As you walk into a humidor, you might be overwhelmed by the brands, the sizes and colors. Don’t be. Let your instinct guide you. Pick up the cigar that calls to you and use your senses. Roll the cigar between your fingers. How does it feel? Hard, firm or soggy? Does it smell fresh? Does it look oily and moist? How does it feel in your hand? Does it feel like a natural fit?
However, the best way to evaluate a cigar it to smoke it (after buying it, of course). Cigar bars and upscale shops will be happy to sell you individual cigars to sample. A simple test is to cut the head and test the draw. The draw affects the flow of air and smoke. A tight draw will require too much effort to enjoy, but a loose draw may burn too fast or too hot.
As you take the smoke into your mouth let it circulate slightly without inhaling. Some experts suggest sipping at the cigar as one would sip a wine and let in rinse in the mouth. In addition, let the cigar rest on the lips without clamping it between your teeth or champing on it. A dry cigar allows a better draw.
Check the burn of the cigar as well. A cigar well-constructed from top materials will have a razor sharp burn ring (the black between the ash and cigar body). The ash should burn evenly all the way around. A poorly made cigar will not burn properly.
In making the final judgment, how does the cigar taste as you smoke it? Are you able to enjoy it all the way through or is it inconsistent? Do you feel relaxed and calm once you’re finished? If you can respond positively to all these factors, then you’ve got yourself a fine cigar.
After testing a few cigars on your own, you’ll feel more confident about offering cigars as gifts to your best man, to a groom, or to guests at celebrations like bachelor parties. In addition to visiting your local cigar bar or tobacco shop, visit these respected and reputable online cigar dealers to learn even more about enjoying cigars:
Atlantic Cigar: http://www.atlanticcigar.com
Cigar Hut: http://www.cigarsforless.com
Cigar Place: http://www.cigarplace.biz
Rocky’s: http://www.rockyscigars.com
What’s Knot to Love?: http://www.WhatsKnotToLove.com
