentiating the items for immediate tasting from those that need more resting. In a shop, a lounge bar, a restaurant, or a hotel, these three ... Learn more

In the world of cigar enthusiasts, the choice of lighter can greatly influence the tasting experience. Two of the most popular options are jet flame lighters and soft flame lighters. Each brings a different dimension to the act of lighting a cigar, affecting not only the ease of lighting but also the integrity of the cigar itself. In this comparison, we explore the unique characteristics of these two types of lighters to help you make the choice that best suits your needs and preferences.Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Type of Flame Choosing between a cigar torch lighter with jet flame and soft flame depends on several factors, each presenting its own advantages and disadvantages. Jet Flame Advantages: Jet flame lighters (or torches) provide an intense and concentrated flame, ideal for lighting cigars quickly and evenly, even in windy conditions. Their precision helps avoid excessively burning the cigar.Disadvantages: They consume fuel more quickly and may be less convenient for indoor use due to their powerful flame. Soft flame Advantages: Soft (or flexible) flame lighters, with their more traditional flame, offer gentler ignition, reducing the risk of overheating the ... Learn more

Choosing the right cigar lighter is essential for any cigar enthusiast. A good lighter can not only enhance your smoking experience but also become a distinctive element of your personal style. In this article, we will guide you through the different types of cigar lighters, how to choose the best one depending on your use, and we will present the best brands on the market. The different types of cigar lightersCigar lighters are mainly distinguished by the type of flame they produce. Here are the three most common types: Soft flame lighters The soft flame is similar to that of a traditional lighter. It is ideal for indoor environments where there is little or no wind. However, lighting a cigar outdoors can be difficult with this type of flame. Jet flame lightersJet lighters produce an intense and precise flame, making them perfect for lighting cigars even in windy conditions. They are the most popular among cigar aficionados due to their efficiency and versatility. Double or triple flame lighters These lighters offer several flames simultaneously, ensuring quick and even lighting of the cigar. They are particularly useful for large-caled cigars but tend to consume more fuel ... Learn more

As their name suggests, cigar cases are designed to carry cigars for a short period. Having become essential accessories for smokers, their design is increasingly intended to be aesthetic. A closer look at cigar cases, their use, the different types, materials, sizes, as well as their uses. The cigar case, a useful accessory, that one showsIf the cigar case was long a mundane accessory that was almost hidden, it is now an integral part of the pipe smoker's repertoire. Much more than a simple accessory, it has even become an essential item that one displays in public, without any restraint. The cigar case catches the eye and gives its owner a well-defined gentlemanly style. Today's cigar cases are not only very aesthetic, but they have also entered the very exclusive circleluxury products, often designed with noble and elegant materials. Every cigar smoker owns one (or several) case(s) to carry their cigars and protect them from knocks and friction. But that’s not all; they are also very practical to prevent your Havanas from being subjected to temperature changes, as well as fluctuations in humidity, which can be two harmful elements for cigars.The case is therefore ideal for ... Learn more

If you are not an experienced cigar smoker, you will learn that there is a small ritual to follow before, during, and after enjoying your stick. This is an integral part of the art of smoking your cigar like a pro. Smoking focuses on the purging of your cigar and explains how to proceed. Purging a cigar, what does that mean?Cigar purging, also called "cigar purging," is done at the end of tasting or when relighting a piece of a cigar that you had previously started. The end of the cigar holds all the tar and other particles from combustion. It may then taste more bitter and less pleasant. You may experience the same sensations if you relight a cigar that you had already started some time before. It is therefore necessary to have all the cigar maintenance products.The technique of purging a cigar is regularly performed by many experienced smokers. This will allow you to restore the aromas and regain the taste of your favorite cigar. How do you purge your cigar? The technique is quite simple: Take your cigar, then remove the ashes. Get your lighter, then light the flame. Now hold your cigar about 1 to 2 cm from it.At this moment, blow gently and regularly into your cigar. A ... Learn more

Smoking a cigarette is not the same as smoking a cigar. Indeed, unlike a cigarette, cigar smoke is not swallowed. Cigar smokers are then said to 'puff' their smoke. But why, in the end? Smoking lifts the veil on the question.Cigar smoke is spat outYes, a cigar is puffed. What do we mean by that? It's very simple: the smoke is not inhaled. This is not about satisfying a need for nicotine, but rather about enjoying a moment suspended in time. Cigar smoke is savored, then expelled, but you must know how to properly light your cigar with a quality cigar lighter. It is also for this reason that the cigar pairs perfectly with a spirit (whisky, rum, armagnac, or whatever you prefer).Why is it not recommended to inhale the smoke of a cigar? There is no particular risk in doing so. However, the tobacco used to roll cigars is fermented. In other words, it is more alkaline than cigarette tobacco. It will be more easily absorbed in the mouth and will deliver its flavors as well as its nicotine content directly into the oral mucosa. Discover the different steps of cigar tasting to fully enjoy it.What do I risk if I inhale the smoke from my cigar? For many smokers, cigar smoke causes ... Learn more

A very important question indeed... It is difficult for a beginner to know if a cigar is of good quality. Here are some expert tips to immediately recognize a good cigar from a bad one and, above all, to know how to choose a cigar suited to your tastes.The easiest characteristics to recognizeLet's be honest: the higher the price of a cigar, the more it (theoretically) means that you are dealing with a quality cigar. Of course, the wrapper also says a lot about how the cigar was rolled and therefore about its flavors when tasting. Its color will also indicate its strength: the paler the leaves, the milder the cigar; conversely, the darker it is, the stronger it will be. Finally, size can also be a quality criterion.However, unless you have an expert eye and palate, it will be complicated for you to know whether a cigar is of good quality or not. Here are some additional clues to avoid making mistakes in your choice. Making the right choice is important, but the storage of cigars in cigar humidors is just as important. The body of the cigarA strong cigar to start in the art of smoking curls will probably make you feel sick. This type of cigar is rather reserved for experienced ... Learn more

Whether you are already an experienced smoker or just starting out in this world, smoking a cigar requires being minimally equipped. Smoking takes a look at the essential accessories for smoking your stick. The humidor or cigar case If you smoke occasionally, a simple cigar case is necessary. Indeed, it will allow you to carry your cigars without damaging or crushing them. Of course, this requires smoking them within a very short period so that they are not affected by external temperatures. Conversely, if you wish to start collecting or hoarding some cigars, it will be necessary to invest in a cigar humidor, or even a cabinet. These are essential for preserving cigars at good temperature and above all with an optimal humidity level. Of course, cigar humidors are not the only essential cigar accessories! For heavy smokers who also have to travel regularly for long periods, there are travel cigar humidors. They allow you to take your favorite cigars with you wherever you are on the planet, without damaging your sticks. The cigar cutter This is an essential accessory for any self-respecting cigar smoker. Directly competing with the cigar piercer, the cigar cutter will neatly ... Learn more

The BOVEDA brand offers an ingenious monitoring system for your cigar humidor: the Boveda Smart Sensor Kit. Thanks to a simple, small connected and smart device, you can know in real time the humidity level of your humidor. The device is compact and highly efficient, delivering information with great accuracy. The principle of the BOVEDA smart sensorEvery cigar enthusiast has a particular interest in their humidor. It must be said that it often contains valuable modules, some of which are priceless. The temperature as well as the humidity level must imperatively remain stable. This guarantees optimal preservation of the cigars. The aromas are preserved and the pleasure of smoking your cigars remains intact.It happens that even the most efficient cellars experience technical problems. In no time, it is possible that all stored cigars could become damaged. Similarly, a malfunction may occur precisely during a prolonged absence. That is why BOVEDA has designed a smart and connected device, which informs you and alerts you as soon as the temperature or humidity level changes.Through alerts on your mobile phone, you can know in real time the fluctuations in temperature and humidity. ... Learn more

Find the manual for the XIKAR Puro Temp connected hygrometer.Digital Hygrometer Wireless Remote System 837XI Features Displays temperature and relative humidity level. Ability to monitor up to 3 humidifiers within a range of 18m. High and low temperature/humidity alert. Temperature display in °F or °C.Temperature Range: -13 to 140°F or -25 to 60°C. Relative Humidity (RH) Range: 20% to 95%. Accuracy (RH): +/- 2% (Temp): +/- 0.1°C. 4 function keys: CH, select, up, down. 12/24h Clock. Overview of the Buttons "CH »": scroll through the display of the 3 different channels.SELECT »: browse the options in each setting mode. Hold down to enter time setting mode. UP » allows you to toggle temperature and humidity alerts ON/OFF. It also allows you to move from one option to another in each setting mode. Hold down to enter alert limit level setting mode. DOWN » allows you to switch between °C and °F in temperature display mode. It also allows you to move from one option to another in each setting mode. Operating instructions in "Normal" mode Press the "CH" button to display one channel at a time. The "CH" button cycles through the channels in this order: 1 -> 2 -> 3 ... Learn more

Smoking.fr provides you with the user manual in French for the CigarSpa, whose reputation is well established. Find the CigarSpa humidifier for sale in your online store specializing in cigar accessories. General informationCigarSpa optimizes the storage conditions in your humidor and ensures that your cigars develop their best flavors when you smoke them. CigarSpa achieves this by measuring and regulating the humidity in the ambient air of your cigars.A large area for water evaporation is placed on the top of the device. It consists of a breathable membrane. This material retains water but allows water vapor to pass through. When the humidity level is too low, a small pump sends water under this membrane.The water evaporates and increases the humidity level in your humidor. CigarSpa is equipped with a microcontroller that reliably regulates the relative humidity. CigarSpa operates with demineralized water (without colorants) and with batteries. Under normal usage conditions, the batteries last about one year. Water consumption is influenced by your humidor and your cigars. Normally, a full tank should be sufficient for 4 months of use.In addition to humidity regulation, ... Learn more

A vast question that all cigar smokers ask themselves, and if you have come to read these lines, perhaps I can provide you with some elements of answers. First of all, you need to know the state of your current consumption in order to define the size as well as the capacity of your future cigar humidor. Regardless of your consumption, you will need to equip yourself with a humidor to offer your cigars the best possible preservation.Discover 4 types of cigar smokers with a choice of appropriate humidors. Each type of smoker has different desires and needs compared to the others. Indeed, the regular smoker does not have the same expectations as an occasional smoker, and will therefore turn to a humidor that is more suitable for them. Discover all the types of smokers as well as the different humidors that are appropriate for them. The occasional smokerYou are an occasional smoker and enjoy acquiring a few cigars to share with friends. Thus, your stock rarely exceeds 10 cigars, but your beginner passion forces you to think about preserving your little treasure. No worries, you will need a small cigar humidor that can hold up to 30 cigars. Its maximum capacity is only theoretical; a ... Learn more

What would be your ideal cigar cut? A question anyone might ask themselves when visiting their local tobacconist or a specialized cigar shop like Smoking.fr. Most of us might have this instinctive answer of a "straight cut" or maybe even a punch, but the possibilities are actually very varied.While countless designs exist, there are four basic cuts to choose from, and each has its own advantages and origin. The different types of cuts On the cigar cutter market, there is a very wide range of models. Indeed, many different types of cigar cutters are available for purchase. In addition, each model and type of cigar cutter has a different cut. Discover now all the types of cuts offered for your cigar! The straight cut The most popular cut is the straight cut, or double guillotine, due to its simple design, ease of use, and the ability to cut almost any cigar you decide to enjoy. This cut provides a larger draw and maximum flavors, allowing you to get all the smoke a cigar can produce. Although its simple design may seem easy to use, there are a few pitfalls when using this cigar cutter. First, you need to be sure not to cut too much of the wrapper.A method for a perfect cut is to... Learn more

Discovering the Notebook of Cigar Enthusiasts This notebook is the work of a cigar enthusiast, Thomas Wormser, who invites you, through a 58-page pocket notebook, to take detailed notes while tasting your cigar. To discover or rediscover the story of this enthusiast, from the need to acquire a medium to record his impressions to creating his notebook, go to the article devoted to Thomas Wormser on the blog Smoking.fr. In this advice article, let's find a presentation and the details that make up each tasting sheet presented in the notebook 60 Shades of Cigars available in the shop. The general presentation of Thomas Wormser's notebook First of all, the handling of the notebook, its pocket format with dimensions 17 x 11 x 0.6 cm (Height x Width x Thickness) is ideal for carrying it everywhere. A quality and well-thought-out notebook, whose specific details provide technical information à each step of the tasting of your cigar. The first sheet is filled in as an example and will quickly give you an idea of note-taking. Very easy to use! The purpose of this notebook is simply to be able to keep a written record of all your impressions, in the smallest details, but also to ... Learn more

When purchasing our cigars at a tobacconist, whether buying them individually or in a full box, they are often wrapped in a plastic covering. This plastic "sleeve" is actually made of micro-perforated cellulose. Indeed, the cellophane covering your cigars is permeable, meaning that your cigars will continue to benefit from external air and humidity.Keep or remove the cellophane from cigars?It is up to you to decide whether to remove or keep the cellophane on your cigars. However, there is some information you should know before making your choice. Indeed, the cellophane wrappers that wrap your cigars have many characteristics and are effective. Their main purpose is to protect the outer part of your cigars. Why should you keep the cellophane on your cigars?First of all, this individual protection allows you to preserve the aromas and characteristics of your cigars when you store different types in the same cigar humidor. Indeed, the aromas of the cigars will not escape, and thus there will be no mixing of flavors or smells. It is very important to keep the cellophane for this reason, especially if you have cigars with very strong scents and aromas. Moreover, if you travel often ... Learn more

The humidity level of your cigar humidor can vary depending on certain parameters and elements. It can therefore be too low or too high, but this advice article will provide you with solutions to implement in order to restore an ideal humidity level around 70%. Solutions against a relative humidity level that is too lowA drop in humidity can be observed when you want to place new cigars in your humidor. This variation is normal, your humidor will regulate itself and regain its optimal humidity level after a few days. When you regularly open your humidor, the humidity level can thus vary downwards. If the humidity level in your humidor is too low, here are some tips to consider: First, check that the hygrometer is properly calibrated. Also check that the humidifier and the cigar humidor have been properly rehumidified. Rehumidify the humidifier. You can equip your cigar humidor with a second humidifier.   Note that if the humidity level becomes too low after a few years of use, check the wear of your humidifier.  The slight variation of the recommended 68 - 75% humidity is not concerning, take into account a margin of error. Solutions for a relative ... Learn more

First of all, let's use the correct terms. Let's make the distinction between mold, bloom, and rot. The first and second will not have consequences for your cigars, whereas the last one will destroy them forever! Indeed, spots on your cigars can have different origins, some answers regarding cigar maintenance. The different types of spots and marks on cigarsThere are many types of marks and stains that can appear on your cigar. We invite you now to discover them with us! The "beige" Marks Leaf stains (Surface mold), they are the result of contamination by the Cercospora fungus which feeds on the chlorophyll of the leaf while it is alive. Your wrapper leaf will be affected, but not the binder leaf or the filler leaves.You just need to use a soft brush and gently stroke the cigar to remove them. Your cigar will not be affected in any way. The "green" marks They are the result of increased humidity in that area during the drying of the wrapper leaves. These chlorophyll molecules have simply not been transformed. The aroma of your cigar will not be affected in any way. I notice these marks more and more often on cigars.Small 'white' marks on the surface In the case of the ... Learn more

How to properly manage humidity in your cigar humidor? Proper cigar storage largely depends on maintaining optimal humidity. This often delicate task relies on an essential tool: the hygrometer. In this article, we guide you to calibrate your hygrometer, understand the factors that influence relative humidity (R.H.), and learn how to correctly rehumidify your cigar humidor. What is relative humidity (R.H.)?Relative humidity (R.H.) corresponds to the percentage of moisture in the air, measured by your hygrometer. It is crucial to ensure that your hygrometer is properly calibrated before use. This guarantees reliable measurements for the proper maintenance of your cigars. Consult our complete guide to calibrate your hygrometer. Factors affecting humidity in your cigar humidor Relative humidity varies depending on several factors: Contents of the humidor: A nearly full cellar reduces the amount of air to be humidified, while an empty cellar will require more effort from your humidifier. Ambient humidity: The humidity present in the room directly affects the humidity in your humidor, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Cigar humidity: The cigars themselves ... Learn more

As Zino Davidoff so well said, there is a comparison between a cigar and love. According to him, rekindling the flame of a love is like relighting an extinguished cigar: the taste will never be the same again. But don't worry, there are techniques to minimize this effect and enjoy your cigar again. Why purge a cigar before relighting it? When your cigar goes out, it is essential not to wait too long before relighting it. Indeed, a cooled cigar accumulates gases rich in nicotine that can alter its taste. To avoid these unpleasant aromas, an essential step is purging. How to purge a cigar? purging is a simple but effective technique to get rid of undesirable gases from your cigar before relighting it. Here is how to proceed: Place your cigar vertically, head up. Tap lightly to remove the friable ash. Bring a gentle flame (never a direct or too strong flame) close to the foot of your cigar without touching it. Blow gently into your cigar. You will see the flame tilt under the effect of the expelled gases. When the flame naturally straightens, it means your cigar is cleared of its gases. Finally, relight your cigar by slightly turning it between your lips to achieve an even ... Learn more

The wrapper sometimes comes off when the storage conditions of the cigars are not optimal. This phenomenon occurs regularly during the decapitation of a cigar that is too dry. Once the head is cut, the wrapper unrolls from the head down to the foot… Sometimes partially but often completely. Repair your cigar with the repair kitIs your cigar good for the trash? Or good to be smoked in a pipe (for the more daring)? No, the solution is quite simply «to repair your cigar».The product to use is a vegetable glue (I insist on the term vegetable because, as its name indicates, this product is indeed "natural" and not "chemical"). Here is the product in question: For a nominal price (less than €8), your cigar will be repaired and perfectly smokable without any alteration to the taste! This vegetable glue is applied with a brush (attached to the lid as can be seen in the photo above) like nail polish.The instructions are indicated on the bottle, find the repair kit in the store Smoking.fr. This way, in your own way, you will become a "torcedor"! Thierry... Learn more

After acquiring your humidor, you "prepared" it to receive your cigars: the cedar has been moistened, the humidifier is "moisturized," the hygrometer is calibrated... Fill it up! Professional advice! Find 5 tips provided by a humidor professional to know all the tricks for storing your cigars in your humidor! First tipIf your humidifier is positioned vertically in your cigar humidor, place your cigars with the head toward the humidifier. Indeed, if the foot of the cigar (open end) is close to the humidifier, it will absorb moisture unevenly (foot more humid) and the tasting experience that follows will be affected. Second tipHumidifiers are often placed on the inner side of the humidor lids. I recommend placing a sheet of cedar (which can be found in cigar boxes), larger than your humidifier, on your cigars located just under this humidifier. This way, these cigars will not absorb all the moisture. The cedar sheet will allow for a better distribution of humidity in your humidor. Moreover, you will notice that it will even tend to (slightly) warp. Third tip If your cigar humidor has a slatted shelf in the middle (as in the photo below), place your humidifier not ... Learn more

The tobacco beetle (Lasioderma serricorne F.) is a holometabolous insect of the order Coleoptera and the family Anobiidae. All information on the Lasioderma Reddish-brown in color, its length can reach 5 mm. The larvae are white. The complete life cycle of a Lasioderma is approximately 70 days. This parasite develops under certain temperatures shown in the table below: The larvae hatch when the temperature is above 21-22°C… in short, at the temperature that often prevails in our humidors! These parasites are identifiable by the holes drilled in your cigars: Various solutions to combat the lasioderma There are several solutions to fight against lasioderma. Indeed, after your cigar has been infected by lasioderma, there are 2 solutions that allow you to get rid of them.Discover these 2 solutions for fighting tobacco beetles right now and protect your cigars from any attacks! The first solution is: freezing! Be careful, you should not put your cigars directly into the freezer… but follow this step-by-step process instead: Place your contaminated cigars in a resealable plastic bag and leave this bag in the refrigerator for 12 hours. Then place the bag in the freezer... Learn more

You are buying a hygrometer and you want it to serve its role as a "humidity indicator." Be careful, this hygrometer must first be "calibrated" (or "standardized"). Check that your hygrometer is calibrated Since not all hygrometers are "calibratable," first check if yours is! If it is a dial hygrometer, a small adjustment screw should be visible on the back (sometimes, you have to remove the velcro stuck on it to access it). If it is a digital hygrometer, check that it indeed has the "calibrate" button. Methods to calibrate your hygrometerThe fastest method (but the least accurate) is to place your hygrometer in a damp cloth or towel for at least half an hour. Then, set the needle to 96%.Warning: This method cannot be used to calibrate digital hygrometers. The most effective method is the so-called 'salt method' (even though using table salt also works).Simply place your hygrometer in an airtight plastic box (or a closed plastic bag) for 3 to 6 hours along with a quantity of damp salt (amount varies depending on the size of your calibration box). Once the waiting time has elapsed, simply press the "calibrate" button, which will calibrate (as its name indicates) ... Learn more

Before lighting their cigar, many aficionados practice "dry pulling," that is to say, they draw on their cigar once it has been cut but before it is lit. Some flavors will appear, but make no mistake, the aromas developed upon lighting will certainly be very different. Dry pulling also allows you to feel the "resistance" of the cigar. A good lighting is very important, which is why you should obtain quality cigar accessories ! Lighting the cigar: the first puff is crucial Directly, the first puffs from lighting immediately indicate how the rest of the experience will go. If a cigar is unpleasant from this moment, it already loses points on its final rating. The now-lit cigar offers our palate the perception of its flavors and strength. The aromas of a cigar are perceived in two different ways: Through olfaction (nose) Through retro-olfaction (mouth) During tasting, the aromas (just like the strength) will evolve throughout the smoking. Some cigars will be more "linear," meaning that the aromas will change little. Others will be more "evolving," with the aromas varying more intensely. Tasting by aficionados Almost all aficionados divide the tasting into three phases, ... Learn more

A wide selection of cigar humidors There is a multitude of cigar humidors, suited to everyone's needs and tastes. The choice of a cigar humidor mainly depends on the budget, but also on the aesthetics. Some enthusiasts prefer classic models, while others favor more original designs, such as a humidor with a glass lid, made of plexiglass, or exotic wood. Advice: If you choose a humidor with a glass lid, avoid placing a spotlight directly on it. The heat from this light can alter the temperature and humidity, thus affecting the preservation of your cigars. Main categories of cigar humidors Cigar humidors are divided into several categories, adapted to different uses: Portable humidors: Compact and lightweight, they allow you to carry a few cigars while traveling. Tabletop humidors: Ideal for home use, they offer an intermediate capacity and a refined aesthetic. High-end humidors: Large and often equipped with advanced technologies, they are suitable for demanding collectors.Cigar cabinets: With a very large capacity, they are often used in shops or by enthusiasts with many rooms. The materials of cigar humidors The material of a cigar humidor plays an essential role in... Learn more