How To Choose A Good Cigar
Author: K Snow

Is there a cigar lover on your gift list? Or are you simply
curious about how to choose a decent cigar for one of your
friends or loved ones? The good news is that even those who
know nothing about cigars or about choosing a great cigar can
learn these few simple tips on how to sniff out (sometimes
literally) a good cigar for your friend or relative.

In case you haven't noticed, cigars have now entered mainstream
culture. While the use of cigars was once the symbol of the rich
and powerful, it's now completely acceptable and affordable for
just about anyone to purchase a good cigar. This doesn't mean,
however, that you will be able to buy your friend a box of
top-tier Cuban cigars. Instead, you can feel comfortable that
you are buying a good quality cigar that will put a smile on
your friend's face.

The first tip involves visiting your local tobacconist or
specialty smoke shop for the highest quality and widest
selection of cigars. Avoid buying cigars from the drugstore or
grocery store. While they may be inexpensive and convenient to
purchase, these cigars are usually filled with preservatives
and are generally of poorer quality than those you'll find at a
specialty shop. Drugstore cigars may contain saltpeter, paper,
glycerin, and other preservatives and irritants. When you visit
the tobacco shop, you should ask to purchase only those cigars
that are made of 100% tobacco. If you're inexperienced about
the ingredients in cigars, feel free to ask the salesperson. An
experienced and knowledgeable sales clerk will understand the
merchandise and will be able to tell you whatever you need to
know about a cigar's ingredients.

The best place to look for cigars is at your local tobacco
shop. At these places, you will generally be allowed to smell
and touch the cigars. Begin by squeezing the cigar gently. If
the cigar gives a little when squeezed, it is a sign you're
handling a good quality cigar. The cigar should be firm and
should contain no spots which are excessively soft or hard,
avoid buying a lumpy cigar.

Make sure you look at the wrapper. If you notice any drying or
discoloration of the cigar, it would be best not to purchase
that one. Ideally, the wrapper should be smooth and wrapped
tightly around the cigar. Inspect the color of the tobacco.
Make sure that the color is even throughout the length of the
cigar. You can do this by inspecting the end of the cigar. Some
variability in color is acceptable; however, if the color
changes widely, it is likely that the cigar wasn't rolled
correctly. When you smoke a cigar has not been rolled
correctly, you may end up with uneven burning and an unpleasant
smell.

If you're not sure if your friend is a heavy or light cigar
smoker, it's best to choose a longer cigar. Longer cigars often
have a 'cooler' taste and are an excellent choice for beginners.
If your friend is an expert on cigars and regular smoker, choose
a cigar that is of a thicker diameter. Thicker cigars often
display richer flavor which is greatly appreciated by the most
experienced smokers.


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