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Views |
Stinky's
View - April 2005
Cigar Trivia - Famous Quotes
Cigar Trivia – Famous Quotes
I enjoy reading about cigars. And over the years, I’ve
become fascinated with some of the same trivia that we find floating
around the cigar stores and lounges. Some cigar trivia has been twisted
and other information is just unexplained. Ok! I’ll explain.
In
2004, Litto Gomez of La Flor Dominicana Cigars came up with a unique
shape for his box of the new “LG” cigars (by the way,
they are made from all Dominican grown tobaccos like the original
Dominican “Puro”* called OpusX). The box is a hexagon
with 50 cigars inside. Why this shape? Why 50 cigars?
The
answers are based in century old traditions. Cigar makers for the
past 2 centuries have been paid by piecework. Their wage was (and
is) based on the number of cigars they make each day. Each day, the
cigar roller would receive his allotment of tobacco in the proportions
prescribed by the blend of the cigar he was commissioned to make.
The tobacco was weighed and he was expected to roll an exact number
of cigars from that amount of tobacco. Typical cigar rollers would
roll about 100 typical sized cigars (usually about a corona size)
per day. As they finished each cigar, they would stack their finished
cigars on the shelf on top of their rolling table. They made little
wedges of wood to hold just the right amount of cigars in 2 piles.
And when they were done, there were exactly 50 cigars in each pile.
They would lay a cloth ribbon under each pile before they started
rolling each day. Then, at the end of the day they would tie the ribbon
around the 2 piles of 50 cigars and turn them in to get credit for
their daily wage. These hexagonal piles of 50 cigars were called “Half
Wheel”, or in Spanish: Media Rueda.
Why are cigars packed in boxes of 20, 25, 50 and 100?
Did you need a reason? Ok. How else would you pack and ship
cigars? Well, back in the early 1800’s cigars were shipped in
barrels and sold by weight as well as by count. Factories shipped
their finished product in oak barrels. The custom for using boxes
came from the 1865 Tobacco Tax that was signed by President Lincoln.
That Tobacco Act specified packaging and stickers to enable the Revenue
Collectors to count each cigar. It required manufactures to package
the cigars in boxes of 20, 25, 50, 100 and 200 so the tax on each
cigar could be calculated by counting boxes as apposed to estimating
the number of individual cigars in a barrel (or by weight). Later
legislation required manufactures to print the maximum price of each
cigar on each box and taxes became based on the retail value of the
cigars. However, the box had become the accepted method of packaging
and has been the custom ever since.
Where
did the idea for Flavored cigars come from?
Along with the history of cigar boxes comes the origin for
flavored cigars. Men in the early 1800’s carried their pipe
and cigar tobacco in a pouch made from a pig’s bladder. Of course
the smell after a couple of days in the pouch would permeate into
the pipe & cigar tobacco. Someone figured out that adding a hand
full of vanilla beans replaced the smell with a pleasant aroma. And
that was the beginning of flavored cigars and pipe tobacco.
“What this country really needs is a good 5 cent cigar!”
We hear this one a lot, but do you know the who, why, where
and when about this famous quote? Read on and I’ll explain how
many people (even authors) misquote this one! Who said this? Thomas
Marshall was the Vice President of the United States in 1919 and was
campaigning for then President Woodrow Wilson. He was waiting his
turn to speak to the House of Representatives while his opponent was
bantering on and on about “… what this country needs…”
The speaker kept making his points and introducing new points with
“What this country needs is … blah, blah, blah.”
Then more and more of “What this country needs is … blah,
blah, blah.” His comments were directed at political issues
with the incumbent President Wilson.
When
his time was up and it was time for Thomas Marshall to speak, Marshall
made the now famous wisecrack within earshot of newspaper reporters
seated in the House. They all laughed in unison and made note of the
Vice President’s comment. It appeared in newspapers across the
country throughout the next week. The rest is history.
Many
authors have never read about this historic event. But they recall
hearing the famous quote and miswrite it like this: What this country
needs is a really good 5-cent cigar. WRONG!! The quote was about what
this country REALLY needs… not a ‘really’ good cigar…
just a ‘good’ 5-cent cigar.
Why
was this funny? Well, between the late 1800’s and early 1900’s,
the typical hand made cigar was priced at about 5 cents. Inflation
after World War One had caused cigar prices to go up and the size
of a 5-cent cigar became smaller and smaller to the point that the
only cigars at or under 5 cents were machine made. Also note; the
cigar-rolling machine had just become popular in the 1890’s
and was forcing its way into the cigar business to reduce labor costs.
Furthermore, cigarettes just were becoming popular after World War
I, about the same time Marshall made his comment.
So,
next time you hear someone quote Thomas Marshall’s 1919 wisecrack,
make sure they know what Thomas Marshall thought this country REALLY
needed!
Close!
But, no cigar!
We’ve all used this one at one point in time. But where
did that one come from? In the mid 1800’s carnivals were very
popular across the country. The “carnies” would give our
a cigar as a prize if you could take a big sledge hammer and knock
a sliding weight up a pole and ring a bell. When a contestant would
pay his penny for a whack at it, the operator would claim “Close!
But, no cigar!” …when the weight would not ring the bell.
Also note: it became known that these contraptions were often ‘rigged’
so the operator could change the force needed to strike the bell.
What’s
a Puro?
This term when used to describe a cigar means that all the
tobacco used to construct the cigar came from the same country. This
term used to be used to denote Cuban because Cuban cigars have always
been puro because Cuba has never allowed the import of tobacco! Therefore,
Cuban cigars are all puros. As the Caribbean cigar manufactures developed
their tobaccos in the 1960’s, there have been achievements in
Honduras, Nicaragua and Mexico that enabled the production of other
puros. The Dominican Republic was thought to be unable to grow wrapper
leaf until the Arturo Fuente Tobacco Company introduced their OpusX
cigar in the late 1990’s. The success of this new cigar drove
other growers, such as Litto Gomez of La Flor Dominicana, to develop
wrapper leaf in the Dominican Republic. Now there are “Puro”
cigars from the Dominican Republic as well as Cuba, Honduras and Nicaragua.
Coming
UP:
I’ll be sharing my view on a different subject each month…
like, Stinky’s View on retail cigar shops, mail order catalogs,
cigar event planning (Herfs), cigar etiquette, Cigar humidification/storage,
cigar magazines, cigar books, various cigar (model) lines and brands.
How about some feedback? Heard some interesting cigar trivia? Curious
about something? Just ask! Do you have an opinion on something? Share
it with us!! Your feedback is what makes all this so much fun!
Enjoy
your cigar moments, whether you are with friends, or in the solitude
of your own company. Thanks to friends like you . . . I’m Stinky!
March, 2005 - Promoting Cigar Events
It’s obvious that I enjoy promoting these “politically
incorrect” cigar events. Every once in a while someone asks me
why I do all this. Good question! Sometimes I wonder myself! The answer
is as simple as cutting the head off a cigar. One aspect of smoking
a fine cigar is that it allows you contemplate ideas which you normally
don’t have the time or attention for during your busy day. And,
while setting with others, you can discuss ideas with feedback needed
to build perspective to your ideas. Sometimes, however, it’s just
a time for venting. Cigars enhance some of the best aspects of life
such as friendship, relaxation, freethinking, celebration and your own
personal progress.
Cigar
smoking is not only about the unique flavors and aromas developed
by an endless combination of leaf, aging and sizes; it’s just
as much as about relaxation. I’m sure you will agree that there
are 2 ways to enjoy a great cigar moment. The first way to really
enjoy a great cigar is solo .. .. .. by yourself. Most of us have
spent time in solitude with nothing but our thoughts and a great cigar.
During the first few years of my cigar experience, I often found myself
setting on the patio each evening with my cigar selection and a book
on the subject. That cigar moment became a time I looked forward to
each day. Time to think. Time to read. Time to really enjoy a cigar.
It became a positive time for me. As I met other cigar enthusiasts,
I found it enjoyable to share cigar information and cigar trivia with
others. Getting away for a cigar is a nice break.
Want
to plan a cigar event? Here are some simple guidelines to help your
through the planning. You’ll first need to decide what size
event you want to have and how many people you really think will attend.
Sometimes a cigar event is the event itself while other times; the
cigar event is ancillary to another event. Your cigar event could
be a precursor to a dinner or a business meeting. Or, your cigar event
could be the conclusion to any number of gatherings such as a dinner,
business meeting, wedding, or any number of celebrations. In any event,
your advanced planning will payoff with a greater interaction and
enjoyment by your guests.
·
Remember, cigars are for relaxation and socializing. Be sure to provide
a comfortable place for each guest to sit down in a comfortable chair.
Unless you have a presentation to make, enjoying a fine cigar is a
good time for social conversation. Plan accordingly.
· Of course you’ll be in a cigar friendly
room or area, but check ventilation for adequate airflow for the number
of guests you expect. Nothing is worse than finding the cigars overpower
the air quality. Smoke is a particulate and needs to be disbursed
accordingly. If you plan to be outdoors, be sure to consider the temperature
and/or weather conditions. Nobody wants to smoke when it’s too
cold, too hot or too windy. Even what seems to be a slight breeze
can ruin a fine cigar. How could you enjoy a fine cigar if the smoke
is blown away before you savor the aroma?
· Cigars produce a lot of ash and debris.
Provide large ashtrays and convenient waste receptacles for the cellophane,
matches, cedar, etc. If you do not have enough ‘cigar’
ashtrays, a soup bowl or small dinner plate may work to supplement
small cigarette ashtrays. (insert plug for the Stinky Cigar Ashtray
here)
· Provide or have available an assortment
of beverages. Cigar smoking goes well with cordials, cocktails, beer
and wine. And, because smoking can sometimes dry the mouth, even soft
drinks, tea or water would be appropriate.
· Food is optional. Depending on what you
plan for your event, food is usually consumed before or after cigars.
Cigars and cocktails before a meal make for a relaxing pre-event.
Cigars after a meal and before desert provide for a relaxing time
to let dinner settle.
· Cigars take a long time. Plan an hour to
smoke a regular sized cigar. And, if you know your guests will be
arriving at different times, be sure to allow enough time for the
later arrivals to join the others without having to rush their cigar.
If you only want the event to last one hour or “one cigar”
you should clarify that the cigar hour will start promptly and end
at a specific time. Express the time frame in your invitation.
· Provide cigars? That’s entirely up
to you! Depending on the type of event and the type of cigar smokers
you invite, you may want to have an assortment of cigars. I would
recommend that you get a variety of cigars in different sizes. Ask
your tobacconist for their input. Should you sell cigars at your event?
Depending on where you are, you may need a license to sell tobacco.
However, you may not need a license if you are just being reimbursed
for the cigar you share with your guests. Ask your tobacconist for
their input and support.
Don’t
survey all your guests. If you ask someone for their input and don’t
use their ideas, they will most likely become offended. Just decide
what, where and when you want to plan your event and get busy with
the invitations. You will have a great time if you plan your event
and have given proper consideration to all aspects of a cigar event.
Coming
UP:
I’ll be sharing my view on a different subject each month…
like, Stinky’s View on retail cigar shops, mail order catalogs,
cigar event planning (Herfs), cigar etiquette, Cigar humidification/storage,
cigar magazines, cigar books, various cigar (model) lines and brands.
How about some feedback? Heard some interesting cigar trivia? Curious
about something? Just ask! Do you have an opinion on something? Share
it with us!! Your feedback is what makes all this so much fun!
Enjoy your cigar moments, whether you are with friends, or in the
solitude of your own company. Thanks to friends like you . .
. I’m Stinky!
February 2005 -
How
much should I smoke?
Many
times people who are new to cigars ask how much of the cigar they should
smoke. Many authors of classic books about cigars have included comments
on this subject. Zino Davidoff in his 1967 book called the Connoisseur’s
Book of the Cigar remarked that only half of the cigar should be smoked
and that the smoker should be aware of changes in the flavor of the
smoke as it approaches the halfway point. People who subscribe to this
theory feel the taste of a cigar changes as tar, smoke and moisture
build up in the remaining bunch of tobacco. You cannot argue that. It
makes sense that as the cigar burns; the smoke drawn through the filler
imparts a build up on the remaining filler tobacco. One must conclude
that there is a change in the flavor profile of a cigar as it is smoked.
What remains to be determined is: How much?
Other
authors describe varying flavors in different stages of cigars. This
too is not a point to argue. It’s true, the flavor of the cigar
changes as it is smoked. The point to all this is to determine the best
part of the cigar, or the converse: the worst part of the cigar. A term
commonly used to describe the best part of the cigar is “the Sweet
Spot”. To many of us, this is a big part of the enjoyment of cigars.
A fine cigar is meant to be savored, tasted and enjoyed for the satisfying
flavors and aromas.
Of
course you will find that every cigar blend is different. Some will
smoke very much the same all the way down to a nub. Some will change
every other inch as you smoke. So it follows that the flavor of a cigar
may change for the worse as it is smoked. Be aware of changes in the
smoke. Sometimes a cigar will take a sudden change for the worse. It
depends on how fast you have smoked it, or if it had to be re-lit and
to some degree, the blend of tobacco in the cigar. When the cigar is
finished, just set it down and let it go out (never snub out a cigar).
Enjoy your relaxed state of mind from a fine cigar.
Do you think my cigar stinks?
Have
you ever wondered what your cigar smells like to others who are not
smoking or do not smoke cigars? I’ve had people compare smoking
cigars to cooking fish! No. No, your cigar doesn’t smell like
fish! What they mean is; cigar smoke is a strong and persuasive smell
like fish! When I’m not smoking, I’ve found cigars really
do smell different. Try it! Before you light up in the company of other
cigar smokers, wait long enough to smell the aroma from their cigars.
You may be surprised what it smells like when you are not smoking. Especially
when you first walk into the room.
This
would be a good exercise to develop a stronger consideration for the
non-cigar smokers. While half of the non-cigar smokers compliment the
aroma of our fine cigars, the other half would have you know they think
it smells like burning garbage! Well it’s true; some of the stronger
and exotic blends of tobacco are more pungent than others. However,
whatever the blend, the majority of people in the USA do not smoke cigars
and may find the rich, aromatic smoke offensive. I make every effort
to smoke my cigar where it will not invoke a complaint. The last things
I want to do while smoking a fine cigar is argue with someone over their
opinion on cigar aroma!
There
is a time when ALL cigars stink! When you are finished smoking a cigar,
you should never ‘snub’ it out. Crushing the cherry (burning
hot spot) of a cigar will create a foul odor. Try it (when you’re
alone!) and you’ll find the smell has very little resemblance
to the fine smoke your were just enjoying. The proper way to extinguish
a cigar is to set it down and let it go out by itself. A hand rolled,
long filler cigar will go out by itself in 3 to 6 minutes if it is not
puffed on. Cigars are unlike cigarettes that are made of chopped tobacco
with accelerants that cause the cigarette to continue burning all the
way to the filter. Then, once your cigar has extinguished and you are
sure it is completely out, place the cigar in a waste receptacle where
the old stale cigar will not be smelled. An old cigar butt (also known
as a “dead Soldier” named by the staff of the famed Civil
War General, Andrew Jackson) will emit a foul and stale odor similar
to a cigar that is snubbed out. If you’ve ever left a cigar butt
in your ashtray over night and walked into the room the next day, you
know what I mean. Now that’s a Stinky Cigar!
Coming
UP:
I’ll be sharing my view on a different subject each month…
like, Stinky’s View on retail cigar shops, mail order catalogs,
cigar event planning (Herfs), cigar etiquette, Cigar humidification/storage,
cigar magazines, cigar books, various cigar (model) lines and brands.
How about some feedback? Heard some interesting cigar trivia? Curious
about something? Just ask! Do you have an opinion on something? Share
it with us!! Your feedback is what makes all this so much fun!
Enjoy
your cigar moments, whether you are with friends, or in the solitude
of your own company. Thanks to friends like you . . . I’m Stinky!
® |
January
2005 - New To Cigars?
What would you say to someone who is new cigars? Well… aside from
sharing my own personal opinions, I’d begin with some of the basic
facts about cigars. Then I’d share some market information based
on what they may want to look for when it comes time to explore.
Plan to
explore different cigars but keep one thing in mind. A cigar will enhance
the moment. So, make sure you have the time to enjoy the cigar. In the
classic book called “The Connoisseurs Book of Cigars” by
Zino Davidoff, he recommends you never work and smoke a cigar. Cigars
are meant for relaxation.
Many people
start out with a cigar diary. Keeping a log can help track your experiences.
There are almost one thousand hand made cigar brands on the market.
According to Perelman’s 2003 Cyclopedia of Cigars there were 843
brands. And, each brand has different sizes with many manufactures offering
an assortment of lines that are made with completely different blends
of tobacco. So, the result is a staggering assortment of cigar strengths,
flavors and aromas to explore.
Cigar
Myths & Misinformation
When people discover the enjoyment of fine cigars, they begin a journey
through a vast web of knowledge and information. Somewhere along the
line after they smoke a really good cigar, some begin a quest to find
that same (or an improved) experience. The more they learn, the more
they find there is to learn. The history and information behind cigars
is huge! We all like to share information and I’m quick to suggest
some classic books on the subject of cigars to all new cigar enthusiasts.
I am also quick to warn about the myths and misinformation!
Initially,
most cigar information is picked up through conversations with other
cigar enthusiasts and your local tobacconist. Where as most of the information
you hear about cigars is good, dependable and somewhat accurate, there
is a lot of personal opinions and speculation, which becomes misrepresented,
as factual.
Cigar
Myths & Misinformation – Lighting Cigars
Keep in mind that many of the cigar customs are based in function or
process. One recent new cigar smoker asked why many cigar smokers take
so long and go through what seems to be a ritual to light their cigar.
After explaining how a cigar is properly lit, I suggested that he try
a few each way. Light one with a match without any “toasting”
of the foot. Just light it like a cigarette. Notice the flavor. The
next time you have that same cigar, take your time and warm the foot
without letting the flame of your lighter, or wooden match, touch the
foot. This warming process is called Toasting the cigar. The reason
for ‘toasting’ is to warm the tobacco to bring the tobacco
up to burning temperatures so the oils are not scorched. See for yourself
if this changes the flavor of your cigar.
Cigar
Myths & Misinformation – Cigar Storage & Mold
Storage and humidification is another subject of common interest. Why
do cigars sometimes get mold? Common misunderstanding about mold and
cigars is the confusion between mold and “Bloom” or “Plume”
which is crystallized tobacco oils formed on the surface of the cigar.
Bloom or Plume is very often confused with mold. Here’s the difference;
mold destroys cigars and Bloom or Plume is a sign that they have been
kept in ideal conditions and are ready to smoke! So, if you’re
new to cigars and find a mold-like substance on your cigars, here’s
a simple test: First, look closely at the suspected ‘mold’
to see if it is pure white or if it has the dusty green base of rotten
mold. If it is just white spots, try to gently wipe it off with a soft
tissue. If it wipes off easily, congratulations, you have Bloom (or
Plume) and your cigar(s) are ready to smoke. Finally, to be sure, sniff
the cigar! That’s right! Mold smells like poop! Cigars with Bloom
or Plume smell just like fine cigar tobacco!
Fact is
the moist environment needed to store cigars may promote mold. However,
if your humidor is kept properly, you should have no worry about mold.
First cause of mold is temperature. When the temperature goes over 70-75
degrees, your exposure to growing mold increases. Keep it in a cool
place. Second, do NOT use tap water! Do NOT use RO water! Use ONLY distilled
water. I recommend the use of Propylene Glycol mixed 50% with distilled
water as the humidification solution. Propylene Glycol also eliminates
mold. Most molds cannot grow in a glycerin based liquid. (For further
information on humidification, send me e-mail for another article on
humidification by James Pendergast.)
Cigar
Myths & Misinformation – Preparing to Light
Watch real cigar smokers light a cigar and you too will ask; “Why
do you do that?” The decision on cutting the head and toasting
the foot before lighting actually help with the enjoyment and flavor
of the cigar. However, there are a few rituals that are just NOT necessary!
Ever seen someone run a lit match along the length of the cigar? Or,
worse yet, lick the entire cigar? Neither is necessary! I’ve never
understood why someone would wet their cigar by licking it or sticking
the cigar into their mouth like a pop-sickle! I can only figure that
they have had a problem with the wrapper leaf being kept too dry and
find that the saliva moisture keeps it from cracking when it heats up
and expands from smoking. There are some very, very fragile wrapper
leaves (like Cameroon wrappers) that could use extra moisture because
they are so delicate. However, I do NOT recommend licking cigars!!!
It only makes you look like a fool and there is no reason to ‘mouth’
your cigar before smoking it! But, like they say, “It’s
your cigar… you can do what ever you want with it, Mr. Clinton.”
As for
running a flame along the length of a cigar, that custom was based in
history. Cigars like most everything, have evolved and improved over
the years. There was a time in the early 1800’s when the glue
used to apply the wrapper leaf was not gelatin based as it is today.
The glue used to apply the wrapper was a natural gum that sometimes
had a slightly bitter taste. Men would light a match and hold it below
the wrapper just far enough to warm the ‘gum’ based glue
in an effort to eliminate that slightly bitter taste. Today, it is entirely
un-necessary and counter productive. So, stop it!
Cigar
Myths & Misinformation – Wrapper Color
Here’s another myth; Cigars with darker (maduro) wrappers are
always stronger and full-bodied smokes. While it is true that many dark
wrappers are used on stronger blends, the dark wrapper itself is not
the sole contributor to strength. The thin, outer wrapper leaf is responsible
for over 50% of the flavor and aroma of a cigar! The blend of the filler
holds the balance of the flavor and BODY of the smoke. Keep in mind
what makes a wrapper leaf dark or ‘Maduro’... it’s
in the extended time of the fermentation process. Maduro wrappers are
allowed to ferment at higher temperatures and take a little longer to
ferment. Many cigar makers claim the maduro wrappers have a little sweetness
to the flavor. They say this has something to do with the sugars produced
in the fermenting process.
So, don’t
pre judge a new or different cigar by the color. Ask your tobacconist
about the body and flavor to find out if this may be the kind of cigar
you would enjoy trying. Then try it!
Coming
UP:
I’ll be sharing my view on a different subject each month…
like, Stinky’s View on retail cigar shops, mail order catalogs,
cigar event planning (Herfs), cigar etiquette, Cigar humidification/storage,
cigar magazines, cigar books, various cigar (model) lines and brands.
How about some feedback? Heard some interesting cigar trivia? Curious
about something? Just ask! Do you have an opinion on something? Share
it with us!! Your feedback is what makes all this so much fun!
Enjoy
your cigar moments, whether you are with friends, or in the solitude
of your own company. Thanks to friends like you . . . I’m Stinky!
® |
Stinky's
View - May 2004
In the coming months, JC Simon (our web host) will be posting information
on "Cigar Friendly" places here in the Las Vegas area. We
are fortunate to have so many 'cigar friendly' places to choose from right
here in our own neighborhoods.
Legislated smoking bands are the featured topic of many tobacco industry
publications!
No, not here in Las Vegas… the Governmental bans on smoking across the
country! Many of the retail tobacco dealers feel that this trend to restrict
smoking in bars, nightclubs and restaurants is hurting their business
because people just don't have as many places where they can smoke, like
they used to.
As a result of these new laws, we are seeing a trend among tobacconists
to expand or add smoking areas. Even in New York City the new Davidoff
store has a 'climate controlled' smoking room, which features a separate
air conditioning system, state of the art air purification systems and
a substantial exhaust system. The stories are similar in Florida, Connecticut,
Texas, California and all the states that are adopting these new laws.
Ireland even announced an indoor smoking ban for the entire country! Smoking
is becoming somewhat of a covert and clandestine experience!
Even though we enjoy liberal laws on smoking in public buildings there
are some restrictions here in Las Vegas. We all have come to accept the
smoke free business environments in banks, government buildings, hospitals,
etc. However, we shouldn't take this freedom for granted in bars, restaurants
and casinos. We may see changes in the near future.
Lets look at 'cigar friendly' places, as they exist today. Most bars and
restaurants in the State of Nevada still accommodate cigarette smokers.
Never assume you can smoke a cigar just because they allow cigarette smoking!
Many places that allow you to smoke a cigar are not what I would classify
as "Cigar Friendly" if they only tolerate your cigar smoke
with the provision '…if nobody complains'. I'd say that
would be "Cigar Tolerant" at best! One sure fired way to
determine if the restaurant or bar is 'cigar friendly' is the fact that
they sell cigars. And, if they don't sell cigars? Well, you gotta ask!!
Having a manager or a server come over and ask you to 'put out' your cigar
really ruins the moment! Not to mention the cigar! If you plan to smoke
a cigar in a place where you have not smoked before, good manners would
precept that you ask first. Gentlemen do not assume. Be sure you are speaking
with an authorized manager. Sometimes a 'tip hungry' server may say yes
in an effort to appease you and hope all goes well. Naturally you would
ask: "Do you allow cigar smoking?" Or: "May we smoke cigars
here?" If the answer is yes, don't take that as the gospel. Beware!
Qualify their answer with one more question. "What is your policy if someone
complains about our cigar?" The answer to this question is the litmus
test to determine if they are "Cigar Friendly" or "Cigar
Tolerant" or where they actually stand.
Sometimes the owner(s) do not have a policy on cigar (or pipe) smoking
but the employees may. Take PT's Pubs for an example. We enjoy a weekly
herf (cigar gathering) at the PT's location on Decatur just off the 215
beltway. No problem! If someone complains, the manager (and his staff)
simply respond with; sorry, sit somewhere else! Hey! That's "Cigar
Friendly" to me!!
But then comes the story from another Cigar Buddy who was asked by the
bartender to put out his cigar at the PT's Pub on Sunset and Pecos Road.
Even at a 'cigar friendly' bar, sometimes the help just doesn't get the
message. When I called the corporate offices for PT's they explained that
each location is free to establish their policy on cigar & pipe smoking.
However, they went on to say they still believe most of the PT's are cigar
friendly.
We have enjoyed cigar events at the Stratosphere Tower Top of the World
Lounge, Main Street Station's Pullman Grille and many, many other fine
cigar rooms around Las Vegas, however, with a change in management, the
reception for cigar smoking may also change. In another example, the Stratosphere's
Top of the World Lounge would now be classified as "Cigar Tolerant"
due to the wishes of the current management. In an interview with the
Food & Beverage Director, Mr. Richard Hanano, he explained that their
air conditioning systems can only handle a few cigars in the lounge (loft)
area. He went on to explain that when we have a large group smoking cigars,
the smoke and aroma (odor to some) elicits complaints from people in the
dining room. He went on to say that he made a proposal to management for
a glass enclosure at one portion of the lounge, install air purification
systems and an exhaust system so they can promote their lounge as "Cigar
Friendly". So, Richard! How can we help get that approved?
Each of you can help us! Look for great places to meet and enjoy a fine
cigar. If you know of a nice restaurant, coffee shop, bar or grill… please
share your experience with us. You'll see more "Cigar Friendly"
information each month as we continue to qualify the better "Cigar
Friendly" places in Las Vegas. When we meet in a truly "Cigar
Friendly" place, it's easy for anybody to say . . . I'm Stinky!
Addictive or Habit Forming?
When you first started smoking cigars, did you smoke as many then as you
do now? Do you wonder about the nicotine content of cigars? Well… sit
back… light a cigar… because I have a little good news for you!
Before I explain, it must be said that smoking of ANY kind is not GOOD
for you. Hey! Just like drinking beer! Too much or consumed at the wrong
time… it's NOT good! However, some will argue that a beer or two actually
provides some benefit to your health. Ok! Then I must say that the enjoyment
of fine cigars (in moderation) also provides a benefit!
By now you must realize there are a growing number of Smoke Nazis! These
are people who are ignorant, uninformed, half-cocked, prejudiced, narrow-minded,
opinionated, intolerant, bigoted, know-it-alls who create and misuse information
to make rash statements about cigars. The typical Smoke Nazi would have
you think they are quoting facts. They are famous for convoluting whatever
information they heard or read. I've had ignorant, uninformed Nazis say
that one cigar is like smoking a whole pack of cigarettes! And, they were
serious! How completely absurd! The only thing similar between a pack
of cigarettes and one cigar is how much they might weigh! Cigar tobacco
doesn't even come from the same strain of plant as the cigarette tobacco.
Keep in mind that cigarette tobacco is NOT fermented. Cigarette tobacco
is harvested, dried, cured, chopped, treated and rolled. Let's not forget
the additives found in most 'main stream' brands! And, when smoking a
cigarette, you are burning (and smoking) the paper too. The point of comparing
cigars with cigarettes is simply to show how extremely different they
are. Cigars deserve to be classified without any connection to cigarettes
whatsoever. Many cigar smokers only smoke on special occasions. Do you
know of any cigarette smokers who smoke occasionally?
Fact is, cigars actually have less nicotine than cigarettes! The Smoke
Nazis would have you believe a cigar has more nicotine than cigarettes
because they smell! Yes, cigars are more aromatic than cigarettes (it
may well be a 'smell' or 'stink' to some). So, why does cigar tobacco
smell different than any other form of tobacco? Answer: Cigar Tobacco
is all fermented. And what does the fermentation process do? Answer: It
decomposes the leaf and as a result, it 'sweats' the ammonia and nicotine
out of the tobacco! Want information from experts? Get any chemist to
analyze the nicotine content of cigar tobacco. It has substantially less
nicotine content than cigarette tobacco. Substantially means a small fraction
of the nicotine content. According to the writings of Alfred Dunhill in
his book (copyright 1954) "The Gentle Art of Smoking":
Nicotiana tabacum, with which the smoker is principally concerned,
has a bright bluish-green leaf, which lightens to a yellowish green as
it reaches maturity. In its natural state it is bitter to the taste, and
even when it has been cured, or dried slowly, so that the leaves become
yellow and orange in color, it still does not produce a smooth, mellow
smoke. Not until the dried leaf has had a period of fermentation or aging
can it provide the rich, fresh smoking qualities for which it is famous.
He goes on to say;
…curing by one of various methods is a highly skilled and crucial stage
in tobacco production; only when this has been carried out carefully,
and the long natural process of fermentation has radically changed the
composition of the leaf, will it product the mellow, rich smoke that is
required.
In the books "Cuban Cigar Tobacco (Why Cuban Cigars are
the World's Best)" by Eumelio Espino Marrero and "The Journey
of the Havana Cigar" by Antonio Núñez Jiménez, they go to great
lengths to explain fermentation process and what happens to the tobacco.
The goal is to develop the taste and aroma for the cigar smoker. However,
the result is a smoke with an absolute minimum of nicotine and practically
no ammonia.
My mother-in-law once (thoughtlessly) quipped; "Them cigars are worse
than cigarettes!" I immediately offered to start smoking (and inhaling)
cigarettes to which she sputtered… "…err, ah, they aren't any better either."
But "mom"!! You just said cigars are 'worse'! The argument ended. Point
is, Smoke Nazi will convolute facts and say anything. The only response
we can use effectively is; "Moderation". I always like to ask; do you
drink? …beer, wine, coffee, soda, tea??? Yeah? Well, too much of anything
is bad for you. So, leave my cigar and me alone! Because when smoking
a fine cigar, I'm having a great moment! And we all agree, great moments
are GOOD for you!
The addictive qualities in cigarettes come from the level of nicotine
content in the tobacco. Cigar tobacco has substantially less nicotine
so it is less addictive. Some would argue that cigars are not addictive
at all. When a cigarette smoker goes without a cigarette, they usually
experience anxiety, shakes, nervousness, etc. However (through my own
experience) when a cigar smoker does not have a cigar for a day or two,
he does not experience any of these physical conditions. We do however,
miss it… And, what I miss the most is "the moment"! It's that "moment"
where I can relax, contemplate my day and enjoy the complexities of this
simple bunch of tobacco in the shape of a fine cigar. So, maybe now you
understand why you answered no to; "When you first started
smoking cigars, did you smoke as many then as you do now?" When you
find something that is so good (perhaps even good for you) naturally you
want more. I'm firmly convinced that it's not a "nicotine fix" but, in
fact, it is for the appreciation of a fine cigar and the time to enjoy
one of life's simple delights.
Coming UP:
I'll be sharing my view on a different subject each month… like, Stinky's
View on retail cigar shops, mail order catalogs, cigar event planning
(Herfs), cigar etiquette, Cigar humidification/storage, cigar magazines,
cigar books, various cigar (model) lines and brands. How about some feedback?
Curious about something? Just ask! Do you have an opinion on something?
Share it with us!! Your feedback is what makes all this so much fun!
Enjoy your cigar moments, whether you are with friends, or in the solitude
of your own company. Thanks to friends like you . . . I'm Stinky! |
| Stinky's
View March 2004 |
-
There
is plenty of advice out there on how to select, store, and smoke
cigars. Rather than repeat what everyone knows or says, here are
10 quick, lesser-known tips, courtesy of JR Cigar, to make your
cigar smoking experiences more pleasurable.
1. An easy way to get a perfect cut from most double-bladed guillotine
cutters is to lay it flat on a table, place the cigar in it straight
up, and snip. This method makes it easy to not only get a straight
cut, but with most cutters it nips just the right amount of the
head off your cigar.
2. A great way to keep your cigar burning evenly is to rotate the
slow-burning side to the bottom. I know this seems odd, but the
bottom side will burn faster because oxygen needed to feed the flame
isn't being displaced by the smoke. Try it and see!
3. Your cigar a little tight? First thing to try is to gently squeeze
and massage it; many times this will loosen the bunch enough to
fix the problem. But if that doesn't work, go for the gusto and
use a skewer or ice pick to just poke a hole through its length.
Word of warning though: Do this before you light it and be very
careful!
4. To prevent your cigar from going out between puffs, give it a
couple of extra quick, short draws coupled with quick exhales before
you take a long draw of smoke to savor against you palate each time.
You will be amazed at how this simple practice helps to improve
any difficult burning cigar.
5. Ignore what everyone keeps telling you about 70% being the ideal
relative humidity for cigar storage. Many cigars are too wet at
this level and draw poorly and taste sour. You will enjoy a much
better smoking experience keeping your stogies closer to 65% RH.
6. Don't become anal about relative humidity. Cigar smoking is meant
to be relaxing; stressing over your humidor humidity level is a
waste of time! The goal is to keep it stable… your cigars will be
just fine anywhere between 60% and 72%. In my opinion, they smoke
best around 65-66%, but they are not going be harmed at a few points
higher or lower. The goal is to find what you like and to maintain
that level.
7. A quick and easy way to check how good your humidor's seal is
to empty it, place an energized flashlight inside, close the lid,
and inspect it in a dark room. If there are any leaks or gaps, the
light will shine right through.
8. Your butane lighter doesn't seem to be working as well as it
used to? Purge it! What does this mean? Purging is simple: Next
time your lighter is empty, depress the fill stem and allow the
air that is trapped within the empty gas reservoir to be expelled.
You will know it is properly purged when you cease to hear any hissing.
Note from Stinky: NEVER use a ballpoint pen to purge your lighter!
A small amount of Butane can act as a solvent and you may find ink
spraying all over! Wooden toothpick can also be a problem if the
splinter breaks off into the filler tip. I would suggest a metal
fingernail file, a tiny screwdriver, a small nail, a drywall screw,
or an ice pick.
9. It is best to wait five minutes or so after a cigar is lit before
you try to remove the band. The heat of the cigar will loosen any
glue that may have come in contact with your cigar's wrapper and
will prevent you from tearing the leaf as your remove the ring.
10. Want to relight a cigar that you left sitting for a while? The
best way to do this is tap off any remaining ash, then gently blow
through the cigar to clear any stale air. Then, as you light it,
continue to blow gently through the cigar with the flame at the
foot for about three seconds before you take your first draw. Doing
this simple set of actions will greatly reduce any initial sour
flavor from a relit cigar. We hope you find these hints helpful.
And if you happen to have an even lesser known cigar tip, do us
a favor and email it to jrcu@jrcigars.com .
Hopefully we'll end up with a few more good ones to share with our
fellow cigar smokers in future JRCU installments!
|
| |
| Have
a cigar question? Don't be shy, ask Stinky! |
| Stinky's
View - February 2004 |
-
Cigar
Information:
Most of us are fascinated with the topic of cigars from the growing,
curing, manufacturing, packaging, history, storing, aging, smoking,
etc… My obsessive-compulsive personality disorder has lead me on
a search for information on every trivial aspect of cigars. After
reading over 50 books and countless articles on cigar related subjects,
I'm still NOT an expert! However, with the information found in
this collection of books & magazines and conversations with world
wide renowned cigar experts, I would like to caution you about WHERE
(and where not) to seek cigar information.
Books written by credible and recognized authors would be my first
suggestion for anyone interested in finding out more about this
mythical subject of cigars. If you 'fancy' cigars and want to pick
up some credible information, I suggest you seek out a few books
to start with. For your convenience, I've listed 5 good books at
the end of this article to help get you started.
Most people (not cigar enthusiasts) would never notice bad cigar
information or bad cigar advice. I find it disconcerting to hear
misinformation about cigars or cigar subjects.
In a recent article just after the BIG Smoke, the author included
an old (and true) story about President Kennedy, however, much of
the information was very wrong; "…before he ordered the 1962 Cuban
Embargo; the president laid in his own supply of Cohibas." Well,
if she had just asked Stinky… she would have found out that the
Cohiba brand name didn't even exist until 1968, and it wasn't even
sold to the public until 1981! However, Kennedy did stock up on
his favorite Cuban cigars before he signed the Trade Embargo in
1962. He asked his Press Secretary, Pierre Salinger to go buy every
H. Upmann Petite Corona he could find in the Washington DC area.
(From an article written by Pierre Salinger for Cigar Aficionado
Magazine November/December 2002)
At a local cigar event I met a gentleman boasting about his passion
for cigars and his new cigar web site. He handed me an article he
wrote. In the article he referred to the "bunch" (filler leaves
inside a cigar) as the "guts" of the cigar. When I asked him what
books he had on the subject of cigars, he replied with '…well, none
actually, I've been smoking cigars since I was a teenager, but I
get my information from talking with guys who smoke cigars, smoking
different cigars and reading some of the cigar web sites.' Be forewarned:
many of the cigar forums and web sites are full of myths, misinformation,
rumors and opinions.
On a recent visit to a famous national mail order company's web
site, I found the editor telling readers about how cigar bands were
originally used to hold the cigars together. That's a myth. Bands
have always been used to identify the cigar brand name. And, bands
were never intended to protect your fingers or your white gloves
from tobacco stains. Bands have always been used for brand identification
since Gustov Bock used them to identify his cigars from Cuba in
1850 (The Cigar by Barnaby Conrad III 1996).
Another area of common misinformation is cigar storage and humidification
of cigars. Keep in mind the accepted conditions for proper cigar
storage is a consistent 70° Fahrenheit and 70% relative humidity.
There are numerous authors who would tweak this guideline a few
degrees. However, there are some bizarre authors who would introduce
you to some very radical ideas like spraying your cigars with water
to keep them much more moist. I've even seen articles & web site
posts that claim you can "cook" your cigars (in an oven!) to accelerate
the aging process and marrying of the tobaccos. That's a very radical
concept that I cannot support. Keep in mind that the actual level
of humidification is simply individual taste. Some people like their
cigars moist, some like them dry. Nothing says one is right nor
wrong. The standing guideline is still a consistent 70° Fahrenheit
and 70% relative humidity.
Here's a short list of books that I found to introduce the subject
of cigars quite well.
- 1.
Perelman's Pocket Cyclopedia of Cigars. This is an annual publication
found in most (good) cigar stores. It is written and published by
Richard B. Perelman, brother of Ron Perelman, the former President
of Consolidated Cigar Company. It contains the most comprehensive
listing of cigar brands in the industry. Each brand listed with the
name, size, shape and blend for each cigar as well as a short synopsis
of the brand. While Perelman's is a great reference to quickly determine
where the tobaccos came from, it also has a great introduction and
sections on "Cigar Basics" in the front of each edition.
Seek out a copy (new or used) to get started with fundamental cigar
knowledge. And, I suggest you pick up a new edition at least every
other year to see what's what with the cigar brands you enjoy or cigars
you may want to try next.
2. Nat Sherman's A Passion for Cigars By Joel Sherman 1996.
Joel is a second-generation tobacconist and son to the famed Nat Sherman
of New York City. He wrote a comprehensive book that has straightforward
information on the whole spectrum of cigars from history, growing,
curing, manufacturing, preparation and enjoyment (smoking) of fine
cigars. Although the book is out of print, you can usually find this
book in used bookstores at a bargain price of about half the original
suggested retail price of $24.95.
3. The Ultimate Cigar By Richard C. Hacker 1993 and 1996. Although
"Hacker" covers a lot of the same basic topics as Joel Sherman,
this book compliments the information with a slightly different perspective
and a section with his views on what beverages go well with cigars.
The book is also straightforward and easy to read with a section dedicated
to brief historical highlights on many of our favorite brands and
the cigar makers behind the brands.
4. The Cigar Connoisseur By Nathaniel & Andrew Lande 1997.
This is a beautiful, large, full color, information bank for dedicated
cigar smokers. It is a treasure filled with beautiful photographic
reproductions and correct historical information. The book is compiled
with articles about the people who brought the cigar industry to the
twenty first century. If you can find it, buy it! Not only for the
abundant information, but the book is a visual joy to leaf through.
5. World of Cigars By Marvin R. Shanken 1996. This was a very
popular book at the peak of the cigar boom of the 90's. It's a good
book, well written, with accurate information and traditional advice.
Shanken is also the publisher of Cigar Aficionado magazine. Although
this is not the greatest book on the subject, it is readily available
in used bookstores and visually pleasing, but it only touches lightly
on cigar basics. Other books by Shanken, as well as his Cigar Aficionado
Magazine, are well written and provide accurate information, which
is usually slanted to the commercial "Upscale" cigar market.
There are 50 more books we could list! Some just as good as these, some
not worth the paper they're printed on! That's important! How do you
know what's good information? Well, that depends on how you get started.
Start with books and publications that come from credible and respected
authors in the cigar industry. These 5 books would be an excellent start.
Stories about cigars are peppered with myth and fantasy. And, many people
like to embellish their stories. So, how will you know if the information
you hear or read is accurate? Simply put; it just takes time! And that's
what cigars are all about. One of my favorite moments with an excellent
cigar is sitting (alone) on my patio with a good book on the subject.
I hope you will find your cigar research as rewarding as I have!
Cigar Shop Survey:
What do you consider when you develop your opinion of a cigar shop?
What about our local Cigar Stores? Every year, right after the first
of the year about this time, the Las Vegas Review Journal surveys its
readers and promotes "The Best of Las Vegas". The survey form
was in some Sunday papers last month. Then, some time around March they
publish the results. I believe they gave out the title "Best Tobacco
Shop" in the past before considering some of the better cigar stores
we already know about. And for that mater, they may have made their
award without some of the criteria necessary to be the "Best"
cigar or tobacco shop in Las Vegas. Here's a short list of factors to
consider.
-
1. Inventory… stock… selection! When traveling, I
like to see cigar stores wherever I go. And, all across the country,
you'll find anything from shops with a few boxes to JR Cigar's biggest
cigar store(s) in the world! Just imagine if you went into a cigar
store with a very limited (puny) selection. All the other evaluation
factors would become insignificant! What kind and how many cigars
does it take to be the best?
- 2.
Ok, so you find a store with a respectable 'inventory' …then
what? What if the service staff doesn't know fiddly squat about
cigars? Is it just me, or is that important? Cigars are a unique and
specialized product. Most of us would like some 'qualified' help and
guidance. So, how can you tell if the person knows what they are talking
about? This may take a little time, so start with the knowledge you
already have. Ask questions that you are familiar with the answers.
If they are well informed, it will show. If you get a lot of "I
don't know" answers, you may be dealing with someone who is new,
uninformed or worse yet, just doesn't care about cigars. I'd suggest
that you ask about their personal experience with cigars. Questions
like: Do you smoke cigars? How long have you been in the business?
What books do you recommend on the subject cigars? (I mean books …not
necessarily cigar magazines)
3. Price is another area we must look at. Are they reasonable?
Or, are they gouging? You'll find some shops are "real proud"
of their inventory! Hey! We're consumers and value comes (for the
most part) from the price! It takes time to learn the fair market
pricing for cigars and it's NOT an exact science… just your informed
opinion. Once again, evaluate on products and brands you already know
about.
-
4. As in all Retail operations, we must consider location.
Is it important? Well, to some degree, location must count. If we're
going to a "local" cigar store, we've got to get there.
Is it conveniently located? Is it easy to get in and out of? Can someone
find it should you recommend the store?
5. There's another factor unique to this business. The smoking
area! Do they have an area where you can sit down and enjoy your
cigar? If so, is the area inviting? Is it appointed with appropriate
furniture? Do they have beverages available? After all, it may take
an hour to enjoy a cigar!
6. Finally, we might consider the overall atmosphere. Is it laid
out well? Not all of us are interior designers, but we know when
it's pleasing. So, how does it look to you?
Your
opinion counts! JC and I are making an effort to round up the Cigar
Posse to scout all local cigar shops and compile your notes to see
what we (as a group) really think. That way, my strong personal opinion
will be balanced with a (couple) dozen others. With the busy Holiday
schedule, we agreed to extend this survey for another month. Please
send us YOUR comments on as many "local" cigar shops in
the Las Vegas area as you can. We do not plan to survey casino cigar
shops, gift shops, cigarette stores, liquor stores, drug stores, etc.
Below is a list of cigar shops we already know about in the Las Vegas
area. If you know of any other local cigar shops, please send us their
information.
Alphabetically:
CigarBOX
3012 S. Rancho Drive
Don Pablo Cigar Company 3025 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Don
Yeyo Cigar Company 328 W. Sahara Avenue
Green
Valley Smoke Shop 2381 E. Windmill Lane
Havana
Cigar Company 2 Locations
Ideal
Tobacco 1335 E. Sunset Road
Las
Vegas Cigar Company 2510 E. Sunset Road
Monte's
Cigars Desert Inn Road (just West of Eastern Ave.) … NEW
Mr. Bill's 5 Locations… you pick
Paiute
Smoke Shoppe 1225 N. Main Street
Papa
Giorgio's Smoke Shop 650 E. Horizon Drive, Henderson
Pheasant
Cigar 2800 E. Sahara Avenue
Summerlin
Smoke Shop 263 N. Rampart Boulevard
Tinder
Box 9340 W. Sahara Avenue
Tobacco
Land 5661 W. Sahara Avenue
Tobacco
Road 3650 E. Flamingo Road
Tobacco
Road 1129 S. Rainbow Boulevard
We really do need and appreciate your help! Please send us an e-mail
to request a survey form.
Coming UP:
I'll be sharing my view on a different subject each month…
like, Stinky's View on retail cigar shops, cigar friendly places, mail
order catalogs, cigar event planning (Herfs), cigar etiquette, Cigar
humidification/storage, cigar magazines, cigar books, various cigar
(model) lines and brands. How about some feedback? Curious about something?
Just ask! Do you have an opinion on something? Share it with us!! Your
feedback is what makes all this so much fun!
Enjoy your cigar moments, whether you are with friends, or in the solitude
of your own company. Thanks to friends like you . . . I'm Stinky! |
| Stinky's
Views
January 2004 |
The
Holidays are a time when we get to see some of the best cigar bargains
of the year! Statistically, for the last two centuries, the retail
cigar business generates 60% of all their annual revenues in the two
months of November and December. This is a feature of the Holiday
cigar-gift factor! As a result, for whatever reason, many of us find
ourselves in that awkward situation of having too many cigars.
How can you resist all those (bargain) temptations?
How can you keep from over spending?
Then… if you find yourself overstocked, what can you do?
My suggestion would be to prepare in advance. Make a comprehensive
list of the cigars and accessories you really like or really want.
Key words: REALLY, REALLY want or REALLY, REALLY like. Take advantage
of the bargain/sale prices on what you really like… Then you have
a better chance to resist some of the outstanding bargains on brands
or items not already on your list!
Should you find yourself overstocked… ask your fellow cigar enthusiasts
if they'd like to share your bargains or maybe even do some trading.
Perhaps trade 2 for 1 on the rare or premium cigars. Fortunately for
us, cigars don't go bad. So, storage in some extra (humidified) plastic
storage bins is always another option! Rest assured, you purchased
good cigars for a great price. That spells value! Be patient… it's
all a part of the cigar experience and it all works out for the better
in the long run.
Local Cigar Shop Survey:
What do you consider when you develop your opinion of a cigar shop?
What about our local Cigar Stores? Every year, right after the first
of the year, the Las Vegas Review Journal surveys its readers and
promotes "The Best of Las Vegas" then, some time around March they
publish the results. I believe they gave out the title "Best Tobacco
Shop" in the past before considering some of the better cigar stores
we all know about. And for that mater, they may have made their award
without some of the criteria necessary to be the "Best" cigar or tobacco
shop in Las Vegas. Here's a short list of factors to consider.
1.
Inventory… stock… selection! When traveling, I like to see cigar stores
wherever I go. And, all across the country, you'll find anything from
shops with a few boxes to JR Cigar's biggest cigar store(s) in the world!
Just imagine if you went into a cigar store with a very limited (puny)
selection. All the other evaluation factors would become insignificant!
What kind and how many cigars does it take to be the best?
2.
Ok, so you find a store with a respectable 'inventory' …then what? What
if the service staff doesn't know fiddly squat about cigars? Is it just
me, or is that important? Cigars are a unique and specialized product.
Most of us would like some 'qualified' help and guidance. So, how can
you tell if the person knows what they are talking about? This may take
a little time, so start with the knowledge you already have. Ask questions
that you are familiar with the answers. If they are well informed, it
will show. If you get a lot of "I don't know" answers, you may be dealing
with someone who is new, uninformed or worse yet, just doesn't care
about cigars. I'd suggest that you ask about their personal experience
with cigars. Questions like: Do you smoke cigars? How long have you
been in the business? What books do you recommend on the subject cigars?
(I mean books …not necessarily cigar magazines)
3. I believe those first two aspects of your evaluation are,
by far, the most important. Price is another area we must look at. Are
they reasonable? Or, are they gouging? You'll find some shops are "real
proud" of their inventory! Hey! We're consumers and value comes (for
the most part) from the price! It takes time to learn the fair market
pricing for cigars and it's NOT an exact science… just your informed
opinion. Once again, evaluate on products and brands you already know
about.
4. As in all Retail operations, we must consider location. Is
it important? Well, to some degree, location must count. If we're going
to a "local" cigar store, we've got to get there. Is it conveniently
located? Is it easy to get in and out of? Can someone find it should
you recommend the store?
5. In evaluating Cigar Shops, there's another factor unique to this
business. The smoking area! Do they have an area where you can sit down
and enjoy your cigar? If so, is the area inviting? Is it appointed with
appropriate furniture? Do they have beverages available? After all,
it may take an hour to enjoy a cigar!
6. Finally, we might consider the overall atmosphere. Is it laid
out well? Not all of us are interior designers, but we know when it's
pleasing. So, how does it look to you?
Your
opinion counts! JC and I are making an effort to round up the Cigar
Posse to scout all local cigar shops and compile your notes to see
what we (as a group) really think. That way, my strong personal
opinion will be balanced with a (couple) dozen others. With the
busy Holiday schedule, we agreed to extend this survey for another
month. Please send us YOUR comments on as many "local" cigar shops
in the Las Vegas area as you can. We do not plan to survey casino
cigar shops, gift shops, cigarette stores, liquor stores, drug stores,
etc.
We really do need and appreciate your help!
Please send us an e-mail to request a survey form.
Cuban Cigars:
How many times have you been asked about Cuban Cigars?
Most non-cigar smokers and new (or novice) cigar smokers want to
know if Cuban cigars are the best, and/or why. Well, we all have
our own opinion. Mine's no secret. Across the board, I'm not that
impressed! But rather than bore you with my personal opinion, consider
some of the information and history on Cuba and her cigars.
Cuba is given credit for the origin of the cigar as we know it.
All documents point back to 1492 when Christopher Columbus wrote
about natives "eating smoke". Soon after, within the first 100 years,
the Spanish began manufacturing cigars back in Spain. Also of note;
pipes preceded cigars in popularity and pipe tobacco is generally
less expensive. In the late seventeen hundreds, they began rolling
operations back in Cuba. Then, as you may well know, most of the
famous cigar brand names we know today were first registered in
Cuba during the early to mid eighteen hundreds. These 'family businesses'
carried on their traditions for generations. The level of pride
in quality and workmanship earned their cigar brands the world's
most prestigious awards and prizes at annual festivals and competitions
held each year in Europe. Many brands still feature these gold medallions
on their bands, boxes and logos. For nearly a 100 year period, Cuban
cigars became (undisputedly) the BEST with little 'outside' competition!
Cuban pride was a powerful force that drove these manufactures to
be the best and continue developing the cultivation and manufacture
of their extraordinary hand made product. And that's how it went
until 1961 when President John F. Kennedy signed the Helms Barkley
Trade Embargo!
What happened then would set the stage to change the title for best
cigars in the world. As Fidel Castro and his communist regime took
over, they commandeered all the tobacco manufactures. The "State"
took over their business operations, cash, assets and all stock
on hand! These very proud business owners were left with nothing
but a "job" working for a state run business! So, most of them fled!
They chose exile over servitude for a ruthless dictator! And, because
the trade embargo made all those Cuban brand names invalid in the
United States, they took their brand names with them. That's why
you see so many Cuban brand names produced in Honduras, Nicaragua,
Dominican Republic, etc. and sold only in the USA.
For the rest of the 1960's, Cuba coasted on her reputation. The
lack of leadership, family pride, the 'ownership' work ethic, as
well as the influence of bureaucratic Government decisions began
to erode their world wide and European markets. As Castro took over,
they eliminated all the old Cuban brands. According to Nathaniel
Lande in his historical book The Cigar Connoisseur, one new label
emerged: the Siboney. He said it was "named after a legendary
Cuban, the Siboney line came in only four sizes of highly unpredictable
quality. It was a serious disaster." He went on to say; "It
failed instantly!" And, they were forced to reestablish and
continue with all those famous brands already known to be "The Best"
in the world. Some experts noted the quality of Cuban cigars was
beginning to slip. Then, world respected Zino Davidoff became involved
with the state run Cubatabaco in the 1960's and was instrumental
in an attempt to restore the quality of Cuban cigars. However, by
the late 1980's they had a falling out! Davidoff pulled out of Cuba.
He announced his bold decision by 1989 to move his cigar growing
and manufacturing operation out of Cuba to the Dominican Republic.
Incidentally, some believe this event is what was ultimately responsible
for initiating the Cigar Boom of the 1990's… not necessarily the
timely and popular introduction of Cigar Aficionado's magazine in
1992.
It took those transitional decades (1960's '70's & '80's) for the
exiled cigar makers to reestablish themselves in other countries.
As they have reinvented their craft with non-Cuban tobacco and organized
their business in other countries, their newly earned credibility
now challenges the long-standing status of the Cuban cigar. Experts
in the cigar industry agree there are numerous cigar brands that
now compete with the old reputation of the best Cubans.
So, with all that said, the question now becomes; "does Cuban tobacco
taste better?" I won't even get into an argument about taste. Everyone
would agree that cigar tobacco grown in Dominican Republic tastes
different than cigar tobacco grown in Nicaragua; just as cigar tobacco
grown in Mexico tastes different than cigar tobacco grown in Honduras.
And so it goes, Cuban cigar tobacco has it's own unique flavor,
taste and aroma. The subject of taste in cigars may also be compared
to the long-standing opinion that the best wines come from France.
So, the only Cuban cigar topic left that may be worth discussing
would be quality!
As the story goes, the fall of the communist support (Russia) brought
the Cuban economy, including the cigar industry, to its knees. The
cigar industry began to suffer in the form of crop production due
to lack of fertilizer and over planting. Some crops have been devastated
due to infestation and a lack of pesticides. There was even a report
that there was a lack of string (a commodity that had been supplied
by Russia) to tie the harvested leaves. But most significantly,
their need for cash flow has led them on a 'rush to market', which
has severely affected the quality of their cigars. Canadians and
world travelers who have smoked their favorite Cuban brands over
the last couple of decades report a noticeable decline in the consistency
and quality of their favorite cigars, year-to-year, crop-to-crop,
and box-to-box.
I can't end my comments without some perspective about the brand
conscious world we live in, especially here in the United States!
We're Americans! We want (and demand) the best! And, because cigars
are (for the most part) a luxurious indulgence, we will pay "what
ever it costs" to have the best! Being so brand conscious, we easily
fall victim to marketing as well as perceived reputations. In our
society, saying you like a good Cuban cigar is much like the Hans
Christian Andersen fairy tail where every body was admiring the
Emperor's new clothes! This brand conscious environment is also
what drives the "black market" on Cuban cigars. Keep in mind that
all of the accredited cigar experts from the likes of Cigar Aficionado,
Cigar Nexus, Smoke Magazine, etc. say that 90 to 95 percent of the
Cuban cigars found in the United States are actually counterfeit
anyway! We'll look into the subject of Black Market and Counterfeit
Cigars in another newsletter.
It would be wrong to say I don't enjoy (or haven't enjoyed) a good
Cuban cigar. When they're good, they're GREAT. I'd like to think
I enjoy a good cigar regardless of where it came from. When someone
asks me about Cuban cigars, I still say I'm not that impressed.
My opinion comes from research and hours of contemplation on many
factors (while enjoying fine cigars), including flavor, aroma, burn,
price, value, quality and consistency. The true cigar connoisseurs
agree that the cigars being made in Honduras, Nicaragua, Dominican
Republic, etc. are now on an even playing field with Cuba. I must
agree!
Coming UP:
Views on a different subject each month… like, Stinky's View on
retail cigar shops, cigar friendly places, mail order catalogs,
cigar event planning (Herfs), cigar etiquette, cigar humidification/storage,
cigar magazines, cigar books, various cigar (model) lines and brands.
How about some feedback? Curious about something? Just ask! Do you
have an opinion on something? Please, share it with us!! Your feedback
is what makes all this so much fun!
With friends, or in the solitude of your own company, enjoy your
cigar moments! Thanks to friends like you . . . I'm Stinky!
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a cigar question? Don't be shy, ask Stinky!
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