Posts Tagged ‘hand made cigars’

How to Choose the Best Cigar

Monday, April 20th, 2009

Choosing the right cigar for you is based on preference. Some people prefer a short smoke while others want a long lasting handmade cigar. There are those that like a dark and full flavor and others who would rather have a light and timid taste. The best way to get to know the myriad of cigar possibilities and which ones suite you the best is to experiment. You’ll want to try variations, sizes, brands, origins and so to get a good handle of what’s available on the market and which you prefer.

The first step in choosing the best cigar for you is talk to the workers at the tobacco shop or cigar parlor you frequent. Most cigar aficionados are over joyed to share their wealth of knowledge and experience. They take great pride in their product and will be able to answer any questions and assist you in discovering the best fit for you. Who knows maybe the shop owner will give you few to try!

Next purchase a few cigars that are different diameters to see which size suites you. The larger the diameter of the cigar, the more complex and full bodied the taste will be. Also, the larger the cigar the more smoke it will produce. For those who prefer a light and simple cigar a small to medium diameter will work best.

One last factor you should notice is the shape and color of the cigar. It’s difficult to know exactly how different shapes affect the taste so you may need to try a few to get a good handle on them. The color is obvious. If you like to drink your coffee dark and strong then give a fairly dark colored cigar a try. The lighter the cigar, the less intense the taste will be.

The bottom line is to experiment and have fun learning the incredible world of cigars.

How Cigars are Made

Monday, April 20th, 2009
Rolling Cigars

Handmade Cigars

The manufacturing of cigars is centuries old and has bee perfected tremendously in the last fifty years. It is a simple process but requires perfect precision to manufacture a quality cigar.

First the tobacco leaves are grown and harvested. Once harvested, they then undergo a process called curing for about a month. During curing the leaves are aged with a combination of shade and heat to rid the tobacco of water and sugar. Without this first step in the process, the leaves would simply rot. Based on the climate, temperature and type of tobacco this process can greatly differ in varies places around the world.

After the curing stage the leaves are then fermented under very specific conditions. The purpose of this process is to aid the leaves in dying slowing so they don’t decay or rot. It is this part of the process that produces the aroma, color and flavor of the cigar. The fermentation process is very sensitive and crucial to producing a rich and flavorful cigar.

Once the leaves are properly fermented the manufacturer will inspect the tobacco until it is matured to the proper requirements. Once it is approved to be made into a cigar, it is still inspected to decide whether it should be the filler or wrapper of the cigar. Leaves rich in color and texture are reserved for the wrapper and those not as aesthetically pleasing will be used as the filler.

The tobacco is then hand rolled, if it is a quality cigar, shipped to the retailer and stored in a humidor at 70 degrees with a relative humidity of 70%. The cigars are then laid on display and wait for a buyer to enjoy!

Health Effects of Smoking Cigars

Monday, April 20th, 2009

Everyone knows that smoking tobacco in any form on a regular basis can lead to various types of cancer. Although many argue that there is no health benefit to smoking cigars, research has shown that smoking a cigar less than five times a week may have both physical and psychological benefits.

Tobacco traditionally has been used for medicinal purposes since the 10th Century and is still used today in some ancient Chinese medicine. Tobacco is essentially an herb and can provide some benefit if used moderately.

Smoking an occasional cigar has been shown to reduce blood pressure by relaxing the body. The blood cells open and allow more oxygen to flow in and out allowing the physical body to relax. This also provides great relief for those suffering from mental stress, depression and anxiety. Smoking a cigar can aid the mind in mental relaxation and peace of mind.

Some use smoking cigars to help aid weight gain. Tobacco is able to curve the appetite making it popular among men and women attempting to diet. For people who struggle with eating too much, replacing those high calorie snacks with a few puffs on a cigar may do just the trick.

The health effects of smoking cigars remain a huge debate that will continue on for years to come. Research continues to unveil the benefits both physically and mentally. The bottom line – enjoy your fine cigars. Use them to relax, unwind and to find peace of mind. Whatever you do, do it in moderation.

Welcome to Don Conti .com

Monday, April 6th, 2009

In this new section of our site you will find reviews of fine cigar products and handmade cigars. Send us some information about your fine cigar products or cigar bars so we can write about them.