Guide to Getting Started in the World of Cigars

Getting Started in the World of Cigars: A Guide by QUAMA

Introduction

Did you know that the first European cigar lovers were Spanish sailors who brought the exotic tobacco ritual from the New World? This discovery laid the foundation for a culture that is now known worldwide for its elegance and sophistication. Cigar smoking is more than just a pleasure; it is a ritual of calm and reflection that was appreciated by figures such as Sigmund Freud and Mark Twain. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of cigar smoking and discover its rich history and sensitive aura! In this blog you will learn how to practice this ritual with style and knowledge.

Choosing the first cigar

Choosing your first cigar is an exciting step in your journey. We recommend starting with mild and aromatic cigars that gently introduce your palate to the smoking experience. Here are some tips to help you find the right cigar to start with:

cigar strength

Start with mild cigars. These are less intense and allow you to enjoy the flavors and nuances without being overwhelming. An excellent choice for beginners is the Cavalier Genève White Series Salomones . This cigar is characterized by its mild to medium-bodied profile, with notes of cream, wood and stone fruits that provide a pleasant and harmonious smoking experience.

format and size

Choose a cigar in Robusto or Corona format. These formats are not too large and offer a pleasant smoking experience that lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. For example, the Oscar Valladares Connecticut Robusto, with a smooth, creamy taste and medium body, is ideal for beginners. It combines rich aromas of cedar, almonds, spices and leather and offers a harmonious taste experience.

ring gauge

The ring gauge of a cigar indicates its diameter. A wider ring gauge (50 or more) typically offers a cooler smoke and more complexity in flavors, while a smaller ring gauge (under 50) often offers more intense flavor notes and a stronger draw.
The ring gauge also affects the ratio of wrapper to filler (the inner tobaccos). With a smaller ring gauge, the wrapper plays a larger role in the flavor, as it makes up a larger proportion of the total volume of the cigar. With a larger ring gauge, the filler dominates, which can lead to more complex and layered flavors.
For beginners, a medium ring gauge between 42 and 50 is a good choice as it offers a balanced mix of smoke volume and flavour intensity.

spiciness and aromas

The strength and spiciness of a cigar can often be determined by the color of the tobacco leaves. Darker leaves tend to have a strong and spicy taste.
Look for cigars with notes of cream, wood and light spices. These flavors are a good entry point and offer a pleasant, harmonious taste experience. The Rocky Patel White Label is another recommended cigar for beginners. It is one of Rocky Patel's mildest blends, with a radiant composition of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobacco aged for ten years, offering maximum smoothness.

The accessories

To really enjoy the smoking experience, you need the right accessories. Here are the essential items we recommend to every newbie. In addition to an ashtray, you will need:

cutter

The right cut is crucial for a good smoking experience. There are several different types of cigar cutters, including guillotines, double-blade cutters and V-cutters. A guillotine cutter is ideal for beginners as it offers a clean, straight cut. Be sure to cut the head of the cigar carefully and evenly to ensure optimal draw.

lighters

A good lighter is another must-have. Cigar lighters usually use butane to ensure a clean, flavorless burn. A jet flame lighter is particularly convenient as it produces a strong, consistent flame that works reliably even in windy conditions. Avoid conventional petrol lighters as these can affect the flavor of the cigar.

The Art of Lighting

Lighting a cigar correctly is crucial for an enjoyable smoking experience. A correctly lit cigar burns evenly and releases its flavors optimally. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure you light your cigar correctly:

Preparation: Have your cigar and lighter ready. Use a butane lighter to avoid affecting the flavor of the cigar.
Warming the cigar: Hold the cigar at an angle over the flame without touching it directly. Rotate the cigar slowly to heat the end evenly. This step helps to light the cigar evenly and ensure optimal combustion.
Lighting: Place the heated tip of the cigar on the flame and continue to rotate the cigar while gently pulling on it. Be careful not to dip the cigar into the flame, but let the heat do the work. Pull slowly and evenly until the cigar burns evenly.

(Insider tip: Some experts swear by lighting cigars with cedar wood chips. This method not only gives the cigar an extra touch of aroma, but also ensures a particularly even burn. Hold the cigar at a 35-degree angle to the flame and rotate it continuously so that an outer ring of embers is created. This helps to perfectly light the cigar from the outside in.)

Check: Blow lightly on the glowing tip of the cigar to make sure it is burning evenly. If necessary, you can hold the cigar close to the flame again briefly to correct any unevenness.

Avoid mistakes

Pulling too hard: Do not pull too hard on the cigar, as this can cause the burn to be uneven and the cigar to become too hot.
Direct contact with the flame: Avoid direct contact with the flame to prevent the cigar from overheating.
Rush: Take your time when lighting. An evenly lit cigar provides a better smoking experience.

" The best cigar is the one you are enjoying right now . " – Zino Davidoff

The moment of pleasure

After you have properly selected, prepared and lit your cigar, comes the most important part: the actual smoking and enjoyment. The moment of enjoyment is an opportunity to find the peace and relaxation that cigar smoking offers. Here are some tips on how to fully enjoy this moment:

technique without inhalation

Unlike cigarettes, cigars are not meant to be inhaled. Gently pull on the cigar to bring the smoke into your mouth and enjoy the aromas before slowly expelling the smoke. This allows you to appreciate the different flavors without putting strain on your lungs.

Slow trains

Take your time and pull on the cigar every 20-40 seconds. This ensures

even burning and the aromas develop optimally. Drawing too often or too quickly can overheat the cigar and affect the taste.

recognizing flavor notes

Cigars offer a complex bouquet of aromas that change as you smoke them. Look for different flavors such as earth, wood, spices, coffee or chocolate. Take your time to discover and enjoy the different nuances.

Enjoy the moment

Relaxation ritual: Use cigar smoking as an opportunity to relax and leave the stress of everyday life behind you. Sit comfortably, perhaps with a good book or in pleasant company, and enjoy the time.

Suitable companions: A good drink can enrich the smoking experience. Classic companions such as whiskey, rum or a good coffee can complement and enhance the aromas of the cigar.

Care and storage after smoking

After enjoying your cigar, it is important to follow proper care and storage to keep your remaining cigars in optimal condition:

dispose of cigar remains

Environmentally conscious disposal: Make sure to dispose of cigar remains in an environmentally friendly manner. Avoid disposing of cigar remains in nature or in normal household waste, as they are not biodegradable.

Storage of opened cigars

Resealable bags: If you don't finish smoking a cigar, you can store it in a resealable bag. Make sure the bag is hermetically sealed to preserve the freshness of the cigar.

Humidor: The best place to store opened cigars is a humidor. Place the opened cigar in the humidor to protect it from drying out and to preserve its aromas. A well-maintained humidor maintains the optimal humidity and temperature so that your cigars stay fresh for a long time.

Avoid aroma contamination: Always store cigars separately from other strong-smelling items to avoid aroma contamination.

In summary

Start your cigar journey with mild and aromatic cigars like the Cavalier Genève White Series Salomones. Make sure you have the right accessories - cutters, lighters and ashtrays - to optimize your smoking experience. Learn how to light a cigar properly and enjoy every puff without inhaling. Care for and store your cigars correctly to preserve their quality.

With these tips, your first cigar will be an unforgettable experience. Remember that smoking cigars requires patience and curiosity. Enjoy every puff and let yourself be fascinated by the world of cigars.

Discover all the cigars from the QUAMA range or explore our company history .

Dive deeper into the world of cigars and enjoy the exclusive experience that QUAMA offers you.

FAQs

How do I choose my first cigar?

Choose a mild cigar in Robusto or Corona format with notes of cream, wood and light spices.

What accessories do I need for smoking cigars?

A guillotine cutter, a butane lighter and an ashtray are essential for a good smoking experience.

How do I light a cigar properly?

Before lighting, slowly heat the tip of the cigar over a butane flame and rotate it evenly to ensure optimal burning.

Should I inhale cigar smoke?

No, cigar smoke should not be inhaled. Gently draw the smoke into your mouth and enjoy the aromas.

How do you store opened cigars?