I recently restocked my cigar humidor and I was so proud of my recent ‘haul’, that I felt compelled to post a picture on social media. A couple of people reached out and asked how did I know which cigars to buy and how did I make my selection. So today I thought I’d share with my readers some ideas on how to find information and inspiration to help you gauge if a cigar brand or blend is something you will enjoy. I gravitate to the same brands but this last purchase I made, includes cigars that had an interesting description and I was intrigued and can’t wait to try them. As you shop, read the ..read more

Flavored cigars deliver a completely different experience compared to traditional cigars. In my case, I admittedly don’t typically smoke flavored cigars, but a premium flavor infused cigar would make me say ‘not bad, this is cool’ and I don’t have another for a couple of months. The flavors I have tried stay on the realm of coffee, chocolate, nuts, basically, nothing too fruity. I love the aroma and taste of traditional cigars and my palate can’t reconcile a cotton candy flavor smoke. It’s not my thing; but as a cigar enthusiast, I’m always curious about what people are smoking and talking abo ..read more

Careful how you answer that! there are several definitions for this acronym and one is not very flattering. Urban dictionary has a couple definitions ranging from Silence of the lambs to something related to scholarships. When we see SOTL in a cigar context, we find that it stands for sister-of-the-leaf. This is a name given to females that enjoy smoking cigars, it’s more of a ‘nod’ of acknowledging that females, too can appreciate the lifestyle. It is a friendly term and we are happy to accept it, but when I first came across SOTL, I wasn’t sure it was a positive thing. For a very short while ..read more

In past posts, I talked about cigar etiquette, tips for a better smoking experience and I made recommendations for what your first cigar should be. By now you’ve probably decided that the cigar lifestyle is exciting and something you’d like to do regularly or you’ve decided you’ll partake only at random occasions as the invitation to have a cigar is presented. Whichever of those scenarios you fall into, I know that at some point you will most likely want to have your own humidor or cigar accessories. I put together a list of all the items that can get you started to have your own cigar readine ..read more

Smoking cigars can be costly, specially if one smokes daily. It’s clear that shopping for anything simply requires an internet connection. Some people might not feel the need to research where to buy cigars but, I thought it would be beneficial to my newbies out there to know where I shop and why. My favorite online store to purchase cigars is Cigars International. These guys are fun, informative and fair with pricing. I enjoy reading the description of their offerings and even though I order online, I always browse and read the full color catalog they send me in the mail. Cigars International ..read more

Cigars contain and emit an aroma, and this is one of the features of why we like cigars. As you’re smoking, this aroma is wonderful and enjoyable for you and fellow smokers but non-smokers will either walk away or say they like it but don’t want to smoke themselves. Just like some people detest the smell of garlic, potpourri, eucalyptus or the smell that overwhelms you as you enter a craft store in the Fall; some people find cigar smell unpleasant. I will admit that after a cigar is done burning, there is no longer an aroma but an odor. The lingering smell can morph and at that point we need ..read more

Hey Gals! today I want to talk about 4 of my absolute favorite cigars…until that changes which could very well be in 2-3 months from now because the Cigar industry is constantly looking for ways to bring us different smoking experiences and innovating to keep us excited and impressed with each new blend. Carlos Toraño Exodus Gold 1959– who can forget her first?! I have to include Exodus and at the top of the list because this was my very first cigar and I was hooked from that moment on. This cigar is rich, dark, and complex because it is made with a blend of fillers from 5 of the best tobacco ..read more

I’ll start with telling you to never stop looking into how to make the most out of your cigar experience. Whether you’re a regular smoker or just occasionally light up, you can always benefit from knowing how to enjoy the time you’ll spend smoking the chosen one! When people discover you like cigars, they’ll want to help you explore different brands and will share their favorites. Always accept a cigar when gifted to you and as you get more experience, take a turn at recommending some of your go-to favorites as well. For my newbies to the hobby out there, the first tip I’d like to offer is to ..read more

I’m a super fan of any maduro cigar and found that all Nicaraguan cigars make my day! I typically “repeat” my previous cigar purchases when my humidor is low instead of browsing and seeing what else is out there. Even when I do shop the store, I gravitate towards similar brands and flavors. You could say that I might be afraid of trying something new, but recently, I made it my mission to try a lighter shade even if my taste buds still gravitate to my go to brands. I didn’t do as much as a commitment to go light as one would expect but cut me some slack Maduro is King of my heart! So here are ..read more

Many cigar enthusiasts discovered their love for cigars by chance.  Finally saying “yes” when someone offered them one while at a backyard party or some other type of celebration event. The occasional cigar smoker seizes the opportunity to smoke only when there is a reason to celebrate and a cigar is being offered to them. Would you like to bring your own cigar next time? Do you know what you like? Did you enjoy cigars you’ve been given in the past but don’t know what it was? I’m here to help! Finding the perfect cigar is a wonderful journey. The perfect cigar is found by experimenting, t ..read more