Arguably the biggest misconception in the cigar industry is the use or misuse of the term “strength.” Many smokers often describe it as the flavors or lack of flavors that entertain the palate. In actuality, the palate has very little to do with determining the strength of a cigar. We asked a few industry heavyweights to clarify the term for us.
Wrappers: More Than Just a Shell
Few topics in cigar lore attract a greater disparity of views than the effect that wrappers have on the taste of a cigar.
Binder Tobacco’s Role in Premium Hand-Rolled Cigars
Ernst Gocaj speaks in an interview with Cigar Journal about the important role of the binder in the cigar production.
How to Remove Cigar Smell
We all love the aroma of a good cigar … but when the smell lingers longer than we’d like, it’s time to find a cure that will remove that smoky smell from our clothes or car, and make them fresh and presentable.
Tobacco Harvesting Methods: Leaf Priming & Stalk Cutting
When it comes to harvesting the tobaccos that will eventually be turned into premium cigars, there are two basic methods: leaf priming and stalk cutting.
Why Some Tobaccos are More Expensive Than Others
What is the cost of flavor? Depending on your cigar, about USD 45 per pound. We talked to an expert to understand tobacco valuations.
Entubado, Accordion & Co: The Different Ways to Make a Cigar
The method used for rolling a cigar affects its burn and draw characteristics. In this article, we’ll have a look at the different techniques used to bunch a cigar.
How do a Cigar’s Construction Flaws Relate to Off-Flavors?
The Construction Imperative, a Myth? Franca Comparetto analyzes tasting data to show how construction quality and ash characteristics relate to off-flavors.
About the Role Nicotine Plays in the Enjoyment of Cigars
Nicotine is the main alkaloid present in the tobacco plant. According to Min Ron Nee, “bitterness is believed to be the taste of nicotine” and it decreases through fermentation and aging.
Cigars in a Tube – Unpack, Unscrew, Take Them Out, or Leave it Closed?
A cigar matures more slowly in a tube. This is why storage recommendations depend on the strength and storage duration of the cigar.
Why the Cigar Industry Loves Ecuador’s Outstanding Wrapper Leaf
There are two important reasons why Ecuador has become the Mecca for premium cigar wrapper tobacco: its soil and cloud-filled skies.
Do Hard Rolled Cigars Mean a Poor Draw?
There are many cigars on the market that are so firmly rolled that you might expect issued draw resistance. Have hard cigars been stored wrongly or are they a production fault?