The Cigar Story

Cigars have a long and fascinating history that can be traced back to the indigenous people of the Caribbean and South America. The ancient Mayans and other indigenous people of the region used tobacco for medicinal and ceremonial purposes, and the practice of smoking tobacco was eventually adopted by European explorers and colonizers.

The modern cigar as we know it today, however, was first developed in the early 19th century, when Spanish and Cuban cigar makers began to refine the art of cigar rolling and blending. By the mid-1800s, Cuba had become the undisputed center of the cigar world, with Havana cigars widely regarded as the finest in the world.

Over time, cigar smoking became a popular pastime among the everyday, wealthy and powerful.  Historically, smoking of cigars became associated with luxury, sophistication, and refinement. Today, cigars remain a symbol of wealth and status, and are enjoyed by beginners to connoisseurs all over the world.

Winston Churchill, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, was a well-known cigar aficionado. He was rarely seen without a cigar, and often smoked up to 10 cigars a day.

Churchill's love of cigars began during his time in Cuba as a young officer in the late 19th century. He was fascinated by the culture and began smoking cigars regularly, even after he returned to England.

During World War II, Churchill's fondness for cigars became legendary. He was often seen smoking a cigar while giving speeches, and even in meetings with other world leaders. It is said that he would often hold his cigar in his mouth, even while he was speaking, and he would become agitated if it went out.

Churchill's favorite cigar brand was Romeo y Julieta, and he even had a special cigar made for him called the "Churchill," which was a large-sized cigar measuring 7 inches long and with a ring gauge of 47.

To this day, Churchill remains one of the most famous cigar smokers in history, and his love of cigars has become a part of his legacy.

Cigar tobacco is a decadent indulgence, known for its rich and complex flavors that are both smooth and bold. 

The tobacco leaves are carefully grown and selected from the finest regions, then aged and blended to perfection. The result is a luxurious smoking experience that is unparalleled in its richness and depth. 

Each puff reveals a symphony of flavors, from spicy and earthy to sweet and creamy, all wrapped up in a smooth and silky smoke that lingers on the palate.

Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, cigar tobacco offers a world of indulgence and pleasure that is simply irresistible.

Here is a list of some of the most common tobacco used in cigars:

• Corojo - A type of Cuban seed tobacco, known for its bold flavor profile.

• Habano - A term used to describe a Cuban-style cigar, often used to describe cigars with a robust and full-bodied flavor.

• Nicaragua - A country known for its tobacco production, producing cigars with a wide range of flavor profiles, from medium-bodied to full-bodied.

• Dominican - A type of tobacco grown in the Dominican Republic, known for its smooth and mild flavor profile.

• Ecuadorian - A type of tobacco grown in Ecuador, used in many premium cigars, known for its sweetness and mild flavor profile.

• Brazilian - A type of tobacco grown in Brazil, known for its bold and earthy flavor profile.

• Honduras - A country known for its tobacco production, producing cigars with a medium-bodied flavor profile.

• Mexican - A type of tobacco grown in Mexico, known for its spicy and bold flavor profile.

• Jalapa - A region in Nicaragua known for its tobacco production, producing cigars with a mild flavor profile.

• Pennsylvania Broadleaf - A type of tobacco grown in the United States, known for its bold flavor profile and versatility as a wrapper leaf.

Jay-Z, the famous rapper and music mogul, has his own cigar brand called Comador. The brand is a collaboration between Jay-Z and Cohiba (price range $300 - $1000), one of the most well-known and respected cigar brands in the world.

Comador cigars are handcrafted in the Dominican Republic using the finest aged tobacco leaves. The blend is described as smooth and full-bodied, with notes of cocoa, espresso, and cedar.

The cigars are packaged in a sleek black lacquer box, with each cigar individually wrapped in gold foil. The packaging and branding of the Comador cigars are designed to reflect Jay-Z's signature style and taste for luxury.

Comador cigars are intended to be a celebration of life's most special moments, and are perfect for those seeking a high-end smoking experience. With the combination of Cohiba's expertise in cigar-making and Jay-Z's impeccable taste and style, Comador has quickly become a favorite among luxury cigar enthusiasts.

Selecting the right size cigar is an essential part of enjoying a smoking experience. Each size has its unique characteristics, offering a distinctive smoking sensation that sets the tone for an opulent indulgence.

Selecting the perfect cigar size is an art form that requires attention to detail and a deep understanding of the nuances of cigar smoking. The size of a cigar can have a significant impact on its flavor and smoking experience, making it a crucial factor in selecting the perfect cigar.

For those seeking the utmost cigar experience, the choice of size is particularly important. A longer cigar, such as a Churchill, offers a prolonged smoking experience that allows the flavors to develop and evolve over time. This size is perfect for those seeking a leisurely and sophisticated smoke.

On the other hand, shorter cigars, such as Petit Coronas or Robustos, offer a more intense and concentrated smoking experience that is perfect for those who want a burst of flavor in a shorter amount of time. These sizes are perfect for those who want a luxurious smoking experience but have less time to savor their cigar.

Ultimately, the perfect cigar size will depend on personal preferences and the occasion. For a special occasion or a leisurely evening, a longer cigar size may be the perfect choice. For a quick indulgence or a busy day, a shorter cigar may be the perfect choice. Regardless of the size, a great cigar offers a unique and memorable smoking experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning smoker.

Cigar identity and use of cigar bands are not taken lightly.  Read below for fun facts on cigar bands.

The first cigar bands were created in Cuba in the mid-19th century as a way to differentiate between brands and protect the cigars from counterfeiting.

In the early 20th century, cigar bands became highly collectible, and many people began to save and trade them. Some rare and unique bands can still fetch high prices among collectors today.

The famous Cuban cigar brand Cohiba was initially created as a private label for Fidel Castro and high-ranking members of the Cuban government. Its distinctive black and yellow band was designed to be easily recognizable.

Cigar bands often feature intricate designs, including images of historical figures, landscapes, and animals. Some bands even have hidden messages or symbols that can only be seen under certain lighting conditions.

Some cigar brands, such as Davidoff and Arturo Fuente, have become well-known for their unique and eye-catching bands. In some cases, the band can be just as iconic and recognizable as the cigar itself.

Cigar bands are often made from paper, but can also be crafted from materials like silk, fabric, or even gold and silver. Some high-end cigar brands feature bands made from precious metals and gemstones.

The practice of using cigar bands as a way to identify different brands and blends has been adopted by other industries, including the wine and spirits industries. Today, many bottles of wine and liquor feature similar labels or bands to distinguish between different varieties and brands.

There's nothing quite like the excitement of discovering a new cigar that excites your senses and leaves you craving more. From rich, full-bodied smokes to smooth and creamy ones, there's something out there for everyone.

No matter your preference, there's a cigar out there waiting for you to discover, and when paired with the perfect whiskey or scotch, it can truly be a match made in heaven. So go ahead, explore and indulge in the world of cigars, and see what you can discover.

Though not the end all be all, here is a list of name brand cigars known for their reputation, consistency, and flavor.

(listed in no particular ranking)

Arturo Fuente
Padron
Davidoff
Ashton
Montecristo
Romeo y Julieta
Cohiba
My Father
La Aroma de Cuba
Liga Privada
Rocky Patel
Partagas
Tatuaje
Oliva
Avo
H. Upmann
San Cristobal
Drew Estate
Punch
Alec Bradley

Finally, for those who prefer flavored cigars, see the list below.

Acid Kuba Kuba
CAO Flavours Bella Vanilla
Tatiana Classic Vanilla
Java by Drew Estate
Nub Nuance Triple Roast
ACID Blondie
CAO Flavours Moontrance
Isla del Sol by Drew Estate
Baccarat Havana Selection
CAO Flavours Eileen's Dream

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