Author Archives: Eli Brown

Beyond the Band: Decoding Cigar Shapes and Sizes

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Step up to a humidor, and you’re not just looking at tobacco leaves rolled into a cylinder. You’re looking at history, at tradition, and at the deeply skilled hands that brought each one into existence. Every cigar, whether it’s a short, stout robusto or a long, elegant churchill, carries a unique story in its very form. And that form—its specific length and its girth, known in the trade as its vitola—is far more than just a matter of aesthetics. It’s a fundamental blueprint, a design choice rooted in generations of expertise.

Consider the journey of that cigar. From the careful cultivation of the tobacco leaves in the fields, through the meticulous fermentation and aging, to the final assembly in the rolling gallery. It’s here, in the skilled hands of the torcedor (the cigar roller), that the vitola truly takes shape. They don’t just pick a form at random. Each vitola demands a precise touch, a specific layering of filler, binder, and wrapper leaf to ensure a perfect draw, an even burn, and a consistent flavor experience.

This isn’t mass production on a cold assembly line. This is the work of artisans, their fingers adeptly selecting, bunching, and rolling. They understand that a thinner cigar will draw differently than a fatter one, that a tapered head requires a unique rolling technique, and that the ratio of wrapper to filler changes everything. They are building, by hand, the very architecture of your smoke. And that architecture, that vitola, dictates a significant portion of your experience. It affects everything from how long your smoke will last, to how the flavors unfold, to the very temperature of the burn. In essence, understanding vitolas is about appreciating the thoughtful design and the human touch woven into every puff.

1. The Clock and the Burn: Length and Duration

This is perhaps the most obvious. A longer cigar, like a Churchill (typically around 7 inches), simply holds more tobacco. This translates directly into a longer smoking time. If you’ve got an hour or two to sit back, reflect, and let the world drift by, a longer vitola is your companion. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a quick, concentrated burst of flavor during a coffee break, a smaller Petit Corona or a Robusto is designed to deliver that experience in a more condensed timeframe. The torcedor knows how to pack that length to ensure a consistent draw for the duration, preventing it from burning too hot or too quickly.

2. The Heart of the Flavor: Ring Gauge and Concentration

This is where things get really interesting, and it’s perhaps the most critical element influencing taste. The ring gauge (the cigar’s diameter, measured in 64ths of an inch) determines the ratio of wrapper leaf to filler tobacco.

  • Thinner Cigars (Smaller Ring Gauge): A cigar like a Panetela or Lonsdale has a higher proportion of wrapper leaf relative to its filler. The wrapper is often the most flavorful and aromatic part of the cigar, having been exposed to the most air and light during curing. So, a thinner cigar will often deliver a more intense, direct expression of that wrapper’s character. The smoke can feel more concentrated, and it tends to burn a little hotter, bringing out different nuances. The roller must be meticulous here, as inconsistencies are more pronounced in a thinner format.
  • Fatter Cigars (Larger Ring Gauge): Take a Gordo or a big Robusto, and you’re dealing with significantly more filler tobacco and less wrapper proportionally. This allows the master blender’s art of combining different filler leaves (the ligada) to truly shine. The smoke tends to be cooler, often creamier, and the flavors can evolve more slowly and subtly, offering a richer, more complex journey as you smoke. The wider surface area also allows for more even burning, and the roller has more room to ensure a perfect bunch, creating a consistent draw.

3. The Breath of the Cigar: Draw and Temperature

The vitola profoundly impacts the cigar’s draw—how easily air moves through it. A well-rolled cigar, regardless of its size, should offer a smooth, effortless draw. The roller’s skill in bunching the filler tobacco is paramount here. Too tight, and it’s like sucking through a straw. Too loose, and it burns hot and fast, scorching the flavors.

A larger ring gauge generally allows for a cooler burn because there’s more surface area for the heat to dissipate and more tobacco to consume over time. Thinner cigars, by contrast, concentrate the heat more, often leading to a warmer, sharper smoke. The torcedor understands these dynamics, knowing that the tighter a cigar needs to be packed to achieve a good draw for a particular vitola, the more crucial their touch becomes. They’re not just filling a mold; they’re engineering airflow.

In essence, the choice of vitola is a dialogue between the smoker and the cigar maker. It’s the maker’s silent communication of how they intend their tobacco blend to be experienced, a carefully engineered path for the flavors to unfold. Each curve and length is a testament to the roller’s expertise, ensuring that the blend of tobaccos they’ve meticulously chosen delivers its full potential. So, when you pick up a cigar, remember you’re not just choosing a size; you’re engaging with a deliberate, handcrafted design, built to deliver a specific experience.

CAMACHO CONNECTICUT

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You know, there are some moments in life that just call for a pause. Not a frantic scroll through your phone, not another email, but a genuine, honest-to-God halt. For me, that happens often because I just prefer life that way. But the times I enjoy things most are days like this day. My wife and I had friends over and with our family in the background, kids playing games, music, and a lot of laughter. It’s in those rich, easy lulls that one may start thinking about a good smoke.

I have a deep appreciation for anything well-crafted, from a meticulously curated art collection to a carefully crafted oatmeal stout. A cigar, when executed flawlessly, belongs in that same esteemed category. While some cigars might be seen as merely functional or utilitarian, they can also truly surprise you, offering a fascinating experience when paired thoughtfully. Sunday was precisely one of those days for me.

I landed on this specific cigar, a Camacho Connecticut, after some thought about what would best complement to my drink of the day: a “Perfectly Crafted Christmas Tree.” I still can’t quite explain it, but if this drink had a flavor, it would taste exactly like what the ideal Christmas Candle would smell like. I know, not what you expected me to say rolling into June in Texas, but that’s what my buddy brought over and it was magical like Old St. Nick himself.

We’ll dive deeper into that pairing soon, but first, back to the cigar. This particular stick, hailing from Honduras, is enveloped in a sturdy-looking Ecuadorian Connecticut leaf that promised a substantial smoke. Beneath that wrapper, a Corojo binder holds together a Dominican and Honduran filler blend, hinting at a balanced, medium-strength experience.

Lighting it up, the first draw was pure buttery goodness. There was a subtle sweetness, like dried fruit, but it was quickly overtaken by something woodsy – cedar, maybe a hint of oak. As I settled into the first third, a distinct creaminess emerged, smooth and mellow, followed by a surprising little kick of pepper. Now, I’ll admit, that pepper might have been influenced by my drink but it was there, nonetheless, adding a welcome layer to the initial profile. It wasn’t aggressive, mind you, but it had a presence. Moving into the second third, that creaminess really took center stage, becoming even more pronounced. By the final third, the cigar had truly opened up. It was as if all those flavors – the creamy notes, the wood, the earth, and that subtle pepper – intensified, coming together in a more robust and satisfying crescendo. It held its character right down to the nub, a testament to its good composition.

It paired well with the quiet (sometimes not so quiet) hum of the tree frogs. And speaking of pairing, this Camacho Connecticut was a great choice to go along with my drink: a concoction of 1.5 ounces of Cinnamon Whiskey by Tennessee Legend Distillery, a full can of Barq’s Root Beer, and 1.5 ounces of Jim Beam White Label. That blend, with its sweet spice and a solid bourbon backbone, mellowed with the creamy notes of the cigar just right, and likely amplified that initial peppery kick in the first third. It was a combination that just made sense, a natural fit for an outdoor evening.

This isn’t a cigar for fancy occasions or for impressing anyone. This is a cigar for reflection, for winding down, for appreciating the simple fact that you’re alive and breathing and the world is still turning. It’s a cigar for when you’ve earned a moment of family time and relaxation or around a campfire stargazing. At around $10 a stick, it’s a fair trade for that kind of quiet contemplation.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, and you happen to have a Camacho Connecticut handy, I’d say give it a light. You might just find it tastes exactly like what you needed.

CIGARS AND THE MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

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Alright, let’s talk about finding your footing, maybe even your sanity, in this wild existence, and how some folks have tied that search to a good cigar. You hear it sometimes, usually from a fella leaning back in a worn leather chair, a plume of smoke curling up towards the ceiling: “There’s nothing quite like a good cigar to help you think.” And you know what? There’s a sliver of truth in the feeling of that statement, if you peel back the layers.

See, a lot of what we chase in this modern world – the mindfulness apps, the deep breathing exercises, the silent retreats – they’re all about creating a space. A quiet space, a deliberate space, where the buzzing anxieties of the day can recede, and you can actually hear yourself think. For some, the cigar, with its slow burn and ritualistic preparation, offers a similar kind of doorway. It’s not a fast-food cigarette; it’s a commitment. You pick it out, you cut it, you light it with purpose. There’s a deliberate unhurriedness to it, a forced pause in the frantic pace of modern life.

You see it in history, too. Guys like Churchill, famous for his wartime stoicism, always with a cigar. The image persists: the thoughtful leader, the contemplative figure, enveloped in a haze of Cuban smoke. And let’s be honest, there’s a certain undeniable aesthetic to it, a whiff of old-world gravitas that can feel grounding in an increasingly digital, ephemeral world.

Some men, in particular, talk about it as a male equivalent to, say, knitting or journaling – a quiet, solitary pursuit that allows for introspection. I’ve even heard of men’s groups, the kind where you’re supposed to get together and actually talk about what’s rattling around in your head, using the cigar as a shared, unthreatening focal point. A bit of a social lubricant, a way to break the ice and settle into a comfortable silence before the deeper conversations begin. In an age where technology often shoves us further apart, where genuine conversation gets lost in the endless scroll of a phone screen, we need to actively pursue fellowship. And sometimes, a shared cigar can be that unexpected bridge. You see folks of all ages and stages of life, from grizzled old-timers with stories etched into their faces to young fellas just starting out, gathered around a table or on a porch, the shared ritual of the smoke opening up lines of communication that might otherwise stay closed.

And then you had old Mark Twain. That fella smoked cigars like they were going out of style, which, thankfully for his later years, they weren’t. Twain was a wordsmith, a humorist, a keen observer of the human condition, and he famously declared, “I have made it a rule never to smoke more than one cigar at a time.” A man of simple, yet profound, principles.

Now, why did Twain chain-smoke cheap stogies? Part of it was the times. It was simply what men did. But if you read his writings, you get the sense it was more than just a habit. For a mind as restless and prolific as his, those cigars were probably a kind of anchor. A way to focus. Imagine trying to wrangle those sprawling narratives, those sharp observations, those biting satires without some kind of physical rhythm to accompany the mental one. The puff and draw, the slow unraveling of the tobacco, it could have been his personal metronome for thought. A way to slow down the world long enough to put his ideas on paper. He even talked about buying them by the barrel, claiming the worse they tasted, the more he liked them – a true connoisseur of the mundane, perhaps, or a man so deeply entrenched in the ritual he didn’t even care about quality anymore, just the process. He was creating, always creating, and those cigars were undoubtedly part of his creative process, a constant companion in the solitude of composition.

So, if you’re looking for that contemplative space, that moment to unwind and think straight, the appeal of the cigar for some is clear. It’s a classic image, a perceived shortcut to tranquility. It offers a structured pause, a sensory engagement that can draw a busy mind into the present moment. The ritual itself becomes a form of mindfulness, a deliberate act that demands your attention away from distractions and towards the immediate sensations: the feel of the wrapper, the scent of the smoke, the subtle taste on the palate.

In this way, for some, the cigar can function as a tangible tool for stepping back. It’s a way to punctuate the day, to mark a transition from work to relaxation, or from social chatter to quiet reflection. It’s a deliberate act of carving out time for oneself, a moment to simply be with one’s thoughts, whether those thoughts are about solving a problem, appreciating a sunset, or simply enjoying the company of friends in comfortable silence. It’s about finding that personal rhythm, that beat that helps a restless mind slow down and settle.

The appeal of the cigar for some, I get it. It’s a classic image, a perceived shortcut to tranquility. It’s about the conscious choice to engage in a deliberate, unhurried activity that fosters introspection and presence. And for many, in the right setting and frame of mind, that can be a powerful thing.

UNDERCROWN MADURO BY DREW ESTATE

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You know, sometimes you come across something that’s built on the back of a legend, but it’s still got its own grit. Like a good, solid hunting knife that might not be a custom job, but it’ll hold an edge and get the work done. That’s kind of how I look at this Drew Estate Undercrown Maduro.

Drew Estate, they’re known for those infused sticks, the ones that smell like a dessert cart. But then they dropped the Liga Privada #9, and that thing was a beast – full-flavored, a real treat. The problem with those top-shelf items, though, is they are not always easy to come by, or easy on the wallet. So, what do you do? You get resourceful.

The Undercrown, from what I gather, was born out of that kind of thinking. The folks rolling the Liga Privada in the factory, they put their heads together and figured out how to use similar tobaccos – stuff that’s more readily available – to make something that hits a lot of the same notes, but without the sticker shock. It’s a notch down in strength from the #9, sure, but sometimes, you don’t need to be wrestling a grizzly bear; a good black bear will do just fine.

This particular stick, the Undercrown Maduro, comes out of Nicaragua, a country that knows a thing or two about growing good tobacco. For about $12, you’re getting a solid piece of work. The wrapper is an Otapan Negro Último Corte, which sounds like something you’d find deep in the jungle. The binder is a T52 Connecticut River Valley Stalk Cut & Cured Habano, and the filler is a blend of Brazilian Mata Fina & Nicaraguan Cuban Seed. That’s a serious mix of dirt and sun right there. And the overall composition? Is Good, Really Good.. The strength on this one sits right in the Med-Full range, which means it’s got some backbone but won’t knock you flat.

First Third: Out of the Gate

You light this thing up, and the first few draws give you a solid, familiar feeling. I got a real sense of oak notes, mixed in with some dark coffee and a rich, almost bitter chocolate. But then, something interesting started to peek through – a hint of dark cherry. I was sipping on a classic Coke with this, and I gotta tell ya, it almost gave it this whole cherry coke vibe. It wasn’t overpowering, just a nice little twist, like finding a patch of wild berries on a long walk. It felt natural, not forced.

Second Third: Settling In for the Long Haul

As you get into the middle, that strong dark coffee and chocolate really take center stage. It’s the kind of deep, robust flavor that sticks with you, like a good, strong brew on a cold morning. Every now and then, I’d catch a whisper of leather and it was never the star of the show.

Now, a word of advice here, and it’s a practical one: take your time with this cigar. If you get too eager, drawing too quickly, and it starts to burn hot, it can get a tad bitter. It’s like trying to rush a stalk; you gotta be patient, let things develop, or you’ll spook the whole show. Slow and steady wins the race with this one.

Last Third: Bringing It Home

The final third of this Undercrown stayed true to form. It was still very enjoyable, consistent with the rest of the smoke. It didn’t fall apart on me, didn’t get harsh or unpleasant, which is a real mark of good craftsmanship.

I usually run through at least three of any cigar before I put my thoughts down, just to make sure I’m not getting a fluke. And I can tell you, this Undercrown did not disappoint me in any of those experiences. It’s a very good maduro to keep on hand, a reliable tool in the kit. In fact, I’m genuinely elated to have two more sitting in my humidor right now. It’s the kind of smoke you can count on, and sometimes, that’s all you really need.

OH NO! I HAVE NEVER HAD A CIGAR IN MY LIFE, WHAT DO I DO?

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Alright, don’t panic. Cigars can be confusing, I get it. I started a little over a year ago and now I am a certified cigar sommelier. But… this is my job, you just want to get by with your buddies so you don’t look stupid. It’s all okay, I will get you to the point of comfort so you can actually enjoy this excursion instead of feeling like you have to ace a final.

So, you’ve decided it’s time to grasp the fundamentals of a good cigar. Maybe you’ve got a new golf buddy who savors a smoke on the back nine, or your best friend is getting married and all the groomsmen are sharing a cigar experience. When I started out, I couldn’t tell a foot from an elbow. I had no idea how to light a cigar, that flavor profiles were even a thing, the shapes, sizes, wrappers… what??? It’s a lot of information, I know, but let’s simplify it so you don’t embarrass the crap out of yourself. Trust me, nobody wants to be “that guy” fumbling with a stick when everyone else is enjoying a quiet moment. It’s easy for the world of cigars to feel a bit overwhelming, even expensive, but there’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars right out of the gate. We’re just here to cover some basics. Don’t feel out of your depth; every master of a craft started as an apprentice. I’m here to lay out the groundwork, ensuring your maiden voyage into the world of cigars is marked by confidence, not by fumbling.

The Cigar’s Blueprint: Anatomy of the Stick

Before you even think about putting flame to leaf, understanding how a cigar is put together is paramount. This isn’t some haphazard bundle of dried tobacco; it’s a precisely engineered piece of work, a real testament to skilled hands. Think of it like a well-built tool – each part has a specific job.

  • Foot: This is the end you’ll light, usually open and ready for business.
  • Head: The opposite end, the one that goes in your mouth. It’s almost always capped and needs a clean cut.
  • Cap: A small, carefully applied piece of leaf that seals the head, holding the wrapper tight. Mess this up, and your cigar will unravel faster than a bad fishing knot.
  • Wrapper: The cigar’s outermost layer. Often the prettiest leaf, and usually the most expensive, it plays a big role in the cigar’s main flavor and how it smells. It’s the face of the operation.
  • Binder: Tucked just under the wrapper, this tougher leaf holds the filler tobacco together. It’s crucial for a steady, even burn. This is the unsung hero, keeping the whole thing from falling apart.
  • Filler: The very heart of the cigar, made up of different tobacco leaves – sometimes from all over the globe. These leaves collectively decide the cigar’s strength, its complex taste, and its overall character. This is where the true essence, the real flavor, makes its home.

Selecting Your First Charge: Exercise Prudence

This rule stands firm. Just like you wouldn’t start learning about spirits by chugging a barrel-strength whiskey, don’t jump straight into a full-bodied, heavy cigar. Your palate needs to ease into it. Start sensible, like picking the right caliber for your first hunting rifle.

  • Seek out mild to medium-bodied selections: Good starting points include the Macanudo Cafe, an Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story, or an Ashton Classic. These offer a balanced, easygoing smoke, without knocking you flat. You don’t want your first puff to feel like you just swallowed a mouthful of campfire smoke.
  • Consider a ‘Flavored’ Introduction: Some beginners find an easier path in with a quality infused cigar. We’re not talking about those sickly sweet things you find at a gas station, but reputable brands that infuse their tobacco with subtle, often natural, sweetness or other pleasing aromas. These can be a gentle bridge, helping someone new to tobacco find some initial enjoyment before they learn to appreciate the pure, unadulterated flavor of traditional cigars. A solid recommendation here is the Drew Estate Deadwood Series, like the Fat Bottom Betty or Sweet Jane, known for their unique, sweet notes without being overly artificial. Think of them as training wheels for your taste buds. It’s a stepping stone, not the end of the trail.
  • A word of caution: This might be your pre-excursion cigar. Among truly serious cigar users, stick with a straight-up mild-to-medium bodied suggestion like those mentioned earlier. Why, you ask? To save yourself some embarrassment. Seasoned cigar smokers might try to pull your man card or give you a hard time if your cigar smells like a bowl of Fruity Pebbles. To them, those are often seen as toys for kids, not serious smokes for grown folks around the fire.
  • Heed the vitola (size): Smaller cigars, like a Robusto or a Corona, are a smart move. They burn quicker, giving you a good introduction without having to commit to a long smoke that might wear you out. You don’t want to be stuck with something you’re not enjoying for an hour.
  • Consult the purveyor: When you’re in a respectable tobacconist shop or a dedicated cigar lounge, tell them you’re just starting out. Ask for a mild, beginner-friendly cigar, and don’t hesitate to mention if you’re interested in a quality infused option, like something from the Deadwood Series. These folks are like seasoned guides; their knowledge is worth its weight in gold.

The Decisive Cut: Mastering the Blade

You absolutely cannot, under any circumstance, just bite off the end – that’s a rookie’s blunder, a real rookie move. A precise cut is essential for a clean draw and an even burn. Treat your cutter with the respect you’d give a sharp camp knife.

  • Common Cutting Implements:
    • Guillotine (Straight Cut): This is the most common and straightforward tool. It gives you a clean, decisive chop. Simple, effective, no fuss.
    • Punch Cutter: This tool makes a small, round hole in the cap. Some folks prefer it for a slightly tighter draw. Like drilling a small pilot hole.
    • V-Cutter (Cat’s Eye): This one makes a distinct “V”-shaped notch in the cap. For those who like a bit of finesse.
  • The Unbreakable Rule: Always cut above the cap line. Your goal is to just snip enough of the cap to create an open channel for the draw, without messing up the wrapper. A common mistake is cutting too deep. If you go too far, that wrapper will unravel faster than a bad rope in a white-water rapids, and you’ll be left with a sad, floppy mess of tobacco. Aim for one swift, confident action.

Ignition: The Ritual of the Flame

Lighting a cigar is a distinct skill, not like haphazardly flicking a lighter for a cigarette. It’s a deliberate act to make sure you get a broad, even light. Take your time with this, like you’re building a good fire in a chilly camp.

  • Preferred Fire Starters:
    • Butane Torch Lighter: This is the top choice. It throws a clean, odorless flame, free from any gunk. It’s your dependable workhorse.
    • Wooden Matches (unwaxed): An old-school method, a bit more challenging. Let the sulfur burn off completely before you even think about putting flame to tobacco. It works, if you’ve got the patience of a trapper.
    • Cedar Spills: These are thin, long strips of cedar. They burn slow and steady, giving off a subtle, pleasant aroma. For the purists, or if you’re feeling a bit fancy.
  • The Process:
    1. Toast the Foot: Hold the cigar’s foot just above the flame (never directly in it) and slowly rotate it until the entire surface gets a nice, even char and starts to glow. You’re not setting it ablaze, you’re preparing it, like searing a good piece of meat.
    2. Apply Flame While Drawing: Once it’s properly toasted, bring the flame to the foot and start taking gentle, measured draws, keeping that cigar rotating. Don’t take aggressive, rapid puffs; methodical patience gets you the best results. Think gentle sips, not trying to suck the smoke out with a vacuum cleaner.
    3. Verify the Burn: Check out the cigar’s foot. You’re looking for a consistent, glowing cherry all the way around. If a spot isn’t lit, gently put the flame back to that area. We’re going for an even burn here, not a lopsided hot dog on a stick.

The Smoke: Savoring the Journey

  • Never Inhale: This is the golden rule, and I can’t stress it enough. Cigar smoke is meant to be savored on your palate, not pulled into your lungs. Unless you want to cough like a wild goose caught in a thunderstorm, keep that smoke out of your lungs. Draw the smoke into your mouth, let its flavors linger, and then slowly exhale it.
  • Puff with Purpose: Treat this experience like you’re enjoying a slow-cooked meal after a long day in the field. Avoid puffing constantly. The sweet spot is usually one or two deliberate puffs every 30-60 seconds. Puffing too fast will inevitably overheat the cigar, making it taste harsh and bitter. Don’t puff like a steam engine; you’ll scorch the tobacco and ruin the flavor quicker than a bear raiding a picnic basket.
  • Discern the Evolution: Cigars naturally change in flavor as they burn down. Pay attention to the subtle notes that emerge – maybe you’ll pick up on cedar, strong coffee, a hint of nuts, or a developing spice. It’s a journey of taste, not a sprint to the finish line.
  • Respect the Ash: Don’t knock the ash off too soon. A longer ash actually helps insulate the cigar, keeping its temperature steady and promoting a cooler, more even burn. Let it build up to a good length, perhaps an inch or more, before gently rolling it into an ashtray. Think of that ash as a temporary trophy; let it grow, then let it go.
  • Knowing When to Conclude: When the cigar starts getting uncomfortably warm to the touch, or its flavor turns harsh, or simply when you stop enjoying it, that’s your cue to set it down. There’s no law saying you have to smoke it down to the very nub. Don’t be a hero; when it stops being good, it stops.

A Word on Decorum and Preservation

  • Ash with Responsibility: Always use a proper ashtray. Don’t be a slob; nobody likes rogue ash on the patio.
  • Relighting Protocol: While you can relight a cigar if it goes out, try to avoid doing so after a long stretch of time. The flavors trapped inside will be ruined. If it’s been sitting cold for ten minutes or more, it’s likely done for.
  • The Humidor: If you plan on buying more than just a handful of cigars, investing in a proper humidor is essential for keeping them fresh over the long haul. But for getting started, your tobacconist should give you a good bag for transport. Ask them if you can also pick up a Boveda pack for a small fee. This little, vital packet will keep the humidity just right, giving your cigars months of protection while you figure out if this pursuit is truly for you. It’s an inexpensive bridge, letting you test the waters before you sink a chunk of cash into a dedicated humidor. For now, let’s just get you squared away.

Embarking on your cigar journey is a commendable step into a world of deliberate relaxation, refined tastes, and good company. With these fundamental principles locked down, you’re now ready to approach your first cigar with unwavering confidence and, indeed, genuine satisfaction.

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CAVALIER GENEVE TRES DELINCUENTES CONNECTICUT

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Alright, let’s talk about the Tres Delincuentes from Cavalier Geneve. I recently spent some time with this particular cigar, and I’ve got some thoughts. Hailing from Honduras, this Robusto (5×50) comes wrapped in a Connecticut Ecuador leaf, secured by a Habano Ecuador binder. The core is a blend of Habano Nicaraguan, Piloto Dominicano, and Habano Honduras.

At eleven dollars, it falls into a reasonable price point for a cigar of its size and stated components. Most places, you’ll find it under the $12 mark, and if you’re lucky, some spots might even have it for under $10. The wrapper, as advertised, is on the delicate side, requiring a careful hand. A few minor touch-ups were necessary during the burn, but nothing that detracted significantly from the experience.

Now, let’s break down the journey this cigar takes you on. The first third presented with clear notes of earth and a pleasant nuttiness, all underpinned by a subtle creaminess. As I moved into the second third, those initial flavors persisted, but a new guest arrived: a fleeting, almost ethereal hint of something very light, like citrus or perhaps a distant fruit. However, the most noticeable and welcome addition here was a distinct vanilla note, which really elevated the profile. By the last third, it became a harmonious combination of all the preceding elements, thankfully without that brief, almost-missed citrus note.

The profile itself leans toward mild to medium. This isn’t a cigar designed to overwhelm the palate, nor does it present an aggressive nicotine kick. Instead, it offers a nuanced progression of flavor that unfolds subtly. It’s the kind of smoke that complements reflection, perhaps after a day spent outdoors, or when you’re simply seeking a moment of quiet contemplation. While it won’t demand your full attention with bold assertions, its gentle complexity offers enough engagement to make it a worthwhile companion. All in all, this was a great cigar for the price range it’s in, delivering a consistent and enjoyable experience.

Now, it would be a miss not to tell you how I happened upon this particular cigar. Frankly, it wouldn’t have been on my radar, as I typically gravitate towards darker, more robust companions. This cigar was a happy surprise from my bi-monthly (they do offer monthly, but I prefer the bi-monthly) bundle of non-banded cigars from Standard + Twain. If you haven’t heard of this company, allow me to sing their praises and strongly encourage you to visit their website at www.standardandtwain.com and explore what they offer. (This is NOT a paid review.) Their story is a truly an engaging one, marked by a timeless commitment to cigars and a nod to the old paper written by the one and only Mark Twain. Like Twain, they (and I, for that matter) believe a good cigar shouldn’t be judged solely by its price, its band, or even its box. So, they remove the original band and replace it with a QR-coded blank band. You smoke it, take notes with the provided card, and form your own opinion before scanning the code to reveal its identity. I won’t tell you which month or specific number this cigar was, as I wouldn’t want to spoil the fun for anyone who might stumble upon this review and subscribe. I will certainly be reviewing more cigars from this subscription in the future, as I genuinely love this concept!

Finally, I can’t wrap this up without mentioning my pairing for this particular smoke (Again, not paid for this plug), because it was simply excellent! I brewed some Black Rifle Coffee at home specifically their Bourbon blend. I added a touch of Chobani Sweet Cream to it, and the combination with this cigar was truly amazing. I highly recommend both the coffee and the creamer I used; they are, without a doubt, the best I’ve had so far. If you made it thus far I appreciate you more than you know. If you enjoy the reviews please recommend it to a friend or two so we can grow this community together. If you have a particular cigar, accessory, or pairing you’d like to know more about, shoot me an email at buffalonickelcigarreview@gmail.com, and I’ll do my best to help out!

MATILDE SERENA MADURO

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Alright, let’s talk cigars. Now, I appreciate the ritual of it. Finding a quiet spot, taking a moment, and connecting with something that’s been carefully crafted. It’s a bit like sitting by a campfire, reflecting on the day’s events.

So, I’ve got this Serena Maduro here, from Matilde. Priced around $10, it’s got a blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers, held together by a Dominican binder, and finished with an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper.

This cigar, it’s got a robust character. You can tell there’s some complexity here.

  • The first draw is an easy invitation, opening with earthy notes and a subtle nuttiness, before evolving into a deeper character of leather and a hint of dark espresso.
  • The second third marks a distinct shift, transforming the experience into a creamy, decadent blend of chocolate and rich coffee.
  • The final third maintains those intense flavors, delivering a satisfying and lasting finish.

The smoke itself is smooth, not harsh. It fills your mouth without overwhelming it. It’s a mild-to-medium smoke, easy-going but with enough body to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of experience that encourages contemplation. You’re not just puffing away; you’re savoring it.

A good cigar, like a good hunt, is about patience and appreciation. It’s about paying attention to the details and respecting the process. This Serena Maduro, it seems to deliver on that. It’s a reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment.

WHAT’S THE BEST CUTTER FOR ME?

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Alright, let’s break down the ways to get a cigar ready for business. It’s not rocket science, but it is personal, and a clean start makes all the difference.

First up, the straight cut, or guillotine. Simple, effective. One blade or two, doesn’t matter much as long as it’s sharp. You line it up just above the cap and give it a firm, even slice. Gets the job done, no fuss.

Then you’ve got the punch cut. This one takes out a little plug from the cap. Some folks like it because it keeps more of the cigar’s structure intact. It creates a more concentrated draw. Different feel, same end result: smoke.

The V-cutter, or wedge cut, carves out a V-shaped groove in the cap. This can offer a different draw than a straight cut, sometimes a bit more direct. It’s another way to open things up without taking the whole cap off.

And then there are the fancy contraptions – the multi-blades, the cigar scissors. They might look the part, but at the end of the day, they’re just trying to achieve the same thing: a clean opening.

The key with any cutter is sharpness. A dull blade will tear the leaf, and that’s no good. You want a clean cut so the cigar burns evenly from the start.

So pick your poison. Straight, punch, V – they all lead to the same place: the enjoyment of the smoke. Don’t overthink it. Find what feels right in your hand and makes a clean cut. That’s all there is to it.

EL MAGO MIAMI ART DECO

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El Mago’s Miami Art Deco: No Frills, Just Flavor

This Miami Art Deco from El Mago is a damn solid stick. At 6×52, it’s got some heft to it. Wrapped in an Ecuadorian Habano that looks slick and feels good in the hand, smelling straight up like sweet tobacco – no fancy perfume here. Lit this bad boy up in my studio, where the air’s thick with good smoke.

First few puffs of this thing hit you with buttery bread – sounds soft, but it’s a real, honest flavor. Then you shoot that smoke back through your nose, and BAM! Spice. Not some delicate flower spice, but a good, solid kick that wakes your palate up.

Digging into the second third, things get a little earthier. You start tasting leather and wood, (slightly nutty) subtile but good. There’s a hint of creaminess hanging around, smoothing things out, but that spice from the start is still lurking in the background, keeping things interesting.

The final third is where this cigar shows its muscle. All those flavors get richer, bolder. That buttery bread, leather, wood, and spice all crank up a notch. It’s a full-on flavor bomb by the end.

This ain’t some flimsy cigar that falls apart on you. The construction is top-notch, and the draw is just right – not too tight, not too loose. Burned pretty darn even, only had to touch it up once.

If you’re a fan of Habano, this Miami Art Deco won’t let you down. It’s got the flavor you’re looking for, plain and simple.

Drank it with water this time, but I’m telling you, this thing would go down great with a sweet whiskey or bourbon. Scratch that – a dark rum would be the real play here. Something with some backbone to stand up to this cigar.

Heads up, greenhorns: If you’re new to this cigar thing, take it easy on the last third. This ain’t a beginner’s puff. It starts medium-full, but that end will sneak up on you with a good dose of strength.

Bottom line: The El Mago Miami Art Deco is a well-built, flavorful cigar that delivers. No fancy talk needed. It’s a damn good smoke.

WELCOME TO BUFFALO NICKEL CIGAR REVIEW

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Alright, listen up. You’ve stumbled into the right patch of dirt if you’re looking for the truth (well my truth) on cigars and accessories. No sugar-coating, no fancy write ups – just the raw truth, like the grit under your fingernails after a long day.

We’re not mincing words here. This is about the smoke, the burn, the honest-to-goodness taste that either hits the mark or falls flat on its face. We’re gonna dissect this thing like a tracker following a faint trail – every nuance, every draw, every damn puff.

So, if you’re after a review that speaks your language – the language of hard work and straight talk – then pull up a stump and stay awhile. We’re cutting through the noise and getting right to it here at the Buffalo Nickel Cigar Review where “We give you our five cents so you don’t have to waste yours.” #cigars #cigarreview #buffalonickel