How to Find the Perfect Cigar Type for You

There’s no pretty refreshing moment like when you light up your cigar to unwind after a long week’s work or to supercharge that night out with friends. Cigars are meant to be savored with every inhale and help you relax or celebrate. But perhaps you are wondering, with all the options, how do I know a great cigar?

Picking the perfect cigar can be difficult and, at times disappointing, getting it right is essential for a good time. Below is a guideline on finding the perfect cigar type for you.

Size

When talking about cigar size, we consider two elements, its diameter or ring gauge and length. There is a naming system in place that ranks cigars based on their sizes. The effect of size on your cigar lies in how long it lasts or packs but not in its taste.

The smallest-sized cigar is called the Cigarillo, while on the most opposite side of the spectrum is the huge Gran Corona. The average cigar size is about 5.5 inches long with a diameter of 0.66 inches.

Body

The body of the cigar points to how intense its flavor or taste is. The wrapping plays a part in the final flavor and represents the body. Dark wrappers are more full-bodied in taste than moderate flavored light wrappers.

Different levels of smokers may vary in preference for flavor strength. Beginners often feel more at home smoking mild flavors while long-time smokers appreciate intensely rich flavors. However, don’t limit yourself to everyday practices and enjoy different flavors to know your favorite.

Inspect the Color

The color of your cigar should be brown and uniform throughout your cigar. Uneven or spotty coloring is a sign of poor cigar storage or old cigars. Humid conditions can also ruin cigars and cause mold growth spots making the cigar unfit for use.

Checking for Quality

Apart from settling on the best type of cigar for yourself, identifying quality cigars enhances the smoking session. When inspecting a cigar’s quality, there are three factors to consider: appearance, smell, and feel.

When you hold a cigar, it should feel uniform, rolling it between your fingers. Bumps, hard or blank areas make for an unevenly filled cigar. The more evenly distributed the cigar content is, the smoother your smoking session will be.

When picking your cigar, you should also give it a gentle squeeze. Upon which, you should feel the cigar as firm. If the cigar seems bristle and dry, it may burn poorly and ruin your session.

A wrapper’s appearance is another telltale sign of the quality of your cigar. Ensure you go for a cigar whose wrapper looks professionally done and with no damages. Bad-looking wrappers can indicate poorly rolled cigars that can make for a harsh smoke.

The smell of your cigar is one of the reasons we enjoy a smoke. An excellent cigar smells well before lighting it up, so give it a sniff before purchasing it. Smell strength will often replicate the intensity in the cigar’s favor.