Why Use a Humidor?

If you are not an experienced cigar smoker, you may be wondering why cigar aficionados use humidors.  Humidors are used to store and protect cigars so that they are kept at their peak flavor.  A humidor works by keeping a cigar at a constant temperature, somewhere between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and about 70-72% humidity.

The Parts of a Cigar

What are the different parts of a cigar?  Many long-time smokers enjoy their stogies without learning the basic parts of their cigar.  While it's true that you can enjoy a cigar without knowing how it was put together, learning the basic parts of a cigar can be instrumental in helping you choose the best quality cigars.

The Health Risks of Cigar Smoking

We have all heard of the risks associated with smoking cigarettes, but what are the risks of cigar smoking?  Are the risks of smoking cigars just as dangerous, or more so?  According to the National Cancer Instituted, regular cigar smoking can result in a major health threat.  Scientific research has linked cigar smoking with cancers of the larynx, lungs, esophagus, and oral cavity.  Newer research also indicates that cigar smoking may be strongly linked to the development of cancer in the pancreas.  Doctors also caution that individuals who regularly inhale while enjoying a cigar are also at greater risk of developing lung disease and heart problems.

The Dangers of Being Exposed to Cigar Smoke

We have all heard about the dangers of inhaling second hand smoke.  Many people wonder if the dangers of inhaling cigar smoke are just as dangerous, or more.  Unfortunately, it appears that being exposed to secondhand smoke from a lit cigar can be just as dangerous—or more—than regular cigarette smoke.

Tasting the World: Cigar's From Different Countries

Most everyone is familiar with the much-lauded flavor of Cuban cigars.  But how do you know if you're smoking a Cuban cigar, or a cigar from any other country for that matter?  For those new to the world of cigar smoking, you should know that every cigar-producing country has its own unique flavor and character.  The soil quality and the way the tobacco is produced and rolled contribute to the overall flavor of the finished product. 

Old vs. New: Choosing the Right Cigar

Are you confused about old cigars versus fresh cigars?  What does this mean, exactly?  If you're new to the world of cigar smoking, these terms can be a little perplexing.  Basically, know that cigars are never really fresh.  That is, you generally can't purchase a cigar just after it has been produced.  Most tobacconists store their cigars at the proper temperature and humidity before they are stored.  Also, the tobacco in most premium cigars is usually aged for about one to two years before it is rolled into a cigar. 

Making the Perfect Cut on Your Cigar

How to clip a cigar properly?  Although every cigar aficionado has their own proven method, here are some basic guidelines to get you started. 

First, examine the head, or closed end, of the cigar.  This is the part of the cigar that will need to be clipped.  Determine where the 'cap' is.  The cap refers to the part of the cigar where the tobacco leaf was used to close the cigar.  Once you've found the cap, determine its length.  As a general rule, you should not cut any further than the end of the cap.  If you cut further than the cap, there's a good chance your cigar will unravel!