The Body: Goldilocks of the Tobacco World

Cigars, much like your favourite brews, come in a spectrum of intensities. The light and mellow cigars echo the smoothness of a crisp lager, while the robust, dark cigars channel the hearty depth of a stout. If you are the type who gravitates toward creamy ales, you might enjoy the gentler stogies. Meanwhile, if you prefer the inky richness of a porter, a full-bodied cigar could be your soulmate.

“Pairing cigars with your favourite brews is an art of balance and discovery. Just as each beer has its own unique profile, so too does every cigar. The key is finding that perfect harmony—where the smoothness of a creamy ale complements a mild cigar, or the bold intensity of a stout elevates the experience of a full-bodied stogie. It is a journey of taste that invites exploration and savouring.” shares Vlad Xanthopoulos, Canadian cigar connoisseur and Vices Ambassador at Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine.

Not a beer enthusiast? No problem. A sampler pack is your ticket to discovery. Experiment with a variety of bodies, from the whispering caress of a Connecticut wrapper to the bold punch of a Maduro. Think of it as a flavourful adventure—without the hangover.

The Size: Does It Really Matter?

Contrary to popular belief, size in the cigar world is not synonymous with strength or quality. Instead, it influences the duration of your smoking experience. A “5 x 50” cigar, for instance, will give you a leisurely hour to contemplate life, savour your beverage, or dodge emails.

Cigar sizes are measured by length (in inches) and ring gauge (the diameter in 64ths of an inch). Smaller gauges, typically between 40 and 50, offer a higher ratio of premium wrapper leaf to filler leaf, ensuring a rich, nuanced flavour. Larger gauges might last longer but often contain more filler, which can be hit or miss. Choose based on how much time you have and how much flavour you crave.

The Shape: Classic Versus Creative

Shapes come in two main classes: parejos, the traditional straight cigars, and figurados, the exotic ones with tapered ends and quirky contours. While some aficionados claim that the concentrated smoke of figurados enhances flavour, others find the difference negligible. Either way, it is worth trying both to see which tickles your palate.

Quality Control: Avoiding Duds Like a Pro

Once you have narrowed down your preferences, it is time to separate the finely crafted cigars from the lacklustre wannabes. Here is how to assess quality like a seasoned smoker:

• Examine the wrapper. It should be smooth, with no tears, gaps, or cracks. Think of it as the cigar’s suit—well-tailored and wrinkle-free.
• Check the colour. Uniformity is key. No spots, mould, or blotches allowed. You are not here for polka-dots, after all.
• Feel the texture. A quality cigar is firm with a slight give. If it feels like crumpled parchment, walk away—no one wants a dry, brittle smoke.
• Assess the fill. Lightly squeeze along the cigar’s length. Consistent density signals skilled craftsmanship, while bulges or divots are a red flag.
• Take a sniff. The aroma is a preview of the flavour. If it smells heavenly, it likely tastes divine. If it reeks of regret, move on.

The Final Puff

“True indulgence lies in the details. By thoughtfully pairing your cigars and cocktails, you unlock a symphony of flavours that elevates the entire experience. Take the time to experiment, savour, and appreciate the interplay between your drink’s nuances and the cigar’s character—it is the mark of a true connoisseur,” shares Xanthopoulous.

Selecting a cigar is about finding what suits your taste, style, and moment. Whether you lean toward a short and sweet parejo or a dramatic, hour-long figurado, the journey is yours to enjoy. So, grab a stogie, light it up, and savour every draw—life, after all, is better with a little smoke and a lot of flavour.